BEAVER COUNTY RADIO
MIDLAND – Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center will present the All-Midland Reunion and Historical Exhibit during the Fourth of July holiday weekend at its Alumni Hall.
The exhibit will be open between Noon and 7 p.m. July 3, 4 and 5. Admission is free, but donations to help defray the cost of preserving the historical pieces will be accepted.
The three-day event is part of Beaver County Celebrates America250.
The All-Midland Reunion and Historical Exhibit welcomes all current and former residents of Midland and the tri-state area along with alumni of the former Midland Lincoln High School. The exhibit will feature rare photographs, memorabilia, artifacts including some from the archives of the former Crucible Steel Co. of America, MHS’ State Championship trophies, a vast collection of newspaper articles mounted on poster boards, and now-digitized movies that date back nearly a century that will run continuously on the Alumni Hall video screens.
At the event, on July 5 at 1:30 p.m., Midland native Lou Bruno, author of “The Love of San Demetrio” will take the public on a journey from Midland to Italy and back.
Bruno spoke about his book and love for Midland in a Thursday interview on the Beaver County Radio Morning Show. Hear his interview here (just press play).
Reviewing this true story, Primo Magazine’s Truby Chiaviello writes: “Bruno’s writing paints vivid pictures of both the Italian village and the American steel town. His descriptions of growing up in Midland during the 1960’s and 70’s are particularly compelling, capturing the essence of a community shaped by hard work, resilience, and
patriotism. Readers will find themselves immersed in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the era,
fostering a deep connection to the characters and their experiences.”
Lou’s presentation will include excerpts from the chapter titled “Growing up in Midland,” as well as his
time in Italy titled “A Drive to San Demetrio – A Walk Down Midland Avenue.” Afterwards, Lou will be
available to sign books, with all proceeds being donated to Lincoln Park’s historical display
preservation efforts.
at 10th Street at Beaver
2026 is a significant year as the Borough of Midland is celebrating the 120th anniversary of its
founding. 2026 also marks 40 years since the closing of Midland’s Lincoln High School and Lincoln
Park Performing Arts Center, recognized as the crown jewel of the community’s resurgence and is
Beaver County’s top tourism destination, commemorating its 20th year of existence.
About Lou Bruno – After graduating from Midland High School in 1973, Lou
went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of
Pittsburgh and an MBA from Houston Christian University. He had a 43 year
career in Sales Management with the Procter & Gamble Company. Lou and his
wife Adele have 7 children, 12 grandchildren and counting, and reside in
Central Florida. Reviewer Pamela Dorazio Dean writes: “The Love of San
Demetrio is a beautifully crafted family history that lingers in the reader’s mind
long after the final page.” This presentation will offer attendees several
opportunities to reflect with pride on our Midland, Beaver Valley, and immigrant
roots.
