YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Brian Simpson will headline the Youngstown Wine and Jazz Festival on July 25 at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre.

Tickets are $15.45 and $27.80 (includes tax and fees) and can be purchased at the gate or in advance HERE. The concert will start at 7 p.m. The Michael Austin Project will be the opening act.

After graduating from Northern Illinois University, Simpson relocated to Los Angeles, where he was soon playing alongside Gerald Albright and Norman Brown and eventually on a world tour with Janet Jackson.

In 1990, the keyboardist and composer received a call from George Duke that led to a decade of touring and production work for the late jazz legend. It was his tenure with Duke that led Simpson to working with a variety of other great artists, from James Ingram and Anita Baker to Dave Koz and Wayman Tisdale.

Simpson has toured almost nonstop since 2019, visiting many countries. 

Jazz in the Park Series Unveils Schedule

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Jazz in the Park, the long-running free summer concert series, has announced its lineup for 2026. All concerts take place from 3-7 p.m. in Wick Park on the city’s north side.

Here is the schedule:

  • July 19: Rick Ward Project, with John Reese and Back Beat.
  • July 26: Royal Bayyan and Friends, with Andy Bianco Group.
  • Aug. 2: The Band with No Name, with Melrose Eve.
  • Aug. 9: Mikaela Renee will open for a headliner that will be named at a later date.
  • Aug. 16: Forecast, with The Rock Star Experience.
  • Aug. 23: Sammy DeLeon y su Orquesta, with Jazrus.
  • Aug. 30: The Unit Experience Project.
  • Sept. 6: Arielle and Friends. 

‘Couples Therapy’ at Playhouse Downtown

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – “Couples Therapy,” the comic play written by Valley resident Jason Tarr and starring John Cox and Brandy Johanntges, will be performed three times this fall at the new Youngstown Playhouse Downtown theater, 220 W. Boardman St.

Shows will be at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17 and 2:30 p.m. Oct. 18.

‘The MJ Experience’ Coming to Playhouse

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Jam-Hi Productions will present The MJ Experience at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12 at the Youngstown Playhouse. The show will highlight the music and artistry of Michael Jackson.

Jay Simon and Alex Hines are the founders and operators of Jam-Hi. Choreography is being handled by Michael Cotton and The MAC Experience.

The show will feature singers, dance and a live band that will capture the spirit of a Michael Jackson performance.

Simon and Hines said their goal is to honor Jackson in a way that respects his legacy and gives audiences the excitement that only live performers can deliver.

Butler Institute Seeks Volunteer Docents

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Butler Institute of American Art is seeking volunteers for its next docent training program.

Individuals with a passion for art, history and lifelong learning are encouraged to apply. No previous museum experience is required – only an interest in American art, a willingness to learn and a commitment to completing the program.

Training will begin in mid-September and continue through early April 2027. Classes will meet Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Zona Auditorium, concluding with a docent graduation in mid-April. Selected applicants will be interviewed in late July.

“Docents help visitors connect with art in meaningful and memorable ways,” said Joyce Mistovich, docent program director. “We welcome curious, enthusiastic individuals eager to share that experience with others.”

For more information, call Joyce Mistovich, director of education, at 330 743 1107, ext. 1101

Davis Family YMCA Plans Golf Outing

BOARDMAN, Ohio – The Davis Family YMCA invites golfers of every skill level to participate in its 14th annual golf outing Aug. 7 at Knoll Run Golf Course, near Lowellville.

Teams will check in at 8 a.m., and play will begin at 9 a.m. The event will feature a scramble format and include 18 holes of golf, cart rental, coffee and breakfast, lunch on the cart, a golfer gift, individual and team prizes and a closing dinner. 

All proceeds benefit the YMCA’s efforts to provide inclusive and accessible programs, from early childhood education to chronic disease prevention. 

Knoll Run is at 1421 Struthers-Coitsville Road.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. 

To register or learn more, go to the YMCA’s website.

Stream Life Day at Beaver Creek State Park

EAST LIVERPOOL, Ohio – River enthusiasts of all ages are invited to join the Little Beaver Creek Stream Life Day from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, July 19, at Beaver Creek State Park. This free, family-friendly event features demonstrations and hands-on activities, including a chance to look for aquatic critters in the stream.

Presented by several Ohio Department of Natural Resources divisions, Stream Life Day gives visitors a chance to learn more about the Little Beaver Creek River and the ODNR professionals who protect and conserve it.

Little Beaver Creek River is one of 17 scenic rivers in the state.

Featured demonstrations include electro-fishing and creek seining to explore the underwater world of macroinvertebrates, along with wildlife displays, naturalist-led activities and a visit with Smokey Bear. Visitors will have a chance to meet a variety of ODNR professionals, including natural resources officers.

Autism Society to Present Oktoberfest

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Oktoberfest Youngstown will take place from noon to 11 p.m. Sept. 19 at Penguin City Brewing, downtown.

Sponsored by the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley in conjunction with Marquee Signature Events, the event will raise funds to support autism programs and services.

Admission is just $20 (free for children 12 and under).

Launched in 2014, Oktoberfest brings together authentic Bavarian traditions, lively entertainment, great food and community spirit.

Entertainment will feature the Saxon Club Band, Ohio Valley Folk Society Dancers, Fred Ziwich Polkas and Youngstown’s House Band. Festival favorite activities will include the community chicken dance, pretzel toss, beer stein races, masskrugstemmen (stein holding competition), best beer belly contest, brat-eating contest and yodeling contest, with additional activities planned throughout the day.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, vendor applications and event updates, go to OktoberfestYoungstown.org.

SummerFest, Car Show at Brookfield Schools

BROOKFIELD, Ohio – Warrior Nation SummerFest and Car Show, a free, family-friendly event, will take place from noon to 4 p.m. Aug. 16 at the Brookfield Local Schools upper parking lot and football stadium.

The event will include a classic car show, vendors, live music and a kids zone. Car enthusiasts are encouraged to bring their vehicles to participate. Vehicle registration will be available at the event for a $10 donation.

New this year is a Punt, Pass and Kick contest from 1-3 p.m. Brookfield High’s student-athletes will showcase their skills in the competition.

Proceeds will be used to purchase an additional speed tracking sign to be installed in front of Brookfield Local Schools.

For information, call 724 418 2148 or follow Warrior Nation SummerFest on Facebook and Instagram.

Pictured at top: Brian Simpson will perform at Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre.