SPLIT SPINE = SPINA BIFIDA. Joe Baringer was born with this rare disease, but still played #football, #hockey, and drives with his hands!

 YOUNGSTOWN CLICK - BE CONNECTED PODCAST: SEASON 3, EPISODE 2 

Joe Baringer was born with a split spine, which is something that only affects around 1 in 1,000. He has to use his upper body to do most of everything, but has incredibly played tackle #football, #hockey, and even drives with his hands! 

#October is Spina Bifida Awareness month, and although they have made recent advances in treatment, I'm glad it doesn't affect more people. Joe explains some of the ways that he has learned to live life to the fullest! He is a joy to those who know him, with his jokingly sarcastic personality, kind heart, fierce determination, and willing smile. 

Sometimes society only celebrates those who are in the limelight or news. But truly in our region, in every corner (or in Joe's case, behind every front desk), there is someone doing something great; adding value, showing up, and making a difference! We talk about prom, sports, the YMCA, his second home (Sigaro Cigar Shop), how he drives, and more! 

Some of Joe's Favorite Local Places: 

1. #Sigaro - cigar shop with plenty of options and a family & community vibe! This shop includes a general area, where anyone can walk in and enjoy a cigar, and an upstairs member area, with a theater room, poker table, kitchenette, tv lounge room, and more!

2. Nicollini's Chophouse - Canfield - delicious Italian food with daily homemade desserts! Joe shares his favorite food pick and I heard they have good ribeyes there! 

3. Varsity Club of Youngstown - a great gathering spot in downtown Youngstown! They make it a point to be a place that celebrates all the local #YSU sports, including a monthly podcast called The Penguin Signal, which can be found on our YouTube Channel! 

4. #Yosteria - a popular authentic Italian restaurant in the historic Smokey Hollow neighborhood of Youngstown. They are in an old converted house with a beautiful back yard setup for nicer weather outdoor eating. 

#SpinaBifida #warrior #overcomer #challenge #Youngstown #Hubbard #Ohio #people #placesandfaces #YoungstownClick #BeConnected #Podcast #hero #optimistic #encouragement #YMCA #community #interview #awareness #cigarlover #physicaltherapy 

Youngstown Click is a local collection of people (a clique) that is open to all who want to be a part. It exists to create connections between the Places & Faces of Youngstown, Ohio, highlighting our unique and special identity as the region between Cleveland and Pittsburgh. We believe the people are the greatest asset of this area and we are excited to have you along for the journey! The future belongs to those who can see it and we welcome you to be a part of it! - Debbie 

Follow us on FB:YoungstownClick330 IG: @YoungstownClick 

Listen to the podcast - Spotify, IHeartRadio, Apple Podcast, Amazon, and more!

YOU can now WATCH the podcast on our YouTube Channel: YoungstownClick

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR PODCAST SPONSORS: (Make sure to thank them when you see them!)

The Columbiana Arts Theater - bringing in amazing original acts to this intimate historic theater, with an upgraded sound experience! Follow them at www.atthecat.com

The Gallagher - downtown Youngstown living! 6 month and year leases available in the heart of the city! Walking distance to #YSU and so many restaurants and landmarks!

The Varsity Club of Youngstown -  EVERYTHING YSU Gathering Spot for locals and athletes alike! Great food options, patio parties, and all the televised YSU sports!

There's MORE to Youngstown Click! Find us on Facebook & Youtube!

NEVER FORGET! YOU are the BEST part of what makes Youngstown Click!