Richard Scarcella, our newly elected Mahoning County Recorder, gave us a window into the social and cultural history of Youngstown on Feb. 26. With a passion for history and a teacher by trade and at heart, he discovered early that narrative was the way to capture the minds and hearts of students. This led to publication of his book Memories of Melancholy: Reflections of the Mahoning Valley and Youngstown, Ohio. He shared historical lore and facts that reflect his deep love and connection to the Valley.
For instance, where did the word "Idora" come from? What was the secret ingredient used in Idora custard? (It's illegal in Ohio today.) Why didn't the Vindicator report on deaths that happened on the Wildcat?
What did the Roma (formerly known as "gypsies") have to do with the naming of Gypsy Lane?
Did you know William Homles McGuffey's childhood estate is a National Historic Landmark? It's now the McGuffey Wildlife Preserve, a 78-acre parcel that has been relatively unchanged since the early 1800s. The same McGuffey authored the McGuffey Readers, still in print today.
Do you remember the days of all-male clubs? RCY made an exception for one woman, Esther Hamilton, a reporter for the Vindicator. She regularly visited (dressed in her trademark suit!) to gather behind-the-scenes news for her columns.
Scarsella is a member of the Boardman Civic Association and Ashtabula Elks Lodge. He serves on the boards of the Youngstown Steel Heritage Museum, Mahoning County Career & Technical Center Foundation, and Boardman Historical Society. He also is chairman of the William Holmes McGuffey Historical Society and serves as president of the governing board at the Mahoning County Career & Technical Center.
Ra’Cole Taltoan’s spiritual reflection was spot on. This was her message:
In Rotary, we commit ourselves to “Service Above Self,” a principle that aligns deeply with many spiritual teachings. True service is not just an obligation — it is a calling, a way to uplift others while growing in compassion and purpose.
As we go about our Rotary work, let us reflect: Are we serving with a joyful heart? Do we see each act of kindness as a ripple effect in the world?
Just as light shines brightest in darkness, our service can be a beacon of hope in our communities. May we approach our work with gratitude, knowing that in serving others, we find deeper meaning in our own lives.
Also, RCY supported the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra during its season-ending Symphonic Superheroes concert March 2 at Stambaugh Auditorium. President-Elect Gerri Jenkins set up an information table to share the Rotary message with attendees. Rotarian Brendan Considine is a violinist.
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