Good morning, Erie.

On April 29, Gannon University students partnered with local groups to map safe walking routes in Erie and identify areas with high crime and environmental hazards affecting elementary students.

They presented their GIS findings to local officials such as Mayor Joe Schember and County Executive Brenton Davis + their work is guiding planned grants, signage and a pedestrian safety campaign + showing how data drives community collaboration.

Erie Insurance set up a $100 million charitable foundation to mark its 100th anniversary—funding projects for community building, safety, and environmental care—in which future earnings will support local charities.

Waldameer & Water World’s Ravine Flyer II has been ranked #4 among the nation's best coasters by USA Today’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards, with voters praising its mix of modern and classic features and fast thrills.

The coaster, which won the Golden Ticket Award for Best New Ride in a Park in 2008, continues to draw local thrill-seekers.

Presque Isle and Erie Land Lighthouses open today for public tours—visitors can climb the towers for a fee while Erie Land offers free climb days every first Tuesday—and the Presque Isle Lighthouse celebrates its 10th anniversary with a new summer kitchen exhibit.

Mercyhurst University senior Vanessa Nolan composed a piece titled Requiem for Joseph to honor her friend Joey Talarico, who died on August 17, 2023.

The Concert & Chamber Choirs will perform the piece today at 7 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall.

Erie County Community College will use a $1 million state grant to expand dual credit programs that let local high school students earn both a high school diploma and free college credits—offering courses like welding that meet workforce needs.

Erie residents will be able to register to vote online, by mail or in person at government offices for the May 20 primary but must complete their registration by May 5—sample ballots in Erie County will list local races like mayoral, county, judicial and school board positions.

This process ensures voters can review their choices ahead of the election.

Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority announced nearly $200,000 in Special Events Grants to 44 local organizations to fund community events such as the Italian Festival and YADO’s Independence Day performance.

Grant amounts range from $425 to $15,000—largest awards went to Cafe for CelebrateErie, Lights Over Lake Erie, and the Jefferson Education Society.

Millcreek Township homeowners received free smoke alarms and fire safety education from a partnership between the township fire department and the American Red Cross after four fatal house fires earlier this year killed five people—fire officials held a news conference on May 1 to launch the Sound the Alarm campaign offering free installations, inspections and safety lessons.

Erie nurse Sarah Prylinski, R.N. helps homeless and vulnerable people get needed health care and supplies — she connects patients with local medical services.

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.

3rd Annual Weld Art Competition

6-9 p.m. — The 1020 Collective — Entry fee required — Showcase your welding talents and support scholarships while enjoying local artistry.

Show Me Reptiles Show

11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — Bayfront Convention Center — $10 General Admission; Kids 6 and under free — Dive into a scaly wonderland with reptiles and aquatic creatures galore.