​LAHM AIRPORT--Mansfield Metropolitan & Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) Chairman, Jeff Gorman, introduced new Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Traffic Control Tower manager for Mansfield Lahm Airport—Mike Wilson.
 
Mr. Wilson resides in Cuyahoga Falls with extensive experience in air traffic control operations. His most previous assignment was with the Akron/Canton Airport. He will be overseeing the Mansfield Flight Standards District Operations transition to the Cleveland office Flight Standards District Operations.
 
City Council Airport Chairman, Don Bryant, welcomed Wilson to Mansfield,
 
“I can relate to Mike’s daily commute, as I traveled to and from Akron for work for over a year. Mansfield welcomes Mike to our city and we look forward to working with him.”
 
But Bryant and others on the Commission although are not excited to see control of Mansfield’s air tower operations transferred to Cleveland; they do understand the need and reaffirm Mansfield’s full cooperation and support.
 
“I understand the need to condense markets for interoperability purposes. But it doesn’t mean I like it. Mansfield is a city with a tremendous amount of potential. The ability to maintain a sense of independence through various aspects regarding the way we do business here is very important to me. I know the FAA wants tightened, more efficient operations in many cities across the country. But, the Mansfield Airport is known for our above and beyond hospitality that we provide to our aviation clients. I hope we can preserve that reputation as we transition to the Cleveland market,” Chairman Bryant stated.
 
In other news from the Commission, talks will begin on November 26th on the possibility of bringing the renowned Thunderbird Airshow to Mansfield in 2020. The last time Mansfield hosted this event was in the early 90’s, where the event was attended by over 100,000 people.
 
For more information on Airport and Aviation activities in Mansfield, contact:
 
Airport Manager
2000 Harrington Memorial Rd.
Mansfield, OH 44903
 
Phone: 419-522-2191
Fax: 419-522-0883
E-Mail: lahmap@ci.mansfield.oh.us

by Marie Holbrook

City Hall - In efforts to promote and to support government transparency, the Office of Councilman Don Bryant is releasing the majority of Bills  that he has sponsored from 2015-Present.
​
Councilman Bryant serves as Chairman of both the Public Safety Committee and the Airport Committee on City Council. The Councilman also serves as Vice-Chairman of the following Committees:  Streets & Traffic, Public Utilities, and Zoning.

“It is my duty as a member of council leadership, to place the interests of the people, first. As Chairman and Vice-Chairman, I welcome legislative activity that cultivates growth and opportunity for our city. Moreover, I support activities and developments that help to keep our citizens and neighborhoods safe,” Bryant stated.
​
Attached below is a brief compilation of the majority of Councilman Bryant’s sponsored Bills that have all been voted into the city’s codified ordinances. 

​Bryant Sponsored Legislation 

2015 City Ordinances
-Airport
Bill #15-028
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to file a grant application and to accept a grant from the Federal Aviation Administration under the Airport Improvement Program, to advertise for bids and enter into a contract or contracts for certain airport improvements relating to said grant.
Bill #15-045
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to execute Addendum Number One to Airport Joint Use Agreement with the United States of America and the State of Ohio.
Bill #15-054
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to enter into a contract to timber and harvest approximately 61.4 acres of certain airport property.
Bill #15-104
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to accept and appropriate funds obtained from timbering certain airport property in the amount of $107,697 to be used for modifications to the Airport terminal building.
Bill #15-105
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to advertise for bids and enter into a contract for the renovation of the Mansfield Lahm Airport terminal building to accommodate Fixed Base Operations.
Bill #15-192
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to file a grant application and to accept a grant from the Ohio Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation to advertise for bids and enter into a contract or contracts to replace supplemental wind-cones relating to said grant.
-Safety
Bill #15-009
Appointing new members to the Police Review and Community-Police Relations Commission.
Bill #15-013
Appropriating funds from the Safety Services Fund (214.16.01) Fire Operations Contractual Services Classification to the Safety Services Fund (214.16.01) Fire Operations Capital Outlay Classification in the amount of $10,000.
Bill #15-026
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to enter into a software maintenance agreement with SunGard Public Sector Inc.
Bill #15-049
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to purchase, under the Ohio Cooperative Purchasing Program without competitive bidding from Statewide Ford-Lincoln, four (4) 2015 Ford Taurus Standard Equipment Cruisers for the Police Department.
Bill #15-135
Honoring Officer Dominga I. Chatman upon her retirement from the Mansfield Division of Police.
Bill #15-136
Honoring Detective Christopher D. Bunk upon his retirement from the retirement from the Mansfield Division of Police.
Bill #15-194
Authorizing the Chief of Police to contribute property that is needed or obsolete to the City of Mansfield Police Department to one or more local law enforcement agencies.
Bill #15-205
Honoring Fire Fighter Paul Rehbein upon his retirement from the Mansfield Police Department.
Bill #15-282
Authorizing and directing the filing of an objection to the renewal of a liquor permit for Theresa Stephens, 189 Wood Street, Mansfield, Ohio.

