CONTENTS

Welcome from the Chamber 8

From the President’s Desk 12

Gift Guide 14

Events 30

MAGNET 34

Mercy Health 40

New Members 46

Ribbon Cuttings 52

Member Search 57

Lanterman’s Mill Back Cover

WELCOME from the chamber

There’s something special about this issue of Valley Business Magazine. Maybe it’s because it kicks off my favorite time of year—or because we start working on it when the air still feels like summer and the idea of snow feels like a dream. Either way, our Holiday Gift Guide never fails to get me into the spirit.

This is one of our most joyful issues to create because it celebrates what makes our Valley shine brightest—our members. Inside, you’ll find some of the most unique, thoughtful and creative gifts they have to offer this season. Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, colleagues or even treating yourself (no judgment here!), you’ll find something for everyone on your list—and plenty of inspiration to shop local.

We’re also proud to feature stories that reflect the strength and innovation of our region. Mercy Health continues to grow with purpose, expanding access to exceptional care across the Valley while staying true to its mission of service. And MAGNET is helping local manufacturers do what they do best—adapt, innovate and lead—proving that partnership truly powers progress.

While you’re planning your season, be sure to check out our calendar of community events, too. That’s how I first discovered Mill Creek MetroParks’ Winter Nights a few years ago—through the pages of this very magazine—and my family has made it a tradition ever since. We love wandering through the Festival of Trees, sipping hot chocolate from the café and taking in the glow of lights that transform the gardens into pure magic.

Our Valley is full of experiences like that—moments that remind us how lucky we are to live, work and play here. We hope this issue helps you discover a few new local gems and inspires you to make some memories of your own this holiday season.

With warmest wishes from my family to yours,

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Kim Calvert

Executive Vice President, Membership, Events & MarComm

From the PRESIDENT’S DESK

I t’s undeniable that arts, culture and quality of life are driving forces in today’s race for talent. Communities that offer these are communities that win.

According to JobsOhio, the four-county, lake-to-river region needs 20,000 more people by 2030 just to fill priority occupations. Statewide, the number is 540,000.

We have serious competition.

Now layer on this tidbit: according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, young people are moving first and finding the job later. That means communities that offer good jobs are not offering enough.

We need a good quality of life accented with a vibrant arts and culture scene.

That’s why it is so important to make sure facilities like the DeYor Performing Arts Center and Stambaugh Auditorium, and organizations like the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra, thrive for generations to come.

The partnership we announced in September, bringing all three of those together with JAC Management Group, is especially important. The highly successful formula that JAC created, tested and proved at the Covelli Centre, the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre, W.D. Packard Music Hall and elsewhere throughout the U.S., is now being applied at the Mahoning Valley’s most cherished institutions.

By for-profit and nonprofit joining forces, these institutions can expand programming, create efficiencies and strengthen their long-term sustainability.

We already know arts, culture and tourism are direct economic drivers. Recent research reinforces this truth.

According to CreativeOhio’s 2024 Economic Impact Report, Ohio’s creative sector directly contributed $32.9 billion annually, supporting more than 132,000 jobs and generating $923 million in state and local tax revenue. When factoring in indirect and induced impacts, the numbers grow to $63.3 billion and nearly 292,000 jobs.

Those numbers do not include jobs and investments from projects like SoftBank in Lordstown, Vallourec in Youngstown, Kimberly-Clark in Howland and many others. Because those companies know the key to their success hinges on talent, they more than ever look at quality of life when making location and expansion decisions. And their employees are researching quality of life when making decisions about residing in the Valley, or closer to Cleveland and Pittsburgh.

The Chamber and our economic development partners recognized this when we made arts and culture a key component of Valley Vision, our long-term strategy for growth. We figured out these quality-of-life offerings are not side issues. They are vital ingredients for economic prosperity.

That is why we launched the Center for Nonprofit Excellence, seeded with funding from the Trumbull and Mahoning boards of county commissioners. The center will contribute to building a broader coalition of arts and cultural institutions. And the partners involved in September’s historic announcement have pledged to make their facilities cost-effective for use by all the Valley’s performing arts organizations.

Another key player is the Youngstown Foundation. For more than 100 years, the foundation has been a leading supporter of arts and culture throughout the Valley and made a hefty contribution to support this partnership.

In this sense, what we announced in September wasn’t just bringing together for-profit with nonprofit, but also public, private and philanthropic.

Through the center we will begin hosting familiarization tours that highlight some of these striking arts and cultural facilities. In fact, they are some of the most striking in the country. We will conduct the tours as part of our welcome for corporate executives new to the Valley.

Our growing economy is certainly attracting many new corporate executives.

Through the center we also launched the YoungstownWarren.org website, a central platform to showcase our region’s strengths and highlight why this is an ideal place to live, work, invest and play.

In September, we got even better.

Guy Coviello

President & CEO of the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber

Holiday Gift Guide

Support the Mahoning Valley in Style!

Celebrate the season at Youngstown Clothing Company’s brand-new flagship store in Canfield or check them out at their Eastwood Mall location! They’re your destination for American-made, locally printed, vintage-inspired apparel. Don’t miss their YoNation Rack, where a portion of every T-shirt purchase gives back to the community!

Local High School T-Shirts $32

YSU T-Shirts $34

Youngstown State Athletic Jacket $100

YOUNGSTOWN CLOTHING COMPANY

youngstownclothingco.com

330-707-4449

Flagship Store

3801 Boardman Canfield Road, Canfield

Eastwood Mall

5555 Youngstown Warren Road, Niles

Dave & Buster’s/Firebirds’ Concourse

Gather with a Glass

Elevate your holiday gifting with L’uva Bella Winery’s Reserve Collection, a high-end selection of wines crafted in California with passion and precision. From rich, full-bodied reds to refined, elegant whites, these premium wines make a statement at every holiday table and shine as a luxurious gift tucked into a festive stocking.

