Each year, Mahoning Valley Historical Society recognizes those who work to preserve historical landmarks of the community. This year, MVHS recognized five projects in which buildings that have been renovated, preserved and adapted to show their uniqueness and importance to the Mahoning Valley.
The awards were presented at MVHS’ Annual Meeting and Historic Preservation Awards event on June 23 at Tyler History Center in downtown Youngstown.
Historic Preservation Award winners include:
- The Commercial Revitalization Award went to Joshua and Jennifer Isley, along with his parents, Ralph and Gerna Isley, for the preservation and restoration of the Von Isley estate in Niles into an event venue.
- The Board of Directors Award of Achievement went to Boardman Chief of Police Todd Werth and architect Douglas Sipp, AIA, for the restoration of the former Clarence R. Smith Jr. family home into the Clarence R. Smith First Responders Wellness Center. The center is located in Boardman.
- The Community Achievement Award went to Warren Mayor Douglas Franklin for the restoration of the Perkins House, which serves as Warren’s City Hall. This comprehensive restoration project was completed in two phases between 2021 and 2025. City Hall properties include the Perkins House, carriage house and the former Perkins real estate offices.
The Board of Directors Award of Achievement went to:
- Sarah Wilschek and Rabbi Courtney Berman for the revitalization and adaptation of Ohev Beth Sholom (formerly Rodef Sholom) temple in Youngstown. They met the challenge of honoring the stories of 110 years of Rodef Sholom while weaving in the stories of other local legacy congregations.
- The Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown for the transformation of the Ursuline Motherhouse convent into a resident care facility that offers assisted living. The building adaptively reused historical elements while remaining nearly the same as it was when it was built in 1963. The award was accepted by Michele Gatts and Sister Patricia McNicholas.
MVHS also held its annual membership meeting, reporting on achievements over the past year and celebrating the history of the Mahoning Valley. Several individuals were elected to the MVHS board of directors. New to the board are: Mary Baumeier, community volunteer; Andrew Danus, community volunteer; Virginia Draa, community volunteer; Betty Jo Licata, retired dean, Williamson College of Business Administration, YSU; Deborah Liptak, retired, Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.
Returning for another three-year term are: Donna Buzulencia, community volunteer; Frederick Coombs, retired attorney; Mary Dennis, architect, BSHM; Brian Macala, attorney; Anna Torres, co-director, Maag Library, Youngstown State University.
Editor’s note: Metro Monthly Publisher Mark C. Peyko served as a judge for this year’s awards.
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