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Today – An inclusive cheer team in Madison Township is proving that competition, confidence and belonging can all share the same mat.

Today – Lexington’s new elementary school is taking shape, with construction underway and plans calling for students to walk through the doors in the fall of 2028.

Today – Mansfield leaders are putting a five-year plan behind one of the city’s biggest economic assets, with hopes of turning Mansfield Lahm Regional Airport into a stronger engine for jobs, investment and new technology.

Today – A local bluegrass band is tuning up for a special Mansfield concert, with every ticket sold helping the Mansfield Playhouse keep the lights on as it prepares for its 101st season.

This week on News Man Weekly, it's essentially a high school football show. We invite our Managing Editor and long-time high school sports reporter, Larry Phillips, into the studio to help us preview the 2026 football season in Richland County.  But first, Carl, Zac and Hayden break down the latest Richland County headlines, including the case against a 16-year-old accused in the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Elias Uzunoff, a new memorial highway honoring Vietnam War veteran Glenn S. Wingenbach Jr. and a major $500,000 donation moving the Mansfield Playhouse closer to its new downtown home. Then, Larry joins us for our special 2026 high school football roundtable. We break down the teams and players to watch across the county -- including a new era beginning at Lexington, a rebuilding Mansfield Senior, a MOAC race that includes Shelby, Ontario, Clear Fork and Galion, Plymouth's numbers issue, Lucas joining a conference and more.  Check out all of our high school football previews at the links below:  Team previews in Richland County Team previews in Ashland County Team previews in Knox County This episode is powered by the great folks at Relax, It's Just Coffee. More relevant links:  Richland County prosecutor will seek to try 16-year-old charged with murder in adult court Madison High School grad killed in Vietnam to have section of Ohio 13 dedicated in his name Anonymous $500K donation pushes Mansfield Playhouse closer to dream of new $5.9 million downtown theater Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism.

Today – Reece Cook is closing out a decade in the show ring with one of the biggest honors of her junior fair career — being named Showman of Showmen at the Richland County Fair.

A stretch of Ohio 13 near Mansfield will soon carry the name of a Madison High School graduate who left home for Vietnam and never returned.

Today – A major anonymous gift has moved the Mansfield Playhouse another half-million dollars closer to turning its vision for a new downtown theater into reality.

Today – A young black bear is turning heads around Mohican State Park, but wildlife officials say the animal appears to be a traveler rather than a new permanent resident.

This week on News Man Weekly, it's Richland County Fair week and Carl gives his top 5 fair foods. The crew also digs into the latest Richland County headlines, including the investigation into the May killing of 18-year-old Le’Ondra Messner, new economic development projects taking shape across the county and a debate at Mansfield City Council over whether more resources should be directed toward proactive youth violence prevention. Later, we sit down with Mansfield native Tom Joudrey, creator of Passenger Seat, a three-part podcast revisiting the harrowing 2012 kidnapping of Jennifer Hurst. Joudrey explains what drew him back to a story from his hometown, how he reconstructed Hurst’s 12-hour ordeal and why the series ultimately became about much more than the crime itself.  The conversation explores Hurst’s remarkable composure during the kidnapping, the collateral damage of addiction, Joudrey’s trip to Grafton Correctional Institution to interview Nathan Taylor and the ethical challenges of telling a true-crime story involving real people and lasting trauma. Joudrey also discusses why, more than a decade later, Hurst still feels compelled to tell her story — and what creating Passenger Seat taught him about storytelling, journalism and his hometown. This episode is powered by the great folks at Relax, It's Just Coffee. Relevant links: Listen to Passenger Seat on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Mansfield police seek public help in finding 4 'persons of interest' from May homicide Prevention vs. OT: Mansfield lawmaker pushes city to target root causes of youth violence Manufacturing expansions and historic revivals anchor Richland County growth, officials say Find all of our 2026 Fair coverage Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism. GET 10% OFF when you sign up through Aug. 16. 

Today – Richland County leaders say years of behind-the-scenes economic development work are now paying off in a wave of manufacturing expansions, downtown redevelopment and new opportunities across the county.

Today – Two Columbus men are in custody after authorities recovered 27 firearms and a taser stolen during an early-morning break-in at Fin Feather Fur Outfitters in Ashland.

Today – A Mansfield councilwoman is urging city leaders to invest more directly in preventing youth violence, rather than relying primarily on police overtime and crime analysis after violence occurs.

