The Business Journal - Youngstown Publishing Co.

06/16/2026

Something happened at Youngstown State University this week that’s only happened twice before.
The Rock, a boulder where students and student groups for decades have painted messages and promoted events, was moved.

YSU’s iconic painted boulder has been temporarily relocated as work continues on the Kilcawley Center renovation project.

06/16/2026

An all-inclusive playground, Johnny’s Play Place, opened Monday at the Roosevelt Student Wellness Center in Hubbard with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The project, supported by volunteers, donors and guidance from the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley, features adaptive equipment designed for children of all abilities.

The new playground at the Roosevelt Student Wellness Center in Hubbard offers accessible equipment designed for children of all abilities.

06/16/2026

PUCO staff is recommending emergency rate increases for downtown Youngstown steam customers to keep SOBE Thermal Energy Systems operating, while business professionals can connect with regional leaders and learn about chamber resources at this month’s Coffee and Connections event in Ravenna.

PUCO Staff Recommends Emergency Rates for SOBE
https://businessjournaldaily.com/puco-staff-recommends-emergency-rates-for-sobe/

Coffee and Connections Event to Highlight Chamber Resources
https://businessjournaldaily.com/coffee-and-connections-event-to-highlight-chamber-resources/

Salem Regional Medical Center Receives National Distinction
https://businessjournaldaily.com/salem-regional-medical-center-receives-national-distinction/

06/16/2026

The staff of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has recommended the commission approve emergency rates for SOBE Thermal Energy Systems LLC, action that would result in “significant bill increases for customers” – some as much as 145% — according to a filing Monday.

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The staff of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has recommended the commission approve emergency rates for SOBE Thermal Energy Systems LLC, action that would result in “significant bill increases for customers” – some as much as 145% — according to a filing Monday. ...

06/16/2026

A new Technician Fast Track apprenticeship program launched at Youngstown State University’s Excellence Training Center aims to help manufacturers address a shortage of skilled maintenance technicians.

Alex Hertzer, executive director of the Mahoning Valley Manufacturers Coalition, says the yearlong program combines classroom instruction, on-the-job training and mentorship to prepare entry-level workers for careers in manufacturing.

Developed with input from manufacturers across Ohio, the program is designed to create a pipeline of talent for critical technician roles that keep production equipment operating and businesses competitive.

Read more in Dan O'Brien's story here:
https://businessjournaldaily.com/technician-fast-track-program-launches-at-ysu/

The Ohio Manufacturers' Association

06/15/2026

Gov. Mike DeWine on Monday signed Senate Bill 450, the capital budget bill for fiscal years 2027 and 2028.

06/15/2026

As the nation approaches its 250th birthday, the American public’s mood is sour – but with some signs of enduring optimism.

06/15/2026

The Mahoning Valley Manufacturers Coalition launched Ohio’s first Technician Fast Track apprenticeship cohort at Youngstown State University’s Excellence Training Center, while FordCom Wireless teammates Chris Smith and Frankie Newman of East Palestine claimed first place at the fourth annual Tough Tower competition in North Jackson.

Tower Contest Shows Physical, Mental Toughness
https://businessjournaldaily.com/tower-contest-shows-physical-mental-toughness/

Businesses Rush to Protect Against Inflation, Shortages
https://businessjournaldaily.com/businesses-rush-to-protect-against-inflation-shortages/

06/15/2026

There are a lot of ways to celebrate the Fourth of July and America’s 250th birthday this year.
But for a taste of America’s past, perhaps nothing can beat the 2026 Hoppel’s Championship Rodeo outside Lisbon, a tradition of cowboys, cowgirls and families for more than 40 years.

Hoppel's Arena

Hoppel’s Championship Rodeo will feature top competitors and family entertainment that has drawn crowds for more than four decades.

06/15/2026

Brianna Komara Pridon, co-owner of Komara Jewelers and a shark in this year’s YBI Shark Tank competition, talks about the importance of entrepreneurship, innovation and perseverance in building a successful company.

Komara Pridon says she is looking forward to hearing this year’s business pitches after participating in last year’s event as the secret shark. She encouraged entrepreneurs to understand their target market, learn from failure and continue pursuing their goals even if they face setbacks.