Good morning, Erie.

Erie Zoo held its annual Lions, Tigers and Beers event Saturday — where hundreds sampled local brews and joined behind-the-scenes animal tours — to raise funds for daily animal care as the fundraiser helped support operations heading into the quieter season; the zoo plans to host Zoo Boo on October 16.

Port Farms held a fundraiser on Sunday to support Because You Care Inc. during its Fall Harvest, inviting visitors to bring their dogs & enjoy over 25 attractions.

Admission fees and portions of beer and hot dog sales were donated to help local animals, and the event will run until early November.

EmergyCare hosted its annual EmergyRace in downtown Erie to honor Kyle Swain, a firefighter, EMT and military member who died in 2015.

The event doubled from last year and raised funds for EMS training and life-saving equipment as teams completed challenges at 15 downtown locations — keeping his legacy alive.

Saeed Taraky, an Afghan immigrant who arrived in Erie in 2022 and now chairs the Diverse Erie Commission, works to unite new Americans—BIPOC residents and longtime locals by organizing grants and providing hands-on community support.

He volunteers to translate documents and assist families with paperwork while serving on state advisory commissions to strengthen the local community.

Dozens gathered in Perry Square on Oct 5 for the Charlie Kirk Peace and Prayer Vigil to honor the late political activist—Erie County Executive Brenton Davis was among the speakers.

Local bands provided live music during the three-hour event, and organizers said the tribute promoted unity and peaceful dialogue.

The borough of Waterford hosted its third annual Fall Fest at Gazebo Park this past weekend to celebrate the fall season—more than 20 vendors offered local food and goods while a Fort Leboeuf homecoming parade and a trunk or treat event entertained families, and organizers plan to expand the celebration each year.

Amazon will offer discounted home gym equipment in its upcoming Prime Day sale on Tuesday, October 7 and Wednesday, October 8—deals include a walking pad for under $100 and an adjustable weight bench for less than $60, helping Erie residents build a personal gym for less than a year's membership fee.

Lucky Bean Coffee Shop in Millcreek will open a new location on West 38 Street in November at the former Premium Coffee space, extending its specialty coffee service to central Erie.

Co-owner Norman Stark said the shop will offer a *copy-paste* experience from its west side branch with a *new sign and menu board* to update the space.

The Erie County District Attorney continues to investigate Woodard’s death — while the Justice for Chello Coalition has protested at East 21st and Parade for three months to push for change on systemic issues in the community.

Erie Oktoberfest drew a large crowd at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church this past weekend—visitors enjoyed authentic German beers and foods while live bands played traditional tunes.

Organizers expressed satisfaction with the turnout and said the event will continue to celebrate German culture in Erie.

Local teens from several Erie County schools sent an open letter to doctors and dentists urging them to limit opioid prescriptions as substance abuse concerns grow this October—especially after reports of youth misuse.

State Sen. Dan Laughlin visited an Erie center for the LIFE program that helps seniors age at home and called for reforms to reduce enrollment delays.

The Erie Times-News Seaway Window and AHN Sports Medicine polls for Male and Female Athlete of the Week are open today at 5 p.m.—they will run until Oct.

8th at 5 p.m. Fans can send nominee suggestions via email with details of the athletes' achievements.

Fairview’s Anthony LaBoda won the District 10 Class 2A boys golf title on Oct.

4 at The Country Club of Meadville after a one-hole playoff — and Fort LeBoeuf’s Cassidy Conn claimed the District 10 Class 3A girls title with a score of 10-over 154. Both golfers will advance to qualifying rounds in the PIAA tournament.

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.

Night Owls Paint & Sip

6-8 p.m. — Deer Creek Winery at Millcreek Mall Complex — Check for ticket pricing — Unleash your creativity with wine and painting in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Music of Billy Joel Featuring Michael Cavanaugh

7:30 PM — Warner Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience the acclaimed tribute to Billy Joel by Michael Cavanaugh, the voice handpicked by Joel himself.

Bartender Training Class

6-10 p.m. — SpringHill Suites by Marriott Erie — Costs vary — Gain practical experience and industry knowledge in a hands-on bartending training.