RTS & READS
Healing Art of Poetry Workshops By ECDA Regional Recovery Hub 7 W 10th St, Erie PA 18+ Multiple dates "A creative and inspiring series designed for those in Recovery to nurture healing, connection, and community through the power of words."
Design And Social Justice: Lecture And Workshop With Shelle Barron February 7, 2026 from 1 PM to 4 PM Erie Art Museum, lecture & workshop, sliding scale, register online, materials included.
Single Voice Reading Series - Christopher Bakken Allegheny College, Tippie Alumni Center/Cochran Hall 520 N. Main St., Meadville, PAinfo cbakken@allegheny.edu Feb 19
Living Voices schedule at Robert H Jackson Cemter "Using historical perspectives based on real people and events, Living Voices combines live performance with audio/video, visual aids, and discussion."
BLACK HISTORY
Wednesday Morning Book Club: The Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison , 1/28 at 11 AM Werner Books 3608 Liberty St, Erie, PA
Digitizing History: A Smithsonian–Buffalo Collaboration (What's Next/WBFO) Dr. Doretha Williams shares an update..." Dr. LaGarrett King on Black History Education
BLASCO
A lawsuit over Gannon University’s Lake Erie Education and Research has been settled as of Dec. 19, the university announced Wednesday in a news release. The center, located at Erie’s Blasco Library, faced opposition from a local group, Keep Our Library Public, over lease terms. Now, both sides have reached an agreement. https://www.erienewsnow.com/news/local/lawsuit-over-gannon-university-s-center-for-lake-erie-education-and-research-settled/article_bc14ba7b-7dd7-46e2-a662-6b455357852a.html
Excerpt from Statement on KOLP Lawsuit
"Importantly, the Consent Order provides for additional process and oversight before any County Library real estate is leased or sold in the future.
"This Order includes an amendment to the lease between Erie County and Gannon for the Blasco Library space. The initial term has been reduced from 25 years to ten. The ability of Gannon to use common areas has been rolled back to place Gannon on the same footing as the public. The Consent Order also includes a Memorandum of Understanding between Gannon and the County Executive. Under this MOU, Gannon and the County will work collaboratively to enhance the Erie County Public Library through the collection of data as well as annual membership drives and library programming. The MOU further provides that Gannon will allow library members access to the unique resources of its own Nash Library..."
https://keepourlibrarypublic.com/blog/
"Importantly, the Consent Order provides for additional process and oversight before any County Library real estate is leased or sold in the future.
"This Order includes an amendment to the lease between Erie County and Gannon for the Blasco Library space. The initial term has been reduced from 25 years to ten. The ability of Gannon to use common areas has been rolled back to place Gannon on the same footing as the public. The Consent Order also includes a Memorandum of Understanding between Gannon and the County Executive. Under this MOU, Gannon and the County will work collaboratively to enhance the Erie County Public Library through the collection of data as well as annual membership drives and library programming. The MOU further provides that Gannon will allow library members access to the unique resources of its own Nash Library..."
https://keepourlibrarypublic.com/blog/
COMMUNITY
Legacy of Leadership: Remembering James C. Sherrod's Impact on Erie (NEXT:with Marcus Atkinson) "Host Marc Blount leads a solemn and reflective conversation on the recent passing of James C. Sherrod, a pillar of the Erie community and former director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for 18 years. Joined by a guest whose life was directly shaped by Sherrod's mentorship, Mr Kevin Arrington"
Making a Small City Smaller: Mutual Aid and the Ongoing Attack on our Social Safety Net (Dave Tamulonis /Erie Reader)
EARTH
Keep Our Library Public settlement If you haven't already, check the settlement agreements between Gannon and Keep Our Library Public regarding Gannon's lease for use of Blasco. See under Blasco heading above and/or visit Keep Our Library Public blog
2026 Our Woods and Waters Film Series "Free and open to the public. Begins 6:30pm. In partnership by French Creek Valley Conservancy and the Foundation for Sustainable Forests, the 2026 Film Series is sponsored by Northwestern Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Jan 16 - Via ZOOM and Feb 20 - In PERSON will be in banquet hall of VFW Post 740, 10613 PA Route 98, Edinboro, PA. "variety of short films with some Q&A discussion in between. Light refreshments will be provided."
ELECTIONS & GOVERNANCE
Crawford County United 2025 Election wins (Crawford Co. United) "Congratulations to all of the wins...As a community, we re-elected Jaime Kinder as Meadville Mayor and elected Mary Moody and Andrew Herbstritt to Meadville City Council! "
Malcolm Kenyatta Unleashes On PA Republicans (TYT Investigates)
Stock ban: Kelly, Thopson, Fetterman, McCormick comments (Erie News Now)
Pa Supreme Court Rules That School Board Members’ Social Media Posts Are Not “Records” Under the Right-to-Know Law ( Tucker Arensberg, P.C.)
