Good Morning Youngstown!

Thanks for sticking around another week with us here at the Steel Valley Scoop! You’re probably wondering why you’re receiving this on Wednesday instead of Tuesday, well, we were out enjoying the beautiful weather a little too much. There really is no excuse to being bored around here with all the fun events going on. If you need ideas for this weekend, make sure you read until the end!

The Scoop To Keep You In The Loop!

• Pickle Fest Returns to Penguin City Brewing on August 16

• Thinking About Starting a Garden? Visit Gilmore’s Greenhouse

• Events going on this weekend

Let’s dive in.

Steel Valley Spotlight

Pickle Fest Returns to Penguin City Brewing on August 16

Youngstown is getting its pickle fix on Saturday, August 16 when Pickle Fest takes over Penguin City Brewing. This quirky local favorite brings pickle lovers together for a day of pickle-infused beer, briny snacks, live music, and booths from local vendors. Expect a lively community vibe, tastings of creative pickle-themed bites, and plenty of chances to meet friends and mingle downtown. It’s one of those uniquely Youngstown events that’s fun, delicious, and just a little weird in the best way.

A grant aimed at economic development may boost housing availability in the Valley.

Ohio's new Residential Economic Development District grant could trigger a housing boom in the Mahoning Valley amid economic growth. The Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber updated Warren City Council on the program, noting a housing gap set to grow with projects like Kimberly-Clark's Trumbull County facility, expected to add 491 jobs and $49M+ in payroll by 2030. Eligibility requires cities/townships within 20 miles of major developments to approve 100+ unit workforce housing projects and adopt pro-housing policies like site prep, diverse options, and infrastructure improvements. Mayor Doug Franklin aims to enact these for a stronger application, favoring multi-jurisdiction collaborations. Unresolved details include housing types and unit distribution; full guidelines arrive by year-end for applications, with leaders like Nico Morgione urging focus on housing alongside growth.

Local Flea Market Assists Teachers in Preparing for the School Year

Teachers, much like students preparing for the upcoming school year, need supplies for their classrooms. The Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio is organizing its second annual Teacher Flea Market this Friday, where educators can buy affordable, gently used items instead of paying full price for new ones. It also provides an opportunity for current or retired teachers to pass on their cherished materials to newer instructors, ensuring they're reused effectively— as Staci Direnzo from the center explains, it's about finding a good new home for tools that have proven successful with students. While only teachers can sell items, the public is invited to shop for classroom or home use, with the event running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the center in Canfield.

Business Brief

Thinking About Starting a Garden? You’ve Gotta Visit Gilmore’s Greenhouse

On Saturday, my wife and I stopped by Gilmore’s Greenhouse in Warren just to get a feel for what it might take to start a garden, and we left absolutely blown away. We weren’t even sure if we’d commit to planting anything this year, but after seeing their massive selection of flowers, veggies, and greenery, it’s hard not to get inspired. Everywhere you turn, there’s something vibrant, blooming, and begging to be taken home.

The staff sealed the deal. They were friendly, helpful, and gave us a few recommendations for plants that are perfect for beginners (because let’s be honest, our thumbs aren’t exactly green). I even filmed a short video of our visit, so check it out on Instagram or Facebook. Gilmore’s is the kind of place that makes you excited about taking care of your yard, even if you’ve never planted a thing in your life.

Feast at The Chophouse in Warren

The Chophouse shines as a top spot for great food, where every trip feels like a special treat. Right from the start, diners are wrapped in a cozy vibe that mixes old-school warmth with a touch of class, setting the stage for fun nights out. The friendly staff, with their spot-on service and genuine care, makes everything run smoothly, often guessing what you need before you ask. The menu features a fantastic lineup of high-quality choices, cooked to perfection with top-notch ingredients that burst with taste and leave you wanting more. From the warm hello at the door to the last delicious bite, The Chophouse always goes above and beyond, making it a go-to place for anyone after an amazing meal in a friendly spot.

Charity Spotlight

Meet Dozer, a Squeaky-Toy-Loving Pup Looking for His Person

Dozer is a four-year-old sweetheart with a heart of gold and a love for life that’s impossible not to notice. Despite a rough past where he was mistreated by kids, he’s bounced back with resilience and joy. These days, he’s all about playtime, belly rubs, and his beloved squeaky toys (his spiked ball and little piggies are his absolute favorites). He’s smart, strong, and knows his commands well. Nicole, one of the assistant managers at the shelter, has a special bond with him and says he’s one of the most lovable dogs she’s worked with.

Dozer is looking for a home where he can be the only animal and finally relax into the peaceful life he deserves. Because of past trauma, he’s nervous around other dogs and does best with calm, gentle children and a confident handler who can give him the guidance he needs. In the right home, Dozer will thrive: loyal, playful, and full of affection. If you’re looking for a best friend who just needs a second chance, Dozer is ready to meet you.

Weekend Planner

Thursday, July 31st

🎶 Music at the Boardman Park | Boardman Township Park | 6:30PM

🎨 Arts & Crafts in the Phelps Street Gateway | Downtown Youngstown | 5:00 PM

🎶 Music in the Park – Mauthe Park, Struthers | Mauthe Park | 6:00 PM

Friday, August 1st

🎷 Music on the Patio at L’uva Bella Winery | L’uva Bella (Lowellville) | 6:00 PM

🎤 Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons Concert | DeYor Performing Arts Center | 8:00 PM

🎶 The 232 Performs Live | DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown Youngstown | 8-10PM

Saturday, August 2nd

🐕 Steel Valley Cluster Dog Show – Final Day │ Canfield Fairgrounds │ 8:00 AM

🏈 Meet The YSU Football Team | Watts Center YSU  | 1:00 PM

☘️ St Patrick Parish Festival | St Patricks Church  | 5:00 PM

Sunday, August 3rd

🚙 Cars in the Park | Boardman Township Park | 10:00AM - 3:00PM

🇮🇹 Greater Youngstown Italian Fest | Central Square Downtown Youngstown | 11:00AM - 11:00PM

🎷 Jazz in the Park Youngstown | Wick Park | 3:00PM - 7:00PM

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