Good morning, Erie.

Lawrence Park Township is 100 years old after its 1926 creation and will mark the milestone with a yearlong centennial featuring a July 4 parade and summer plays (celebrating its GE-built origins).

Underdog BBQ is bottling its first batch of sauces and will soon offer a mix of sweet, smoky + hot flavors for sale at the restaurant.

Eerie Horror Fest will skip its 2026 event while Film Erie plans smaller film screenings to build momentum for a planned return in 2027.

Organizers are working on sustainable funding and exploring new venue options.

Dr. EmmaLeigh Kirchner was honored with Mercyhurst’s Teaching Excellence Award today for her innovative teaching and commitment to student success.

She serves as chair of Social Justice (Community Health) and as an associate professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

The Erie School Board will hear an update from the Harding School naming committee today at 5:30 p.m. in the board room at the district administration building — the committee recommends honoring John Boyd by renaming the school library while keeping Harding’s name, with a vote set for May 13.

Harding Elementary School — a community landmark since 1925 — has long been a hub where teachers, students, and families create lasting memories.

The Erie Times-News gallery shows archival photos that capture the school’s traditions and impact on local life.

Erie Reader is offering internship opportunities for students interested in writing and social media — the online application is open now and details will be announced soon.

Erie volunteers joined an international plastic pellet count on May 2 at Presque Isle State Park’s Beach 8, organized by PennEnvironment and Gannon University’s Project NEPTWNE, confirming 46 pellets during a half-hour search that underscore growing local plastic pollution.

Researchers used a Saildrone on Lake Erie to compare its performance with manned research vessels and recorded similar results in measuring declining prey fish populations—vital for local sport fish, while the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission prepares a new research vessel to replace its aging boat.

United Airlines will delay its non-stop service between Erie and Chicago until Oct.

25 because the FAA has cut daily flights at O’Hare — this order runs from May 17 to Oct. 24 and ticket holders will receive refunds or new travel options.

Cielo Prischak of Catholic Charities Counseling and Adoption Services warned that online gambling fuels addiction due to its constant availability (a risk for local residents).

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.