Reserve Collection $19 to $28 per bottle

L’UVA BELLA WINERY

luvabella.com

330-536-6450

6597 Center Road, Lowellville

UNWRAP MORE SPACE

Experience a new level of jewelry organization and display with this exceptional walnut frame armoire. Perfect for any collection, its upfolding side panels reveal two rows of hooks for elegantly hanging chains and bracelets. Unlock the hidden surprises by lifting the top panel, which transforms into a secure vanity mirror with a concealed storage compartment. Discover the additional hanging displays within the center doors, encircling a row of seven drawers, each thoughtfully lined with cream felt to safeguard your treasured pieces.

Jewelry armoire (18X13X38) $429 while supplies last

Pour, Pull Up, Party

Perfect for gathering around year-round, this classic home entertainment bar and stools work well in any space in any home. With its clean lines and easy swivel stools, it is the perfect gift for a man cave, garage space, basement or enclosed patio.

78” Home bar $639

Swivel bar stools $135 each

SHEELY’S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE

sheelys.com

330-549-3901

11450 South Ave., North Lima

Sweet Nostalgia

This collection is perfect for those who cherish sweet memories and iconic treats from the past. Each thoughtfully designed T-shirt celebrates timeless classics we all know and love, offering a one-of-a-kind gift that is sure to make a lasting impression.

The basket features PEZ Retro Assorted Fruit Candy Collectibles T-shirt ($24.99); Robot Lilliput Large ($31.99); Retro Balloon Kit ($6.99); Retro Yo Yo ($6.99); Rubik’s Cube ($9.99); Chattering Wind-Up Teeth ($3.99); Nee Doh Gummy Bear ($5.99); Nee Doh Dohnuts ($5.99); PEZ Blister Pack ($2.99); Sugar Daddy 1.7oz ($2.25); Pop Rocks Assorted ($1.25); Boyer Clark Bars ($2.25); Tootsie Roll Nostalgia 3oz Bar ($2.99); Candy Buttons ($1.60); Bazooka Bubblegum ($1.49); Nik-L-Nips ($2.50); Candy Cigarettes ($0.75).

SWEET MEMORIES VINTAGE TEES & CANDY

sweetvintagetees.com

330-759-3500

1282 Trumbull Ave. #A1, Girard

Forged for Family & Friendship

Wendell August Forge’s beautifully handcrafted holiday trays bring elegance and warmth to every celebration. Expertly made in America, each tray features timeless designs that capture the spirit of the season. Add a personal touch with custom engraving to make your gift truly one-of-a-kind.

Winter Wonderland Small Horizon Tray $55

Snowflake Celebration Small Horizon Personalized $55

WENDELL AUGUST FORGE

wendellaugust.com

1-800-923-4438

Grove City Premium Outlets

1911 Leesburg Grove City Road, Suite 955

Grove City, Pa.

Timeless Luxury

Celebrate the season with timeless treasures from Thom Duma Fine Jewelers. From world-renowned designers like David Yurman, Roberto Coin and Marco Bicego, to exclusive collections found only at TDFJ, every piece is crafted to capture love, beauty and meaning. Shown here are pieces by David Yurman.

David Yurman ring Starts at $2,700

David Yurman necklace Starts at $1,500

THOM DUMA FINE JEWELERS

tdfj.com

330-393-4696

115 W. Market St., Warren

Labubu with Love

A world of wonder awaits at the Captain McFinn Gift Shop at the Eastwood Mall, including assorted Labubu to add to your holiday collection.

CAPTAIN McFINN

330-544-3466

5555 Youngstown Warren Road, Niles

Get Hooked!

Whiskey & Wool is your old-fashioned fiber arts and primitives shop. The store offers fabrics, patterns and supplies to complete rug hooking, punch needle and cross stitch projects. In addition, beginner classes and “sit and stitches” are available to provide their customers with an opportunity to learn, share and connect with other like-minded creators.

WHISKEY & WOOL, LLC

Facebook: Whiskey & Wool, LLC

[email protected]

330-980-2250

8424 Main St., Kinsman

Stars, Stripes & Sparks

One of Ohio Flame’s most popular and patriotic designs, the “Liberty - ‘Stars and Stripes’ Limited Release” American Fire Pit features the American flag design on a four-sided base. The Liberty line of Fire Pits combines bold and linear styling with tough American quality and durability synonymous with Ohio Flame. The fire pit features a heavy-duty steel fire bowl that is welded onto a sturdy four-sided steel base. This fire pit is 100% American made and is crafted by a local artisan. It is backed by a lifetime warranty.

Starting at $314.94

Dressed to Bloom

Rosebuds Boutique offers nothing short of picture-perfect attire for your children. Dress sizes 3 months to 16. Suit sizes 6 months to 16.

ROSEBUDS BOUTIQUE

330-989-7109

5555 Youngstown Warren Road, Niles

Handcrafted Sips,

Hometown Roots

Stonefruit Coffee YSU offers handcrafted lattes, seasonal menus and baked goods in a cozy welcoming space. Located near campus, it serves students and locals alike, blending community, quality locally roasted coffee and Youngstown pride into a true neighborhood gathering spot. Pick from several signature blends: Rust Belt, Tech Belt, Brier Hill, Federal Street, Espresso ’77, Frankenstein, Smoky Hollow, Steel City, Black Monday, Wick Perk and Decaf.