-Employee Relations
Bill #15-031
Honoring Ellen Haring upon her retirement from Mansfield City Council.

-Zoning
Bill #15-229
Adopting and enacting the Mansfield Home Value and Family Protection Act as Section 765.01 of the Mansfield Codified Ordinances, as adopted, to prohibit certain business activities in residential districts and thereby protect the citizens of Mansfield.
 
2016 City Ordinances
-Airport
Bill #16-098
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to file a grant application and to accept a grant for the Ohio Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation to advertise for bids and enter into a contract or contracts to reconstruct and straighten Taxiway “E” to said grant.
Bill #16-248
Approving reappointments by the Mayor to the Airport and Aviation Commission.

-Safety
Bill #16-037
Authorizing the City to accept a donation of Fifty Dollars ($50.00) from Box 27 Associates, Springfield Fire Division in memory of Citizen Jackie Starrett for use by the Mansfield Fire Department for EMS supplies.
Bill #16-050
Authorizing the City to accept a donation of Twenty-Five Dollars ($25.00) form Doug and Maxine Weber in memory of retired Firefighter Dean Scott for use by the Mansfield Fire Department in operation of its Fire Prevention Program.
Bill #16-071
Authorizing the City to accept a donation of One Hundred Fifty Dollars ($150.00) from Walmart for use by the Hooked on Fishing-Not Drugs Program.
Bill #16-072
Authorizing the City to accept a donation of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) from Geron Tate for use by the Minority Health Fair.
Bill #16-093
Amending Sections 175.01, 175.03 and 175.04 of the Mansfield Codified Ordinances of 1997, as amended, to update the appointment powers to the Commission, the attendance duties of the Commission members, and the frequency of Commission meetings.
Bill #16-101
Honoring Lieutenant Joy R. Stortz upon her retirement from the Mansfield Division of Police.
Bill #16-143
Amending Section 351.13 of the Mansfield Codified Ordinances of 1997, as amended, to prohibit the parking of non-motorized accessories of vehicles in front of residential properties.
Bill #16-167
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to enter into a software maintenance agreement with SunGard Public Sector, Inc.
Bill #16-175
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to dispose of a certain unneeded obsolete fire truck by sale to Finley Fire Equipment Company, Inc in consideration for a $15,000.00 equipment credit to be uses for the future purchasing of fire department equipment.
Bill #16-188
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to hereby be authorized to purchase property located at 124 E. Third Street, Mansfield Ohio for the Fire Department.
Bill #16-189
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to hereby be authorized to purchase property located on Willis Avenue, Mansfield Ohio and Park Avenue East, Mansfield Ohio, for the Fire Department.
Bill #16-194
Appointing a new member and reappointing members to the Police Review and Community-Police Relations Commission.
Bill #16-218
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to purchase according to STS #233, pricing contract #800263, from Penn Care Inc, two (2) 2016 STS Braun Ford EMS Rescue Squad Vehicles, for the Fire Department.
Bill #16-243
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to advertise for bids and enter into a contract for the sale and purchase of firearms for the Mansfield Police Department and Mansfield Municipal Court Probation Department.
Bill #16-246
Honoring K-9 dog Elliot upon his retirement from the Mansfield Police Department.
Bill #16-262
Repealing and replacing Chapter 751 of the Mansfield Codified Ordinances of 1997 to allow for updates and revisions that modernize and simplify the Codified Ordinances to better suit the needs of the community.

