Good morning, Erie.

Erie Catholic Bishop Lawrence Persico released a statement on April 16 supporting Pope Leo XIV after the pope's call for peace drew criticism from high-ranking officials (he emphasized that the Gospel should guide civic decisions and included a prayer for the pope's wisdom).

PA residents began reserving free tickets for the America250PA Concert Series on April 17 at noon (proof of residency was required); Erie residents can look forward to The Fray with First to Eleven on June 6 at Erie Insurance Arena as general public access opens on May 1.

MIAC will conclude its live season with Seth Rudetsky's Divas by the Decade concert at Walker Recital Hall on Friday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $40 to $50 and are available online, by phone or in person.

A new online gallery presents Erie County’s place name origins for streets, bridges and historic landmarks.

The archive covers stories from Mercyhurst University’s naming to quirky diners — inviting locals to connect with the community's rich past.

The Erie School Board approved a five-year strategic plan on April 16 to guide the district until 2031, setting a clear course for local education improvements.

This initiative aims to enhance learning and growth for the community.

A proposal to rename Harding School in honor of John Boyd is under review after a naming committee gathered input; the committee will report on May 6 (5:30 p.m. at 1910 Sassafras St.) and the board will vote on May 13 (6 p.m.).

The Fort LeBoeuf School Board is set to review a renovation plan for Waterford Elementary that reflects community support and may add prekindergarten with bids in fall and work starting in spring 2027.

The board will meet on April 23 at 7 p.m. (931 N. High St).

Erie County Health Department inspectors found two critical violations at Primanti Brothers (residual sanitizer and temperature issues) and one noncritical violation at CVS from April 9 to 16.

They also noted that Little Caesars corrected earlier violations on April 10.

Allexa Morgan, a 25-year-old nurse at UPMC Hamot, donated 40% of her liver to a stranger — she later met the recipient to check on her recovery and underscore local compassion.

Mosaic Lamp Workshop

2:30-5 p.m. — Hampton Inn Erie-South — Materials Provided — Create your own stunning Turkish mosaic lamp in a fun and relaxing workshop.

Book Signing with Janet Pawlowski

10 AM - 12 PM — Werner Books and Coffee — Free entry — Explore children's wellness through a heartwarming book by a local author.

JA’s Annual Erie County Bowl-A-Thon

6-8 p.m. — Eastway Lanes — Minimum $100 team registration — A night of bowling, food, prizes, and fun awaits at this charitable event.

Second Saturday Tower Climb

10 AM – 3 PM — Erie Land Lighthouse — Pay-what-you-wish — Explore the lighthouse with interactive educational activities and scenic tower climbs.

Felines & Wines Fundraiser

12-4 p.m. — Erie Zoo — Ticketed event — Sample local wines while supporting big cat conservation and enjoying live music and animal training demos.