Erie Food Policy Advisory Council newsletter
Feeding Our Community: Local Farms & Food Access with Linnea Haskin (My CHQ Podcast) "Linnea Haskin of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County to explore how CCE is strengthening our local food system and increasing access to healthy, affordable food for families across the region."
Community, Compassion, and Care: Talking with Culture Care’s Zac Hnatyszyn (My CHQ Podcast)
HEALTH
Governor Hochul Reaches Agreement With State Legislature to Pass Medical Aid in Dying Act in New York (Gov Hochul) "This comes after careful reflection and deliberation with the bill’s sponsors, advocacy organizations, and most importantly, everyday New Yorkers who shared personal experiences with the Governor. The bill, with the agreed-upon amendments, will be passed and signed in January, and the law will go into effect six months later."
70 Years after Jonas Salk developed polio vaccine in Pittsburgh lab (The Conversation)
HOME
City of Erie Housing Needs Study Session (City of Erie) Video of session
Bizzarro announces state grant to address housing affordability (PA Gov) Erie has launched a long-range housing affordability plan. (Kevin Flowers/ Erie Times News) Paywall "Neighborhood meetings about the plan are expected to take place early in 2026, a consultant working on the initiative told Erie City Council on Dec. 9:
Homeless Memorial Day 2025 (YourErie)"Community honors homeless who passed away in Erie this past year "
Dr. Roché Vermaak, Executive Director of the Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity (Joel NatalieTalkErie)
IMMIGRANTS
Jan 9 + 2nd Fridays - Immigration Vigil Friday, January 9, 12:15 - 12:45 p.m. "Join us at Perry Square directly across from and facing the Federal Courthouse for this 30-minute vigil. NETWORK's Erie Chapter and Benedictines for Peace invite you to take part in this gathering: 'You Are Not Alone' Community Witness for Immigrants, Migrants, and Refugees. We will gather on the second Friday each month for this vigil." Info: Mary Nelson at 814-746-6783.
Jan 7 - Immigration 101 at 7pm. Edinboro Council Chambers, Edinboro Borough Bldg 124 Meadville St Edinboro PA. Join French Creek Indivisible for a conversation on immigration basics. FrenchCreekIndivisible@gmail.com
Erie Habitat for Humanity responds to ‘vitriol’ surrounding latest project (YourErie)
Pennsylvania
Nuns, sisters bring ‘moral authority … in spades’ to anti-ICE actions (Public Source) "The Sisters of St. Joseph, Pax Christi and Casa San Jose have been hosting prayer vigils outside Pittsburgh’s ICE facility every Friday morning since August. They invited religious leaders from different faiths across the city, and plan to continue their weekly demonstrations for as long as they can."
PA immigration news in PennCapital Star Stories from around the state
WNY
Refugees, Families, and the Power of Support (WBFO) Podcast, exploring two ways WNY communities are responding to need and opportunity.
JUSTICE
CROWN Act Becomes Law in PA: New Protections Against Hair Discrimination (Ogletree Deakins) "The CROWN Act broadens the definition of 'race' under the PA Human Relations Act to include traits historically associated with an individual’s race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles. As a result, individuals are shielded from discrimination based on natural hairstyles or protective hairstyles commonly linked to their race."
DOJ upends civil rights unit, why that matters to us all | Opinion Signed by Kyle Stock, of Erie, a former trial attorney in the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, and 200 other former employees of the division. This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News.
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR HOLIDAY
Jan 19 - Annual Martin Luther King Day March Perry Square Erie PA Begin assembling at around 11am Step off at noon.
Jan 19 - The Martin King Luther Jr. Scholarship Fund celebration Service opportunities 8:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m. at the Allegheny College Lawrence Lee Pelletier Library. Noon to 2 p.m., at Schultz Banquet Hall, 549 Park Ave. Meadville. Luncheon with music, readings and a panel discussion. Concludes with tradition of Rev. Marvin Burnett’s rendition of the “I Have a Dream” speech by King Jr. Tickets for the luncheon will be $15 and can be purchased at Family Community and Children Association, 378 Chestnut St., Meadville.
SCHOOLS & YOUTH
‘Some kids don’t really have anyone to talk to or trust.’ Chill rooms fill that gap (Public Source) "This Chill Room is one of 50 in K-12 schools across Allegheny, Washington, Bedford and Erie counties The program sets up calming spaces in participating schools that evoke natural environments..." Hidden Voices: The Unheard Struggle of Students ( Jefferson Ed. Society) "JES Raimy Fellows Katie Phillips and Jacob Jones will delve into the escalating challenges confronting public school students in Erie County, Pennsylvania, grappling mental health issues."
