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Episode 69 of News Man Weekly might just be the most “taxing” one yet. Carl, Zac, and Hayden open with their usual mix of NFL overreactions and weekend chatter before diving deep into a big local debate — the future of the downtown municipal parking lot. Carl unpacks the city’s proposal to sell half the lot to Park National Bank, explains how we got here and explores the pros, cons and public reactions surrounding one of the most talked-about development issues in Mansfield. Then the show welcomes two guests: Source Media Audience Engagement Editor Brittany Schock joins to share updates on upcoming events across Richland, Ashland and Knox counties. Commissioner Tony Vero stops by to discuss the complex property tax decision facing Richland County. It’s an episode full of insight, accountability and community context, best paired with a cup of Relax coffee and a strong opinion on taxes. Related links: Park National Bank to build new office in downtown Mansfield Municipal Parking lot Mansfield mayor: ‘We have to solve for parking’ in potential bank/Municipal Lot deal Event: Mansfield Candidate Conversations at Richland Source Event: Newsroom After Hours Event: Build a Better Village Event: Candidate Conversations in the Valley Event: Candidate Conversations in Mount Vernon Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today: A surprise federal operation at Panchos Tacos in Mount Vernon has local officials asking questions about communication and jurisdiction.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Lerone Martin, Director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute at Stanford University and author of The Gospel of J. Edgar Hoover. A nationally respected scholar, Dr. Martin explores how history, faith, and race intersect, and how those forces continue to shape the way we live and connect with one another today. From growing up in Ohio to now stewarding Dr. King’s papers, Dr. Martin reflects on the responsibility of preserving a legacy, the difference between fear and faith, and the everyday ways we can find the divine in one another. He reminds us that progress doesn’t come from perfection but from commitment, one conversation, one act of service, one bridge at a time. In a world that feels increasingly polarized, Dr. Martin offers a grounded vision of hope: that we can learn from history without erasing it, that empathy is a practice, and that community begins when we choose connection over isolation. Bridging Divides: Local leaders reflect on Martin Luther King Jr.’s message in a polarized age The MLK Institute: https://kinginstitute.stanford.edu/ Let's Connect!  If this podcast feels like something you’ve been craving, hit subscribe, leave a review, and send it to a friend. The more voices we have in this village, the stronger we become. Email Us: bettertogether@richlandsource.com  Subscribe to Maddie’s Blog Listen to more of Sarah Goff's MusicSupport the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mansfield City Schools has stabilized its finances after deep staff cuts, projecting a small surplus and positive balances through 2028. However, reductions in state aid and possible property tax relief measures could strip millions from the district’s revenue and threaten that progress.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James sit down with Crestview senior quarterback and pole vaulter Liam Kuhn. Liam reflects on following in the footsteps of his father and older brothers, learning how to read defenses, and growing into a calm, composed leader for the Crestview offense. He talks about how playing both sides of the ball and learning from failures has helped him and the team improve, as well as how the front six on defense has eased pressure on the offense. Liam also shares what it means to beat rival St. Paul, the keys to Crestview’s current win streak and what it will take to succeed in the playoffs. Beyond football, Liam opens up about his love for pole vaulting, the techniques and athletic skills required, and his aspirations to compete at the collegiate level, with interest from Ashland University and Hillsdale College. He discusses the importance of facilities, coaching and scholarship opportunities in track & field, and how competing in multiple sports helps him grow as an athlete. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions covering family rivalries, Crestview history and who the best athlete in the Kuhn family is. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Kuhn keys Crestview’s critical win over St. Paul in FC tilt Crestview’s defense blanks Plymouth in Homecoming victory Cougars get defensive in win over South Central Crestview wallops New London in Firelands Conference opener Tough schedule helps Cougars lock down 1st win, prepare for Firelands foes Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today: A former Shelby teacher has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to a sexual relationship with a student — and the judge made clear this sentence comes with strict conditions.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 68 of News Man Weekly is the “checkmate edition,” where Carl, Zac, and Hayden open with their usual mix of sports heartbreak, newsroom chaos and local headlines. The crew talks Cleveland’s roller-coaster weekend — from the Guardians’ playoff exit to yet another Browns gut punch — before catching up on family life, football byes, and a few folks who’ve landed on the News Man Weekly Shit List. Carl also runs through the week’s top local stories, including the opening of Mansfield’s new multi-use trail and tunnel, county leaders weighing property tax relief and the latest developments in downtown revitalization. Then, the mics turn to strategy and focus as chess master Carl Boor joins the show ahead of National Chess Day. The Mansfield-based player and founder of The Chess Bus shares how he fell in love with the game, what it takes to reach master status and why chess still matters in the age of video games and AI. During the interview, Boor and Zac Hiser actually play a live game of chess — one you’ll want to watch on YouTube — and, not surprisingly, Boor dismantles Hiser while carrying on the conversation. It’s a smart, funny and competitive episode that proves strategy isn’t just for the board. Thanks to Relax, It's Just Coffee for supporting the News Man Weekly. Head over to Relax to check out their fall drink menu.  