Good morning, Erie.

Therapy Dogs United visited the Erie Department of Veterans Affairs today to offer support and friendship to local veterans.

The ongoing partnership with county veterans services aims to improve mental health—providing a calm space for those who have served.

Erie County Technical School in partnership with Chivers Construction will host a free event on Sept.

27 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 8500 Oliver Road that will let children and adults get hands-on with heavy construction equipment. The event will also feature an Equipment Rodeo—where experienced operators compete on an obstacle course—starting at 10 a.m.

On September 6, the Barber Beast on the Bay held a 10-mile obstacle course at Waldameer Park and Presque Isle to raise funds for the Barber National Institute while uniting diverse community groups.

Although the race was announced to end this year, community leaders and volunteers are urging new local leadership to keep the event alive for future years.

Wabtec Corp. signed its largest locomotive agreement, a $4.2 billion deal for 300 Evolution locomotives to be built in Kazakhstan using kits from U.S. plants.

Local union president Scott Slawson said he hopes the contract may add extra Erie jobs — though officials do not guarantee a local workforce increase.

Residents in Erie can request a weekly pickup of up to three large items if they call or use the city website 72 hours before their regular trash day; officials said busy weeks may bring delays of one to three weeks as trucks can handle up to 100 pickups a day—code enforcement has issued notices and a few property owners have faced a $1,400 fee for not clearing clutter in 14 days.

Yesterday, East Erie County EMS received a grant-check of $150,000 from County Executive Brenton Davis to help add a second ambulance for a $250,000 unit.

EMS President Dean Pepicello said the new ambulance will serve six municipalities and prompt extra staff hires to cut response times.

Renovations have started at the Erie Bureau of Police operations center in City Hall, and the visitor lobby is temporarily closed from Sept.

24 while crews redo ceilings, floors, and wiring. The project ($300,000) is funded partly by a donation from a former commander's family and will be completed by early 2026.

LECOM launched its new program GUIDE to focus on early Alzheimer’s diagnosis and support for unpaid caregivers—on Wednesday, officials presented the pilot to Congressman Mike Kelly to stress the need for more resources in the community.

Fort LeBoeuf football players Owen Dwyer, Kaden Milner, and Devin Craft demonstrated run block techniques — pulling guards on the offensive line — during a recent team practice.

The Music of John Williams

3-5 p.m. — Warner Theatre — Cost varies — Celebrate the iconic sounds of John Williams with the Erie Philharmonic and conductor Daniel Meyer.

Ecospirituality Green Tour

Environmental walking tour — Not specified — Mercyhurst University — Free entry — Discover the beauty of nature through prayers, reflections, and an exploration of campus gardens and a labyrinth.

Kansas Concert

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Warner Theatre — Last-minute tickets available — Enjoy a classic rock performance by Kansas in Erie, PA.

Jamey Johnson Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Warner Theatre — Tickets starting at $65 — Experience a night of country music with Jamey Johnson at the historic Warner Theatre.

Ben Folds Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Warner Theatre — Tickets from $69 — Experience an evening of captivating music with Ben Folds.

A Journey Of Perseverance: An Evening With Jim Kelly

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Waldron Campus Center — Free entry — Celebrate the inspiring journey of Pro Football Hall of Famer Jim Kelly, renowned for his toughness and resilience.

Family Fun Day!

10 AM – 4 PM — Werner Books and Coffee — Free activities — Enjoy crafts and stories for families with toddlers and teens.