Civil rights probes at Pa. schools appear to lag after federal cuts (USA Today Network)
SPIRIT
Jesus as a Resistance Fighter Guest Speaker: Marcus Atkinson January 11, 2026 10:30 am AT Unitarian Universalist Coongregation of Erie 7180 Perry Hwy, Erie PA "This talk reexamines Jesus not simply as a spiritual teacher, but as a courageous social justice leader who disrupted systems of inequality and lifted the most marginalized. Grounded in both scripture and historical scholarship, the presentation invites us to consider how his radical vision of justice, dignity, and community can inspire our work today."
Religion and Reform in the "Burned Over District" (Buffalo Toronto Public Media) "Religion and reform were synonymous in 19th century Western New York. This video features extended interview clips from Discovering New York Suffrage Stories, and shows how reform efforts around the anti-slavery and abolition served as a training ground for women’s rights activists. While religious groups fueled the movement, some suffragists fought to preserve the separation of church and state."
WORKING PEOPLE
3 year Pgh Post-Gazette strike ends, members declare victory, (Public Source) " Strikers' own alternative publication on the strike's end (Pittsburgh Union Progress)
NY minimum wage goes up (Spectrum) Meanwhile PA stays at $7.25
New PA law helps DV victims collect unemployment (Penn Capital Star)
MISC
Interview with Brian Johansson, CEO of the Erie City Mission (Joel Natalie/TalkErie)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PHOTO
ARTS & READSArt House Second Saturday - January 10, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. "We'll welcome the New Year with make and take clay art projects ... a free workshop for creative folks of all ages, although donations are always appreciated. Registration is required"
Healing Art of Poetry Workshops By ECDA Regional Recovery Hub 7 W 10th St, Erie PA 18+ Multiple dates "A creative and inspiring series designed for those in Recovery to nurture healing, connection, and community through the power of words."
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/healing-art-of-poetry-workshops-tickets-1975195650361?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse
Design And Social Justice: Lecture And Workshop With Shelle Barron February 7, 2026 from 1 PM to 4 PM Erie Art Museum, lecture & workshop, sliding scale, register online, materials included. https://www.erieartmuseum.org/design-lecture
Single Voice Reading Series - Christopher Bakken Allegheny College, Tippie Alumni Center/Cochran Hall 520 N. Main St., Meadville, PAinfo cbakken@allegheny.edu Feb 19
Living Voices schedule at Robert H Jackson Cemter "Using historical perspectives based on real people and events, Living Voices combines live performance with audio/video, visual aids, and discussion."
Wednesday Morning Book Club: The Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison , 1/28 at 11 AM Werner Books 3608 Liberty St, Erie, PA
Digitizing History: A Smithsonian–Buffalo Collaboration (What's Next/WBFO) Dr. Doretha Williams shares an update..." Dr. LaGarrett King on Black History Education
A lawsuit over Gannon University’s Lake Erie Education and Research has been settled as of Dec. 19, the university announced Wednesday in a news release. The center, located at Erie’s Blasco Library, faced opposition from a local group, Keep Our Library Public, over lease terms. Now, both sides have reached an agreement. https://www.erienewsnow.com/news/local/lawsuit-over-gannon-university-s-center-for-lake-erie-education-and-research-settled/article_bc14ba7b-7dd7-46e2-a662-6b455357852a.html
Excerpt from Statement on KOLP Lawsuit
"Importantly, the Consent Order provides for additional process and oversight before any County Library real estate is leased or sold in the future.
"This Order includes an amendment to the lease between Erie County and Gannon for the Blasco Library space. The initial term has been reduced from 25 years to ten. The ability of Gannon to use common areas has been rolled back to place Gannon on the same footing as the public. The Consent Order also includes a Memorandum of Understanding between Gannon and the County Executive. Under this MOU, Gannon and the County will work collaboratively to enhance the Erie County Public Library through the collection of data as well as annual membership drives and library programming. The MOU further provides that Gannon will allow library members access to the unique resources of its own Nash Library..."
https://keepourlibrarypublic.com/blog/
"Importantly, the Consent Order provides for additional process and oversight before any County Library real estate is leased or sold in the future.
"This Order includes an amendment to the lease between Erie County and Gannon for the Blasco Library space. The initial term has been reduced from 25 years to ten. The ability of Gannon to use common areas has been rolled back to place Gannon on the same footing as the public. The Consent Order also includes a Memorandum of Understanding between Gannon and the County Executive. Under this MOU, Gannon and the County will work collaboratively to enhance the Erie County Public Library through the collection of data as well as annual membership drives and library programming. The MOU further provides that Gannon will allow library members access to the unique resources of its own Nash Library..."