Related links:  Learn more about Chess Bus and see their upcoming events Tunnel under Trimble, connector for bike path, open to the public Political hot potato: Richland County leaders face tough choices on property tax reductions NCSC instructor removed from Clear Fork college course after social media posts Upcoming Event: Build a Better Village Upcoming Event: Newsroom After Hours Richland Source hosting 'Candidate Conversations' Oct. 15 in Mansfield Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today: Bus drivers from across the region showed off their skills — and sharpened them — at this year’s North Region School Bus Driver Road-e-o, held in Crestview.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it really mean to live generously? In this episode of Better Together, hosts Brittany and Maddie sit down with Carrie Kemerer, Executive Director of The Shelby Foundation, to explore the many forms of generosity — from financial giving and legacy gifts to small, everyday acts that ripple through a community. Together, they zoom out to a 10,000-foot view of philanthropy and ask big questions like: How do small towns with limited resources still find ways to give so much? And what role does collaboration and trust play in creating lasting change? Carrie brings years of experience in community leadership to the conversation, reminding us that generosity isn’t reserved for a select few. It’s something we can all practice — and when we do, we create legacies that strengthen our communities for generations. https://www.theshelbyfoundation.org/ Let's Connect!  If this podcast feels like something you’ve been craving, hit subscribe, leave a review, and send it to a friend. The more voices we have in this village, the stronger we become. Email Us: bettertogether@richlandsource.com  Subscribe to Maddie’s Blog Listen to more of Sarah Goff's MusicSupport the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad, Hayden Gray and Zac Hiser sit down with Mount Vernon senior quarterback Mason Richards, the area’s leading rusher and team captain. Mason reflects on his record-breaking single-game performance — 310 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns in a thrilling 35-34 OT win over Johnstown. He talks about how his leadership and approach to the game have evolved since being named a captain as a sophomore, and what it would mean for Mount Vernon to surpass six wins and reach the playoffs for the first time in years. The conversation also touches on the resilience of the Mount Vernon team, Mason’s expectations for upcoming matchups, and his aspirations to play at the next level, potentially at a DIII program. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions, including who leads “The Hive,” his responsibilities as Homecoming King, and what he hopes people remember about the 2025 Mount Vernon football team. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  It's also sponsored by the Knox Parent Support Initiative.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Marion Local extends winning streak on controversial call Mount Vernon shocks Newark to reignite football rivalry Yellow Jackets snatch thrilling overtime win from Johnstown First computer ratings show Mount Vernon in hunt for playoff bid Yellow Jackets sting Zanesville with decisive shutout Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today  - A college-level English class at Clear Fork High School was abruptly restructured after a North Central State College instructor’s social media posts drew backlash — sparking questions about free speech, academic partnerships, and community standards.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 67 of News Man Weekly is a special pre-election edition. Carl, Zac and Hayden kick things off with their usual weekend banter, including the Guardians’ playoff-clinching walk-off and NFL Week 4 overreactions. Then it’s on to the local headlines: shots fired in a downtown Mansfield parking lot, “The Brawl at the Mall” fight card drawing big crowds at the former Richland Mall and Richland Public Health unveiling a 24/7 vending machine stocked with everything from first aid kits to Narcan. The spotlight then shifts to elections with guests Matt Finfgeld and Jane Zimmermann from the Richland County Board of Elections. With Election Day just weeks away, they break down registration deadlines, early voting options, the need for poll workers and why local races matter just as much as presidential ones. It’s a timely conversation designed to help voters understand the process, get engaged, and make their voices heard this November. Thanks to Relax, It's Just Coffee for supporting the News Man Weekly. Head over to Relax to check out their fall drink menu.  Related links: Visit the Richland County Board of Elections website Upcoming Event: Build a Better Village Upcoming Event: Newsroom After Hours Mansfield police investigate shots fired Friday night in downtown parking lot North central Ohio fighters put on a show in ‘Brawl at the Mall’ Richland Public Health unveils free vending machine for health essentials Richland Source hosting 'Candidate Conversations' Oct. 15 in Mansfield Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today: Bridging community divides isn’t easy, but in Mansfield, it starts with honest conversations and listening across lines of race, class, and experience.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this co-host only episode, Brittany and Maddie take a moment to pause and reflect on the conversations that have shaped Better Together so far. From child care and the mental load to creativity, leadership, and healing, the two revisit standout moments from past guests and share how those themes continue to ripple through their own lives and community.This is part catch-up, part reflection, and part reminder of why these conversations matter. Whether you’ve been listening since the beginning or are just tuning in, this episode offers a thoughtful look back — and a hopeful look ahead.Listen in as we talk about: The biggest takeaways that still resonate from past episodes The laughter, lessons, and unexpected wisdom our guests have shared What we hope listeners carry forward into the months ahead And we want to hear from you! Who do you think we should talk with next? If there’s a story, perspective, or person you’d love to hear on Better Together, reach out anytime at bettertogether@richlandsource.com. Let's Connect!  