Good morning, Erie.

Crescent Hose Company hosted a memorial blood drive Tuesday in North East to honor Thomas 'Gonzo' Gonzales, a long-time volunteer who served as captain and treasurer before he passed in 2022.

The event partnered with the Community Blood Bank and saw many residents donating blood as a tribute to his legacy—reflecting the community's enduring spirit of service.

Marisa Rodriguez pleaded guilty in Erie County Court to criminal homicide and abuse of a corpse for killing 66-year-old Michael Maisner—whose remains were found in a burn pit on the 7000 block of Crestview Drive in Summit Township—with sentencing set for October 13.

Lake Erie Literary Festival will return to Frontier Park on Sept.

13 from noon to 6 p.m.—organizer Kyle Churman of Werner Books said the event will support local authors and oppose book banning by featuring book signings and vendor exhibits.

Erie Center for Arts and Technology named Jude Shingle its permanent executive director after he served as interim director since 2021—he succeeds Kate Neubert-Lechner, who left in June to join Make-A-Wish.

Shingle previously worked as arts program director at the center and as co-director of Box of Light Studio in Erie.

Pennsylvania legislators visited Penn State Behrend Tuesday to review local tax investments while university officials and local representatives toured new facilities.

Rep. Bob Merski said the visit showed how the funds opened regional opportunities—Amy Bridger added that the Center for Manufacturing Competitiveness is still under construction.

Over $90M in federal funding has been allocated to expand broadband access in ten counties including Erie, as part of the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority’s CoreConnect project—designed to connect more than ten thousand locations with high-speed internet.

County officials say the project will address rural digital gaps and boost access for remote work and online education.

Archers across Pennsylvania are advised to check and practice their equipment as the state's archery deer season opens Oct.

4—local pro shops and free ranges provided by the Game Commission are available for practice, and Bowhunters Superstore has unveiled a 30-target 3D archery range to enhance skill and safety. Schools are also engaging in archery programs through NASP to build future outdoor skills.

Hickory and Sharon showed strong play in their first Class 3A football games as Hickory won a close 13—12 game with a late 72-yard touchdown run and Sharon dominated Mercyhurst Prep with a 35—6 win; other teams also competed and will fight for one of the eight playoff spots in District 10.

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.

Cole Swindell Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Erie Insurance Arena — Tickets via Ticketmaster — Enjoy a night of country music featuring Cole Swindell with special guest Priscilla Block.

Free Health Services Clinic

6 a.m. — Erie Center for Arts and Technology — Free services — Access free dental, vision, and medical services in collaboration with the Hamot Health Foundation.

Candlelight Concert: Queen vs. ABBA

8:30-9:30 p.m. — The Masonic Temple of Erie — Tickets required — Experience a mesmerizing fusion of Queen and ABBA music under candlelight.

LEAF Open Market

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

Bartender Training Class

6-10 p.m. — SpringHill Suites by Marriott Erie — $90.00 – $325.00 — Gain hands-on experience and industry knowledge to become an effective bartender in this interactive course.