The Youngstown Connection completes boot camp

SPECIAL TO THE VINDICATOR The Youngstown Connection, comprised of students in their junior and senior years at Youngstown high schools, completed their summer “boot camp” with a field trip to Salem Historical Society. The students participated in a Quakertown Trolley tour of the homes and businesses, which played a major role in the Underground Railroad. The Connection also took a guided tour of The Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown. In June, the group traveled to Italy and visited several cities including Montalcino and Pisa. The students performed at an outdoor cafe in Florence and at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome. The Connection also sang four songs at Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica and had an audience with Pope Francis. Students and adult leaders on the Salem tour were, in front from left, Bryanna Landers, Julie Colina, Sarah Booth, Emily Booth, Abby Witherstine, Director Carol Baird and Jacob Ruscitti-Smith. In the second row are Docent Ginger Grilli, Cameron Lewis, Nick Royal, Kaihlyn Anderson, Gary Johnson, Brandon Starcher, Randy Jamison and Ron Pierce, driver. The Connection was founded in 1988 with a mission to spread love, peace and brotherhood in the Mahoning Valley. For information visit www.youngstownconnection.org.