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Mahoning Red Cross leader ends 'fun ride'

"It’s been a fun ride,” said W. Russell Preston on the eve of his retirement as head of the Mahoning Chapter of the American Red Cross. “I’ve met so many wonderful people. I’ll miss all the relationships I’ve developed over the years,” said Preston, 84, who has been chief executive officer and executive director of the Mahoning Chapter for 16 years. June 30 is not only the end of an era for Preston, but for the Mahoning Chapter as it celebrates 100 years of existence this year. The merger of the Mahoning and Trumbull chapters, with its headquarters in Warren, is under way. Preston supports it. “We’ll be much stronger by combining forces and be able to increase service to both communities. I’m looking forward to the merge,” he said. Mahoning is not being abandoned, he said. A satellite office here will have space to teach classes and store equipment. Preston said the core of the Red Cross is its volunteers. “Without them we wouldn’t have a Red Cross.” The Mahoning Chapter has more than 200 volunteers and a paid staff of five. Because of the volunteers, the payroll can be kept low and more money put into programming, he said. “Russ is a dedicated Red Cross professional and a true friend,” said Thomas Will, a member and past chairman of the Mahoning Chapter board. He has done a great job of involving community professional and civic leaders in the Red Cross and positioning the chapter in a favorable light in the community. He always will be a friend of the Red Cross and consulted on an as-needed basis, Will said. “I took pleasure in getting up and coming here every day and making sure we were a functioning viable chapter,” Preston said.

SUMMER CLEARANCE SALE

Summer is finally here, and we're cleaning out our shelves, which means SAVINGS for you. We have a wide variety of Red Cross items at reduced prices. Check out the selection here to find special discounts for supporters of the American Red Cross.

100th ANNIVERSARY TOTE BAGS ARE HERE!

The Mahoning Chapter is celebrating 100 years of dedicated service to the Valley. To honor this occasion, the Chapter has created a wonderful Red Tote bag for all your shopping needs. Sturdy bottom, stitched handles and a screened 100th anniversary logo will make this tote bag invaluable every time you head to the grocery store. Many stores now give discounts if you bring your own bag, and this tote can stand up to the heaviest of purchases. Click here to get your tote bags and help support our 100th anniversary!