Rayen backers unleash power of Web

Staff report

Youngstown

Leaders of a fundraising campaign to renovate Rayen Stadium have posted a website and Facebook page to promote the $3 million project.

They also have arranged a private luncheon Friday with potential donors and former Ohio State and Youngstown State football coach Jim Tressel.

The website, at www.rayenstadium.org, and Facebook page, called It’s Time for a Comeback at Rayen Stadium, include information about the campaign and the history of the stadium, built in 1924.

The Facebook page invites members to post their own pictures and memories.

A campaign committee co-chaired by Tressel and the Rev. Lewis Macklin of Youngstown expects to have the stadium ready for football by September 2012. About $1.2 million of the $3 million goal — $1 million allocated by the school board from its construction funds and $200,000 from the Rayen trustees — already has been raised.

Ed Matey, athletic director at the city schools, said he has seen early support from business leaders and citizens.

More than 100 community leaders have been invited to Friday’s private luncheon where Tressel will present an appeal and invitation.

“This is a communitywide effort,” Matey said. “We’re looking for contributions from business leaders and many more contributions from individuals who support a home football field for our students, student- athletes, parents and community.”

The website, Facebook page and other promotional materials and activities were set up by Pecchia Communications.