Today – A suspicious early-morning fire at a Mansfield transitional housing facility sent two men to the hospital and brought both fire and police investigators to the scene.

This week on News Man Weekly, Carl, Zac and Hayden mark the unofficial beginning of Ohio's march toward fall with another edition of Carl's Top 5. The crew also discusses several major local headlines, including Buc-ee's officially purchasing land in Mansfield, a $20 million fiber optic expansion along U.S. Route 30 and the opening of the new Bad Magic Skatepark at Maple Lake Park. Later, we sit down with Mansfield actor, filmmaker and videographer Beau Roberts. From his starring role as Nathan Detroit in Guys and Dolls at the Renaissance Theatre to his work in independent films and behind the camera at DRM Productions, Beau shares stories from decades in the performing arts. We talk about the differences between stage and screen, memorable moments from live theater, the realities of pursuing an acting career and why Mansfield's arts community continues to punch above its weight. This episode is powered by the great folks at Relax, It's Just Coffee. Relevant links: Broadway Blowout: Case from 'Guys & Dolls' celebrates with the audience at the Renaissance Get tickets to Guys & Dolls at the Renaissance See Beau's IMDB page Mansfield Lahm Airport Day offers up-close look at aircraft and automobiles Property transfers: Buc-ee's closes on $2.6 million land purchase in Madison Twp. Lincoln Highway to broadband internet: Contract signed for $20 million U.S. 30 high-speed connection across Ohio From tennis courts to kickflips: Skat Ohio opens new Bad Magic Skatepark in Mansfield Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism.

Today: A first-year soap box derby racer turned a win in Mansfield into a third-place finish on the world championship stage in Akron.

Today: Former Butler Mayor Wesley Dingus will face a judge rather than a jury in his Mansfield Municipal Court voyeurism case, but the bench trial cannot be scheduled until the Ohio Supreme Court selects a visiting judge.

Today: A historic Mansfield home built to showcase the future could soon begin a new chapter as a museum, but only under strict operating limits designed to protect the surrounding neighborhood.

Lexie Miller balances her work as an ICU nurse with her new role as Miss Ohio while promoting heart health and preparing for Miss America.

This week on News Man Weekly, Carl, Zac and Hayden recap the weekend, review The Odyssey and hear the latest chapter in Carl's ongoing feud with the neighborhood wild turkey that has apparently claimed his driveway as its own. The crew also breaks down the week's biggest local stories, including Richland County's looming road salt shortage, the grand opening of the Bad Magic Skatepark at Maple Lake Park and Mansfield City Schools' strongest financial outlook in years. Later, we welcome Jennifer Kime, president and CEO of Downtown Mansfield Inc., for a wide-ranging conversation about the city's ongoing transformation. They discuss the progress of the Main Street reconstruction project, the return of two-way traffic, the momentum behind Downtown Forward, the challenges and opportunities facing local businesses and Jennifer's vision for the future of downtown Mansfield. This episode is powered by the great folks at Relax, It's Just Coffee. Relevant links:  Quite the predicament: Richland County gets no road salt bids for upcoming winter season Skate Ohio planning 'micro park' in Mansfield's Maple Lake Park New lights along North Main Street placed as part of improvement project in Mansfield Mansfield City Schools ends fiscal year on a high note Follow Downtown Mansfield Inc. on Facebook and visit their website Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism.

Today – What began as two friends searching for challenging gravel roads has grown into a sold-out cycling tradition attracting riders from across the United States and beyond.

Today – A longtime Lexington educator and graduate of the district is stepping into its top leadership position.

A Mansfield pastor is pressing city leaders for answers about a controversial police stop involving a local man who was later charged in a sweeping federal drug-trafficking case.

Today – A family outing near the Scioto River ended in tragedy after five adults apparently entered the water during a series of rescue attempts.

