NEWS

Beeghly family donates $175K to Mill Creek MetroParks for trail restoration, enhancements

The Mill Creek MetroParks Foundation has received a $175,000 gift from the John and Joanne Beeghly family. The funds will be used for trail restoration and enhancements at the trailheads surrounding Lake Newport, and will support a $250,000 capital improvement project for the primitive trails known as the Newport Loop, a news release states. The project, funded by donations, includes installation of new drainage systems along the trails, surface improvements, erosion control and improvements to existing retaining walls, borders and stone steps.

“The John and Joanne Beeghly family have been friends and supporters of the MetroParks for many years,” Chris Litton, director of development for Mill Creek MetroParks, said in the release. “Their philanthropic reach has touched every corner of the MetroParks system, and we are profoundly grateful for their continued support of our mission.” To contribute to the trail restoration fund, contact Litton at 330-702-3000, ext. 118.

Read the original article at Mahoning Matters.

Mill Creek MetroParks Foundation Receives Large Gift

The Mill Creek MetroParks Foundation has received a $175,000 gift from the John & Joanne Beeghly Family for the refurbishment of the primitive trail system surrounding Lake Newport. The gift will be utilized for trail restoration and enhancements at the trailheads. The funding supports a $250,000 capital improvement project for the primitive trails known as the Newport Loop. All funding for this project will be provided by donations.

The project will see the installation of new drainage systems along the trails, surface improvements, as well as erosion control. The work will also address improvements to existing retaining walls, borders, and stone steps, much of which were constructed by the WPA during the 1930s.

Chris Litton, Director of Development for Mill Creek MetroParks said, “The John & Joanne Beeghly Family have been friends and supporters of the MetroParks for many years. Their philanthropic reach has touched every corner of the MetroParks system, and we are profoundly grateful for their continued support of our mission. This latest gift will help to ensure that our trail system continues to be an essential part of recreation at the MetroParks for generations to come.”

The Newport Loop Trail Restoration is part of a $20 million comprehensive campaign launched by the Mill Creek MetroParks Foundation to add $10 million in donated funding towards capital improvements in Mill Creek MetroParks and $10 million towards endowments for the long-term care and preservation of the MetroParks.

Individuals interested in contributing to the trail restoration fund at the MetroParks should contact Chris Litton, Director of Development at 330.702.3000 ext. 118.

Art and Memory: Reflections of Ron Mistovich to be on Display in Weller Gallery

Mill Creek MetroParks presents “Art and Memory: Reflections of Ron Mistovich” showcasing the range of Mistovichs’ creative energy and talent as an artist. This free art exhibit will be displayed in the Weller Gallery at Fellows Riverside Gardens beginning April 24 through July 24, 2022, during the normal operating hours of Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., closed Mondays.

Ron Mistovich graduated from Youngstown State University in 1971 with a B.S. in Art Education. He went on to receive a M.A. in Studio Art from Kent State University. He had an illustrious career as an art educator, teaching for 35 years in Struthers City Schools and also serving as adjunct professor in the Art Department at YSU. He enjoyed creating art in various mediums, whether at his home studio or in the classroom. Not only was he respected for his abstract painting and being a master art educator, but his creativity also extended to printmaking, sculpture, enamel, and jewelry. His artwork is exhibited in multiple permanent collections nationally, including The Butler Institute of American Art, as well as many private collections.

Mistovich was the recipient of the outstanding art educator award by The Steel Valley Art Teacher’s Association for his noteworthy contributions to the field of fine art and education. He continued painting throughout the last days of his life.

For more information on this exhibit, visit or call Fellows Riverside Gardens at 330.740.7116.