Brier Hill Cultural Center hosts first event Saturday

YOUNGSTOWN — Brier Hill Cultural Center, 145 Jefferson St., will present an “all Idora” program at 10 a.m. Saturday. The center is the former St. Casimir Church on the city’s North Side.

Speakers will be Jim Amey, founder and owner of the Idora Park Experience, a new museum in Canfield set to open in April. Amey, who has a collection of Idora Park artifacts, will discuss plans for his new facility, which will open 30 years after the legendary amusement park closed.

Charles Jacques Jr., co-author of “Idora Park: The Last Ride of Summer.” Published in 1999 on the 100th anniversary of the opening of the park, Jacques will discuss the book and answer questions. He also will sign copies of his book, which will be available for purchase.

Richard S. Scarsella, author of “Memories and Melancholy: Reflections on the Mahoning Valley and Youngstown, Ohio,” who has given Idora Park presentations for more thn 30 years. He is an Idora Park historian and president of the William Holmes McGuffey Historical Society. Scarsella also will sign copies of his book, which will be available.

The event is the first program at the former church, which is now home to Brier Hill Cultural Center, a nonprofit organization. Admittance is $5 and includes refreshments. Secure parking is on site.

For information, contact Sandra Cika, BHCC president and executive director, at 202-297-0362.