8 ounce bag $14 / Buy 3 get 1 free

STONEFRUIT COFFEE YSU

stonefruitcoffee.com

www.instagram.com/stonefruit_ysu/

330-509-0206

131 Lincoln Ave., Youngstown

Jacket for slopes and streets

The Goldbergh Valanga ski jacket with its 90/10 goose down insulation and unique design is a practical and fashionable option for the slopes as well as the streets. The adjustable hood, waterproofing, multiple pockets, detachable snowcatcher and knitted cuffs inside sleeves offer functionality. This jacket offers premium quality and craftsmanship in a fiercely feminine style and with the freedom to move with confidence.

$999

Taking Care of Yourself

Give the gift of ultimate self-care! Purchase a $100 SWTHZ gift card and get a free 60-minute session for you or a friend. Each one-hour escape includes a private suite, refreshing vitamin C shower and an invigorating cold plunge—the perfect holiday retreat for mind, body and soul. Must mention you saw this offer in the Chamber Holiday Gift Guide. Limit 5 free sessions per person. Because this season, wellness is the greatest gift of all. Offer Valid through Dec. 24, 2025.

BOARDMAN SWTHZ

sweathouz.com/boardman-book-now

[email protected]

234-256-5200

447 Boardman Poland Road, Suite 105A, Boardman

Making the Season Bright

Blooming Crazy Flowers & Gifts is your holiday destination for festive decor and unique finds. From fresh Christmas wreaths and seasonal arrangements to charming gifts like Scent Chips, they have everything to make the season bright. The store also specializes in fresh floral arrangements which businesses can send to customers and vendors as a thoughtful holiday thank you, as well as decor to bring warmth and beauty into your own home.

Scent Chips $36.95

Seasonal shades $17

Gold glitter deer $29.95

Ceramic penguin $14.95

Silk poinsettia and pine arrangement $68.95

Wreaths $32.95

BLOOMING CRAZY FLOWERS & GIFTS

bloomingcrazyflowers.com

330-758-8131

8277 Market St., Youngstown

The Gift that Protects

Damsel in Defense offers an education-based children’s protection line. This includes 12 stories which focus on safety. Also included in this line is a parent guide, a board game and a puzzle lunch box set for younger children. It’s a terrific way to begin to teach children about safety.

Proactive parent guide $6.99

Julian’s Solo Voyage book $11.99

Stun Guns to Suit Style

Damsel in Defense has stun guns to suit your style. The company has a choice of styles and colors. Stun guns feature an LED flashlight, USB wall and car charger and disable pin. The stun gun can be used as a deterrent and the flashlight increases your situational awareness.

$79.99

DAMSEL IN DEFENSE • 330-559-2202

Elegance in Every Detail

Dress in elegance and wrap yourself in style with

an unparalleled selection and care from Lavish at the Eastwood Mall.

LAVISH

330-747-7291

5555 Youngstown Warren Road, Niles

Starry Calm in Your Palm

The Luminous Glow-in-the-Dark Starfish, a captivating fidget toy that shines bright in the dark, bringing a touch of the ocean’s magic to your space. Its starry glow adds a calming ambiance, perfect for nighttime relaxation. Great for those who enjoy a good fidget with a great tactile feel.

$10.95 +shipping

3D PRINTED CREATIONS BY BILLY B

3dprintedcreationsbybillyb.com

Festive Fragrances

For those who like their festive fragrances with a side of innovation—set your Scent Scene™ alive with Ivory & Birch’s stylish and incredibly potent Liquidless Diffuser Set. The Scent Scene™ Duo includes two individually packaged fragrances.

Sets are $50

IVORY & BIRCH

shopivoryandbirch.com

330-965-4772

7631 Market St., Boardman

The Perfect Holiday

Party Treat

Crumbl Boardman is renowned for its delectable cookie flavors and signature pink box packaging that customers adore. Their mini cookies are the perfect treat for any holiday party or to delight your employees.

Large desserts

Single $4.69

Chocolate Chip 4-pack $9.99

4-pack $17.49

6-pack $24.29

12-pack $46.49

Mini desserts

3-pack $9.49

6-pack $16.49

12-pack $28.99

CRUMBL BOARDMAN

crumblcookies.com/stores/oh/ohboardman

216-359-3611

449 Boardman Poland Road, Boardman

Step Up Their Game

Step into the season of giving with the perfect golf gift—men’s and women’s FootJoy Fuel Golf Shoes. Designed for performance, comfort and style, these shoes feature athletic-inspired looks and trusted FootJoy technology to keep every step on and off the course steady. Whether you’re shopping for the avid golfer or someone just starting their journey, this limited-time offer delivers unbeatable value. Light, supportive and versatile, FJ Fuel makes every round more enjoyable.

$79.99

GOLF HEADQUARTERS

golfhq.com

330-726-3880

1401 Boardman Canfield Road

Boardman, Ohio

For Every Foot on Your List

Boot Factory Outlet makes holiday shopping easy. With an unbeatable Buy 1 Pair, Get Two Pair Free deal, you can check off your entire list at once! The outlet carries men’s, women’s and children’s boots. You’ll find Western, work, and fashion styles to fit everyone you are shopping for. It’s the perfect way to give a gift that’s both practical and stylish this season.

RICK’S BOOT FACTORY OUTLET

Boot Factory Outlet

twofreeboots.com

330-726-8436

7336 Market St., Youngstown

Bundt-tastic Bliss

At Nothing Bundt Cakes, choose from Bundtlet Towers, Bundtinis, decorated Cakes & other one-of-a-kind gifts that start at $8.19.

Pictured is Santa’s Slice of Joy. Serve your guests (and Santa!) a slice of delicious joy this holiday season. This festive cake is adorned with a wearable Santa hat headband and a tiny stocking hung with care. The decorated Bundt Cakes are gift-wrapped in cellophane for a unique and beautiful presentation. This is perfect for gatherings, gifts and holiday parties.

