Good morning, Mansfield.

Richland County commissioners met Thursday with local economic development leaders to discuss creating a countywide port authority—an entity that can levy taxes, offer sales tax exemptions, and provide loans to spur growth.

They said next steps include meeting with an attorney, passing legislation, and appointing a five-member board.

The Renaissance Theatre’s Education Department will present the 14th Annual MindSprouts Creative Writing Showcase on May 1 at 7:00 p.m. at Theatre 166 — the free event will feature live performances of original student writings and a donation box will support education programs.

Ontario High School announced its 2025 Prom Court by selecting 20 seniors for their friendliness, leadership and school spirit+ the school said Homecoming King Dean Morrison and Queen Nissi Powers will crown the prom king and queen after the Grand March begins at 8 p.m. on May 3+ the crowning will mark the end of the event.

The Ohio BMV will stay open until 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 26 and Saturday, May 3 to help Ohioans get a REAL ID before May 7—TSA will enforce the new rules at airport checkpoints thereafter.

Richland County commissioners appointed Sarah Potes as the new emergency management agency director—she will start on May 8 with a salary of $63,052.40, replacing Rebecca Owens.

They also approved a $34,000 contract to add air-conditioning to the dog shelter and amended a contract so foster youth can join a summer work skills program as shelter dog numbers have risen 50% since COVID.

Earth Day Festival at Ohio Bird Sanctuary

10 AM – 4 PM — Ohio Bird Sanctuary — Free Community Event — An interactive festival with games, crafts, and tips for a greener lifestyle.

Craft & Conversation with Miss Mansfield

3-5 p.m. — 3rd Cup Tea — $10 for one adult and one child, $5 for each additional child — Enjoy crafting heart-themed sunglasses and connecting with Miss Mansfield while supporting heart health.

BeautyCon 2025: Stylist Appreciation Day

5-7:30 p.m. — Dan Lew Exchange / DLX — $15 per person — Celebrate local beauty trends with a showcase of hairstyling, makeup artistry, and fashion.

MindSprouts Creative Writing Showcase

7 p.m. — Theatre 166 — Admission details not specified — Celebrate K-12 creativity with showcased student writings in an engaging theatrical presentation.

Open Mic Poetry & Music Night

5 PM — 3rd Cup Tea — Free entry — Experience a vibrant evening of poetry and music with the community atmosphere of downtown Mansfield.

Mansfield Blues Festival

1-6 p.m. — The Mansfield Playhouse — Enjoy live performances from top blues bands including Frank Boyd, Jr. and John Henry & The Rainmakers.

Mansfield Symphony Youth Orchestra Spring Concert

3:30-5:00 p.m. — Renaissance Theatre — Ticket required — Experience the talent of to 75 young musicians in a celebration of orchestral music.

46th Mansfield Antique Bottle Show

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Richland County Fairgrounds — General admission $5 — Explore over 150 tables of antique bottles and glass representing 200 years of history.

Mother's Day Lunch Buffet

11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Dan Lew Exchange / DLX — $39.95 · Kids $11.95 — Celebrate Mother's Day with a delightful buffet brunch featuring a variety of tasty options.

Tuesday Night Support Group

8-9 p.m. — Grace Episcopal Church — Free entry — Attend a supportive open meeting featuring speakers and resources focused on recovery.