https://keepourlibrarypublic.com/blog/
COMMUNITY
Legacy of Leadership: Remembering James C. Sherrod's Impact on Erie (NEXT:with Marcus Atkinson) "Host Marc Blount leads a solemn and reflective conversation on the recent passing of James C. Sherrod, a pillar of the Erie community and former director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for 18 years. Joined by a guest whose life was directly shaped by Sherrod's mentorship, Mr Kevin Arrington "
Making a Small City Smaller: Mutual Aid and the Ongoing Attack on our Social Safety Net (Dave Tamulonis /Erie Reader)
EARTH
2026 Our Woods and Waters Film Series "Gather on a winter's night for community and great films! This event is free and open to the public. Grab a snack, your family, and a comfy seat. We will begin at 6:30pm. In partnership by French Creek Valley Conservancy and the Foundation for Sustainable Forests, the 2026 Film Series is sponsored by Northwestern Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
Via ZOOM Jan 16, 2026 06:30 PM
In PERSON In banquet hall of . VFW Post 740, 10613 PA Route 98, Edinboro, PA on Friday, February 20th at 6:30 pm "Bring your family and friends - all are welcome! There will be a variety of short films with some Q&A discussion in between. Light refreshments will be provided.
ELECTIONS
Stock ban: Kelly, Thopson, Fetterman, McCormick comments (Erie News Now)
Via ZOOM Jan 16, 2026 06:30 PM
In PERSON In banquet hall of . VFW Post 740, 10613 PA Route 98, Edinboro, PA on Friday, February 20th at 6:30 pm "Bring your family and friends - all are welcome! There will be a variety of short films with some Q&A discussion in between. Light refreshments will be provided.
ELECTIONS
Crawford County United wins (Crawford Co. United)
Stock ban: Kelly, Thopson, Fetterman, McCormick comments (Erie News Now)
Pa Supreme Court Rules That School Board Members’ Social Media Posts Are Not “Records” Under the Right-to-Know Law ( Tucker Arensberg, P.C.)
Erie Food Policy Advisory Council newsletter
Feeding Our Community: Local Farms & Food Access with Linnea Haskin (My CHQ Podcast) "Linnea Haskin of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County to explore how CCE is strengthening our local food system and increasing access to healthy, affordable food for families across the region."
Community, Compassion, and Care: Talking with Culture Care’s Zac Hnatyszyn (My CHQ Podcast)
HEALTH
Governor Hochul Reaches Agreement With State Legislature to Pass Medical Aid in Dying Act in New York (Gov Hochul) "This comes after careful reflection and deliberation with the bill’s sponsors, advocacy organizations, and most importantly, everyday New Yorkers who shared personal experiences with the Governor. The bill, with the agreed-upon amendments, will be passed and signed in January, and the law will go into effect six months later."
70 Years after Jonas Salk developed polio vaccine in Pittsburgh lab (The Conversation)
HOME
Housing Needs Study Session (City of Erie) Video of session
Bizzarro announces state grant to address housing affordability (PA Gov) Erie has launched a long-range housing affordability plan. (Kevin Flowers ETN) Paywall "Neighborhood meetings about the plan are expected to take place early in 2026, a consultant working on the initiative told Erie City Council on Dec. 9:
Homeless Memorial Day 2025 (YourErie)"Community honors homeless who passed away in Erie this past year "
Dr. Roché Vermaak, Executive Director of the Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity joins us to share about Build 81.(Joel NatalieTalkErie) +++
Jan 7 - Immigration Basics presented by French Creek Indivisible Wednesday, January 7, 2026 from 7 PM to 9 PM Edinboro Boro Hall, 124 Meadville St., Edinboro, PA 16412 Review of Immigration policies, legal information. This program will begin with a brief review of immigration as a public safety issue over the past decades, culminating with current views, trends, and especially federal policies and practices. Information presented will include various community responses in light of Civil Law, Constitutional Rule and Human Rights. For more information, please visit http://FrenchCreekIndivisible@gmail.com
Jan 9 & 2nd Fridays - Immigration Vigil Friday, January 9, 12:15 - 12:45 p.m.Join us at Perry Square directly across from and facing the Federal Courthouse for this 30-minute vigil. NETWORK's Erie Chapter and Benedictines for Peace invite you to take part in this gathering: "You Are Not Alone" Community Witness for Immigrants, Migrants, and Refugees. We will gather on the second Friday each month for this vigil. Info: Mary Nelson at 814-746-6783.
Planned MHEDS facility for Erie's immigrants, underserved gets funding boost The PA Department of Community and Economic Development's ... Erie's refugees, immigrants. The East Side Renaissance is currently ...
Erie Habitat for Humanity responds to ‘vitriol’ surrounding latest project (YourErie)
Pennsylvania
Nuns, sisters bring ‘moral authority … in spades’ to anti-ICE actions (Public Source) "The Sisters of St. Joseph, Pax Christi and Casa San Jose have been hosting prayer vigils outside Pittsburgh’s ICE facility every Friday morning since August. They invited religious leaders from different faiths across the city, and plan to continue their weekly demonstrations for as long as they can."
