News Man Weekly: War with Iran, Mansfield Speedway and Paul Kemerling

MANSFIELD — This week’s show opens on a sobering note.

Richland Source Deputy Managing Editor Carl Hunnell reflects on the escalating conflict in the Middle East and offers a message of steadiness, prayer and compassion for families with loved ones in uniform.

We continue that discussion briefly, touching on the human cost of war and the importance of being skeptical about what you see online as episode No. 87 begins.

We then dive into local headlines — a transformational downtown Mansfield donation from John and Mimi Fernyak; the long-awaited return of Mansfield Speedway; and the next phase of a proposed connector road in Lexington. 

Finally, the show welcomes a very special guest: Paul Kemerling, owner of Relax, It’s Just Coffee and the primary sponsor who believed in The News Man Weekly from the beginning.

Kemerling shares the story behind launching an independent coffee shop in downtown Mansfield, how it evolved into a true community hub and what’s next for Relax.

The conversation also veers into downtown revitalization — and of course — a little Formula 1 discussion between two superfans. 

This episode is powered by the great folks at Relax, It’s Just Coffee.

Related links:

• Local control, lasting impact: Fernyaks donate downtown properties to Richland County Foundation
• Public action, private investment: City Council to vote on downtown tax abatements
• Opening Day draws near for Mansfield Speedway
• Grant funding to study environmental impact next step for Lexington connector

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