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.

Hot Dog Allie relishes new customers at its takeout-only restaurant

Alexandria Tonkovich opened the shop in 2018, five years after she graduated from Austintown Fitch High School.

Aug 3, 2020 5:35 AM Read more >

How Personal Protected pivoted to handwashing stations

Instead of face masks or hand sanitizers, this local company has launched handwashing stations.

Jul 27, 2020 5:25 AM Read more >

Abigail’s Bakery Creations finds sweet spot of growth amid pandemic

The bakery specializes in fruit pies, chocolate chip cookies, baklava and more than 50 custom cake flavors. Owner Bill Smith said he plans to add a variety of vegan options and Mediterranean cuisine later in the year.

Jul 20, 2020 4:52 AM Read more >

The Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County reinvents itself during pandemic

“We want the library to be here for everyone, no matter what is going on in the world, so, online is certainly one way we can do that,” library Executive Director Aimee Fifarek said.

Jul 13, 2020 4:28 AM Read more >

Yoga Element provides outlet to relieve stress during pandemic

"The community aspect of yoga grounds us and helps us realize we are all more alike than we are different,” Yoga Element co-owner Mandy Hinkle said.

Jul 6, 2020 4:52 AM Read more >

Warren drive-in finds renewed success during pandemic

"There’s nothing like being under the stars and cars with the security of being in your own vehicle. So under these times of COVID-19, it’s a great place to go and get out of the house, be in a safe environment and have a lot of fun,” owner Mark Hocevar said. 

Jun 29, 2020 4:26 AM Read more >

Nasty Woman Earrings donates proceeds to BLM organizations

Owner Grace Offerdahl began making polymer clay earrings last July as a creative outlet to relieve stress from school work. Since June 5, she has raised $900 for Black Lives Matter organizations. 

Jun 22, 2020 5:13 AM Read more >

Candella micro-distillery finds success with hand sanitizer

“We went from working about an eight-hour day to about a 16-hour day,” said owner Bill Candella. His company has donated hand sanitizer in bulk to frontline workers.

Jun 15, 2020 5:11 AM Read more >

Youngstown entrepreneur introduces Black Periodt movement

“I started blackperiodt.com because black lives do matter — periodt, end of story, no questions asked,” said Black Periodt owner Carmella Williams. 

Jun 8, 2020 5:10 AM Read more >

Kravitz Deli celebrates 50 years on Belmont Avenue

Jack Kravitz, owner of Kravitz Delicatessen Inc., said he plans to signify the milestone with menu changes to enhance the Jewish, Mediterranean and vegetarian cuisine for which Kravitz Delicatessen is known. 

Jun 1, 2020 5:11 AM Read more >

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