Nothing Bundt Cakes

nothingbundtcakes.com

Boardman

813 Boardman Poland Road, Boardman

330-944-2253

Niles

2658 Niles Cortland Road SE, Niles

330-989-0986

Cozy meets Chic

The perfect mix of fun and fashion with the best deals, no matter what the season, at Valentina’s Boutique.

VALENTINA’S BOUTIQUE

330-989-7210

5555 Youngstown Warren Road, Niles

Cheers to the Perfect Gift

Penguin City Winter Warmer Ale is a malty, mildly sweet strong ale brewed to warm your spirits in the colder months. Expect smooth layers of caramel and molasses, balanced with a rich body and a mahogany hue. 6.5% ABV

Six-pack $12.99

Renner Old Bavaria is the revival of Youngstown’s very first brewery in collaboration with Penguin City Brewing Company. This Old Bavaria Style Pilsner is crisp, clean and classic, brewed to honor the Renner family’s German roots and the hardworking spirit of Youngstown. 5.2% ABV

Six-pack $11.99

PENGUIN CITY BREWING COMPANY

penguincity.beer

330-755-0709

460 E. Federal St., Youngstown

Prune Like A Pro

The STIHL GTA 26 battery-powered cordless garden pruner is the first of its kind on the U.S. market. With its lightweight and compact design, the pruner is ideal for a range of gardening tasks. The 4-inch guide bar allows for precise cutting and pruning and its size makes it possible to get to those hard-to-reach spots. Its rubber grips provide ease of use and minimize wrist torsion. With a battery, charger, multi-oil and a transport bag included, the GTA 26 pruner set comes with everything you need to take on a variety of landscaping tasks.

$199.99

Snow Problem? No Problem!

Get ready for winter with a snow blower that’s built for power and ease. Just push the button for instant electric start and clear your driveway without hassle. Featuring Power Curve® Technology, its curved rubber paddles quickly shred through snow while reducing clogs. The mounted chute lever makes aiming simple, and the locking deflector lets you control where snow lands with just a touch. Designed to handle up to nine-car driveways and snowfall from 2 to 9 inches, this machine is optimized to keep you moving all season.

$629.99

DO-CUT SALES & SERVICE

docut.com

Canfield

330-953-3423

6442 S. Raccoon Road, Canfield

Radiant Elegance

in 14 Karat Gold

A harmonious pairing of timeless sophistication and modern artistry, this exquisite 14 karat yellow gold diamond link necklace and matching bracelet captivates with its luminous satin finish. Each meticulously crafted piece glimmers with brilliant diamonds totaling 1.22 carats per design, for a combined 2.44 carats of radiant sparkle. The intricate links create a seamless flow of light, making this set a true statement of understated luxury.

Bracelet $22,224

Necklace $42,303

Komara Jewelers

komarajewelers.com

330-793-9048

Canfield Location

3649 Canfield Road, Canfield

EVENTS

Boardman Park Holiday Concert

Dec. 14, 3-4:30 p.m.

Boardman Park, St. James Meeting House

Cost: Free

The Park Avenue Brass Quintet, composed of local musicians and music educators, returns to play Yuletide favorites in the historic St. James Meeting House, the township’s oldest public building, which will be decorated in picturesque, handmade holiday decorations created by the Holborn Herb Growers Guild. Seating is limited.

LUNCH & LEARNS

HR Working Group

Feb. 5, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

440 Pennsylvania Ave., Salem

Cost: Free to all HR professionals

Join the HR Working Group to stay updated on changes and developments in human resources. This is an excellent opportunity to share your successes, ideas and challenges with others in similar roles.

Contact: RSVP to [email protected]

HOLIDAY-THEMED EVENTS

Memories of Christmas Past

Through Dec. 31, Tuesday to Sunday, noon-4 p.m.;

Thursdays, noon-7 p.m.

Arms Family Museum

648 Wick Ave., Youngstown

Boardman Community Christmas Event

Dec. 7, 3 -5 p.m.

Boardman Park, St. James Meeting House and Lariccia

Community Center

Cost: Free

With hot chocolate, fire pits on the back patio and holiday craft making. The community is encouraged to decorate a Holiday Wildlife Christmas Tree for the many animals and birds in Boardman Park. Please bring your own natural and edible decorations such as pinecones covered with peanut butter and birdseed, cereal and popcorn strings, or create ornaments with bagels, orange slices or other fruit for the wildlife. Decorating will take place from 2-5 p.m. near the Boardman Park gazebo and free wagon rides will be available from the Lariccia Community Center to the gazebo.

The Boardman High School Chorus will put on a festive holiday concert.

Contact: Park office at 330-726-8105 or [email protected].

Drive-thru Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights

Through Jan. 7, 5-10 p.m.

Boardman Park, Dan Slagle Parkway Drive

Cost: Free

Boardman Park is transformed into a magical winter wonderland for the holidays with more than 21 holiday light creations. Pack your car with the entire family to enjoy this amazing holiday light display. Tune your car radio to 88.9 FM as you enter the park and wind along our beautiful Dan Slagle Parkway to enjoy the fantastic Christmas light displays synchronized to your favorite holiday classics.

Santa’s Winter Workshop

Dec. 13, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Boardman Park, Lariccia Community Center

Cost: $12 presale per child, $15 at the door per child

Children will enjoy a holly jolly fun-packed day of events that include reindeer games, making a holiday craft and discovering how to magically play with snow inside, as well as making their own Grinch waffles and sip on hot chocolate. Santa will be anxiously awaiting all the children, and a professional photo will be taken with jolly St. Nick. Pictures with St. Nick will be included in the ticket price. Santa’s Winter Workshop is in partnership with Olivia’s Grace nonprofit organization. Tickets are encouraged to be purchased in advance at oliviasgrace.com.