PA immigration news in PennCapital Star Stories from around the state
WNY
Refugees, Families, and the Power of Support (WBFO) Exploring two ways WNY communities are responding to need and opportunity.JUSTICE
DOJ upends civil rights unit, why that matters to us all | Opinion Signed by Kyle Stock, of Erie, a former trial attorney in the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, and 200 other former employees of the division. This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News:
MLK
15th Annual Dr. King Awards Dinner January 17, 2026 Ambassador Hotel & Conference Center 7794 Peach St. Erie, PA Theme is Injustice Anywhere Is A Threat To Justice Everywhere with guest speaker nationally recognized civil rights attorney, Benjamin Crump. Dinner will begin at 6:00 p.m. Info: Martin Luther King Center at 814.459.2761 or www.mlkcentererie.org.Jan 19 - Annual Martin Luther King Day March Perry Square Erie PA Begin assembling at around 11am Step off at noon.
MeadvilleJan 19 - The Martin King Luther Jr. Scholarship Fund celebration returns on Jan. 19 for its third year. Panel discussion. Service opportunities begin at 8:45 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. at the Allegheny College Lawrence Lee Pelletier Library. Noon to 2 p.m., at Schultz Banquet Hall, 549 Park Ave.,Luncheon with music, readings and a panel discussion. Concludes with tradition of Rev. Marvin Burnett’s rendition of the “I Have a Dream” speech by King Jr. Tickets for the luncheon will be $15 and can be purchased at Family Community and Children Association, 378 Chestnut St., Meadville.
Jan 19 - https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/mlk-jr-scholarship-fund-announces-144700244.html
AP Wire
‘Some kids don’t really have anyone to talk to or trust.’ Chill rooms fill that gap (Public Source) "This Chill Room is one of 50 in K-12 schools across Allegheny, Washington, Bedford and Erie counties The program sets up calming spaces in participating schools that evoke natural environments..."
Hidden Voices: The Unheard Struggle of Students ( Jefferson Ed. SOciety) "JES Raimy Fellows Katie Phillips and Jacob Jones will delve into the escalating challenges confronting public school students in Erie County, Pennsylvania, grappling mental health issues."
Erie Center for Arts and Technology Teen program
https://www.goerie.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2025/11/11/erie-center-for-arts-and-technology-teen-program/86932791007
Erie Center for Arts and Technology Teen program
https://www.goerie.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2025/11/11/erie-center-for-arts-and-technology-teen-program/86932791007
Civil rights probes at Pa. schools appear to lag after federal cuts (USA Today Network)
ARTS & READS
Art House Second Saturday—New Year Saturday, January 10, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. "We'll welcome the New Year with make and take clay art projects ... a free workshop for creative folks of all ages, although donations are always appreciated. Registration is required"
Art House Second Saturday—New Year Saturday, January 10, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. "We'll welcome the New Year with make and take clay art projects ... a free workshop for creative folks of all ages, although donations are always appreciated. Registration is required"
Healing Art of Poetry Workshops By ECDA Regional Recovery Hub 7 W 10th St, Erie PA 18+ Multiple dates "A creative and inspiring series designed for those in Recovery to nurture healing, connection, and community through the power of words."
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/healing-art-of-poetry-workshops-tickets-1975195650361?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse
Design And Social Justice: Lecture And Workshop With Shelle Barron February 7, 2026 from 1 PM to 4 PM Erie Art Museum, lecture & workshop, sliding scale, register online, materials included. https://www.erieartmuseum.org/design-lecture
Single Voice Reading Series - Christopher Bakken Allegheny College, Tippie Alumni Center/Cochran Hall 520 N. Main St., Meadville, PAinfo cbakken@allegheny.edu Feb 19
Living Voices schedule at Robert H Jackson Cemter "Using historical perspectives based on real people and events, Living Voices combines live performance with audio/video, visual aids, and discussion."
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/healing-art-of-poetry-workshops-tickets-1975195650361?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse
Design And Social Justice: Lecture And Workshop With Shelle Barron February 7, 2026 from 1 PM to 4 PM Erie Art Museum, lecture & workshop, sliding scale, register online, materials included. https://www.erieartmuseum.org/design-lecture
Single Voice Reading Series - Christopher Bakken Allegheny College, Tippie Alumni Center/Cochran Hall 520 N. Main St., Meadville, PAinfo cbakken@allegheny.edu Feb 19
Living Voices schedule at Robert H Jackson Cemter "Using historical perspectives based on real people and events, Living Voices combines live performance with audio/video, visual aids, and discussion."
