YBPA's annual Beginning of Summer Street Dance returns to Youngstown

All-ages event includes car show, street entertainment and more

By Terry Duffy

Editor-in-Chief

Plans are shaping for the return of a summertime favorite up in Youngstown.

Come Thursday June 19, from 6-10 p.m., the 15th annual Beginning of Summer Street Dance and Car Cruise will officially open the good times on Main Street in this northern Niagara village. Presented by the Youngstown Business and Professional Association, Village of Youngstown and Town of Porter, this family-fun event will feature a car cruise of classics; entertainment with acoustic solo musician Dave Stayner; the “Kids Corner” with Lakeside Quarter Horses; a host of street vendors, beach balls for the kids, dancing and much more.

“Youngstown will once again celebrate the beginning of summer and the end of school with an old-fashioned street dance!” YBPA board member Cheryl Butera said. “There will be something for everybody – young or old and in between. There’s been a lot of behind-the-scenes work to make this a most memorable event.

“It’s now 15 years; kids have grown up with that Street Dance.”

Classic car afficionados Albert McFadyen and Dennis Ketch will team up with Town of Porter Councilman Tim Adamson to present the car cruise on Main at Hinman streets.

“This is a no-fee car cruise and every entrant receives a commemorative car magnet just for participating,” Butera said.

“I've got four classic vehicles, old songs, and two old cars, and the one car will go somewhere, as well,” McFadyen said.

Also returning is Lakeside Quarter Horses, offering pony rides for children, along with a petting zoo, and treats for the children. Joining them along Hinman is the “Kids Corner” put together by YBPA President Melissa Kudel and her volunteers.

“There will be hula-hoops, chalk games, face painting, coloring contests, rock painting, hair glitter, bubbles, and prizes with lots of things to keep kids happy,” Butera said. “Also coming back this year will be Donuts D Clown from Niagara Clown Alley making balloon animals and entertaining the children with his amazing humor.

“Again this year, Anchor Spirits will be donating beach balls to the kids, which they always seem to enjoy all along the street and sidewalk. The Youngstown Volunteer Fire Co. will have a fire truck sharing knowledge with the children.”

Joining them are a host of vendors, village businesses and organizations, including The Great Foodini, Youngstown Marketside, Petey’s Treats and Youngstown Diner.

The Youngstown Lions will give away free popcorn; the Friends of the Youngstown Library will sell water; and back again is Just Desserts by Aimee. Also, Friends of Youngstown Inc. will be a vendor; the Lewiston Writer’s group will have book signings; the Youngstown Diner will sell hot dogs and hamburgers; 716 One of a Kind will have T-shirts; and Space Master returns with designs. All local businesses will be open.

“Prayers for good weather; it makes all the difference!” Butera said.

The YBPA invites all to be part of this summer event.

Vendor opportunities are still available for a $50 entry fee. For more information, visit the YBPA Street Dance and Car Cruise page on Facebook, or the YBPA at www.youngstownny.com.