Movers and Makers

Movers and Makers articles share stories of the movers, launchers, entrepreneurs and makers that contribute to the vitality of their communities in the Mahoning Valley.

This section is made possible by our Community Leaders Program.

Youngstown Flea donations ease businesses' pandemic pain

Derrick McDowell is helping some of his vendors impacted by the pandemic. Culturehouse Coffee owner Stephen Protheroe said the $500 donation helped keep his business open. 

Mar 23, 2020 4:11 AM Read more >

Gorant Chocolatier has sweetened Easter since 1949

The candymaker produces 75,000 foiled chocolate Easter eggs and 15,000 boxed chocolate Easter eggs per year. A new addition this year is a chocolate egg that is filled with crushed potato chips. 

Mar 16, 2020 4:28 AM Read more >

Entrepreneurs turn former Buckeye Elks Lodge into haven for renewal

Between mentorship programs and sports leagues, Ohio Urban Renaissance focuses on the development of inner-city Youngstown.

Mar 9, 2020 5:08 AM Read more >

The Mocha House makes moves in downtown Youngstown

Though the menus across all the Mocha Houses are similar for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the downtown Youngstown manager has been experimenting with drinks and Lent specials.

Mar 2, 2020 5:00 AM Read more >

Charlie Staples uses a classic recipe, love to cook up success

“I really just feel it was my purpose to do what I'm doing: to bring good to the community, to be a role model to younger people [and] to show that there is a way out," the popular Youngstown restaurateur said.

Feb 24, 2020 4:52 AM Read more >

Trina Williams breathes new life into city with A Fresh Wind Catering

She grew up in a culture that featured drugs. But she's a survivor who now serves up her famous chicken fried rolls for celebrities and politicians.

Feb 17, 2020 4:03 AM Read more >

Terrill Vidale overcomes challenges with 2Deep Entertainment

The promoter hopes to use his platform to reach out to and uplift other African Americans in the community and give other entrepreneurs the resources to succeed.

Feb 10, 2020 4:52 AM Read more >

Carmella Williams puts customers first through products and advocacy

She is an advocate of changing the societal view of natural, textured and curly hair by helping women understand that all aspects of their natural selves are “perfect and beautiful.”

Feb 3, 2020 5:45 AM Read more >

YBI's gALPHA, gBETA programs looking to kick-start Valley businesses

The programs are looking to reach more entrepreneurs in 2020, said Patrick Bailey, gBETA director.

Jan 27, 2020 5:30 AM Read more >

Hitch-Hiker Mfg. serves up quality in its concession trailers

The New Middletown company is celebrating its first half-century, still led by the Swartz family.

Jan 20, 2020 4:26 AM Read more >

• 1
• 2
• >