Store owner to give out First Night buttons

By ELISE FRANCO

Henry Nemenz also has ordered T-shirts for the event.

YOUNGSTOWN — Although the First Night Youngstown buttons don’t go on sale until November, Henry Nemenz said he wants to give them away in his stores throughout October.

Nemenz, who owns several IGA and Save-A-Lot grocery stores in the area, said he’s ordered 2,500 buttons and will give them away for free with any purchase to customers who want them. He said once the first 2,500 are gone, he will order more.

“I thought this was a great way for me to get involved and help with this event,” he said. “It’s an opportunity to give something back to our customers as well.”

The buttons, which go on sale at Nemenz’s stores, as well as many businesses all over Youngstown, cost $10 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. They serve as an all-access pass to entertainment and venues throughout the New Year’s Eve event.

Nemenz said he’s also purchased multicolored T-shirts and plans to have them printed with the First Night Youngstown logo to give away with the buttons.

“How great would it be to see 2,500 people walking around downtown wearing the logo?” he said.

The 2009 logo was designed by Renee Cannon, who works for the Youngstown State University marketing department.

First Night board member John Swierz said he was happy Nemenz decided to join in this year’s festivities.

“We are so very pleased to have someone of Henry’s stature working with us,” he said.

Bob Barko, president of First Night, said many old favorites are returning, such as the horse-and-carriage rides, fireworks and a ball drop. Those attending can expect some exciting new additions as well.

“New this year is a Wii bowling challenge,” he said. “We also added new venues like the Smith Mineral Museum and the Chevy Centre.”

Swierz said the Chevy Centre could be the site of a free skate and a band or two, and the organization is still looking for more entertainers, sponsors and vendors.

“We are trying to make it very easy for people to get what they need,” he said. “You can download everything off the Web site.”

For more information about becoming a sponsor, vendor or entertainer for the night, or if you want to know more about First Night Youngstown’s New Year’s Eve event, go to www.firstnightyoungstown.org or call (330) 744-6699.

efranco@vindy.com