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JAMESTOWN – Rain did not stop those in Jamestown from taking part in a longtime tradition of changing the river green on Saturday.
For the past 20-years around St. Patrick’s Day, the Chadakoin River is dyed green in honor of the Irish holiday.
Kids of all ages looked on as the City of Jamestown Parks Department and Board of Public Utilities crews worked with a local leprechaun to make the magic possible.
“The kids have been trying to catch the leprechaun for the past few days, so to actually see one, it’s a delight to see their face when they finally meet him,” said Jamestown City Councilwoman Kim Ecklund.
In addition to locals, folks from all across our region gathered to take part, including Meadville, Pa. resident Mike Finn who last week saw the event promoted in the news.
“I saw it on TV, on WICU, I thought it was very interesting, and so, my girlfriend and I came over here today,” explained Finn.
Even though it was raining, Finn was pleased to see the spring like weather stick around for the weekend.
“It was either come over here, or go to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Erie,” said Finn. “I decided, since the weather wasn’t too bad, I’d come over here today, because I did not want to fight to get here in a snowstorm.”
Jamestown is one of only a handful of cities that changes a body of water to reflect the Celtic spirit.
“I’m half Irish, I found a kilt that fit,” says Jamestown City Councilman, Bill Reynolds. “I like my Irish heritage, and I’ve been there (to Ireland) and can’t wait to go back.”
After the mid-morning festivities, city leaders encouraged those visiting downtown Jamestown to head over to a local restaurant for a taste of the area’s Irish Heritage as well.
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