Fest focused on hope, community

AUSTINTOWN — Antwan and Alisha Pierce can relate to those looking for a little hope.

And if there’s one thing most people seem to have in common these days, it’s the effects of the worsening economy, the never-ending finger-pointing between presidential candidates and the growing worry over where the country is headed.

For a few hours Saturday, Idaho Road Alliance Church gave people the chance to forget the doom and gloom, instead focusing on hope. The church’s first community fall festival offered music, food, beverages and entertainment, all free.

The Pierces, of Youngstown, are victims of predatory lending that caused their house payment to balloon from about $400 per month to $1,100. The house was foreclosed on two years ago but the Pierces have been able to stay there, pending a sheriff’s sale.

Alisha, who is a manager at Steak n Shake in Boardman, recently had her eight-hour shift cut in half. Antwan works for Canfield Industries and said the company recently put employees on 10-hour shifts, four days a week, to help them save on gas for their commute.

The two spoke about their difficult times while sons Tyree, 7, and Malik, 6, played on inflatable bouncers donated by Sam’s Amusements of Ohio.

For the full story, see Sunday's Vindicator or Vindy.com.