The morning began with a boat parade at Lake Milton to celebrate 100 years!

Kathy Begeot Nelson said, "We're here celebrating the centennial of the Lake Milton Dam which started back in 1917. Since then it's been growing strong.

The boats began at Harry Meshel Park, continued up the northeast side of the lake, traveled past the dam and docked at the Lake Milton Amphitheater area. State Representative John Bocciere tells us former State Senator Harry Meshel was a critical part of making sure the lake was preserved as a state park, and not drained in 1988.  The current delegation of state lawmakers also worked to obtain funds to repair the dam. Boccieri said, "The most immediate repairs needed were made, with the two million dollars that we were able to get into the capital budget for three state parks plus Lake Milton."

The Historical Society says the dam was originally built 100 years ago to control flooding and water supply for steel mills. "All the mills had intakes that they drew water out of the river for cooling as they were making steel.  If the water dropped below the intake level and they couldn't bring water in then they had real trouble and often times had to shut down," said Bill Lawson, Director of the Mahoning Historical Society.

County commissioners and Mahoning Auditor Ralph Meacham emphasize a multi million upgrade in 2018 and 2019 for water and sewer hookups to homes on the southwest part of the lake is planned. The project is needed to help keep water quality safe for recreation. Meacham said, "It will be over eight million dollars and we're getting USDA bonds in two portions, and the funding will be drawn down as needed, which will save the county money."

Thousands of people enjoy the beach, boating, and recreation on the lake each year.  President of the Lake Milton Historical Society Sally Smolek said, "The centennial celebration continues later with a party and two bands playing here. The party runs from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. We had around 600 people here last year. I anticipate more people attending this year."