📣 The Latest Scoop From Youngstown's & Things To Do

Steel Valley's Local News & Events for the Week of October 12 - October 19, 2025

Good Morning Youngstown!

We’re inching closer to Halloween, have you picked out your Halloween Costumes yet? Excited to hear what you guys are dressing up as, so you better reply to this email with your getups. Don’t worry, we’ve already got our outfits picked out for our Halloween parties so we won’t be stealing your ideas. We’ve still got so much fall festivities to share with you, so 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!

  • Adoption Event at Mr. Darby’s

  • Hidden Gems and Nostalgia at Mr. Darby’s in Boardman

  • Events going on this weekend

Let’s dive in.

Steel Valley Spotlight

Adoption Event at Mr. Darby’s Brings Big Hearts and Happy Tails to Boardman

Animal Charity of Ohio brought plenty of puppy love to Mr. Darby’s Antiques in Boardman this past Saturday during their adoption event, drawing in families and animal lovers from all over the Valley. The store’s aisles were filled with wagging tails, smiling faces, and volunteers working hard to connect rescue dogs with their forever homes. A huge shout out goes to Mr. Darby’s for opening their doors and hosting such a heartfelt community event that gave these animals the spotlight they deserve. My wife and I stopped by to show our support and met some incredible dogs, but one in particular, a sweet pup named Soy, completely stole my heart. Events like this remind us just how strong our local community is when it comes to caring for animals in need.

New Book Explores Civil War History of the Shenango Valley

Sharon Historical Society president Taylor Galaska has released a new 240-page book, The Civil War Era in the Shenango Valley, exploring how the region changed during the 1860s. Using old issues of the Sharon Herald and nearly 100 photos, Galaska details Sharon’s rapid growth—its population rose over 400% between 1860 and 1870—and the lives of local men who fought in the war. He also highlights the divided opinions within the valley, where some residents supported the Confederacy due to agricultural ties. The book discusses Civil War monuments in Mercer County, including those in Sharon, West Middlesex, and Mercer. Though he hadn’t planned to study early history, Galaska said the project taught him much about the area’s past. The book is available at the Sharon Historical Society and Daffin’s Candies in Sharon.

More than 1,100 runners take part in Youngstown Peace Race

Runners from across the region took part in the 51st annual Youngstown Peace Race, an event aimed at promoting unity through running. About 1,100 participants joined this year, surpassing last year’s turnout. Over the years, the race has drawn both local runners and some of the world’s top competitors. Organizers credit the community’s support for the event’s continued growth. This year, the race aimed to raise at least $15,000 for local organizations, including the downtown YMCA, Akron Children’s, and the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley.

Business Brief

Hidden Gems and Nostalgia at Mr. Darby’s in Boardman

If you love exploring unique spots around town, you need to make a trip to Mr. Darby’s Antiques in Boardman. Walking through their doors feels like stepping into a treasure hunt where every corner holds something unexpected. The place is packed with more than 50 booths, each bursting with personality and character. You’ll find everything from vintage Halloween decorations and 70s clothing to retro video games, pop culture collectibles, and even an entire booth filled with Pyrex. It’s one of those places that makes you want to slow down and look at everything because you never know when you’ll stumble on something that brings back a memory or sparks a new one.

For me, Mr. Darby’s will always be special because it’s where I found a piece that now hangs in my home, holding a photo of me and my wife. It’s simple, but it ties our whole space together, and that’s what makes this shop so incredible. You don’t just find stuff here; you find stories, meaning, and sometimes the perfect gift for someone you care about. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, Mr. Darby’s is the kind of local gem that reminds you why supporting small businesses feels so good.

Fear Forest Haunted House and Hayride

We had an amazing time at the Fear Forest Haunted House and Hayride in Lordstown. The atmosphere was perfect — spooky, fun, and full of surprises around every corner. The haunted house was packed with great actors, detailed sets, and plenty of scares, while the hayride balanced chills with laughs. Everything was really well organized, and the staff made sure everyone had a safe, exciting experience. Definitely one of the best Halloween attractions in the area — can’t wait to come back next year

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Charity Spotlight

Meet Soy: The Spunky Pup Who’ll Steal Your Heart (and Maybe Your Socks)

Soy might share a name with a kitchen staple, but this lovable goofball is anything but ordinary. With the energy of a toddler who just discovered sugar and the heart of a loyal best friend, Soy is the kind of dog who turns every day into an adventure. She’s part cuddle buddy, part comedian, and all-around ray of sunshine. She’ll make you laugh with his dramatic flops and zoomies, then melt right into you for belly rubs like she’s been yours forever. Life with Soy promises to be full of joy, laughter, and a little chaos in the best possible way.

If you’ve been thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, now’s the perfect time to visit Animal Charity of Ohio and meet Soy in person. And while you’re there, take a look at some of the other amazing dogs and cats waiting for homes of their own. Each one has their own story, personality, and love to give. Whether it’s Soy’s goofy grin or another animal’s quiet charm that catches your heart, you might just find your perfect match.

Weekend Planner

Thursday, October 16th

🏪 Penguin City Night Market | Penguin City Brewing Co. | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

👻 Spooktacular Halloween Drive-Thru Display | Boardman Park | 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM

🎃 Ty’s Pumpkin Walk | Angiuli’s Farm Market | 6:00PM - 9:00PM

Friday, October 17th

🎃 Pumpkin Carve Out Contest | Boardman Township Park | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

🍭 Southern Park Mall Candy Crawl | Southern Park Mall | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

🍽️ Dinner Under the Lights | The Vineyards at Pine Lakes | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Saturday, October 18th

🎄 Old-Fashioned Christmas in the Woods | Shaker Woods Grounds | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

🪦 Oak Hill Cemetery Tours | Oak Hill Cemetery | 11:00 AM

🍁 Family Fall Fest | Boardman Township Park | 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Sunday, October 19th

🍂 Fall Weekends | Molnar Farms | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

🚜 Pick a Pumpkin Tractor-Wagon Rides | MetroParks Farm | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

🏑 Youngstown Phantoms vs. Green Bay Gamblers | Covelli Centre | 4:05 PM

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