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Fowler General Store + Market will host the 2026 Backpack Bash on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., offering free backpacks and school supplies to the first 100 children and free haircuts to the first 40 between noon and 2 p.m., plus local food and family activities.

The 17th annual Panerathon got underway yesterday in Youngstown and gathered local residents for an organized outdoor walk.

Organizers said the event highlights growing community participation each year.

Local organizers announced Panerathon 2026, a downtown running event that invites community members to enjoy a day of exercise and friendly competition.

The event is set for later this year and will feature varied courses and prizes.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul hosted its Back to School Children's Sock and Underwear Giveaway last Saturday at its Via Mount Carmel Avenue pantry, providing clothing to 200 people.

The event is part of its expanding aid that now offers household goods and other essentials.

On Saturday, the Lena Mason Christian Memorial Foundation hosted the 21st annual Family Fun Day and bookbag giveaway at David Tod Memorial Park in Girard to honor a 2005 tragedy that claimed three lives (a move that united many residents) and distributed about 300 bags with school supplies for students.

At 717 Credit Union Field at Eastwood on Saturday, a friendly police and fire softball game pitted teams from Trumbull and Mahoning counties, with the Youngstown Fire Department winning the final match — the win raised funds for charity and united local first responders.

Mark Yoder, a veteran who served two tours in Germany in the 1970s, remains active in Canfield by supporting American Legion Post 177 and serving in the local funeral Honor Guard.

He stepped down as post commander this year to travel with his wife after decades of service.

On the banks of the Mahoning River, Leavittsburg thrived during canal and railroad eras, serving as a busy terminal with neighborhood businesses like Bucy’s and Thornhill’s Market.

Today, the Leavittsburg Heritage Association preserves key artifacts (including the feed mill water wheel) at the Heritage Museum.