- Steel Valley Scoop
- Posts
- 📣 The Latest Scoop From Youngstown's & Things To Do
📣 The Latest Scoop From Youngstown's & Things To Do
Steel Valley's Local News & Events for the Week of October 19 - October 25, 2025
Good Morning Youngstown!
We’re back and better than ever. You know what they say, it’s better late than never. We usually send out your weekly scoop Tuesday morning, but let us know if you like Thursday better. The weather is finally turning unfortunately, we’re going to miss the beautiful sunny days, but that doesn’t mean we have to camp out at home. There’s so much to do this time of year and in this edition of the Steel Valley Scoop, we’re going to fill you in on all the fun stuff! So, pour yourself up a nice big cup of coffee and enjoy this week’s newsletter!
The Scoop To Keep You In The Loop!
YSU Shocks No. 10 Illinois State in Mountain Valley Classic
A Perfect Anniversary Dinner at The Chophouse in Warren
Events going on this weekend
Let’s dive in.
Steel Valley Spotlight
YSU Shocks No. 10 Illinois State in Mountain Valley Classic
The Youngstown State Penguins pulled off a stunning 40-35 road upset at Illinois State Redbirds, ranked No. 10 in the FCS heading into the game. Down by nine entering the fourth quarter, YSU erupted with 21 unanswered points to take the lead and hold off the Redbirds. Quarterback Beau Brungard was the driving force, racking up 528 total yards and accounting for five touchdowns in a standout performance. The team also dominated the stat-sheet, outgaining Illinois State 561–348 and controlling the clock for nearly 40 minutes. With the victory, the Penguins send a bold message through the Valley that they’re a serious contender in the MVFC and poised for a memorable season.
New Boardman Residence for Adults with Autism Under Construction
In Boardman, a nonprofit organization called Dylan’s House has broken ground on a new four-bedroom duplex on Woodfield Court, designed to provide a supportive living environment for adults with autism. The celebratory start of construction was marked by a gathering on Wednesday morning, made possible through the generosity of donors, notably Sam and Donna Boak, who gifted the lot. For Amy and Kevin Shope, founders of Dylan’s House and parents of an adult with autism, this first-ever project for their organization is a deeply meaningful milestone, promising to transform the lives of many families. The home is expected to be completed within six to eight months.
Memorial Service Commemorates Trooper Killed in the Line of Duty
On Wednesday, a heartfelt celebration of life was held at Youngstown State University’s Beeghly Center to honor Ohio State Highway Trooper Nicholas Cayton, who tragically lost his life in a crash on Route 11 in Canfield while assisting a disabled driver. Hundreds of law enforcement officers, including police, sheriff’s deputies, and state troopers, gathered to mourn the loss, with Colonel Charles Jones, head of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, describing Cayton’s death as a profound tragedy and urging drivers to slow down or move over to prevent such incidents. The ceremony highlighted Cayton’s character, showcasing his devotion as a family man, community member, and decorated trooper who served in the Ohio Army National Guard and was named Post Trooper of the Year in 2022 before earning the rank of Master Trooper in 2024. Childhood friend Brent Tharp shared emotional memories of Cayton’s journey from boyhood to becoming a respected soldier, officer, and loving husband and father, while Governor Mike DeWine praised his kindness and reliability, noting how he always had others’ backs. The service concluded with the presentation of four flags to Cayton’s family, each flown for two minutes and 31 seconds in honor of his retired badge number 231, symbolizing his enduring legacy of duty and service.
Business Brief
A Perfect Anniversary Dinner at The Chophouse in Warren
To celebrate our one-year wedding anniversary, my wife and I decided to have dinner at The Chophouse in Warren and while the evening started off a little rocky, it turned into a night we won’t forget. After waiting about 15 minutes for a server, the manager personally stepped in, apologized, and made things right with a free appetizer and a couple of drinks on the house. That small gesture instantly turned the mood around and set the tone for a great night. It’s that kind of service that really shows how much a restaurant cares about its guests.
Once the food arrived, everything was top-notch. We both ordered steaks, cooked perfectly, juicy and full of flavor. But the real star of the show? The onion rings. I can honestly say they were the best I’ve ever had the crunch, the flavor, and the dipping sauce were perfection. Between the great food, the friendly service, and the warm atmosphere, The Chophouse turned what started as a rough evening into an incredible anniversary dinner. I have a feeling this might just become our new yearly tradition.
Mission BBQ in Boardman Delivers Flavor and Heart
Recently stopped by Mission BBQ in Boardman, and it was an absolute standout meal—hands down one of the best BBQ I've had in the Youngstown area! The brisket melts in your mouth, bursting with smoky flavor, and the variety of six house sauces let me customize every bite to perfection. The staff couldn't have been friendlier, greeting us with warm smiles and even chatting about their patriotic mission to honor service members. Paired with creamy mac and cheese and fresh-cut fries, it's hearty, affordable comfort food in a cozy, flag-filled space that makes you feel right at home. If you're craving authentic BBQ, this spot is a must-visit—I'll be back soon!
Do You Find Reading The Steel Valley Scoop To Be Valuable? (Please Answer) |
Charity Spotlight
Meet Mufasa and Celebrate Subaru Loves Pets Month
If you’re looking for unconditional love, Mufasa is your guy. This handsome, affectionate pup has a heart as big as his smile and enough charm to melt anyone’s day. He’s the type of dog who greets everyone like an old friend, showering them with kisses and tail wags. Whether he’s soaking up belly rubs, going for walks, or just curling up beside you, Mufasa lives to love and be loved. He’s gentle, goofy, and endlessly loyal, everything you could ever want in a four-legged best friend. All he’s missing is a family to call his own.
There’s no better time to meet Mufasa than during Subaru Loves Pets Month, as Animal Charity of Ohio teams up with Boardman Subaru for their 2nd Annual Dog Adoption Event on Saturday, October 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Adoption fees are fully covered all month long, making it the perfect opportunity to bring home a new furry family member. Stop by to meet Mufasa and other adorable dogs like Soy, Duke, Daphne, and Echo. You might just find your perfect match and help give a deserving pup a second chance at happiness.
Weekend Planner
Thursday, October 23rd
🎨 Arts & Crafts in the Phelps Street Gateway │ Phelps Street Gateway, Downtown Youngstown │ 5:00 PM
🎵 Music Bingo at Paladin │ Paladin Brewing, 6520 Mahoning Avenue, Youngstown/Austintown │ 6:00 PM
🍺 Pints for Polio | Penguin City Brewing Company | 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Friday, October 24th
🫖 Tea with Jack Skellington & Sally │ Piccadilly Parlour Victorian Tea Room, Canfield │ 7:00 PM
🏐 YSU Women’s Volleyball | Beeghly Center YSU | 4:00 PM
🎅 Christmas in the Country | The Western Reserve Antique Shop | 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, October 25th
🎉 YSU Homecoming Parade │ Fifth Avenue, Downtown Youngstown │ 11:45 AM
👻 Austintown’s Trunk or Treat | Austintown Township Park | 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
🎃 5th Annual Fall Fest | Grace Church | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Sunday, October 26th
🎭 The Dinner Theatre Rejects – Halloween Special │ Cedars West End, 706 Steel St., Youngstown │ 8:00 PM
🎃 Spooktacular Halloween Drive-Thru Display – Boardman Park │ Boardman Township Park │ 5:00 PM
🤫 Nosferatu Silent Film with Live Organ | Stambaugh Auditorium | 2:30 PM
Grow Your Business by Advertising On The Steel Valley Scoop!
Reach thousands of Youngstown residents and business owners with Steel Valley Scoop
Learn more about advertising with us!