2017 City Ordinances
-Safety
Bill #17-032
Honoring Officer Stephen Hornback upon his retirement from the Mansfield Division of Police.
Bill #17-033
Honoring K-9 dog  Xaro upon his retirement from the Mansfield Police Department.
Bill #17-034
Approving the disposition of Police Department K-9 dog Xaro.
Bill #17-049
Honoring Lieutenant Douglas A. Seman upon his retirement from the Mansfield Division of Police.
Bill #17-143
Appointing Chauncey Bragg to fill a vacant position on the Police Review and Community-Police Relations  Commission.
Bill #17-153
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to enter into a software maintenance agreement with Superion LLC.
Bill #17-160
Adopting the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Bill #17-195
Amending Section 505.04 of the Mansfield Codified Ordinances of 1997, to increase penalties for owners, keepers, and harborers of dogs who recklessly allow their dog to run at large.
Bill #17-196
Amending Section 505.15 of the Mansfield Codified Ordinances of 1997, to increase penalties for owners, keepers and harborers of dogs who recklessly fail to register their dog.
Bill #17-205
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to purchase, without competitive bidding, and Agilent 9000 Intuvo GC/MS System for the police laboratory from Agilent Technologies, Inc.

-Airport
Bill #17-045
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Federal Aviation Administration of the United States of America.

-Employee Relations
Bill #17-050
Strongly opposing the passage of HB 53 by the General Assembly which proposes changes to weaken collective bargaining laws and rights in the State of Ohio.

-Zoning
Bill #17-094
Vacating a portion of an Unnamed Alley from Park Avenue East to Ashland Road, between lot numbers 12107, 12109 and 12109 and retaining the utility rights and easements therein.

-Public Relations
Bill #17-154
Approving and supporting the establishment of the Mansfield City Council Internship Program.

2018 City Ordinances
-Safety
Bill #18-001
Honoring Captain Bret M. Snavely upon his retirement from the Mansfield Division of Police.
Bill #18-008
Honoring K-9 dog Sam upon his retirement from the Mansfield Police Department.
Bill #18-009
Approving the disposition of Police Department K-9 dog Sam.
Bill #18-063
Authorizing the City to accept a donation from Ontario Lowe’s Heroes Program Service Project for use by the Mansfield Police Department K-9 training facility.
Bill #18-126
Amending Sections 175.01 and 175.04 of the Mansfield Codified Ordinances of 1997, as amended, to update the residential qualifications for appointment to the Commission and the frequency of Commission meetings.

-Streets & Traffic
Bill #18-093
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to advertise for bids and enter into a contract for the sale approximately 192 acres of City-owned real  estate situated in the Southeast Quarter and Northeast Quarter of Section 28 of Franklin Township to the highest and best bidder.

-Airport
Bill #18-019
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to enter into a Lease with Modern Avionics Maintenance Inc. for the Lots #44 ½ and #46 at the Mansfield Lahm Airport.
Bill #18-032
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to advertise for bids and enter into and agreement for the use of certain Airport property for agricultural purposes.
Bill #18-090
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to enter into a Lease with R.H. Phillips Trucking Co. Inc. for real estate known as Hanger 518 at the Mansfield Lahm Airport.

