Pig Iron festival set for July 19

YOUNGSTOWN — Artists, vendors and entertainers are being sought for the annual Pig Iron Literary & Art Works Community Street Festival set for July 19 on North Phelps Street, downtown (between Commerce and Federal streets). Hours will be 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The festival will feature an Artist and Craftperson Bazaar with original art and crafts for display and sale. There will be eight hours of live stage entertainment from 1 to 9 p.m. including jazz, folk, rock ’n’ roll and rap, dance; poetry; a ventriloquist; and other family entertainment. A talent show from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. will feature youth and amateur performers. Concession stands will be set up at the festival, which will have a family atmosphere, with no admission charge and no alcohol.

Artists, vendors, entertainers of all types, exhibitors and concessionaires can get an application by calling (330) 747-6932.

Raymond Beiersdorfer will again serve as maser of ceremonies for the stage program, which begins at 1 p.m.

The talent show, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., will showcase amateur talent with an emphasis on young performers. There is no age limit for participants. All genres are welcome, including voice, instrument, dance, acting, recitation, poetry or humor. Contestants will be allowed up to four minutes of presentation time. A panel will judge the competition, rating the contestants on age-appropriateness, poise, originality and technical skill. Two Best of Show prizes will be awarded. Pre-registration is required to participate and may be done by phone. There is no cost to enter. The closing date for talent show registration is July 12.