Organizer seeks support for Sept. 13 'Saluting Our Veterans' lunch on Youngstown’s South Side

John Howe, a Youngstown resident and organizer with Hope for Renewal, told commissioners during public comments that his group plans a veterans lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 13 at Glenwood Grounds Coffee House, 2906 Glenwood Avenue. Howe said the group’s target is to serve 500 veterans and allow each veteran to bring a guest, meaning as many as 1,000 attendees. Howe said the project budget is approximately $11,000; the group has an estimate of about $6,100 for food from Mission Barbecue in Boardman and said remaining costs will cover drinks, desserts, advertising and security. He said Hope for Renewal will coordinate with local nursing homes to bring veterans who might otherwise be unable to attend and that Youngstown’s fire department plans to show support with a photo at the coffee shop. Steering‑committee members identified in the presentation included Delma Stubbs, Cass Hammond, Ron Moore and Joseph McNair. Howe asked commissioners and other local officials for support but did not request any formal county funding or action during the meeting. No formal motion or county action followed his public comment.