Frost & Lights: A Festive Holiday at the Gardens

Fellows Riverside Gardens

Experience the magic of the season at Fellows Riverside Gardens!

Cost: Free

Contact: Fellows Riverside Gardens at 330-740-7116 or millcreekmetroparks.org.

• Festival of Trees

Through Jan. 4, Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

• Winter Nights

Dec. 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28, 5-7 p.m.

• Festive Finds Weekend

Dec.13 & 14, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Phone Calls from Santa Claus

Dec. 16 – 17, 6-8 p.m.

Cost: Free

Boardman Park will be assisting Santa with a direct line from the North Pole to the Boardman community. Boardman parents who would like their children (ages 3-10) to receive a phone call from Santa must complete a Santa’s Calling form at the Boardman Park Office or download the form at boardmanpark.com. Calls are free to children with local numbers.

Completed Santa Calling forms must be returned no later than noon, Dec. 15. Forms can be returned in person or mailed to the Boardman Park Office at 375 Boardman Poland Road or email [email protected].

Note: This is a busy time for Santa, he will only have time for one phone call to each family. It’s very important that the child is home during your scheduled phone time.

OTHER EVENTS

Veteran’s Breakfast Club: Finding Shalom in War, the Christmas Truce of 1914

Dec. 17, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

JCC of Youngstown

Cost: $10 suggested donation will be accepted at the door

Contact: Barbara Wilson, director of Cultural Arts & Jewish Engagement, at [email protected].

Lifeguard Certification

Dec. 19-21, Friday, 5-7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

JCC of Youngstown

Cost: $190/member; $260/non-member

Contact: Wellness Office at [email protected].

Boardman Park’s Annual Father-Daughter Dance

Feb. 13-15, 20-21, Friday and Saturday, 6-9 p.m.; Sunday, 5-8 p.m.

Boardman Park, Lariccia Community Center

Cost: Daughters, $25; Dad (or father figures) who are Boardman residents, $30; Dad (or father figures) who are not Boardman residents, $40.

Boardman Park will host the 22nd annual Father-Daughter Dance at the Lariccia Family Community Center. This dance offers families five special nights from which to select a date that best matches their busy schedule.

Daughters, ages 5 to 13, will enjoy a memory-making evening with their father, stepfather, grandfather, uncle or that special father figure in their life. Come dressed in party clothes (semi-formal attire) for a night that will include a catered dinner, dancing to a DJ, a professional father-daughter keepsake photo, as well as craft-making and other surprises.

Tickets for the 2026 dance go on sale Jan. 13. Due to the popularity of the event, tickets must be purchased in advance at the time you secure your reservation date. Tickets will be sold online at boardmanpark.com, by phone at 330-726-8105 or at the Boardman Park office.

*For events at Stambaugh Auditorium, Youngstown Playhouse & DeYor, call the YourArts Box Office at 330-259-9651 or visit experienceyourarts.org to purchase tickets.

Regional Chamber Events

Contact Chuck Rudge, senior events coordinator, at 330-744-2131, ext. 1225 or

[email protected]. Sponsorship opportunities are available for all events.

The Inc Collab Holiday Mixer

Dec. 16, 5-7 p.m.

Location: The Apollo, Youngstown | Cost: $10

Power Lunch

Jan. 6, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location: TBD | Cost: $10/networking hour; $20/lunch and program

Mahoning Valley Safety Council

Jan. 7, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location: Salvatore’s Italian Grill, Howland | Cost: $35/members; $45/non-members

Power Lunch

Jan. 20, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location: TBD | Cost: $10/networking hour; $20/lunch and program

Good Evening, Campbell, Struthers & Lowellville!

Jan. 29, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Location: TBD | Cost: $35/members; $45/non-members

Power Lunch

Feb. 3, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location: TBD | Cost: $10/networking hour; $20/lunch and program

Mahoning Valley Safety Council

Feb. 4, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location: TBD | Cost: Cost: $35/members; $45/non-members

Columbus Drive-In

Feb. 11

Location: Ohio Chamber of Commerce, Columbus | Cost: $300/members;

$500/non-members

Power Lunch

Feb. 17, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Location: TBD | Cost: $10/networking hour; $20/lunch and program

Family-Owned Business Recognition Dinner

Feb. 18, 5:30-8 p.m.

Location: The Lake Club, Poland | Cost: $125/members; $135/non-members

Driving Manufacturing Growthin Northeast Ohio

Manufacturing in northeast Ohio has weathered decades of change, from the threat of cheap imports to today’s race toward automation. Through it all, MAGNET: The Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network, has been at the center, helping companies adapt, grow and stay competitive.

Formed in the 1980s, the organization serves 24 counties across northeast Ohio, offering services that range from process efficiency to advanced technology. Its goal is the same as it was at the start—to help manufacturers grow sales, strengthen operations and stay ahead in a changing economy.

That adaptability has fueled MAGNET’s growth.

That approach has reached deep into the Valley, where Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber members are among the companies turning to MAGNET for expertise.

A Fresh Set of Eyes

For Shapes Unlimited, a 30-year Youngstown area-based

manufacturer of high-quality aluminum building products for the window and fence industries—MAGNET’s value came in delivering quantifiable evidence via subject matter expertise and shared outside/in perspective.

“From experience in leading organizational change, my MO (Modus Operandi) is, from day one, to make some immediate observations and to support actionable process improvements. One of the observations was the good news is having a combined 100,000 square feet of material and 30,000 SKUs. The bad news was having 100,000 square feet and 30,000 SKUs,” said Doug Rende, CEO & president.

That all led to questions about configuration, organization and process flow at the facility in Boardman, and Rende knew the company needed to improve productivity and efficiency before moving into its new 80,000-square-foot facility in the North Jackson Commerce Park in early 2026.

