Good morning, Erie.

A local ice cream and mini-golf spot in Fairview welcomes a new chapter as owner Dave Zimmer (retired from ErieBank in 2025) keeps the staff and expands the menu to create a family-friendly atmosphere.

On Tuesday (June 2), Advanced Laser Restoration showcased a new cleaning and restoration method in Erie with founder Greg Price, president Jacob Thomas, and VP Cory Chevalier demonstrating innovative techniques for local properties.

The Erie Art Museum is hosting Pride in the Collection, a new exhibition that celebrates nearly 80 years of queer artistic expression.

The event brings together local and national artists to showcase diverse creative works.

Lake Erie was voted the #1 Lake/River in the nation by USA Today's Readers Choice Awards — a recognition that underlines its potential for tourism and outdoor adventure.

It also ranked #2 for water spouts, a notable improvement from last year.

Erie Philharmonic is hosting 10 free summer concerts in July around Erie, North East, and other local towns to celebrate America’s 250th Birthday.

The series features a Patriotic Pops event on July 4 at Bayview Park in Erie & includes family concerts and brass ensemble shows with interactive activities.

Mercyhurst University celebrated the grand opening of Studio 26 yesterday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by university leaders, community partners (including representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority) to launch a collaborative space for innovation and workforce development.

Gannon University will celebrate Distinguished Alumni during Homecoming and Family Weekend from Sept.

24–27, honoring top graduates at a dinner on Sept. 25 in the Yehl Alumni Room. The awards recognize alumni for their lasting community impact, including Monsignor Wilfrid J. Nash Award recipient Deacon Stephen J. Washek.

Sen. Dan Laughlin today announced more than $528,000 for Erie County nonpublic schools through Pennsylvania’s Targeted School Safety Grant Program to upgrade security and support student mental health; funds will benefit six schools including Erie Catholic schools and Erie Day School (also Mercyhurst Preparatory) and start boosting emergency preparedness.

Sen. Dan Laughlin from Erie is proposing a $30 three-day hunting license for nonresidents to lower fees during deer season, while Sen. Greg Rothman is drafting a bill to let those born in Pennsylvania or with a parent pay the resident rate to boost tourism and rural business.

Mercyhurst Prep discussed its recent PIAA baseball quarterfinal win over Fort Cherry on campus, highlighting key plays and teamwork that drove the victory (coaches and players explained game strategy).

Harbor Creek advanced in the PIAA Class 4A softball tournament at New Castle after Lacie Fortin hit a grand slam that helped the team defeat Elizabeth Forward.

Erie residents can prepare to host an ultimate 2026 World Cup watch party using a guide for décor, snacks, viewing setups + games.

The tips suggest gearing up ahead of the tournament kickoff on June 11 so your fan zone is ready for the action.

Marshall Tucker Band Concert

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Rebich Investments Amphitheater & Liberty Park — Ticket info available — Experience the legendary sounds of the Marshall Tucker Band live in concert.