Good Morning Youngstown!

Let’s kick this week off with a bang, as we dive into the latest from the Steel Valley. If you’re enjoying reading these, make sure to respond to us to let us know! We’ve got an exciting week ahead of us, and we’re super excited to have you all join us as we dive into it. Now let’s get right into your weekly scoop!

The Scoop To Keep You In The Loop!

• ER Shutdown Shocks Warren as Insight Hospital Closes Its Doors

• Shotz Bar & Grill

• Events going on this weekend

Let’s dive in.

Steel Valley Spotlight

ER Shutdown Shocks Warren as Insight Hospital Closes Its Doors

Warren was thrown into crisis mode on March 27, when Insight Hospital abruptly shut down its emergency room—without warning. The closure was part of a sudden suspension of all services at Insight Trumbull and Hillside facilities, triggered by financial fallout tied to Steward Health Care’s bankruptcy and missing insurance reimbursements. Within 24 hours, the chaos deepened as staff reported delayed paychecks, adding confusion and fear for those on the front lines. Patients were turned away, appointments were wiped off the calendar, and healthcare workers—some with decades of service—were left scrambling for answers. What started as a behind-the-scenes financial mess has now become a full-blown healthcare emergency, and for the people of Warren, the impact is hitting dangerously close to home.

Youngstown Murder Case Becomes National TV Sensation

A shocking case of animal abuse in Struthers is now in the national spotlight after being featured on A&E’s Neighborhood Wars. The 2022 incident, caught on video by a neighbor, shows a man violently attacking a dog in broad daylight—footage so disturbing it quickly went viral and left the community outraged. The video helped lead to the man’s animal cruelty conviction, but the anger didn’t stop there. Locals demanded tougher laws and harsher penalties, and now, with the case airing across the country, the rest of America is seeing what Struthers already knew: real justice for animals is long overdue.

Mercer County Food Bank's Empty Bowls Fundraiser Set for This Thursday

The Mercer County Food Bank’s largest annual fundraiser, the Empty Bowls event, is fast approaching this Thursday at the Hickory VFW in Hermitage from 4 to 8 p.m., with tickets selling quickly at $30 on the food bank’s website. The event features a simple meal of soup and bread—mirroring the limited diet some local residents face nightly—while emphasizing the critical role of community support in addressing hunger in the Shenango Valley. “Without the food bank, our neighbors, your friends and family, go to bed hungry,” said Development Director Alexis Spence-Locke, adding, “Our work depends on this community’s investment; when you give to us, you’re helping the households around you.” Each attendee will also receive a handcrafted bowl from local artisans to take home as a memento of the cause. Get your tickets for $30 by clicking here.

Business Brief

CJ Hair Studio: Full-Service Salon in Boardman

CJ Hair Studio, a full-service hair salon, is now open in Boardman—offering precision cuts, expert color, and personalized styling for both men and women. Behind the chair is Carlie, a dual-state licensed cosmetologist with over 11 years of experience, known for her sharp attention to detail and ability to deliver everything from military fades and stacked bobs to bold fashion colors and flawless blowouts. With a warm, welcoming vibe and a deep passion for the craft, she’s built a space where every client feels seen, heard, and styled to perfection.

More than just great hair, CJ Hair Studio offers a personalized experience that leaves clients feeling seen, valued, and eager to return. With veteran and EMS discounts and a loyalty rewards program that gives back to regular clients, Carlie goes the extra mile to make everyone feel valued. Whether you’re going for a total transformation or just need a fresh clean-up, you’ll walk out feeling confident, seen, and completely taken care of. Spots are filling fast—book your appointment today and experience a salon that’s all about you.

Shotz Bar & Grille

Looking for a fun place to sit down and slam some delicious bar food? Shotz Bar & Grille in Austintown is the spot to be. This American-style bar and grille offers a range of comfort foods, including standout dishes like homemade pizzas, juicy burgers, and crispy wings, alongside Greek-inspired options like gyros with fair fries to compliment it all. With a full bar featuring craft beers and whiskey, daily specials, and pool tables, they’ve got big-screen TVs for sports and even an outdoor patio for live music. Make sure to stop by and try it out, you will not regret it.

The Ultimate Youngstown Fish Fry Guide

Love a good fish fry during Lent? Click here to get our handpicked list of the best local spots serving up crispy, golden fish this Friday. From hidden gems to hometown favorites, we’ve got your Lenten dining covered!

Charity Spotlight

Animal Charity of Ohio - Let’s Find Onyx a Home

Animal Charity of Ohio has been a lifeline for countless abused and neglected animals in the Mahoning Valley, and we’ve featured their incredible work before—but today, it’s all about Onyx. This beautiful pup has been waiting far too long for the right family to find her. Onyx came to Animal Charity after being rescued from a heartbreaking situation, but thanks to the love and care she’s received, she’s blossomed into a gentle, affectionate dog who just wants a place to call home.

Despite her sweet nature and soulful eyes, Onyx continues to be overlooked. She’s fully vetted, spayed, and ready for a new beginning. All she needs now is someone willing to see past her past and give her the future she deserves. Animal Charity has done their part—now it’s our turn. If you have room in your heart and home, Onyx is waiting. Learn more about Onyx here.

Weekend Planner

Thursday, April. 3rd

🎤 Karaoke Party | 8942 Youngstown - Pittsburgh Rd, Poland | 7:00 PM

📚 Penguin City Book Club | 460 E Federal St, Youngstown | 6:00 PM

Friday, April. 4th

🐶 Dinner with Paw Patrol | Avion on the Water | 5:00 PM

🔬 Youngstown State University Hosts STEM Expo | YSU Campus | 10:00 AM

🎶 Piano Maniacs featuring Todd Cutshaw | 633 Porter Ave, Campbell | 7:00 PM

Saturday, April. 5th

🎨 Crushed Glass Spring or Summer Forests | Wonderstruck Artisan | 2:30 PM

🌳 Youngstown's Green Rush Mixer | 5801 Youngstown Hubbard Rd | 1:00 PM

🐥 National Peeps Day | 1335 Trumbull Ave., Girard | 10:00 AM - 5:00

Sunday, April. 6th

🏒 Youngstown Phantoms vs. Chicago Steel | Covelli Centre | 4:05 PM

🎨 Indoor Spring Craft Show | Vineyards at Pine Lake | 12:00 PM

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