-Zoning
Bill #18-055
Declaring the remains of a designated dwelling (274 South Adams Street) to be insecure, unsafe, structurally defective and dangerous to life and other property; directing the demolition thereof by City forces or contract labor, materials and equipment.
Bill #18-128
Declaring the remains of a two car wood-sided detached garage located at (Gray Court) Lot #1668 to be insecure, unsafe, structurally defective and dangerous to life and other property; directing the demolition thereof by City forces or contract labor, materials and equipment.
Bill #18-129
Declaring the remains of a designated dwelling (115-117 South Adams Street) to be insecure, unsafe, structurally defective and dangerous to life and other property; directing the demolition thereof by City forces or contract labor, materials and equipment.
Bill #18-130
Declaring the remains of a commercial building (135 Buckingham Street) and attached garage to be insecure, unsafe, structurally defective and dangerous to life and other property; directing the demolition thereof by City forces or contract labor, materials and equipment.
Bill #18-131
Declaring the remains of a two (2) floor, wood-sided, shingle-roofed garage located at 178 North Mulberry Street to be insecure, unsafe, structurally defective and dangerous to life and other property; directing the demolition thereof by City forces or contract labor, materials and equipment.
Bill #18-132
Declaring the remains of a designated dwelling (184-186 West Fourth Street) to be insecure, unsafe, structurally defective and dangerous to life and other property; directing the demolition thereof by City forces or contract labor, materials and equipment.
Bill #18-133
Declaring the remains of a designated dwelling (187 North Mulberry Street) to be insecure, unsafe, structurally defective and dangerous to life and other property; directing the demolition thereof by City forces or contract labor, materials and equipment.
Bill #18-134
Declaring the remains of a designated dwelling (411 Cline Avenue) with detached one (1) car garage to be insecure, unsafe, structurally defective and dangerous to life and other property; directing the demolition thereof by City forces or contract labor, materials and equipment.
Bill #18-135
Declaring the remains of a commercial building (135 Buckingham Street) and attached garage to be insecure, unsafe, structurally defective and dangerous to life and other property; directing the demolition thereof by City forces or contract labor, materials and equipment.
Bill #18-136
Declaring the remains of a designated dwelling (727 Armstrong Street) to be insecure, unsafe, structurally defective and dangerous to life and other property; directing the demolition thereof by City forces or contract labor, materials and equipment.

-Public Utilities
Bill #18-058
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to enter into a contract with EMH&T for GIS web development and support services
Bill #18-147
Authorizing the Safety-Service Director to advertise for bids and enter into a contract for salt supply.

-Economic Development
Bill #18-111
Granting a license to Don Lew Exchange, 28 North Main Street, Mansfield Ohio to use the public right-of-way for the installation of fencing and outdoor dining furniture.

Dear Neighbor,
 
Before running for office in 2014 and 2015; I traveled the country and the world to seek a better understanding of myself, of other people and cultures, and of life in general. Frequently, I would also attend conferences, conventions and other events that supported my academic and life goals. Throughout my twenties, I began implementing the ideas that were gained from these experiences and from the many conversations I had with people along the way.
 
I wanted to share something with you that I believe can be a path forward for our city. Recently, a group of 15 locals left for the 2018 South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference in Austin, Texas. From March 9-12, the SXSW Conference provides an opportunity for global professionals at every level to participate, learn, and network. This core group of people will bring back ideas learned from this conference and work toward putting them into action.
 
But here’s the thing, it’s not necessarily the conference that’s providing a path forward—it’s the people participating. Since my first year in office; I have met with or interacted with most of the 15 people. I actually met three of the individuals in 2014: Jay Allred, Cameron Haring and Nikki Lewis. In 2015, I reconnected with Damien Beauford to learn of his big ideas and heard from Matthew Stanfield for the first time. Also in 2015, relationships were developed with Bob Bianchi, Ben Davis, Jennifer Geberick Kime, Leona Smith, Maura Teynor, and Aurelio Villa Luna Diaz. In 2016, I had the honor of meeting Mansfield/Richland County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Jodie Perry; and also met Jotika Shetty, who is the Executive Director of the Richland County Regional Planning Commission. During the last months of 2016, I met one of Richland County’s 10 under 40 award recipients and the President of Renaissance Performing Arts, Chelsie Thompson.
 
Although SXSW is an amazing conference; I am more excited about the above people involved. The members of this team are about action, they are results-oriented. For example, Jodie Perry is a dynamic leader. As the head of our local Chamber of Commerce, she has helped to #MoveOpportunityForward for small to medium sized businesses throughout Richland County. She is our first female and youngest chamber president, and I think she’s a great person. Bob Bianchi, who is also the City of Mansfield Engineer, is a person that inspires me week after week. Bob designs, manages and oversees major city and regional projects throughout the year. He has helped the City of Mansfield acquire millions of dollars in grant funds.
 
