$1.25M state grant will be used for DeYor center improvements

YOUNGSTOWN — The Youngstown Symphony Society today announced the receipt of a $1.25 million capital grant.

The society owns and operates the DeYor Performing Arts Center, downtown, and the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra, which performs at the DeYor. The DeYor complex includes Powers Auditorium, the Ford Family Recital Hall and Flad Pavilion, Overture restaurant, and rehearsal and office space.

Patricia Syak, president of the society, said she believes that the gift is the largest state grant every given to an arts organization in Youngstown.

The money will go toward improving the energy efficiency of the DeYor. The project will include upgrades to the heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems.

it will also be used to purchase and install new digital sound system equipment, and restore and reopen the lower salon, which has been closed for a few years.

Also, the main curtains on the Powers Auditorium stage will be replaced.

At 5 p.m. today, the symphony society will host a reception for state legislators who were instrumental in securing the grant.