Enter MAGNET.

“They came in and did a full spaghetti analysis on process flow, initiated a series of Kaizen events and did so at a reasonable-cost and then, developed a footprint that is now transferable to a completely redesigned warehouse and production footprint in the new space,” Rende said.

That initial project grew into a broader partnership.

Shapes Unlimited has developed a corporate relationship with MAGNET that allows the company access to MAGNET’s knowledge base, supplier base, best practices and general subject matter expertise, Rende said.

Also, “because they have done a very good job of being able to bring in the best and brightest from local universities to assist,” Shapes Unlimited hired full-time one of the young people who performed the initial analysis, Rende said.

In addition, the company brought on a fractional director of operations through MAGNET to help oversee the new facility build-out, gaining the flexibility of variable compensation until a permanent hire makes sense. Doing so again allowed the company to tap into MAGNET’s expertise into what other companies are doing in their warehouses ”and that has led to us further automating through next generation, autonomous and robotic manufacturing equipment that will be in the new facility,” Rende said.

The partnership has also connected the company with broader industry advocacy and political awareness, giving Shapes Unlimited a stronger voice in issues that affect manufacturers. And for MAGNET, Rende shares his experiences publicly, underscoring the value of leveraging MAGNET’s resources and relationships to navigate change and strengthen competitiveness.

Building Attainability

HSH Contractor, founded 14 years ago by Erik Liber, also found a long-term partner in MAGNET.

The company has grown from a pickup truck into a 120-employee contractor working on hundreds of homes and thousands of apartments each year across the Cleveland market. Its mission has been twofold—to raise wages and standards in the drywall trade, and to cut inefficiencies in construction that drive up housing costs.

After the pandemic, HSH shifted from drywall into general contracting with the aim of making homes more attainable. By refining processes and procedures, the company has been able to cut an estimated $75 per square foot from the cost of a build while remaining profitable. But taking the next step—introducing robotics into construction—required expertise beyond what the company had in house.

That is where MAGNET stepped in. The introduction was made by Guy Coviello, president & CEO of the Regional Chamber.

“I was telling Guy about some of the obstacles we were facing. As a business owner, it’s important to know you don’t know everything, so how could we streamline this, streamline that, make things better? He brought MAGNET into the fold for us and they have been really helpful,” Liber said.

MAGNET, he said, was essential “in helping us get through some of that noise that comes along with that (introducing robotics into construction).

The organization helped HSH navigate options for robotics manufacturers, identify the right integrators and streamline its facilities. MAGNET also introduced Matterport scanning technology, which allowed HSH to digitally map job sites and warehouses, reducing costly trips and human error. A warehouse scan even produced a CAD drawing for a new layout that improved workflow and efficiency at the facility in Euclid.

“Simple things like if you’re going to load a truck, the screws are the last thing you’re going to put on, so they need to be positioned properly so it’s a flow, so you pick everything up before you get to the screws and you’re not running around like crazy,” Liber said. “It’s a very efficient flow now.”

Liber sees the relationship as ongoing, calling it a “partnership for life.” With MAGNET’s support, HSH continues exploring robotics and other tools that blend construction and manufacturing, positioning the company to reshape housing affordability in the region.

MAGNET: A Partner for Manufacturers

The work at Shapes Unlimited and HSH Contractor reflects the larger role MAGNET plays across northeast Ohio.

It was created as part of an effort to support small and midsize companies across the U.S. that were losing ground to imports and needed help to survive. Now, it is the northeast Ohio partner of the Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership.

Its services have grown steadily, said Michael O’Donnell, chief operating officer of consulting for MAGNET. In the 1980s, the focus was on plant layout, productivity and efficiency. In the 1990s, MAGNET added custom machine design so companies launching new products could remain competitive. Later came robotics, co-bots, ERP systems, automation and other Industry 4.0 tools that put advanced technology on the shop floor.

About eight years ago, MAGNET expanded into strategy, marketing and sales to help firms grow beyond long-term customers.

“Many of the smaller companies, they don’t have that resource and they just sell to people who call in or (they sell) to who they have been selling to for a long time, and they don’t know how to navigate launching a new product or service,” O’Donnell said. “They are existing companies and they don’t know how to navigate taking a great service they have and bringing it to another market.”

More recently, MAGNET added workforce engagement programs to help employers measure culture, benefits and leadership to improve retention.

“We know if they are happy and engaged, they don’t quit, No. 1 and No. 2, they typically produce 30% to 40% more output because they are happy and enjoy their work. An engaged worker produces more work and a disengaged worker is grumpy and then they quit,” O’Donnell said.

Within the past year, MAGNET launched a systematized approach to product and service development. Manufacturers at any point on the spectrum—from idea to prototype to marketing—can benefit. Looking ahead, O’Donnell said, the organization is piloting artificial intelligence tools for sales forecasting and quoting, with practical applications expected next year.

That ability to adapt has fueled growth. Regional economic impact and MAGNET client project revenue have increased tenfold in the past decade, a result of listening to clients, anticipating challenges and adding services around real needs, O’Donnell said.

MAGNET also created its Manufacturing Blueprint, a strategic roadmap built on four pillars: talent, technology, innovation and leadership. At its core, the Blueprint is about ensuring a sustainable manufacturing community for decades to come. Those pillars, O’Donnell said, validated by stakeholders from CEOs to educators to community leaders form a vision of northeast Ohio as a global leader in smart manufacturing.

To connect with MAGNET, contact Darlyn McDermott, regional client engagement leader, at [email protected] or 330-858-558.

Mercy Health–Youngstown

Expands with Mission at the Core

Mercy Health–Youngstown continues to expand its services across the Valley, guided by a calling that has shaped the organization since the 1800s.