BLACK HISTORY
Wednesday Morning Book Club: The Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison , 1/28 at 11 AM Werner Books 3608 Liberty St, Erie, PA https://www.wernerbooks.com/events-1/wednesday-morning-book-club-31
Digitizing History: A Smithsonian–Buffalo Collaboration (What's Next/WBFO) Dr. Doretha Williams shares an update..." Dr. LaGarrett King on Black History Education
Freedom House: Giving Life a Second Chance, running Jan. 23-Feb. 1, 2026 at New Hazlett Theater on Pittsburgh’s North Side .Against odds and adversity, the Black men of Freedom House saved countless lives while inventing an entirely new field of treatment that changed the world of emergency medicine. Join playwright L.E. McCullough of Prime Stage Theatre
https://carnegiecarnegie.org/event/prime-stage-theatre-presents-the-freedom-house-ambulance-service-putting-local-history-on-the-stage/
Wednesday Morning Book Club: The Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison , 1/28 at 11 AM Werner Books 3608 Liberty St, Erie, PA https://www.wernerbooks.com/events-1/wednesday-morning-book-club-31
Digitizing History: A Smithsonian–Buffalo Collaboration (What's Next/WBFO) Dr. Doretha Williams shares an update..." Dr. LaGarrett King on Black History Education
Freedom House: Giving Life a Second Chance, running Jan. 23-Feb. 1, 2026 at New Hazlett Theater on Pittsburgh’s North Side .Against odds and adversity, the Black men of Freedom House saved countless lives while inventing an entirely new field of treatment that changed the world of emergency medicine. Join playwright L.E. McCullough of Prime Stage Theatre
https://carnegiecarnegie.org/event/prime-stage-theatre-presents-the-freedom-house-ambulance-service-putting-local-history-on-the-stage/
BLASCO
Statement on KOLP Lawsuit
Importantly, the Consent Order provides for additional process and oversight before any County Library real estate is leased or sold in the future.
Statement on KOLP Lawsuit
Importantly, the Consent Order provides for additional process and oversight before any County Library real estate is leased or sold in the future.
"This Order includes an amendment to the lease between Erie County and Gannon for the Blasco
Library space. The initial term has been reduced from 25 years to ten. The ability of Gannon to use
common areas has been rolled back to place Gannon on the same footing as the public.
The Consent Order also includes a Memorandum of Understanding between Gannon and the
County Executive. Under this MOU, Gannon and the County will work collaboratively to enhance
the Erie County Public Library through the collection of data as well as annual membership drives
and library programming. The MOU further provides that Gannon will allow library members access
to the unique resources of its own Nash Library..."
https://keepourlibrarypublic.com/blog/
CHELLO
COMMUNITY
Legacy of Leadership: Remembering James C. Sherrod's Impact on Erie (NEXT:with Marcus Atkinson) " Host Marc Blount leads a solemn and reflective conversation on the recent passing of James C. Sherrod, a pillar of the Erie community and former director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for 18 years. Joined by a guest whose life was directly shaped by Sherrod's mentorship, Mr Kevin Arrington " https://creators.spotify.
Making a Small City Smaller: Mutual Aid and the Ongoing Attack on our Social Safety Net (Dave Tamulonis /Erie Reader) https://www.eriereader.com/
CHELLO
+++
COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY
Legacy of Leadership: Remembering James C. Sherrod's Impact on Erie (NEXT:with Marcus Atkinson) " Host Marc Blount leads a solemn and reflective conversation on the recent passing of James C. Sherrod, a pillar of the Erie community and former director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for 18 years. Joined by a guest whose life was directly shaped by Sherrod's mentorship, Mr Kevin Arrington " https://creators.spotify.
Making a Small City Smaller: Mutual Aid and the Ongoing Attack on our Social Safety Net (Dave Tamulonis /Erie Reader) https://www.eriereader.com/
CRITTERS
https://youtu.be/dZkIW9x9KR8?
DEMOCRACY
EARTH
EARTH
wind power
EARTH
DCNR asking public for input on Presque Isle, Erie Bluffs master plan (Erie Times News)
EARTH
2026 Our Woods and Waters Film SeriesVia ZOOM
Jan 16, 2026 06:30 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Description
Gather on a winter's night for community and great films! This event is free and open to the public. Grab a snack, your family, and a comfy seat. We will begin at 6:30pm. These films are brought to you in partnership by French Creek Valley Conservancy and the Foundation for Sustainable Forests. The 2026 Film Series is sponsored by Northwestern Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
https://us06web.zoom.us/
Gather on a winter's night for a great selection of short films! Bring your family and friends - all are welcome! There will be a variety of short films with some Q&A discussion in between. Light refreshments will be provided. This in-person screening will be held in the banquet hall of VFW Post 740, 10613 PA Route 98, Edinboro, PA on Friday, February 20th at 6:30 pm.
https://docs.google.com/forms/
The Political Operatives Who Powered Mamdani’s And Fetterman’s Campaigns Are Trying To Win Back House Seats In PA.
