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Former Richland County Judge James Henson, the county’s longest-serving judge, has died at 83. In this episode, we look back on his decades of service, his role in launching the county’s Drug Court, and the legacy he leaves behind in the courtroom and beyond.

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In this week's episode of the News Man Weekly, we sit down with Mansfield Public Works Director Louis Andres to hear what’s happening in city parks — from the transformation of Sterkel Park, to new concrete at Middle Park, to updates on the Clearfork Reservoir and that ever-elusive public pool.

Adam "Doc" Fox also joins us with an update on the decades-old Amy Mihaljevic cold case, including new developments in DNA testing.

Plus, The latest on Mansfield’s $19.3 million Main Street Corridor project; Richland County’s new beekeeper-in-chief; and a public code proposal aimed at fighting urban blight.

All that and more, brought to you by Relax, It's Just Coffee — fueling your mornings and this podcast.

Relevant links:

- Mansfield officials talk Main Street project with the public

- Richland County deputy apiarist appointed by commissioners

- What is the PRIDE fund?

- Mansfield city parks page

- A look inside DNA lab testing in the Amy Mihaljevic case

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

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Ontario High School graduate Bodpegn Miller is making waves at Ohio State, stepping into a new role as wide receiver after a standout run as a high school quarterback. In this episode, we look at his early transition, the work he’s putting in on and off the field, and what it means for fans back home in Richland County.

Read more about this story:
QB to WR: Ontario’s Bodpegn Miller finding his football with Ohio State football program

Headlines:
Broadway, TV & film stars headline 'Fiddler on the Roof' cast
What is Issue 2? What to know before heading to the polls in Ohio
Doris Martin
Richland County Prosecutor’s Office offers assistance to crime victims

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In this episode, we explore how Richland County’s status in Foreign-Trade Zone 181 helps local manufacturers deal with tariffs—specifically, by delaying when payments are due. We also look at the county commissioners’ recent decision to support transferring FTZ 181’s administrative role to the Development Finance Authority, a move that promises to strengthen economic growth and streamline the process for businesses looking to take advantage of tariff relief.

Read more about this story:

• Madison family sues after student punished for 'Let’s Go Brandon' shirt

Headlines:

• Ohio’s youth turkey hunting season begins this weekend

• Gov. DeWine calls for ban of cell phones in Ohio schools

• Curtis 'Ora' James Duncan

• Richland County Prosecutor's Office offers assistance to crime victims

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In this episode, we bring you highlights from a recent speech in Ashland, where Ohio Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate Dave Yost shared his vision for the state. Introduced by his wife, Darlene, Yost spoke about the role of faith in his life and laid out his views on energy, education, and government—emphasizing clear goals over new programs and drawing a sharp contrast between public- and private-sector leadership.

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A Madison Township family is suing their local school district after their middle school son was disciplined for wearing a "Let’s Go Brandon" t-shirt. The case raises big questions about student free speech, dress codes, and who decides what's disruptive in the classroom. In this episode, we break down the lawsuit and what’s at stake as it heads to federal court.

Read more about this story:

• Madison family sues after student punished for 'Let’s Go Brandon' shirt

Headlines:

• Man, 21, charged with attempted murder after Koogle Road stabbing incident

• Volunteers needed for North Central Ohio Sandhill Crane Count

• Kathryn Ann Canada

• Ohio Civil War, World War I & II show set for May 4 and 5 at Richland County Fairgrounds

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In this episode of News Man Weekly, host and deputy editor Carl Hunnell is joined by State Senator Mark Romanchuk for a timely and wide-ranging conversation about issues impacting residents across the area. Senator Romanchuk discusses Ohio’s state budget, including proposed changes to the public school funding formula, the future of the Public Library Fund and his thoughts on the newly announced federal tariffs. The conversation also touches on the state’s handling of the voter-approved recreational cannabis statute and how local governments like Mansfield may be affected by potential changes.

The episode also features updates on several key local stories. Mansfield Mayor Jodie Perry delivered her State of the City address, highlighting progress in infrastructure, safety and economic growth. Charter Next Generation announced plans to add 125 new jobs as part of a major expansion in Lexington and Ontario and the Richland County Jail welcomed a new interim captain. Meanwhile, a proposed 51-acre housing development in Ontario remains uncertain after the developers withdrew from a scheduled rezoning meeting.

As always, News Man Weekly brings you local news and policy discussions with clarity and purpose, helping you stay informed about the issues shaping your community—and it all pairs perfectly with a cup of great coffee from our friends at Relax, It’s Just Coffee.

Relevant links:

Mayor Jodie Perry's State of the City address

Charter Next Generation expansion

51-acre lot in Ontario

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

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In this episode, we take a closer look at small business lending in Richland County and surrounding areas. SBA-backed loans saw a noticeable drop in 2024—but overall commercial lending was on the rise. So what’s really going on? We break down the numbers, explore why some entrepreneurs are turning to other funding options, and highlight the local resources available to help small businesses grow.

Read more about this story:
Richland County Sheriff's Office hires Ashland County official to lead jail

Headlines:
Heavy rains lead to flooding in Bellville and across Richland County
American white pelican spotted at Clearfork Reservoir
City of Shelby mourning loss of former mayor Doris Payne Biglin
Playtime Dental and Braces Easter egg hunt supports dog shelter

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After nearly a year of negotiations, the Madison Local School District and its teachers union have reached a new three-year contract. The agreement, based on recommendations from a state-appointed factfinder, includes a 3% retroactive raise, two additional 2% increases, and changes to health insurance costs. In this episode, we break down what’s in the deal, how it came together, and what it means for educators and the community.

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Richland County Jail has a new leader. Longtime Ashland County official Dave Blake steps in as jail administrator, bringing nearly 50 years of law enforcement experience to the role. This episode covers the leadership change, the legacy of outgoing Captain Chris Blunk, and new grant funding aimed at expanding addiction treatment services inside the jail.

Read more about this story:

• Richland County Sheriff's Office hires Ashland County official to lead jail

Headlines:

• Mansfield mayor plans State of the City address on Facebook livestream Thursday

• Ashland, Mansfield students to display AU capstone projects April 10 to May 3

• William Coffindaffer

• March property transfers: Masonic Temple building sold to Fredericktown-based LLC

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