Chamber event spotlights three leaders

March 17, 2026

Staff report The Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber will recognize three Valley leaders for their contributions to business and community leadership during its annual meeting 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. April 16 at Waypoint 4180 in Canfield. The gathering is a signature opportunity to reflect on the past year’s progress, celebrate the partners helping move the Valley forward and highlight the work of the Regional Chamber throughout the year. During the event, the Chamber will present the Spirit of the Valley Award to Eric Ryan, president and CEO of JAC Management Group, and the Spirit of ...

Iran war sends Valley gas prices soaring

March 17, 2026

Combined dispatches Fuel prices for regular-grade gasoline jumped nearly 70 cents in the Mahoning Valley since hostilities erupted among the United States, Israel and Iran. Average diesel prices were $1.353 higher per gallon. AAA reported the average price for regular gas was $3.429 per gallon on Monday in the Youngstown-Warren region. A month ago, a gallon of the same grade was $2.735. Monday’s regional average for diesel was $4.885 compared with $3.532 during the same period. The attack by American and Israeli forces against its longtime antagonist started Feb. 28. In its ...

Should retirement savings plans be used to fund a down payment?

March 14, 2026

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Raiding retirement savings for a down payment on a home can be tempting, especially if you’ve struggled to scrape together enough money to buy. But should you? Most 401(k) and similar retirement savings plans like Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) allow homebuyers ...

AI is spurring a big expansion of high-voltage power lines; landowners are fighting back

March 14, 2026

SUGARLOAF, Pa. (AP) — For John Zola, the 40 acres were like a paradise: apple orchards tucked into northern Pennsylvania’s rolling hills, a barn, meadows and more than enough land for four houses: one for himself and his wife and each of his three adult children. It’s been “hell,” ...

March 14 Business briefs

March 14, 2026

MERIDIAN WELCOMES NEW STAFF: Meridian HealthCare announced the addition of several new providers to its growing team, according to a news release. This continued growth reflects Meridian’s commitment to accessible, person-centered care. By expanding its medical and behavioral health teams, Meridian HealthCare can accept new patients and ensure that they can receive comprehensive services in one coordinated system, reducing barriers, improving outcomes, and making it easier for individuals and families to get the support they need. Joining the Meridian staff are: • Dr. Lewis ...

Bloomberg ranked as top donor for 3rd straight year

March 14, 2026

For the third consecutive year, Michael Bloomberg landed the No. 1 spot on the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s exclusive ranking of the 50 biggest donors of 2025. The founder of the Bloomberg financial-news empire and former New York mayor gave $4.3 billion to support arts, education, the environment, public health, and programs to improve city governments. Bloomberg is followed on the Philanthropy 50 list by three donors who each gave $1 billion or more to charity last year. Bill Gates (No. 2) gave $3.7 billion to the Gates Foundation, and his former Microsoft colleague, the late Paul ...