If this podcast feels like something you’ve been craving, hit subscribe, leave a review, and send it to a friend. The more voices we have in this village, the stronger we become. Email Us: bettertogether@richlandsource.com  Subscribe to Maddie’s Blog Listen to more of Sarah Goff's MusicSupport the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Inside the Lines, Curt Conrad and Effie James welcome Lexington senior Dantrell Hughes, a standout WR/DB and track athlete who has Division I college offers. Dantrell reflects on the resilience of this senior class, how long-standing relationships have helped them bond and succeed and what it was like to overcome an injury last year that sidelined him. He shares the high expectations the team has for itself on and off the field, the improvements they’ve made from last season and how competing in both track and football has shaped his athletic growth. The conversation dives into Dantrell’s perspective on playing both sides of the ball, how he maximizes his impact defensively and where he sees himself at the next level. He also discusses the unique experience of competing alongside his twin brother Latrell. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions covering everything from homecoming plans to pre-game meals to college aspirations. This episode is brought to you by Graham Auto Mall.  Intro and outro music is "Story of the Sunflower Samurai" by local artist Vaundoom.  Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local journalism.  Read more:  Find coverage here on the Youngstown Ursuline situation, which we discuss briefly at the top of the episode Caudill, Lex top Ontario for first time since 2021 Game on: Stars will be out when Shelby hosts Lexington under Friday Night Lights Caudill, Fogle lead Lexington past Clear Fork in thriller Lexington takes runner-up honors at Division I state track championship Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today - A former Richland County mental health director is facing felony and misdemeanor charges over alleged conflicts of interest tied to public contracts.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 66 of News Man Weekly mixes the usual banter, football overreactions, headlines of the week and a guest with some fascinating ghost stories. Carl, Zac and Hayden trade takes from the weekend, then turn to local news — including the Ashland County Fair’s decision to remove the Democratic Party booth over 'offensive' political buttons, Mansfield City Council honoring longtime pastor Rev. Verdell Larson and Mansfield City Schools earning improved marks on Ohio’s state report cards. The episode’s featured guest is historian, playwright and author Mark Sebastian Jordan, who joins the show to talk about his new book, In These Haunted Hills: Ghosts of the Ohio Highlands. Jordan shares why history, storytelling and the supernatural are so compelling to him, offers a glimpse of some favorite haunted tales and explains how he approaches investigating reports of paranormal activity. You can visit Mark and buy a signed copy of his book September 27-28 at the 48th Annual Ohio Heritage Days Festival at Malabar Farm.  For now, grab a cup of Relax, It’s Just Coffee and settle in for some ghostly stories just in time for the season. Related links: History Knox author to offer new book at Heritage Days Visit Mark's history archive on Knox Pages Brownella Cottage: Is the Bishop still haunting his old home? Find Mark's classical music reviews News of the week links: Ashland County Fair board boots Ashland County Democratic Party booth for ‘offensive’ buttons ACSO investigating ‘offensive’ button incident at Ashland County Fair; notifies U.S. Secret Service Ashland County Democratic Party chair says fair ‘ejected’ her for ‘political reasons’ It’s unanimous: Mansfield lawmakers add Rev. Verdell Larson’s name to street Shoot for the stars: Mansfield Sr., career tech see boost on state report card Intro song credit: Smoke And Drink, by Luke Watson. Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today: A political booth pulled from the Ashland County Fair has sparked fierce online debate and raised questions about free expression, public decency, and where the line is drawn at community events.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we sit down with Susan Hamme, director of Grief Services at Hospice of the Western Reserve. With more than 20 years of experience. From bedside social work to leading bereavement programs across 16 counties, Susan has devoted her career to creating spaces where loss can be acknowledged and shared. Susan helps us understand why grief is both normal and necessary, why it can feel so isolating, and how we might show up for one another in those hardest moments. She talks about the misconceptions that persist, the ways grief touches every part of life (physical, emotional, spiritual) and the surprising practices that can help people heal. From the quiet presence of a friend on the other end of the phone to the simple act of saying a loved one’s name, Susan reminds us that resilience and connection are built not by avoiding grief, but by making space for it together. If you're new here, this is a place for everyone to laugh, learn, heal and build. Not alone. Not perfectly. But arm in arm, heart to heart. Because we were never meant to do this alone. We are always Better Together.  Let's Connect!  If this podcast feels like something you’ve been craving, hit subscribe, leave a review, and send it to a friend. The more voices we have in this village, the stronger we become. Email Us: bettertogether@richlandsource.com  Subscribe to Maddie’s Blog Listen to more of Sarah Goff's MusicSupport the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today: Grief turns to action as believers gather in Ontario to honor Charlie Kirk with a message of hope.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.