Artists of Rust Belt gets nonprofit status

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Artists of the Rustbelt has obtained nonprofit status, a move that it expects will allow it to grow beyond its grass-roots origins. The group was formed in 2008, and since then has presented more than 40 public art showcases and artists markets.

In addition to its five artist markets each year, the ARB will begin to host a series of artist business empowerment and artist-run, hands-on workshops, lay the foundation for a public gallery and performance center, and set the stage for an aggressive artist management service. For information, go to rusted1.com.

Officers are Tony Nicholas, executive director; Chris Yambar, vice president; Heather Seno, secretary; Maureen Yambar, treasurer; and Amy Fobes, special events director. Board members are Becky Keck, John Burke and Daniel Horne, with Bill Lawson, Jenn Crisan, Robert Joki, Jimmy Sutman and Jim Cossler as acting advisers.

ARB obtained 501(c)(3) nonprofit status this month with the help of attorney Denise Glinatsis Bayer and the Legal Creative.