The Sisters of Humility of Mary began caring for railroad workers at Villa Maria in the 1860s and opened St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital in 1911. That mission of extending the compassionate ministry of Jesus through high-quality care remains the foundation for Mercy Health-Youngstown’s strategy today.

“Our mission … that drives everything. That drives our decisions, that drives our strategy, that drives who we recruit,” said Dr. James Kravec, chief clinical officer for Mercy Health–Lorain and Youngstown.

Guided by that purpose, Mercy Health makes decisions based on the Valley’s needs, not competition.

Emergency and Cardiac Care in Trumbull County

One example is the new Mercy Health–Champion Emergency Center.

The $50 million facility, under construction and set to open in 2026, will provide 24/7 emergency care, outpatient imaging and lab services. At 30,000 square feet with 25 beds, it will expand access for residents in northern Trumbull County.

In addition, nearby St. Joseph Warren Hospital opened a cardiac catheterization lab in 2024 and began providing acute heart attack care in 2025.

“That’s a way to keep patients local for heart care and emergency department care,” Kravec said.

Mercy Health is also opening two new primary care sites in Warren, along with an orthopedic office, with another under evaluation.

Expansion in Behavioral Health and Rehabilitation

The former 26-bed rehab unit at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital moved in January 2025 to a new, 60-bed hospital on Belmont Avenue in Liberty. On the same campus, a 72-bed behavioral health hospital will open in early 2026, replacing the 42 beds previously housed at St. Elizabeth.

“We are considerably increasing our behavioral health and rehabilitation footprint, which is wonderful,” Kravec said.

Both facilities—Mercy Health Rehabilitation Hospital and Mercy Health Behavioral Hospital—are partnerships with Tennessee-based Lifepoint Health.

Growth in Neurological Care

Mercy Health invested $7 million at St. Elizabeth Youngstown to build upon interventional neuroradiology capabilities. A second suite has been added, and the first is being upgraded with new technology scheduled to go live next year.

As rehab left the hospital, its former space was transformed into a $13 million, 16-bed neurological intensive care unit. The unit, set to open in early 2026, will become the hospital’s fifth ICU.

“This is new patients we are caring for based on new techniques with neuro interventional radiology and (we’re) hopefully adding several more neurosurgeons soon,” Kravec said.

Expanding in Boardman and Across the Valley

In Boardman, Mercy Health is investing $3 to $4 million in a larger sleep lab that will soon open. The project doubles capacity, and the plan is to add more pulmonary specialists and sleep physicians, Kravec said.

Across the Valley, the system employs about 400 physicians and providers, making it the largest medical group in the Mahoning Valley. It trains 150 residents and fellows each year, supports 920,000 patient visits annually and operates from 52 locations.

Mercy Health is also opening its 11th walk-in clinic, treating conditions such as earaches, rashes and respiratory infections at lower costs than urgent care centers.

Mission-Guided Decision Making

Decisions about growth follow a discernment process that includes prayerful reflection and input from mission leaders, Kravec said. This structured approach ensures growth remains consistent with the system’s values while responding to the needs of the region.

“We talk about how this impacts the mission, how it impacts the ministry. We ask the questions (of ourselves): Is there a need in the community? Does it positively impact the community? Does it positively impact the health system? We reflect on it, we think about it, we pray as a team and we have to make the decision,” Kravec said.

Building the Nursing Workforce of the Future

Mercy Health is also focused on building the workforce to sustain growth. Education and training opportunities are central to that effort, said Stacie Call, chief nursing officer for Mercy Health–Lorain and Youngstown.

Tuition support programs provide pathways into healthcare careers. For high-demand positions such as nursing, radiology, lab science and respiratory therapy, Mercy Health partners with universities to pay costs directly. Tuition assistance is also available for advanced degrees and new or additional credentials.

The system maintains close ties with universities in the region, especially Youngstown State University and Kent State University, offering clinical opportunities throughout Mercy Health facilities. Many nurse managers also serve as instructors, strengthening the connection between education and practice.

Mercy Health employs more than 140 nursing students in the Youngstown market while they complete their education.

Students are hired early in their programs, gain hands-on experience and receive priority job placement after graduation.

“They work for us in a student role, which means they get the opportunity to work right beside a nurse, to watch what he or she does, have the same experiences they have, take care of patients under their direction,” Call said. “And they stay with us through those two years of school and then they have priority options to choose positions they are interested in.”

Supporting Career Growth

Career development extends beyond recruitment. Entry-level employees such as aides and transporters can access tuition assistance to pursue nursing or other clinical careers.

New nurses participate in a residency program that eases the transition into practice and helps them grow into their roles.

“It’s about enriching them as nurses, but it’s also about enriching them as a person and part of the Mercy Health team. Our work revolves around mission and what we are doing as a faith-based organization, so it’s important to make sure our employees understand that as well,” Call said.

Nurses also have opportunities to grow as preceptors and mentors. In addition, shared governance structures encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing across units.

Connecting With the Community

Mercy Health has relaunched its high school senior program, which introduces students and their parents to careers in healthcare.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to rebuild the workforce after the pandemic. By reducing vacancy rates and investing in training, Mercy Health has been able to open new units, expand outpatient services and support joint ventures such as the rehabilitation hospital with Lifepoint, Call said.

“That is an important thing for the Mahoning Valley because we don’t want health care to be stagnant. We want to continue to grow what is available. We want to continue to reinvest in our buildings and hospitals,” Call said.

