21 WFMJ archives  / July 26, 1999 | Champion Jackie Gallagher-Smith is bathed in a shower of champagne after winning the Giant Eagle LPGA Tournament at Avalon Lakes 25 years ago. She shot a seven under par 65 on the last 18 holes to win her first professional tournament and pick up a purse of $150,000.

July 26

1999: At the close of the Giant Eagle LPGA Classic at Avalon Lakes, a check for $435,428 is presented to Tom Hollern, chairman of Mahoning Valley Sports Charities. The tournament has produced more than $2 million for Mahoning Valley charities over the years. 

David Ditzler, the new chairman of the Mahoning County Democratic Party, says procedures have been worked out for the appointment of candidates to fill the unexpired terms of Sheriff Phil Chance and Commissioner David Engler, who have resigned. 

Warren Police Chief Albert Timko credits forensic pathologist Dr. Humphrey Germaniuk with identifying crucial evidence that led to the conviction of David Gothay, 37, in the murder of Mary Stella Wright, 33, eight years earlier. 


1984: Youngstown Health Commissioner Neil Altman says he will not quit his post regardless of what happens between him and the Board of Health during a 10-day "cooling off" period set by the board. Neither side will say what led to the board naming Larry Hines as acting health commissioner during  Altman's sidelining. 

Warren Fire Chief Roger Hernon accuses Mayor Daniel Sferra and Safety Service Director Steve Papalas of harassment and vows to add a three-day suspension and any other disciplinary action against him to a growing list of legal appeals he'll file against the city. Hernon was suspended for three days for authorizing gas purchases for the city's rescue van at a gas station rather than using the city's pumps. 

At least three Youngstown city employees face possible dismissal for dereliction of duty after a three-year investigation into the housing rehabilitation department. The investigation opened after a contractor complained to former mayor George Vukovich about alleged pay-offs to housing inspectors. 


1974: Sharon Steel Corp., the nation's 14th largest steel producer, announces new highs in sales and earnings during the first half of 1974, with earnings of $14.3 million on sales of $213 million. 

The Youngstown Board of Zoning Appeals authorizes the issuance of a building permit to the Latin Culture Foundation at the northwest corner of Canfield Road and S. Schenley Avenue.


1949: John C. Vitullo, Mahoning County Democratic leader who died in October 1948, gave a key to a safety deposit box containing $125,000 in cash to his eldest son, telling him he had "put some money aside for the kids," the son testifies in Probate Court. 

Charles J. Sheehan, senior engineer for the Pennsylvania Railroad in the Youngstown District, begins his 51st year with the railroad. His brother, Clarence T. Sheehan Sr., retired with 48 years of service two years ago. 

Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co. plans to spend $4.5 million to enlarge its Campbell Works blooming mill.