In trying to keep my words of support short, here’s the point. I am encouraging you, all Mansfielders; to support this core group of young leaders. Yes, we have a city full of leaders. But this team of 15 is yet another example of leaders that have demonstrated some of the most dynamic changes to their professions in our locality. From Aurelio’s Hip-hop Dance Troupe and new downtown art gallery and dance studio; to Chelsie’s rise to become President of the historic Renaissance, once known as the Ohio Theater. From Matthew’s architectural design of the South Park Pavilion and his strong advocacy efforts in projects focusing on sustainability; to Ben's management and leadership abilities with Mansfield UMADAOP, and Jay’s masterful work in the development, establishment and direction of North Central Ohio’s first major online-only newspaper---there’s talent here and they will have ideas worth our attention and hopefully, our involvement moving forward.
​
This team of leaders cares about Mansfield and wants the best for our city.

Find the time to follow this group throughout the 2018 year. Here is the initial link to the Richland Source article detailing their journey: http://www.richlandsource.com/rising_from_rust/sxsw/redefining-mansfield-south-by-southwest-style/article_d64564a8-2243-11e8-9952-5be7a2910923.html

​Sincerely, 

​Don

December 19, 2017
 
MANSFIELD--During the Mansfield City Council Finance Committee briefing on Tuesday; Finance Director, Linn Steward, warned Council that city tax revenues are shrinking. Steward said, although there have been job expansions in the city, “there has not been any major job growth” or enough jobs created to sustain or to improve revenues. In the past, it has been emphasized the need to reduce spending and for departments to stay within their budgets. Steward stated there is a significant problem with elected officials [overseeing department budgets] not following through with their promises to stay within their operating budgets.
 
Councilman Bryant applauded Steward for her professionalism and for her timely reports. However, Bryant says he’s concerned. “Director, in your official capacity, I don’t understand why we [the City] are not listening to you or to your warnings to stop with the extra spending; it just doesn’t make sense to me.”
 
Steward also warned on the creation of new personnel ordinances and specifically, the Law Director’s desire to create the position of Animal Control Officer. Steward mentioned that funds are available in the safety services budget, but are for the hiring of new police officers. However, she stated that there have not been enough qualified police candidates to hire. Safety Services Director, Lori Cope, concurred.
 
Bryant says he is committed to furthering the Finance Director’s call in asking the City to monitor spending.
 
“In 2018, I will take things a step further in forming a stronger partnership with Finance Committee Chairman and 3rd Ward Councilman, Jon Van Harlingen; to ensure that any legislation concerning safety and with our airport, are in line with the city budget.”
 
For more information on Mansfield’s financial status, visit: www.ci.mansfield.oh.us.
 

Veterans Day (Nov. 11), is a celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

Join me throughout the entire month of November, in thanking our veterans for their service. Are you doing something special for our Vets? If you live or work in Mansfield, share what you're doing. I'd love to highlight and share your Veterans Day activities with everyone. 

To all of our Veterans, on behalf of the Office in which I currently hold, and the people of Mansfield to whom I serve -  thank you for your service to our country.
​
-Don 

Veterans Day Breakfast
Name: Veterans Day Breakfast
Date: November 10, 2017
Time: 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM EST
Website: http://www.mansfieldy.org
Event Description:
Annual Veteran's Day Breakfast at the Mansfield Area Y in honor of those who valiantly served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

SEPTEMBER 27, 2017

​     Councilman Bryant to sponsor legislation removing breed specific language

Per City Council request from September 12, 2017; Councilman Don Bryant is sponsoring legislation to amend Mansfield’s breed specific component—section 505.03 which currently bans citizens from owning ‘Pit bulls’ in the City.

This new amendment removes that breed specific language.

Councilman Bryant is requesting final constituent input: comments, concerns, surveys, citizen petitions. You may send e-mails directly to me at: db@donbryant.com or leave information on his office voicemail service: (419) 971-3662. If you would like the councilman to return your phone call, please indicate that in your message.

A formal Safety Committee will be held on Tuesday, October 3rd at 6:30 pm in City Council chambers. If you wish to address the committee, please submit written testimonies by this Friday, September 29th by 3:30 PM. You may e-mail your statements or drop them off to the City Council office: 30 N. Diamond St. Mansfield, OH 44902 (3rd Fl).

