KEYSTONE CLIPS Fall trail hike to follow historical Erie Extension Canal

The Shenango Conservancy and the Shenango Outing Club are offering a chance for people to get out and see the fall foliage with a Shenango Trail Fall Hike next Sunday.
The trail follows the historical Erie Extension Canal route and wooded Shenango River in central Mercer County. There will be guides to point out canal remains, scenic river views and other sites along the trail.
The hike is open to anyone. It will cover four miles from Big Bend to New Hamburg and takes about three hours. Participants are advised to pack snacks and water. A car shuttle will be arranged before the walk begins.
Interested people should meet at 1 p.m. at the Big Bend trailhead at the junction of Valley and North Bend roads in Jefferson Township.
For more information or directions, call (724) 981-2880.
Hermitage Arts Festival
Artists and organizations are being sought to participate in the first Hermitage Arts Festival slated for July 23 to 25, 2004, on the grounds of Rodney White Olympic Park and The Arc of Mercer County on North Hermitage Road.
The festival is designed to be a celebration of art, music and cuisine, offering artists, performers and culinary delights. Local organizations and churches are invited to set up food booths.
Any person or group wanting to participate should contact Karen Gray, director of The Arc of Mercer County Foundation, at (724) 981-2950, or Ed Chess, city recreation director, at (724) 981-0800.
XCONTRIBUTOR: Harold Gwin, Vindicator Sharon Bureau.