“FIGHT, a Pennsylvania-based consulting firm, secured big wins in November from Erie to New York City. Now they’re targeting two Pa. congressional races.” | Philadelphia Inquirer
https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2025/11/pennsylvania-tied-elections-casting-lots-marbles-elections/
Fraud case sheds light on drawbacks to Pa.’s poll worker election system Spotlight PA)
https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2025/12/election-fraud-case-scranton-lackawanna-poll-worker-elections/
Democratic defectors switch parties, help Pa. Republicans gain voter registration ground
https://www.goerie.com/story/news/politics/elections/state/2025/09/11/pa-republicans-closing-democrats-voter-registration-advantage/85856276007/?gnt-cfr=1&gca-cat=p&gca-uir=true&gca-epti=z115513p000150c000150d00----v115513d--64--b--64--&gca-ft=163&gca-ds=sophi
https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2025/11/pennsylvania-tied-elections-casting-lots-marbles-elections/
Fraud case sheds light on drawbacks to Pa.’s poll worker election system Spotlight PA)
https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2025/12/election-fraud-case-scranton-lackawanna-poll-worker-elections/
Democratic defectors switch parties, help Pa. Republicans gain voter registration ground
https://www.goerie.com/story/news/politics/elections/state/2025/09/11/pa-republicans-closing-democrats-voter-registration-advantage/85856276007/?gnt-cfr=1&gca-cat=p&gca-uir=true&gca-epti=z115513p000150c000150d00----v115513d--64--b--64--&gca-ft=163&gca-ds=sophi
Crawford County United wins
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1247118550779438&set=a.217617850396185
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1247118550779438&set=a.217617850396185
FOOD
Erie Food Policy Advisory Council newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/7d9ed4c33601/november-newsletter-17660541
https://mailchi.mp/7d9ed4c33601/november-newsletter-17660541
FOOD
Feeding Our Community: Local Farms & Food Access with Linnea Haskin (My CHQ Podcast) "Linnea Haskin of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County to explore how CCE is strengthening our local food system and increasing access to healthy, affordable food for families across the region." https://podcasts.
Community, Compassion, and Care: Talking with Culture Care’s Zac Hnatyszyn (My CHQ Podcast)Feeding Our Community: Local Farms & Food Access with Linnea Haskin (My CHQ Podcast) "Linnea Haskin of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County to explore how CCE is strengthening our local food system and increasing access to healthy, affordable food for families across the region." https://podcasts.
Dr. Roché Vermaak, Executive Director of the Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity joins us to share about Build 81.
HEALTHhttps://talkerie.com/2025/11/
Maps show how poverty affects people's health. Erie County works on solutions
https://www.goerie.com/story/news/healthcare/2025/12/15/erie-county-poverty-health-issues-solutions-mheds-saint-vincent/87229999007/?gnt-cfr=1&gca-cat=p&gca-uir=true&gca-epti=z114715p004650c004650d00----v114715d--49--b--49--&gca-ft=21&gca-ds=sophi&tbref=hp
https://www.goerie.com/videos/news/healthcare/2025/12/15/erie-county-poverty-health-department-official-explains/87736910007/
https://www.goerie.com/videos/news/healthcare/2025/12/15/erie-county-poverty-health-department-official-explains/87736910007/
Governor Hochul Reaches Agreement With State Legislature to Pass Medical Aid in Dying Act in New York
https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-reaches-agreement-state-legislature-pass-medical-aid-dying-act-new-york This comes after careful reflection and deliberation with the bill’s sponsors, advocacy organizations, and most importantly, everyday New Yorkers who shared personal experiences with the Governor. The bill, with the agreed-upon amendments, will be passed and signed in January, and the law will go into effect six months later.
home
Bizzarro announces state grant to address housing affordability More than $70,000 invested in Erie County housing plan https://www.pahouse.com/
| https://www.pahouse.com/ |
Erie Times-News
... Erie City Council on Dec. 9. Portrait of Kevin Flowers Kevin Flowers. Erie Times-News. Dec. 15, 2025, 4:37 a.m. ET. AI-assisted summary. The city of
HOME
Housing Needs Study Session (City of Erie) https://youtu.be/2AKX_fLRT0g?
HOME
Homeless Memorial Day 2025
https://www.yourerie.com/video
IMMIGRANTS
WNY
New Neighbors Coalition, Journey’s End Sign Agreement To Continue Refugee Serviceshttps://www.wrfalp.com/new-neighbors-coalition-journeys-end-sign-agreement-to-continue-refugee-services/
Erie PA
Community Witnesses for Immigrants and Refugees.” Monthly weekly gatherings on second Fridays at 12:15 at Federal Courthouse with area churches and
organizations.: usccb.org/cabrinipledge
Community Witness for Immigrants, Migrants & Refugees Jan 9th 12:15pm Perry Square Near Fed Courthouse (17 S. Park Row, Erie, PA)organizations.: usccb.org/cabrinipledge
IMMIGRATION
January 7th, join French Creek Indivisible for a conversation on “Immigration Basics”. The program begins at 7 p.m. in Edinboro Council Chambers located in the Edinboro Borough Building (124 Meadville St., Edinboro) and will feature a representative from the ACLU. This program will begin with a brief review of immigration as a public safety issue over the past decades, culminating with current views, trends and especially federal policies and practices. Information presented will include various community responses in light of Civil Law, Constitutional Rule and Human Rights. There will be ample time for questions and sharing. FrenchCreekIndivisible@gmail.https://www.wesa.fm/courts-
https://theconversation.com/
Planned MHEDS facility for Erie's immigrants, underserved gets funding boost The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development's ... Erie's refugees, immigrants. The East Side Renaissance is currently ...
