Hundreds enjoy the Mahoning at 4th annual River Fest downtown

YOUNGSTOWN

Sometimes, people can’t see the river for the trees.

That’s why sometimes even people who’ve lived in or around Youngstown for years don’t realize there’s a river running through the heart of the city.

“The trees that line the shore make it so that people don’t even know it’s there,” said Tom Smith. “They don’t see it, so they don’t even know about it.”

Smith is a chairman of the Friends of the Mahoning River, which had its fourth annual River Fest Saturday at the B&O Station on Mahoning Avenue. The event is aimed at promoting awareness of the waterway and its value as a local natural resource.

“We’re just trying to get people to come down and to understand the river and what it means to the city,” said Smith.

Hundreds of people turned out for the event, which included scenic walks along a nature trail, free canoe and kayak rides, and exhibits by various community and environmental groups. There were also special activities for children, and an art show by the Artists of the Rust Belt inside the B&O Station.

Patricia Dunbar, Friends of the Mahoning River spokesperson, said this year’s festival was dedicated to the memory of Michelle Cassile-Arroyo, whose family owns the B&O, and who was herself a member and supporter of the Artists of the Rust Belt. Arroyo died of cancer less than a month ago.

“We want people to realize that the river is a focal point for the community,” Dunbar said.

“It’s a very under-utilized resource,” said Amy Komara, who is with Artists of the Rust Belt and who worked with Arroyo.

Read more about the event in Sunday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.