📣 The Latest Scoop From Youngstown & Fun Things To Do

Steel Valley's Local News & Events for the Week of August 10 - August 17, 2025

Good Morning Youngstown!

We’re back with your weekly scoop from the Steel Valley. The weather has been so nice, we hope you’ve had enough time to soak up some sun. If not, you’re going to have another opportunity this weekend at some of the events Youngstown has planned. Make sure you read all the way until the end of this newsletter to plan your weekend out! And if you haven’t already, pour yourself up a nice big cup of coffee and enjoy this week’s edition of The Steel Valley Scoop.

The Scoop To Keep You In The Loop!

  • Sales Tax Holiday Now Through August 14

  • The Best Wings in the World Might Be in Hubbard

  • Events going on this weekend

Let’s dive in.

Steel Valley Spotlight

Handel’s Drops New Flavor That Youngstown Cookie Dough Fans Will Love

Handel’s just rolled out a brand-new flavor, and it’s one you don’t want to miss. Knot Your Average Dough is everything we love in one scoop: salty pretzel ripple, cookie dough flavored ice cream, and chunks of cookie dough all mixed together. It’s the kind of flavor that feels like summer in Youngstown — rich, a little nostalgic, and totally addictive. Handel’s has been a part of our lives for decades, and somehow they keep raising the bar. Whether you’re grabbing a cone after work or taking the family out for a treat, make sure this one’s on your radar. It’s only here for a limited time, and it’s already becoming a fan favorite.

Local Resident Claims a $1 Million Jackpot from a Scratch-Off Lottery Ticket in Columbiana County.

A resident of Leetonia struck it rich by claiming a $1 million prize from a scratch-off lottery ticket. He secured the jackpot on a $30 Royal Riches game, which offers winners the choice between annual payments of $80,000 over 25 years or a lump-sum cash payout; he opted for the immediate $1 million, netting $720,000 after deductions for taxes. The winning ticket came from DP Fuel located on State Route 7 in New Waterford, and as of Monday, there were still six grand prizes up for grabs in the Royal Riches series.

Youngstown Seeking Entries for Beautification Accolades—Nominations Now Available.

Is there a neighbor pouring their heart into a stunning garden, or a beautifully manicured lawn you admire during your daily commute that merits some praise? Youngstown Cityscape is eager to showcase these hidden treasures in the community. The nonprofit organization is organizing its 19th yearly beautification awards event on November 13 to celebrate exceptional yards, gardens, and landscaping efforts across Youngstown, with eligibility open to people, companies, and groups alike—including the option to put yourself forward. As Sharon Letson, the executive director of Youngstown Cityscape, notes, "What I've discovered is that fresh discoveries keep emerging, along with innovative initiatives, fueled by an inspiring sense of community among those who truly value our city's appearance and are ready to get hands-on to make a difference." Nominations are being welcomed right now through September 30 and can be submitted via the internet.

Business Brief

Slushie Season Just Over the Border at Shenango Beverage

Okay, I know Shenango Beverage isn’t technically in the Youngstown area, but it’s just a short drive away in New Castle and absolutely worth the trip. This place has become a summer staple for us whenever we’re visiting family nearby. The staff is always friendly and helpful, and their selection of beer and spirits is seriously impressive. But let’s be real, the alcohol slushies are the main event. They rotate flavors often, and there’s always something new to try, from fruity mixes to dessert-style blends.

The best part? Some of those slushies pack a punch, so don’t let the sweet flavors fool you. They’re the perfect way to cool down and kick back on a summer afternoon. Shenango Beverage has built a loyal following thanks to the variety, quality, and just how fun it is to stop in. If you’re planning a trip toward New Castle or looking for something different, make this your go-to pit stop.

The Gorge Loop Trail in Mill Creek Park

This picturesque hiking path is packed with highlights, such as the Sulphur Spring Amphitheater, the dramatic Mill Creek Gorge, Lanterman's Falls, and the charming bridge nearby. It provides stunning vistas of rocky ledges, cliff overhangs, the babbling stream, lichen-covered stones, and local animals like graceful blue herons, deer, and ducks. Parts of the route are mildly challenging, with uneven stones, exposed roots, and wooden boardwalks adding to the adventure.

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Charity Spotlight

This Sweet Girl Survived the Cold and Just Wants a Home

Dude is a six-year-old hound with a calm demeanor, a handsome face, and a nose that’s always working overtime. He’s one of those sweet, well-behaved dogs who often gets passed up simply because he doesn’t beg for attention, but once you spend time with him, you’ll see how special he really is. Dude knows all his basic commands, loves treats, and just needs a low-key home where he can settle in and be your loyal sidekick. He’d thrive as the only pet in a quiet household, ideally with older kids and fewer visitors so he can feel safe and secure.

If you’ve been thinking about adding a dog to your family, come meet Dude and see if he’s the perfect fit. You can even swing by during Animal Charity’s upcoming raffle and bake sale fundraiser. There will be themed baskets, coffee, donuts, sweet treats, and maybe even a tail wag or two from some adoptable pups. It’s a great way to support the cause and maybe find your new best friend.

Weekend Planner

Thursday, August 14th

🧘 Yoga in the Gardens │ Fellows Riverside Gardens │ 9:30 AM

🫖 Tea with Wednesday & Enid | Piccadilly Parlour Victorian Tea Room | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

🎨🍷 Sip and Paint Art Class | Halliday’s Winery | 6:00 PM

Friday, August 15th

🍝 Brier Hill Italian Festival │ Brier Hill Neighborhood, Youngstown │ 4:00 PM

🎬 Youngstown Summer Movie Series │ Wean Park │ 9:00 PM

🇬🇷 Glendi – St. John’s Summer Greek Festival | St. John the Forerunner Greek Orthodox Church | 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Saturday, August 16th

🥒 Youngstown Pickle Fest │ Penguin City Brewing Company │ 12:00 PM

🎭 People, Places & Things | The Youngstown Playhouse | 7:30 PM

🍿 Movies in Boardman Park | Boardman Township Park | 9:00 PM

Sunday, August 17th

🎸 Alice Cooper – Too Close for Comfort Tour │ The Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre │ 8:30 PM

🍳 BYOB (Build Your Own Breakfast) │ Penguin City Brewing Company │ 10:00 AM

🎊 Shaker Woods Festival 2025 | Shaker Woods Grounds | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

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