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PRESS RELEASE: Local foundation invests in Youngstown Playhouse for major restoration project
Press Contact: Mary Ruth Lynn, 330-788-8739, youngstown_ph@att.net

June 29, 2010 Youngstown, Ohio – The Youngstown Playhouse is excited to announce a major gift that will help fund a Playhouse restoration project. The Youngstown Foundation is investing $20 thousand in the longtime local theater, which opened in the valley in 1959.

As with most buildings that are fifty or more years older, the Playhouse is in need of upgrades. This grant money will specifically be used for a partial roof replacement. A portion of the roof has been leaking and causing water problems in the scene shop and costume shop. With the new roof, the Playhouse will be free from further water issues and any future damage to costumes and props. Other aspects of the restoration currently in progress include creating a rehearsal space out of the old offices and restoring the former box office.

Executive Director Mary Ruth Lynn is excited that a major local foundation is committed to the future of the Youngstown Playhouse and hopes other donors will come forward to propel the theater into its next fifty years in the valley. “I am very appreciative of this recent grant award from the Youngstown Foundation. Not only will it eliminate an ongoing water problem here; it also says to the Playhouse family and the community that the foundation believes in our work and in our ability to move forward. This is a very exciting time as we begin the process of restoring our 50 year old home!” said Lynn.

The Youngstown Foundation has been awarding grants to worthwhile causes for more than 90 years. Despite a challenging economy, the Youngstown Foundation accepted gifts of $4 million from area donors in 2009. The Foundation awarded more than $3.3 million in grants in the same year. Since its establishment in 1918, over $80 million has been given back to the community. For more information on the Youngstown Foundation, including grant request guidelines, visit www.youngstownfoundation.org.

Read the articles in the news!
• Playhouse Gets $20K Grant for Roof Repair, Youngstown Vindicator
• Foundation Gives $20K to Playhouse?, Youngstown Business Journal
• Foundation Gives $20K to Playhouse?, WFMJ
• Show Goes On at Youngstown Playhouse, WYTV