CORNERSBURG – It was a banner year for the staff and clients of Yellow Brick Place as the agency celebrated its first decade of supporting those in the fight against cancer.

“We opened at Brandywine Plaza in Cornersburg on Sept. 12, 2015,” said YBP Executive Director Kathleen moliterno. “We started with two disconnected suites.”

She said one suite had the offices and the wig program, while the suite at the other end of the plaza had a room for programs and support group sessions. Today, YBP is housed in three consecutive suites in the plaza, offering a wider variety of programs and services, all free for cancer patients.

“We are dealing with 20 different types of cancer,” Moliterno said. “We have also updated our logo to reflect what we do.”

She said the former logo said “Wellness Center,” which was changed to “Cancer Support Center.”

“We provide more support than just wellness,” Moliterno said.

Among the various means of support is the wig program at YBP. When a woman going through cancer treatment loses hair,it can be hard for them to feel good about themselves.YBP changes their viewpoint by offering free, high-quality wigs.

In just one year, the wig fittings at YBP have increased by 63%. Though, the wigs also have increased in price.

“Some wigs have been affected by the tariffs,up to a 33% increase,” Moliterno said.

When a woman is fitted for her own personal wig, she also receives a bag with hair care products, accessories, everything to care for the wig and even some free jewelry.

“If a woman finds a style of wig she likes but not the colour she wants, we can order them,” Moliterno said.

Another program she said was needed is the “Your Beauty Program,” which provides professional makeup instructions covering areas such as recreating eyebrows for those lost to chemotherapy treatments. The women involved in the program receive a bag full of makeup, brushes and a special makeup bag.

With the new space and having three plaza suites connected, YBP was able to design a comfortable atmosphere for all the programs offered. The wig and makeup program has more private spaces, and there are rooms for one-on-one support when needed. Another new room at YBP is the Reiki Room.Reiki is a technique where a therapist channels energy into a patient to activate a natural healing process.”We have a Reiki specialist who donates her time to provide the service,” Moliterno said.

YBP also has a library with a variety of books that can be checked out and a co

pawn Shop Company Acquires Former Rite Aid in Youngstown

YOUNGSTOWN – A cash lending and pawn shop company has purchased the former Rite Aid building located at 540 E. Midlothian Blvd. in Youngstown, Ohio. The acquisition signals a shift in the commercial landscape of the area and raises questions about the future of retail and financial services in the community.

Details of the Purchase

The buyer, identified as a regional cash lending and pawn shop chain, closed the deal on December 30, 2025. While the exact purchase price hasn’t been publicly disclosed, property records indicate a significant investment. The former Rite aid location has been vacant since the pharmacy chain began closing stores in early 2024 as part of restructuring efforts following bankruptcy proceedings.

What This Means for Youngstown

The change in ownership brings both potential benefits and concerns for youngstown residents. Here’s a breakdown:

• Economic Impact: The new business will likely create some local jobs, though the number is expected to be relatively small. It will also generate property tax revenue for the city.
• Access to Financial Services: Pawn shops and cash lending services often cater to individuals who have limited access to traditional banking options. This can provide a short-term financial solution for those in need.
• Community Concerns: Some residents have expressed concerns about the potential for increased crime or the normalization of predatory lending practices associated with pawn shops.

Understanding pawn Shops and Cash Lending

Pawn shops and cash lending businesses offer a unique financial service. here’s how they generally operate:

Pawn Shops: Customers bring in items of value (jewelry, electronics, tools, etc.) as collateral for a loan. if the loan is repaid within a specified timeframe, the customer gets their item back. If not, the pawn shop can sell the item to recoup its losses.

Cash Lending: These businesses provide short-term loans, often with high interest rates, based on the borrower’s income and ability to repay. These loans are typically secured by a paycheck or other form of income.

local Reactions and Future Outlook

Local officials have acknowledged the purchase and are monitoring the situation. City council members have indicated they will work with the new business owner to ensure compliance with local regulations and address any community concerns.

“We want to ensure that any business operating in our city is a responsible member of the community,” stated Councilwoman Anita Green. “We will be working closely with the new owner to address any potential issues and ensure they are operating within the bounds of the law.”

FAQ

• What will happen to the building? The new owner plans to renovate the building to accommodate their business operations.
• When will the new business open? An opening date has not yet been announced,but it is indeed expected within the next few months.
• Are pawn shops regulated? Yes, pawn shops are regulated at both the state and local levels. Regulations typically cover issues such as licensing, record-keeping, and reporting of stolen property.

Key Takeaways

• A pawn shop company has purchased the former Rite Aid building on E. Midlothian Blvd.
• The purchase represents a change in the commercial landscape of Youngstown.
• The new business will provide access to choice financial services but also raises community concerns.
• Local officials are monitoring the situation and working with the new owner.

Looking Ahead: This acquisition highlights the evolving needs of the Youngstown community and the challenges facing traditional retail businesses.The success of this new venture will depend on its ability to operate responsibly and address the concerns of local residents. Further progress in this area will likely be shaped by the performance of this business and the overall economic climate of the city.

Publication Date: 2025/12/30 07:01:21