This week on News Man Weekly, Carl, Zac and Hayden recap another unforgettable Inkcarceration weekend and react to the festival's impact on Mansfield. The crew also counts down Carl's Top 5 favorite Moonshiners personalities before discussing the week's biggest local headlines, including a new strategic vision for Mansfield Lahm Regional Airport, the Tyger Park Takeover basketball tour and Lexington Superintendent Jeremy Secrist's departure after 15 years with the district. Later, we welcome Scott Palmer and Jeff Nupen, co-owners of the Ohio Shine Company, Richland County's only legal craft moonshine distillery. They share how the business came together, what makes their spirits unique, the challenges of opening a distillery in Ohio and why they believe downtown Mansfield is the perfect place to build a local brand.  This episode is powered by the great folks at Relax, It's Just Coffee. Relevant links:  Find all of our Inkcarceration coverage here Cleared for takeoff: Mansfield unveils 5-year plan for Lahm Regional Airport Tyger Park Takeover introduces playground basketball to a new generation Lexington Local School Supt. Jeremy Secrist announces resignation Find Ohio Shine Co. on 126 N. Franklin Ave. Follow them on Facebook and visit their website here.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism.

Today – Fans came to Mansfield from across the country — and across the world — for Inkcarceration at the Ohio State Reformatory.

Today – A federal lawsuit is raising new questions about a violent arrest in Butler that left a fleeing man seriously injured beneath a former mayor’s vehicle.

Today – A mysterious newspaper reference suggests 1912 Indianapolis 500 champion Joe Dawson once called Mount Vernon home—but exactly how he was connected to Knox County remains an unanswered piece of local history.

Today – A federal policy reversal has renewed an Ohio debate over whether child care providers should be paid when enrolled children are absent.

This week on News Man Weekly, Carl, Zac, Hayden and special guest Chris Kelly get you ready for one of Mansfield's biggest weekends of the year: The Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival. The crew also breaks down some news of the week, including why Ohio was named CNBC's top state for business, the grand opening of Rural King in Ontario and plans to transform a longtime Ontario eyesore into new community green space. Then we welcome Rasan Leathers, host of the She Shreds podcast, for an insider's look at the heavy metal community and what makes Inkcarceration unlike any other festival in the country. We discuss the rise of women in metal, how Rasan gets musicians to open up in interviews, the unique culture surrounding Ink and who we're most excited to see. We do our best to educate Carl on current metal culture as well as convince him to attend the Ohio State Reformatory for the fest this weekend.  This episode is powered by the great folks at Relax, It's Just Coffee. Relevant links: Chris Kelly: Thanks for letting me be a part of your life through local radio for two decades 'Ohio is now a powerhouse for business': Romanchuk hails CNBC study ranking states Ducklings, rabbits and chicks, oh my! Rural King brings unique variety to Ontario Ontario clears the way for safer streets with Park Avenue property purchase Find and subscribe to the She Shreds podcast with Rasan Leathers Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism.

Today – A young bald eagle found weak and starving beneath her nest is getting a second chance after a rescue that arrived with remarkable timing on America’s 250th birthday.

Today – In Shelby, a thousand rubber ducks are getting ready to race for a little boy whose story still moves a community.

Today – Amy Walker is stepping into a new leadership role at Springmill STEM Elementary, bringing years of classroom, administrative and school board experience with her.

One local mental health counselor is urging parents to be aware of a resurgence in the Benadryl challenge, a viral trend that encourages overdoses of the common allergy medication.

This week on News Man Weekly, Carl and Zac recap a red, white and blue weekend across North Central Ohio, launch a new segment called, “The News Man’s Top Five” and break down the latest local headlines. We discuss new state tax credits for major downtown Mansfield redevelopment projects, rising health insurance costs facing Richland County and Mansfield City Schools’ early steps toward a possible new elementary school. Later, Carl sits down with three of Source Media’s newest reporters: Abby Hiday of Ashland Source, Logan Adams of Richland Source and Alex Hopkins of Knox Pages. The trio discusses their first month in local journalism, what surprised them most about covering North Central Ohio, the stories that have stood out so far and what they hope to bring to readers in the years ahead. Consider this your official introduction to a few new voices in the Source Media newsroom. This episode is powered by the great folks at Relax, It's Just Coffee. Relevant links: Downtown Forward, new Mansfield hotel project receive $1.1 million in state tax credits Downtown Forward project in Mansfield gets $5 million in historic tax credits for redevelopment 70 percent in 5 years: Rising health insurance costs not sustainable in Richland County, Vero says New elementary school? Mansfield City Schools is considering construction Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism.

Fifty years after Mansfield sealed away a snapshot of 1976, the city opened its bicentennial time capsule and found a message of hope still echoing into 2026.

Today – A Mansfield fire promotion ceremony became a full-circle family moment Wednesday, as Lt. Adam Compton pinned an assistant chief badge on his father, Dave Compton.

