Independence Day Dash draws many newcomers

YOUNGSTOWN

The city’s Independence Day Dash “feels like an open house for downtown,” said the owner of one of the 17 establishments participating in the third annual event.

“There are a lot of new faces,” said Jacob Harver, who owns the Lemon Grove Cafe on West Federal Street. “A lot of people come out here for the dash to see what we’re all about. There’s always a great time.”

The event is designed to “bring people downtown,” said Lyndsey Hughes, the city’s downtown director of special events, special projects and marketing.

Those who participated in Saturday’s dash paid $3 to register. All of the proceeds went to the Youngstown Arts and Entertainment District Association.

The first 300 who returned to the registration table on the city’s Central Square with a card showing they purchased a drink, alcoholic or nonalcoholic, at a minimum of 5 of the 17 locations received a dash shirt.

For the complete story, read Sunday's Vindicator or Vindy.com.