Posted by Brian Laraway
Brian Laraway introduced Christine Davidson from the Mahoning River Consortium - a nonprofit group advocating the restoration of the river. Members include local, state and federal representatives as well as community members.

September 17 is the 30 year anniversary for Black Monday. Christine explained that for a century the area used this river as a sewer in addition to the runoff from the Steel Mills. The mills from Youngstown provided steel to every city with skyscrapers. The refuse ran into the river. Garbage is still along the banks as sediment. This river should be a central focus for our city. The economic benefits would be more jobs and recreation.

People are willing to pay more for homes along an unpolluted river. Eight communities are involved and all would benefit. The cost to clean it up is approximately $150 million. The government would pay 65% of this. It would take 15 to 20 years. The US corps of engineers is involved and they are now on phase 2.

It could be an incredible source for hunting and fishing and a tourist destination and a legacy for future generations. They are still looking for funding. She asked us to contact Congressman Ryan to add our voice to the rivers restoration. His phone number is 330-740-0193.

For more information go to www.mahoningriver.com.

Greeting: Rev. Karl Rein

Invocation: Ivan Musgrove

Introduction of Guests and Visiting Rotarians: No visitors but Christine Davidson from Mahoning River Consortium.

Song Leader/Song: Tony Cebriak, led us BEAUTIFULLY in Sing, Rotarians Sing. WELL DONE!

Rotary News:Reverse Raffle Committee are already selling tickets. See Lisa if you want that special number. Affair is early this year: March 1st at 6:30 at Maronite Center. Proceeds to benefit community signs and other community projects.

Dictionaries should be in this week or next week.

Return personal info forms to Melissa if you haven't already.

September 24 5:15 - 7:30 - RESCUE MISSION.Roadside Cleanup-Sept. 29 (last Saturday of the month). Meet at 9:30 at Smith Corners Church. Only takes about an hour.

Harvey Crowley arranged for the Christmas Party December 7th at the Manor on Route 46.

OCT. 1 MEETING AT QUAKER STEAK & LUBE.

Fellowship: Dave Buttar fined everyone who clapped loudly trying to influence him.

50/50 Raffle Tickets Winner: Jack Kumik - again!!!

PROGRAM: Brian Laraway introduced Christine Davidson from the Mahoning River Consortium - a nonprofit group advocating the restoration of the river. Members include local, state and federal representatives as well as community members.

September 17 is the 30 year anniversary for Black Monday. Christine explained that for a century the area used this river as a sewer in addition to the runoff from the Steel Mills. The mills from Youngstown provided steel to every city with skyscrapers. The refuse ran into the river. Garbage is still along the banks as sediment. This river should be a central focus for our city. The economic benefits would be more jobs and recreation.

People are willing to pay more for homes along an unpolluted river. Eight communities are involved and all would benefit. The cost to clean it up is approximately $150 million. The government would pay 65% of this. It would take 15 to 20 years. The US corps of engineers is involved and they are now on phase 2.

It could be an incredible source for hunting and fishing and a tourist destination and a legacy for future generations. They are still looking for funding. She asked us to contact Congressman Ryan to add our voice to the rivers restoration. His phone number is 330-740-0193.

For more information go to www.mahoningriver.com.

Our thanks to Brian for bringing Christine to us to speak.