Good morning, Erie.

On Saturday, Gannon University students, faculty and staff joined over 400 community volunteers to clean up the bayfront area—picking up litter, cleaning streets and gardening—while the general public also participated in the workday.

Erie Humane Society hosted its fourth annual Mutt Gala today—where shelter animals paraded to show off their unique charm—and engaged local residents in a lively celebration.

Erie radio host Michael 'Mojo McKay' Sroka died on April 25 at age 62.

His viewing is scheduled at St. Ann Catholic Church (931 East Ave.) on May 3 from 10:30 a.m. until his funeral mass begins at 12:30 p.m.

Band Together Erie partnered with Kellar’s Comedy Club to host an autism friendly open mic night on April 28th—providing free instruments, amps, food and drinks for local attendees.

Co-founder Ron Esser said the event helped participants feel connected and celebrated shared interests.

Erie Indemnity Company—managing Erie Insurance—rang the Nasdaq Stock Market Opening Bell in Times Square on April 28th at 9:30 a.m. EDT to honor 100 years in business and 30 years listed on Nasdaq.

Time Twister operated on April 27 as part of a season pass photo day at Waldameer Park and Water World but was not yet open to riders—next to the Whacky Shack where the Spider was removed after the 2024 season.

Mercyhurst University will honor 727 graduates on Sunday, May 11 at the Erie Insurance Arena—187 master’s candidates will graduate at 11 a.m. and 540 baccalaureate and associate recipients will be honored at 2 p.m.—with special awards such as the Carpe Diem Award going to standout students like Jay Tonks.

Dr. Brett Johnson won Mercyhurst University’s top Teaching Excellence Award as director of the Theatre program after 13 years on the faculty, guiding students and producing over 40 shows.

He has also brought major entertainers like Lily Tomlin and Martin Short to Erie (highlighting his strong impact on local arts).

The Polish Falcons of America’s 85th annual three-day bowling tournament returned to Erie for the first time since 2016 as Nest 610 hosted the event at Eastway Lanes.

About 200 bowlers competed in singles and doubles — sports director Eddy Wyant said the event supported charity Raising Rare while festivities continued at the club.

Windowsill Herb Garden Workshop

6-7 p.m. — Werner Books and Coffee — $35 — Grow your own indoor herb garden and elevate your cooking with fresh flavors.

The D'Angelo Concerto

4-7 p.m. — Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center — Tickets from $85 — Experience a captivating performance by the Mercyhurst Civic Orchestra.

Festival of the Birds

Various times — Presque Isle State Park — Ticket required — Experience the wonders of spring migration with workshops, field trips, and expert-led birding activities.

Attorneys & Kids Together 5K Run/Walk

1:00 PM – 3:59 AM — Erie County — Charitable donations encouraged — Support Erie County students experiencing homelessness through a community-focused 5K event.

ACL Tear Diagnosis and Management – New Treatment Approaches

7-8:30 p.m. — Erie Center for Arts and Technology — Free entry — Discover innovative approaches in ACL tear treatment from a leading orthopedic expert.