Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: What Sexton’s retirement means for Youngstown’s NPR station WYSU

Also, don't miss Village Offices Closed on the Youngstown Patch calendar

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Tuesday December 23rd Patch AM
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Good morning Youngstown! We're back again in your inbox, keeping you updated with what's happening in and around town. ☕️️

In today's newsletter:

  • What Sexton’s retirement means for Youngstown’s NPR station WYSU
  • Which new leaders will shape Youngstown under Mayor-elect McDowell?
  • Youngstown community mourns the passing of Amalia Lozano-Acosta

Today's riddle: What did one magnet say to the other magnet? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Find out what's happening in Youngstownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Weather forecast:

  • Tuesday: Cloudy and breezy with mist, with a high of 46 and low of 29 degrees.
  • Wednesday: Clouds and sun, temps: high: 37, low: 33.
  • Thursday: Cloudy with areas of drizzle, with a high of 41 and low of 28 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. WYSU Director Signing Off on Long Career at Radio Station (businessjournaldaily.com) — Youngstown’s public radio landscape is shifting as longtime WYSU broadcasting director Gary Sexton retires after 36 years, with YSU professor Adam Earnheardt stepping in as interim director on Jan. 1. The Youngstown-based NPR affiliate, broadcasting from the city’s south side, continues to navigate funding challenges after federal cuts while relying on passionate local listeners and creative fundraising efforts. Sexton may still keep a hand in classical music hosting.
   

Find out what's happening in Youngstownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

2. Youngstown mayor-elect McDowell announces round of cabinet appointments (wfmj.com) — Youngstown residents are getting a clearer picture of how mayor-elect Derrick McDowell’s administration will look, as he announces another round of cabinet appointments ahead of taking office in January 2026. Key roles like chief of staff, law director, finance director, police chief, and fire chief are set, with parks and downtown events positions still to come.
   

3. Amalia Lozano-Acosta, Youngstown, Ohio (wkbn.com) — Youngstown is mourning the passing of 67-year-old Amalia Lozano-Acosta, remembered for her generous spirit, deep faith, and devotion to family. Calling hours and a funeral service will be held Saturday, December 27, at Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home in Boardman, where loved ones can gather to honor her life and legacy.
   

4. More Than 1,100 Toys Donated to Akron Children's Hospital (businessjournaldaily.com) — Youngstown residents and partners just delivered more than 1,100 toys and gifts to support children receiving care at Akron Children’s Hospital. Led by Choffin Career & Technical Center, Phi Beta Sigma, and hospital volunteers, the drive quickly grew from simple crayons and books into bikes, drones, and electronics that staff say help calm young patients during stressful procedures all year long.
   

5. Taylor Lietha Signs to Continue Bowling Career at Youngstown State (ysusports.com) — A standout Minnesota bowler is heading to Youngstown, committing to continue both her education and bowling career at Youngstown State University. State champion Taylor Lietha will join the Penguins in the 2026 class and plans to major in exercise science. Her long list of youth bowling titles suggests she could quickly become a key contributor to YSU’s growing program.
   

📸 Around Youngstown

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🗓 Events Nearby

Have we missed something on our calendar? Add an event yourself! As always, before attending confirm event details to ensure accuracy.

💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • To everyone who made the effort and took the time to decorate the outside of your homes, THANK YOU.
    I enjoy seeing all the decorations and lights and puts me in a festive mood. (Nextdoor Austintown West of 46)
  • Careers that don’t require college?
    I want a stable career but academics isn’t my strong suit is it even possible to live comfortably without going to college? Are there jobs like that… (Nextdoor Schenley)
  • Burger King posted a job opening for Team Member in Youngstown. Apply here.
  • Youngstown Area Jewish Federation posted a job opening for Aquatic Exercise Instructor in Youngstown. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Youngstown here.

Ok Youngstown! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I find you very attractive!
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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