##

Dear Neighbor--

            In 2015, I launched a pilot project called, the Mansfield City Council Internship Program. This program was intended to expand access to our local government and to increase transparency. Having first-hand experience serving as the first intern to the Office of Mayor for the City of Mansfield from 2008-2010 and then, as an intern for U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown in Washington, D.C. also in 2008; I wanted to create a program to transfer my learned skills to other folks interested in serving our city, and our country.

            I’ve always had an interest to serve my country. However, because of illness and several major operations to remove a tumor on my neck; I was unable to join the United States Military. Thankfully, I have been able to serve in other ways and most recently, as a Member of the Mansfield City Council. Nevertheless, my service to the City of Mansfield spans nearly 10-years.

            It has been during this period of time that I’ve become familiar to the needs of our city and especially regarding the concern of attracting and retaining young people to public service. People should know that government service is not to be taken lightly. As government officials and employees, our job is to serve the people and to improve the quality of life for Mansfield residents. This is why once I took office, I promised transparency and access to city government. In addition to my presence on social media and through my website; I wanted to expand this access to an entire generation of people who have not had much experience in the real-world.

            The generation of people I’m speaking of are our young people. The Mansfield City Council Internship Program has served as a way to involve our younger generations into public service. I have brought forth two classes of City Council Interns and in process developed partnerships with The Ohio State University-Mansfield and Columbus and Ohio University. Additionally, I have allowed high-school students from Mansfield Senior High School job shadowing experience. Furthermore, each year, I participate on the career panel with The Ohio State University-Mansfield’s Career Introduction courses to provide college students with a basic understanding of the legislative process.  

            The Mansfield City Council Internship Program is an umbrella program for the entire City Council. There is no set standard curriculum required for the Council Members. I developed a curriculum for my office and I’ve entrusted it to the entire City Council for anyone to use if they want. But, each member of Council can do their own individual program if they choose. Members of Council have always had that option.

            I’m not playing around when it comes to getting our next generation of leaders ready for tomorrow. Young people must be prepared to lead—there’s no sugarcoating that.  Time goes by fast and it is my belief that the mission of training our young people is a priority. Although the program was originally developed for ages 18-24; it is NOT restricted to this age range. It could be available for any age group. Again, it's up to each individual Council Member, elected official, or department head. The bottom-line here is providing free education and experience for people who want it. NO COSTS TO THE CITY. 
​
            Please find below: The Mansfield City Council Internship Program workbook and the Reflections completed by the 2017 Class of Mansfield City Council Interns. As always, feel free to reach out to me via phone or e-mail or through social media to with any questions, comments or concerns. 

Sincerely,

Don

PRIDE WEEKEND TO BE CELEBRATED IN MANSFIELD
July 20, 2017
 
By Kyle Weese and Olivia Hoppe, Legislative Assistants
 
MANSFIELD--The 2017 Mansfield Gay Pride Weekend will be taking place the weekend of July, 21st at Central Park in Downtown Mansfield. All are welcome to attend this event and enjoy in the festivities. The theme for Pride Weekend this year is: Tropical Paradise. Come with your best floral shirts, beach hats, and thong flip flops ready for a great day of fun in the sun. The first event of Pride Weekend is Mansfield’s very first Annual Pride Festival Kickoff Party.
 
This event will begin at 6:00 PM on the 21st, and end at 10:00 PM. The Kickoff Party will be hosted by Dj CRob from local Mansfield radio station Y105. The second event of the weekend is the third Annual Mansfield Gay Pride Festival. The festival will start at noon directly after the parade and will go until 9:00 PM.
 
The Mansfield Gay Pride Association encourages everyone to come as they are, assuring that it will be a completely fun and safe environment. There will be food, performances, karaoke contests, and even a kid’s area with a bounce house to keep children occupied. President of the Mansfield Gay Pride Association, Tom Rice, hopes this event will bring more members of the LGBTQ community out from the surrounding areas.
 
“Gay rights are something that isn’t particularly talked about in Mansfield” said Tom, and he's hoping this event can be the start of that discussion being more open. With the variety of activities planned for the weekend, there will be something to enjoy for everyone.

Kyle and Olivia are Legislative Assistants selected for the 2017 Mansfield City Council Internship Program under Councilman Don Bryant. Kyle is a Business major studying at Ohio University. Olivia is a History and Political Science major studying at The Ohio State University—Columbus.