Today – A new job center inside Mansfield Correctional Institution is aimed at helping inmates build résumés, search for work, and prepare for life after release.

Today – A black bear on the move in Bellville has residents checking cameras, warning neighbors and keeping a closer eye on the backyard.

This week on News Man Weekly, Carl, Zac and Hayden welcome resident soccer expert Adam "Doc" Fox into the studio for a lively World Cup discussion. We talk about knockout stage scenarios and debate whether this year's U.S. Men's National Team has what it takes to make the deepest tournament run in program history. We also catch up on another busy week of local news, including a $5 million boost for the Downtown Forward redevelopment project.  Later, we sit down with Ryan James -- who is behind the Cypher City Hip Hop Festival, returning July 25 to the Richland County Fairgrounds. He talks about how the festival has grown into one of the region's premier celebrations of hip hop culture, what's new this year, why Mansfield's music scene continues to evolve and which local artists deserve a spot on your playlist. Whether you're a longtime fan or simply curious about the scene, this conversation offers a fresh look at one of Richland County's most unique annual events. This episode is powered by the great folks at Relax, It's Just Coffee. Relevant links: Follow Cypher City on Facebook Downtown Forward project in Mansfield gets $5 million in historic tax credits for redevelopment Mansfield man, 31, arrested for allegedly murdering his 3-year-old child in 2024 Richland County sells home seized in major Madison Township drug bust for $91,414 Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism.

Today – A major state funding award is bringing Taking Root Farms closer to building a long-planned future for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Richland County.

Pleasant Hill Lake has become the setting for one of the most remarkable wildlife comeback stories in the region, as ospreys have spent the last two decades fighting wind, predators, bad luck, and even people, yet still managing to thrive.

Today – Richland County leaders say the county’s finances are steady, but rising employee health insurance costs are forcing a harder look at the future.

Today – Mansfield’s historic landmark theater is temporarily without seats, but the Renaissance Theatre says that empty auditorium is a visible sign of a much bigger vision for its next century.

This week on News Man Weekly, Carl, Zac and Hayden break down several local headlines, including Mansfield's proposed downtown DORA district, the return of weekend speed bumps along the Miracle Mile and the latest progress on the city's massive Main Street reconstruction project. In the featured interview, Carl sits down with Mansfield music legends Dean Kastran and Dale Powers, founding members of The Ohio Express, along with Shelby musician McCray Martin.  The conversation explores their recent collaboration on Martin's new song, Set Me Free, their advice for aspiring musicians, influences and stories from six decades in the music business. Dean and Dale discuss opening for The Who, handling fame and success and the time they managed to make television icon Dick Clark unhappy.  If you love music, local history and great storytelling, this is an episode you won't want to miss.  This conversation is powered by the great folks at Relax, It's Just Coffee.  Related links:  Main Street Improvement Project progressing; Park Avenue remains closed in Central Park Legislation creating a DORA in Mansfield planned for City Council in July, says mayor Speed bumps return on weekend nights at ‘Miracle Mile’ section of Park Avenue West Watch Martin's new song, 'Set Me Free' feat. The Ohio Express on YouTube Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism.

The Madison Local Schools board has terminated a middle school teacher accused of making sexually inappropriate comments to students.

Today – Newly released records are offering a clearer picture of the investigation into a Danville man accused of planning an attack tied to the UFC Freedom 250 event.

Today – An Ohio mother’s call to local law enforcement may have helped stop an alleged multi-state attack plot targeting a UFC event on the White House South Lawn.

Today – A landmark Mansfield home that once showed visitors what the future could look like may soon become a public museum celebrating the city’s manufacturing past.

This week on The News Man Weekly, Carl dives into a packed local agenda, addressing the "nothing to do in Mansfield" crowd by highlighting a weekend full of community events, from Juneteenth celebrations to the Miss Ohio parade. Carl shares his take on the History Channel's Washington docudrama, plus the latest on Richland County tax relief, state funding for the new Mansfield Playhouse and vehicle upgrades for the local police department. Later, Rusty Cates and hot air balloon pilot-in-training Luke Wash join the show to preview the upcoming Ashland BalloonFest and the history behind the "balloon town" tradition. This episode is powered by the great folks at Relax, It's Just Coffee. Relevant links: Ashland BalloonFest Facebook page Ashland BalloonFest website Some photos from BalloonFest 2025. Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism.