Good morning, Erie.

St. Paul’s Italian Festival is returning to Erie with a three-day celebration at St. Paul’s Church starting today at 5:00 p.m.—volunteers will serve about 8,000 patrons Italian favorites like spaghetti, meatballs, subs, and pizzelles as the event serves both as a fundraiser and a community reunion.

Yesterday, National Purple Heart Day was observed at the Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home in Erie as members of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Commodore Perry Chapter 197 gathered to honor over 1.8 million recipients — including 146 local veterans and one Vietnam War veteran. The ceremony highlighted the lasting sacrifices of those who served and their families.

Nationally known civil rights attorney Ben Crump held a news conference at Second Baptist Church on East 26th Street in Erie to demand full accountability after 43-year-old Marchello Woodard was fatally shot by a state parole agent on July 2 while allegedly trying to flee a compliance check—attorney Thomas Fitzpatrick, Brooke Cluse and Woodard's family joined his call for an independent investigation.

Defonta Butler, 32, was convicted of first-degree murder for killing Jeffrey Johnson on September 22nd in a revenge attack and was sentenced by Judge Daniel Brabender to life in prison without parole—he also received extra terms for carrying a gun without a license and for aggravated assault.

Erie County veterans shared their memories of World War II and discussed its lasting impact on America—highlighting lessons learned 70 years later.

In this installment of a local series on World War II, American troops were sent to North Africa immediately after training to help open a second front in Europe—an effort that proved critical to the Allied strategy.

The Bacon Brothers will launch the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts and Culture 2025—26 MIAC Live season on Sept.

4 at 7:30 p.m. at Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center; tickets cost $25—$50 and can be purchased online, by phone or in person.

Ed Weiss, 89, from Erie was a Japanese POW for three years during World War II—he describes the brutal conditions he endured in episode 15 of Our Fight: Erie in World War II.

During World War II, Erie residents worked at home producing war materiel while local men fought overseas for freedom.

Their efforts helped secure the nation’s victory—showcasing a powerful home front contribution.

Crews will soon remove the temporary signal on Sassafras Street Extension once construction of the new roundabout is complete, and from Aug.

12, eastbound traffic on Bayfront Parkway will shift. The stretch between Sassafras Extension and Holland Street will close on Sept. 2 and remain closed until fall 2026—drivers and pedestrians must follow detours during ongoing construction.

Reyburn Jr. Sailing Banquet

6-9 p.m. — Erie Yacht Club — Celebrate the 2025 Reyburn Jr. Sailing Season with fellow enthusiasts.

First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor Training

10 AM - 7 PM — Erie County Public Library - Blasco Memorial Library — Course fee applies — Become a certified instructor and share lifesaving skills with others.

Tall Ships Erie 2025

4-day festival — August 21-24 — Erie Maritime Museum — $ — Experience the majesty of magnificent ships racing in the Tall Ships Challenge on the Great Lakes.

LEAF Open Market

10 AM – 2 PM — Frontier Park — Free entry — Explore a vibrant outdoor farmer's market featuring local vendors with fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts.

Reminiscent at Erie Downtown Music Series

6-9 p.m. — Perry Square — Free entry — Enjoy a Motown tribute concert while relaxing in the park with food and community spirit.

First To Eleven Live Concert

6-10 p.m. — BIGBAR — No cover before 9 p.m. — Experience First to Eleven performing your rock favorites in the Happy Hour Concert Series.

Gem City Renaissance Festival

10 AM – 4 PM — Frontier Park — Cash recommended — Experience a vibrant one-day Renaissance festival in Erie with themed outfits and local vendors.

Hotel California Tribute Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Warner Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the legendary sound of The Eagles performed by the acclaimed tribute band HOTEL CALIFORNIA.

Erie Marathon

7 AM – 1 PM — Presque Isle State Park — $5-$100 — Experience the energetic atmosphere of the Erie Marathon and support local runners.