Friday, October 28, 2005
COLUMBUS -- The Ohio Senate has approved a bill that will pave the way for community centers such as the Youngstown Playhouse to increase participation in the arts.
The Ohio Senate passed House Bill 209, which was originally in the Senate's Agriculture Committee. The legislation includes an amendment brought by Democratic state Sens. Charlie Wilson of St. Clairsville and Robert F. Hagan of Youngstown that will allow for community arts centers to obtain liquor permits for a temporary period or special event.
Wilson is the ranking minority member on the Senate Agricultural Committee.
"Mahoning County is a great place to live and work and raise a family," Wilson said. "Since attendance has declined for economic reasons, the reissuing of this permit will allow the Youngstown Playhouse more access and flexibility, which will enhance the social aspect of their events."
Hagan said, "As a patron of our community theater in Youngstown, I'm happy that we're able to get this amendment through as quickly as we did. It is important more Ohioans experience the arts in the city of Youngstown. It is essential for the community's growth."