Good morning, Youngstown.

City officials unveiled the new Riverside Park on May 28 as part of an effort to create more green space for local residents.

The park features walking areas, seating and community gathering spots, with future improvements planned.

Healthy Community Partnership is launching the 'Walky Talky then Shop' initiative at Warren Farmers Market starting June 5 with 20-minute walks every Friday at 12:30 p.m. until September 25; the first 20 participants at each meet will get a $5 gift certificate redeemable at local markets & community outlets.

Riverside Park in Niles now offers a canoe and kayak launch, pavilion and play area along the Mahoning River.

The site at First and Brown was transformed with a $3.5 million Appalachian Community Grant Program, and Niles Public Square on Main Street is set to open on July 4 (supporting downtown redevelopment).

Marten Meibaum — arriving from Estonia and making his U.S. debut — will perform at a free St. Columba orchestra concert this Saturday.

SOBE Thermal Energy Systems filed for an emergency rate hike to keep steam heat working for downtown buildings as its monthly costs now outpace its revenue.

The Public Utilities Commission will review a report on new rates while property owners worry about higher bills or losing heat.

The local school board voted on May 28 to cut teacher positions + the decision is set to change staffing at local schools with details yet to be announced.

Youngstown Flight School reopened enrollment on April 1 after nearly a year-long pause (following the loss of chief instructor Joseph Maxin) and now offers flexible training for a private pilot license.

The school will work with YSU to secure FAA certification so students can later access financial aid.

A local family reported sewage backup in their yard on May 28 + local officials began investigating the problem while advising nearby residents to take precaution.

The court-appointed receiver for SOBE Thermal Energy Systems requested an emergency rate increase to avert a shutdown of steam heat for 30 downtown structures as funds nearly run out & the Public Utilities Commission is ordering a staff report on new rates.

Local law enforcement gathered yesterday to honor officers lost in the line of duty at Penguin City Brewing and Saint Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, where families and officials laid wreaths and recalled the legacy of those who served.

From tomorrow to early July, the Healthy Food Actions Team will distribute free seeds and plants at several community events in Youngstown and Warren.

These events include a May 30 car show in Warren at Pride + Joy Today Foundation and additional pick-ups on select dates at local parks and festivals.

Mercy Health plans to upgrade patient monitoring technology at its hospitals in the Mahoning Valley to bring critical information closer to the bedside and improve care.

The upgrade covers St. Elizabeth in Youngstown, Boardman, and St. Joseph in Warren, and staff will be updated as the work progresses.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers will open their season Tuesday, June 2 with new signage and fresh turf at 717 Credit Union Field at Eastwood + crews are putting the final touches on the stadium as the team marks its 27th season in the valley.

Scrapper Fest 2026

6-8 p.m. — Eastwood Mall Complex Center Court — Free RSVP — Celebrate the start of the season with player meet-and-greets, family fun, and a chance to win great prizes.

Warriors Inc. 7th Annual Daddy Daughter Dance

4:30 – 8 p.m. — Byzantine Center at the Grove — Early Bird $40, $50 Jun 1-12 — Get ready for a fun night of dancing and memories.