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- đź“Ł The Latest Youngstown News & Events - May 19th 2025
đź“Ł The Latest Youngstown News & Events - May 19th 2025
Steel Valley's Local News & Events for the Week of May. 18 - May. 25, 2025
Good Morning Youngstown!
What a great start to the week it’s been, hoping this good weather continues! Either way, we’ve got you covered with your weekend activities. Weather you want to try a bite to new bite to eat, or a make some new friends at one of the events going on this weekend, there’s always new things going on. So, pour yourself up a nice big cup of coffee and let’s get into this week’s Steel Valley Scoop!
The Scoop To Keep You In The Loop!
Southern Park Mall Faces Backlash Over Massive Unpaid Tax Bill
Our Gang’s: Mouthwatering Hot Wings
Events going on this weekend
Let’s dive in.
Steel Valley Spotlight
Southern Park Mall Faces Backlash Over Massive Unpaid Tax Bill
The Southern Park Mall in Boardman is in hot water as its owner, Kohan Retail Investment Group, has racked up over $519,000 in unpaid property taxes, along with nearly $50,000 in penalties, and another $500,000 due in August. Once a bustling retail hub, the mall now finds itself at the center of community concern—not just for its financial troubles, but for what those unpaid taxes mean for local services like schools, police, and fire departments. Adding to the frustration, Kohan has reportedly been absent from public improvement meetings and has offered no communication about the mall’s future, leaving many to wonder whether Southern Park Mall is heading for a comeback or collapse.
Youngstown Schools Announce Major Cuts
Youngstown City Schools is preparing for one of its most significant shakeups in decades, announcing plans between May 14–17 to cut staff and consolidate both its high schools and middle schools—a move that will impact hundreds of students, families, and educators across the city. With East and Chaney High Schools merging, along with their respective middle schools, the district is responding to declining enrollment and shifting demographics. But for many in the community, this decision goes far beyond logistics—it strikes at the heart of neighborhood identity, long-standing school traditions, and community pride, forcing Youngstown to redefine what its future looks like while trying to preserve the roots that shaped it.
Local Museum Admission Free for Active Duty Family Members
The Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor on West Wood Street is joining the Blue Star Program, offering free entry to active-duty military members, including National Guard and Reserves, and their families. To gain admission, eligible visitors need to present a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), DD Form 1173 ID card, or DD Form 1173-1 ID card. This program, which includes over 2,000 museums, zoos, nature centers, and children’s museums nationwide, runs through Labor Day, September 1. The museum is open Wednesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.
Business Brief
Our Gang’s: Mouthwatering Hot Wings
If you’re in Sharon, PA and craving wings done right, Our Gang’s Lounge is the spot that locals swear by. Tucked away with a no-nonsense exterior and an old-school vibe, this place has built a reputation on legendary wings—crispy, saucy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you're a fan of classic hot, buttery garlic, or one of their creative signature sauces, Our Gang’s doesn’t miss. The portions are generous, the wings are consistently excellent, and it's the kind of place where regulars know exactly what they’re ordering the second they walk in.
What makes Our Gang’s special isn’t just the food—it’s the feel. It’s got that welcoming, small-town bar energy where the servers treat you like a regular even if it’s your first time in. With cold drinks, friendly faces, and no pretense, it’s a place built on great food and better company. Whether you're a Sharon native or just passing through, Our Gang’s is the kind of spot you make a tradition.
The Amish Market in Boardman
The Amish Market in Boardman is a delightful indoor gem! Fresh produce, tender meats, and mouthwatering baked goods from Amish vendors never disappoint. The homemade goods are crafted with love, and the on-site restaurant serves hearty, comforting meals. A warm, welcoming atmosphere makes every visit a joy!
Charity Spotlight
Meet Nemesis and Jackson—Two Rescues Ready for a Second Chance
Nemesis may have arrived at Healthy Hearts and Paws Project on Halloween with some serious attitude, but this handsome young cat has come a long way since then. Estimated to be just 1 or 2 years old, Nemesis was picked up by Champion Police and brought in already neutered and in good condition—but understandably wary of people. Since then, he’s been vaccinated, tested, and placed in a medical foster home, where he’s learning that humans can be trusted. Nemesis loves belly rubs once he warms up, but he’ll need a patient adopter willing to follow his special feeding routine—four small meals of prescription food a day due to a congenital liver condition. He’s not a fan of dogs, but in a calm, cat-savvy home, he could truly thrive.
Then there’s Jackson, a four-year-old, 55-pound pup who came to HHPP in 2021 with heartworm disease, which he’s now overcome with the help of the team’s expert care. Jackson is a fun-loving, toy-obsessed cuddle bug who walks nicely on a leash, keeps a clean crate, and doesn’t seem bothered by the other animals at the shelter. He does have one quirk—he’ll chew just about anything he can get his paws on, so he needs some supervision and a little help with basic training (which HHPP provides for free). Jackson would do best in a home where he can get plenty of playtime and affection, and a meet-and-greet is required for any potential dog siblings. Both Jackson and Nemesis are proof that with love, patience, and the right home, second chances can lead to the happiest of endings.
Weekend Planner
Thursday, May 22th
🎤 Thirsty Thursday Karaoke | Penguin City Beer | 7:00 PM
🍺 Perennial Maple Abraxas Tapping | Vintage Estates | 5:00 - 7:00 PM
🕹️ Past Times Pinball League | 419 North State Street | 7:00 PM
Friday, May 23rd
🎵 Music on the Patio | L'uva Bella Winery | 6:00 PM
🦆 3rd Annual Big Birding Weekend | Mosquito Lake State Park | All Day
🎶 River Rock at the Amp | Eastwood Mall | All Day
Saturday, May 24th
đź›’ Market at Sweet Baby's Farm | Sweet Baby's Farm | 9:00 AM
🚶‍➡️ RAPW - Hey You Guys! | Real Action Pro Wrestling | 6:00 PM
đźš— World of Outlaws Sprint Car Showdown | Sharon Speedway | 5:00 PM
Sunday, May 25th
🛶 Lake Newport Kayak | Mill Creek MetroParks – Lake Newport | 1:00 PM
🍳 Ohana Brunch with Lilo & Stitch | 460 East Federal Street, Youngstown | 10:00 AM
🎶 W.D. Packard Band Memorial Day Concert | Packard Music Hall | 3:00 PM
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