Good morning, Youngstown.

Steel Valley Church on Wick Avenue held an extra food pantry event Saturday afternoon to help SNAP recipients struggling during the government shutdown—volunteer Emily Daigneault said the outreach aimed to meet immediate food needs in the neighborhood.

Steel Hammerz Heathen Crew hosted its second annual chili cookoff in Niles at Niles Sons of Italy where community members cooked, tasted and judged chili recipes for a $10 entry to raise funds for Thanksgiving dinners for nine nominated families – any extra money will support Christmas celebrations for local nursing homes.

The Salvation Army launched its Army of Toys toy drive this afternoon at Quaker Steak and Lube and Biker Brewhouse in Austintown so children in Columbiana, Mahoning, and Trumbull counties can get gifts—Santa arrived by helicopter to boost the spirit as officials aim to collect 20,000 toys.

The Salvation Army of Mahoning County kicked off its 134th Red Kettle campaign Saturday morning at Sheely's Furniture in North Lima and reported a 105% rise in food pantry visits due to a government shutdown and delayed SNAP benefits—raising its fundraising goal to $150,000 and calling for nonperishable food donations to support its year-round programs.

Four indie authors (Kara M.

Zone, Samantha Jo, Ciara Hartford and Z.L. Johnson) held a book signing at Barnes & Noble in Boardman on November 8th that ended at 2 p.m., and the first 25 visitors received a free swag bag (merchandise and fun items were included).

Howland Local Schools thanked Apostolakis Honda for a $2,500 donation to its school meal program (the long-time supporter’s gift will help students get meals and ease costs for families).

Chalker lost 34-20 to Sandusky St. Mary in the 8-man football state championship game on Saturday in Leetonia.

Coach Justin Kren said the Wildcats hit injuries and mistakes—especially after their senior quarterback went down—and tied a program record with nine wins in their first championship appearance.

Seven local high school football teams advanced to the OHSAA Regional Semifinals after winning Round Two last Friday.

They will soon face opponents in scheduled match-ups including Austintown Fitch versus Walsh Jesuit and Poland versus Girard.

Youngstown State rallied from a 17-point deficit to win 48-38 over Southern Illinois on Saturday—scoring 28 straight points in the second half as quarterback Beau Brungard and running back Jaden Gilbert led the comeback while coach Doug Phillips praised the team's resilience.

Little River Band Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Robins Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary harmonies and timeless hits of Little River Band live.

K-pop Brunch

10 a.m. - 4 a.m. — Penguin City Brewing Company — Free entry — Dance and sing along to K-pop hits while enjoying delicious brunch with fellow enthusiasts.

What We're Thankful 4-Miler

8-11 AM — Davis Family YMCA — Registration required — Participate in a fun-filled day of running and walking to celebrate gratitude with community spirit.

Tri-City Storm vs. Youngstown Phantoms Match

7:05-8:35 p.m. — Covelli Centre — Watch live on FloHockey — Catch the exciting face-off between Tri-City Storm and Youngstown Phantoms.

Shaun Cassidy Live Concert

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Robins Theatre — VIP Experience Available — Enjoy an evening with Shaun Cassidy featuring his music and story-telling.

USA Hockey NTDP U-18 vs Youngstown Phantoms

6:05-7:35 p.m. — Covelli Centre — Cost info available online — Watch Team USA take on the Youngstown Phantoms in an exciting hockey matchup.