Salem First Night had banner showing

SALEM — First Night Salem had its best year ever in its fifth year, despite bitter temperatures and snow.

David Schwartz, one of the First Night organizers, said today the family-oriented event even made a profit. “Everything went very well,” he said.

That worked out to about $2,000 in the black, although Schwartz said some performers still have to be paid.

Bill Schilling, a musician and a co-emcee with Schwartz at the Kent City Center, estimated the event would have a balance of $1,500 to $1,800 when the bills are paid.

Schwartz said about $25,000 in donations were given to the program in 2008.

For the complete story, see Tuesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com