YOUNGSTOWN 2nd First Night event to focus on patriotism

Organizers will reduce the number of venues to better focus the celebration.
By ROGER G. SMITH
CITY HALL REPORTER
YOUNGSTOWN -- First Night Youngstown moves into its second year thinking about Sept. 11 almost as much as Jan. 1.
An American flag backdrop at Friday's unveiling of the First Night 2002 logo was one signal that the city's downtown New Year celebration will be a bit different.
First Night organizers won't emphasize the tragedy, but will recognize the patriot spirit, said Karen Wilson, president of the event's board of trustees. For example, patriotic songs might be incorporated into the musical performances.
"It's a celebration, but the performances can reflect unity. The arts bring us together," Wilson said.
People likely will be in a more tempered mood and happy to see the calendar turn, she said.
Sept. 11 could hurt the event's fund raising, since so many people and businesses have unexpectedly donated so much money in recent weeks to the recovery efforts. She isn't sure how that will affect First Night.
Wilson doesn't expect any changes to security plans from last year, when city police, Youngstown State University officers and Mahoning County deputy sheriffs patrolled downtown. There were no problems, and Wilson doesn't see the need to upgrade security further unless police do.
Venues and vendors: Performance locations will change. Organizers will reduce the number of venues to better focus the celebration, Wilson said. The change will more closely link YSU and the downtown and assure larger audiences for the performers, she said.
Another change is adding several more vendors or downtown restaurants that will be open. Last year there were only a few open. The hope is for an additional three or four.
The mix of performers will remain the same, although organizers are looking for new and different performers. Last year about 2,200 buttons were distributed that serve as admission to all events. This year event organizers ordered 4,000, anticipating a bigger turnout based on last year's success.
Buttons will cost $8 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. The adult price rises to $10 the night of the event.
Buttons can be bought now by calling the First Night office at (330) 742-0445. Buttons will be more widely available later in the year.
Organizers also will have a Web site, www.firstnightyoungstown.com.
Volunteers are needed to work 21/2 hour shifts the night of the event. People interested can call the First Night office.
rgsmith@vindy.com