Collaborative Children’s Solutions of Jamestown hosted a ‘turn the river green’ event, along the Chadakoin River, near Brooklyn Square on Saturday in honor of Saint Patrick’s Day.

“Turning the river green has been going on for years and years,” said Patrick Smeraldo, the executive director of Collaborative Children’s Solutions. “However, we took this over a few years ago and it’s growing each year.”

According to ccsolutions716.com, “our goal is to provide the tools and resources necessary to assist children by offering them opportunities to reach their maximum potential. This is achieved by partnering with the current service providers, agencies, organizations, and school districts throughout Chautauqua County to collaborate on unique projects and bring them to fruition. The heart of what CCS does is to bring the community together for the betterment of the children.”

“We’ve got a variety of sponsors and supporters at this event today,” said Smeraldo. “We have several, interactive event spots along the river like Vince “the Tree Guy” Liuzzo, who’s carving live art pieces out of raw wood.”

Part of the Chadakoin River was turned green in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, near Brooklyn Square, as part of Collaborative Children’s Solutions “green” day of fun, Saturday. P-J Photo by Eric Tichy

As the day’s theme revolved around all things Irish, a smattering of costumed and leprechaun apparel was evident.

“I’m dressed like an elf or leprechaun and I’m a druid in real life,” said Carol O’Reilly a native of Rochester and recent transplant to Jamestown. “I love all things Irish, and this is amazing to see so many people dressed up like they are.

Whilst this event revolved around an Irish-centric theme, the number of attendees dressed in green pullulated throughout the festivities.

“The numbers of participants are growing each year, “said Smeraldo. We’ve got several leprechauns and pet leprechauns running around here. We’re just about back to post-COVID-19 attendance numbers.”

Some city and county officials were also in attendance and heaped praises on Smeraldo and his organization’s efforts to host a high-quality, no-cost event for city residents.

Teddy Gavrielidis stops for a minute during Saturday’s Turn the River Green event, so his dog, Clarence, could meet with a youthful event attendee along the Chadakoin River, in honor of Saint Patty’s Day. P J Photo by Eric Tichy

“This is just great,” said Mayor Kim Ecklund. “Any time you can bring various residents together is a good thing.”

As the river turned a bright green color the onlooking crowd gasped and awed in admiration.

“Look mommy,” said one youthful event goer. “It’s green like a boogie.”