NEW MEMBERS

Regional Chamber New Members July 24 to Sept. 30

BUSINESS SERVICES

CERTIFIED H2O

Youngstown

certifiedh2o.com

HEARN PAPER COMPANY

Youngstown

hearnpaper.com

STRATEGIC PUBLIC PARTNERS

Columbus

sppgroup.com

CONSTRUCTION / HOME REPAIR

APEX EXTERIORS PLUS, LLC

Warren

JDT ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION, LLC

Rogers

MILLER ROOFING & EXTERIORS

Navarre

millerroofingexteriors.com

ROOF MASTER PRO LLC

Big Prairie, Ohio

www.roofmasterprollc.com

SANDY KNOLL BUILDERS, LLC

Orwell

SODEXO / ROTH

Youngstown

sodexoroth.com

EDUCATION

LA LA’S DAYCARE, LEARNING CENTER & NURSERY

Hubbard

ENTERTAINMENT

A&M PHOTOBOOTHS

Canfield

COLUMBIANA ARTS THEATER

Columbiana

atthecat.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES

APPLE INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.

Columbiana

appleins.net

EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS

Austintown

edwardjones.com

HENDERSON BROTHERS

Pittsburgh, Pa.

hendersonbrothers.com

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

CITY OF SALEM

cityofsalemohio.org

HEALTH CARE SERVICES

AVAMAR GASTROENTEROLOGY, INC.

Warren

avamargastro.com

CURALEAF

Girard

ELITE PHARMACY - EAST PALESTINE

East Palestine

elitepharmacy.com

TRAVELING ANGELS, LLC

Youngstown

IT & TECH SERVICES

BPLANET, INC.

Youngstown

bplanet.io

ECHELIX CONSULTING

Youngstown

echelix.com

SMART SOLUTIONS

Youngstown

smartsuinc.com

SOFTBANK GROUP INTERNATIONAL

Washington

softbank.com

TEAM OFFICE TECHNOLOGIES

Austintown

teamofficeonline.com

MANUFACTURING

METALIN WITH WOOD

Wampum, Pa.

PET SUPPLY

GREENE’S LEAVITTSBURG FEED MILL

Leavittsburg

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ECO

Youngstown

weare.eco

MAHCO (MAHONING COUNTY AUTOMATION & CONTROL)

New Springfield

mahco.us

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS

DeMAR REALTY, INC.

Poland

OHIO ONE GROUP, LLC

Youngstown

ohioonebldg.com

WELLS INVESTMENT PROPERTIES

Youngstown

YTFH DEVELOPMENT, LLC

Youngstown

RESTAURANTS, MARKETS & BAKERIES

GREENE’S MARKET & DINER

Leavittsburg

JODI LYNN’S HOMESTYLE BAKERY, LLC

New Middletown

KANPAI SUSHI, LLC

Youngstown

youngstownkpsushi.com

NILES CITY DAIRY QUEEN

Niles

TSAOCCA BOBA TEA

Niles

YONDER BRUNCH & VIBES

Youngstown

RETAIL STORES

SHOP OF TREASURES, LLC

Niles

shopoftreasures.com

SOCIAL SERVICES

EASTERSEALS OF NORTHEAST OHIO

Youngstown

easterseals.com/mtc

SUNSHINE COLLECTIVE

West Middlesex, Pa.

shinecokara.com

UPLIFTING WOMEN

West Middlesex, Pa.

uplifingwomennp.org

TRUCKING

HILL INTERNATIONAL TRUCKS, LLC

Canton

hillintltrucks.com

US LOGISTICS

Moon Township, Pa.

uslfreight.com

Regional Chamber Ribbon Cuttings

JULY 18 to SEPT. 26

HODAS BOTANICALS & TOBACCO LLC

Youngstown

www.facebook.com/p/Hodas-Botanicals-

Tobacco-LLC-100086691727724/

BUCKEYE PACE / ONE SENIOR

CARE, INC. - TRUMBULL

Youngstown

buckeyepace.com

BUCKEYE PACE / ONE SENIOR

CARE, INC. - TRUMBULL

Warren

buckeyepace.com

TLAQUEPAQUE TEQUILA

Niles

tlaquepaque.com

WALMART SUPERSTORE #2211

Poland

walmart.com

RONDINELLI TUXEDO COMPANY - NILES

Niles

rondinellituxedo.com

ROYAL GLOW BEAUTY AND ESTHETICS SPA

Boardman

royalglow.net

FOX’S PIZZA DEN

Boardman

foxspizzaden.com

TOMKO CPA

Canfield

tomkocpa.com

K.O. CONSULTING, LLC

Youngstown

koconsultllc.com

ACADEMY SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Youngstown

academy.com

EDGE 1343

Youngstown

edgecity.com

MINDS-N-MOTION WELLNESS, LLC

North Jackson

mindsinmotionwellness.com

SMOKY HOLLOW WORLD WAR I MONUMENT

Youngstown

YELLOW BRICK PLACE

Youngstown

yellowbrickplace.org

CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF YOUNGSTOWN

(groundbreaking)

Youngstown

doy.org

WONDER VILLAGE

Austintown

wondervillagempc.com

ANGEL CARE MEDICAL

(groundbreaking)

Boardman

angelcaremedicalltc.com

CURALEAF

Girard

curaleaf.com/dispensary/ohio

CERISE STONE MILL BAKING CO.

Cornersburg

cerisebaking.com

ENLIGHTENED MASSAGE THERAPY

& HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER

Youngstown

larissa.enlightens.me

OHIO ONE GROUP, LLC

Youngstown

ohioone.com

RETROWE, LLC

West Middlesex

retrowe.com

LANTERMAN’S MILL

Lanterman’s Mill, part of Mill Creek MetroParks and one of Mahoning County’s most recognized landmarks, takes on a quiet charm in winter. With wreaths adorning this historic mill and Lanterman’s Falls flowing just beyond, it’s a scene that captures the season’s beauty. The Mill is a seasonal facility with outside viewing year round. The inside will reopen May 1.