21 WFMJ archives  / December 1950 | In 1949, the U.S. Commerce Department said Youngstown area industries employed 85,000 people and poured almost a quarter of a billion dollars into the local economy, making it one of the best markets for goods in the nation.  A year later, these shoppers crossing Phelps Street at Federal in December 1950 reflected that prosperity.

December 26


1999: Mahoning and Trumbull counties will have nearly $130,000 from the Ohio Department of Mental Health to help change the negative perceptions of mental illness.

Spokesmen for local government, industries, and utilities agree that they are prepared for whatever Y2K  may bring.

Advertisement: the Mercury Grand Marquis, the roomiest in its class and the only one with a five-star crash rating from the government, is available at any 12-area Ford-Mercury or Lincoln-Mercury dealerships for $21,118.

1984: Dan Rooney, president of the Pittsburgh Steelers, says most National Football League teams will be losing money by 1986, and unless TV contract money increases and player salary demands decrease, the league's survival will be in doubt.

Warren's three hospitals, Warren General, Trumbull Memorial, and St. Joseph, report five Christmas Day babies, three boys and two girls.

Youngstown's first Christmas baby is Angel Marie Mang,  born 16 minutes after midnight at North Side Hospital. 


1974: Production is slowed at Columbiana Foundry in Lisbon after a fire broke out in the firm's blower room.

Youngstown's first Christmas baby of 1974 Sheila Marie Moynihan, daughter of Pfc. and Mrs. Robert Moynihan.

East Ohio Gas Co. plans to spend $1.7 million in 1975 in the Youngstown District, $985,000 in Youngstown, and $720,000 in Warren. 


1949: According to the Commerce Department, Mahoning County, with employment in its industries and an annual payroll of nearly a quarter of a billion dollars, is one of the best markets for goods in the nation.

Eight big Vaudeville acts are playing at the Palace in Youngstown, direct from the New York Palace. Admission is 60 cents until 2 p.m., 75 cents after, and 25 cents for children.

James Swager begins his 25th year as chief of the Niles Fire Department. His pet peeves are people who smoke in bed and amateur electricians.