NATION’S BEST: Akron Children’s Boardman emergency department was recently named a 2025 Lantern Award recipient by the Emergency Nurses Association.

This year a record 96 Lantern Awards were given to emergency departments that demonstrated outstanding leadership, practice, education and advocacy that resulted in improved patient care and staff well-being.

“This award is a testament to the skill, compassion and innovation our nurses and staff bring to every patient encounter,” said Paul Olivier, vice president of Akron Children’s Mahoning Valley enterprise. “To be one of only two pediatric hospitals in Ohio recognized on the list, underscores the high standards of care we strive for every day. We are proud to serve our community with this level of excellence.”

TOP DEALER: YALCARS, an auto dealership with locations in Austintown and Youngstown, was recognized as a 2025 Top Dealer by CarGurus.

In its 11th year, the program spotlights dealerships that consistently deliver exceptional customer service, value and trust while embracing digital retail tools that enhance the shopper experience. YALCARS earned honors in the 2025 Top Digital Dealer category.

“We’re proud to showcase dealers, such as YALCARS, who are meeting shoppers where they are and delivering standout experiences across the online to in-store experience,” said Sam Zales, CarGurus president and chief operating officer.

Selections are informed by verified customer reviews and analysis of vehicle listings data in the CarGurus platform. Top Digital Dealer celebrates U.S. dealerships that prioritize a seamless and efficient digital retail experience, answering consumer demand to handle more steps online.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to know that our efforts to provide dependable, top-tier service have resonated with our customers,” Yigit Yalcin, YALCARS CEO, said. “We look forward to continuing to uphold these values and serving our community with excellence.”

ON BOARD: 7 17 Credit Union recently announced the addition of Brian Williams as senior vice president, market executive — Western Region, and Matt Walsh as wholesale and servicing director.

Williams joined the credit union’s leadership team June 23 and brings with him a wealth of experience in community development and financial services.

A graduate of John R. Buchtel High School, Williams holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Ohio University and a Master of Business Administration from Kent State University. He most recently served as senior vice president in community development banking at PNC Bank, where he led efforts to drive impact through financial inclusion and local investment.

“Brian’s background in community development and his dedication to creating lasting relationships make him an ideal fit for our team,” said John Demmler, president and CEO of 7 17 Credit Union.

In his new role, Williams will lead efforts to expand member engagement, strengthen community partnerships and deliver on 7 17’s promise to support financial wellness.

Walsh earned an Agile Project Management Certification and previously worked as a Sr. Consumer Modeling Analyst at A+ Federal Credit Union in Texas.

In his new position, Walsh will be responsible for managing 7 17’s indirect lending staff as well as loan servicing staff.

HOWLAND PRESENCE: Sweet Melissa’s Good Eats announced it will open its third location this October in Howland’s Giant Eagle Plaza.

Featuring salads and wraps, the newest Sweet Melissa’s joins cafes in Boardman and Columbiana.

Applications for the Howland store can be found at https://forms.gle/tnePFoGpowgu5wjv9.

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