Erie Habitat for Humanity responds to ‘vitriol’ surrounding latest project (YourErie)
PA
Nuns, sisters bring ‘moral authority … in spades’ to anti-ICE actions (Public Source) "The Sisters of St. Joseph, Pax Christi and Casa San Jose have been hosting prayer vigils outside Pittsburgh’s ICE facility every Friday morning since August. They invited religious leaders from different faiths across the city, and plan to continue their weekly demonstrations for as long as they can."
PA immigration news in PennCapital Star Stories from around the state
INDIGENOUS
Hopewell
https://youtu.be/I0BX1ZSFyVI?si=8cUQCIjh1mlOQFkm
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/long-overlooked-marvel-of-ancient-indigenous-engineering-gets-validation-in-ohiohttps://www.oneidaindiannation.com/inspiring-women's-rights-haudenosaunee-life-stimulates-historical-movement/
JUSTICE
Nuremberg - Film Screening & Author Conversation Jan 30, 2026 Reg Lenna Center for the Arts 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM 116 East 3rd StreetJamestown, NYFilm followed by a live conversation with Jack El-Hai, author of "The Nazi and the Psychiatrist" https://reglenna.com/events/movies-the-reg-nuremberg
https://www.goerie.com/story/
LGBTQ+
Hidden Voices: The Unheard Struggle of Students ( Jefferson Ed. SOciety) "JES Raimy Fellows Katie Phillips and Jacob Jones will delve into the escalating challenges confronting public school students in Erie County, Pennsylvania, grappling mental health issues."
LGBTQ+
MLK
15th Annual Dr. King Awards Dinner January 17, 2026 Ambassador Hotel & Conference Center 7794 Peach St. Erie, PA Theme is Injustice Anywhere Is A Threat To Justice Everywhere with guest speaker nationally recognized civil rights attorney, Benjamin Crump. Dinner will begin at 6:00 p.m. Info: Martin Luther King Center at 814.459.2761 or www.mlkcentererie.org.
SCHOOL
ESD Strategic Plan 2025=2030 https://www.eriesd.
PAa Supreme Court Rules That School Board Members’ Social Media Posts Are Not “Records” Under the Right-to-Know Law ( Tucker Arensberg, P.C.)
Chill rooms
This Chill Room is one of 50 in K-12 schools across Allegheny, Washington, Bedford and Erie counties The program sets up calming spaces in participating schools that evoke natural environments...Hidden Voices: The Unheard Struggle of Students ( Jefferson Ed. SOciety) "JES Raimy Fellows Katie Phillips and Jacob Jones will delve into the escalating challenges confronting public school students in Erie County, Pennsylvania, grappling mental health issues."
Erie Center for Arts and Technology Teen program
https://www.goerie.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2025/11/11/erie-center-for-arts-and-technology-teen-program/86932791007
SPIRIT
Jesus as a Resistance Fighter Guest Speaker: Marcus Atkinson January 11, 2026 @ 10:30 am - 11:30 am Unitarian Universalist Coongregation of Erie 7180 Perry Hwy, Erie PA This talk reexamines Jesus not simply as a spiritual teacher, but as a courageous social justice leader who disrupted systems of inequality and lifted the most marginalized. Grounded in both scripture and historical scholarship, the presentation invites us to consider how his radical vision of justice, dignity, and community can inspire our work today. https://uuerie.org/event/jesus-as-a-resistance-fighter/
https://www.goerie.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2025/11/11/erie-center-for-arts-and-technology-teen-program/86932791007
SPIRIT
Jesus as a Resistance Fighter Guest Speaker: Marcus Atkinson January 11, 2026 @ 10:30 am - 11:30 am Unitarian Universalist Coongregation of Erie 7180 Perry Hwy, Erie PA This talk reexamines Jesus not simply as a spiritual teacher, but as a courageous social justice leader who disrupted systems of inequality and lifted the most marginalized. Grounded in both scripture and historical scholarship, the presentation invites us to consider how his radical vision of justice, dignity, and community can inspire our work today. https://uuerie.org/event/jesus-as-a-resistance-fighter/
https://youtu.be/pbFnhmhryFk?si=sEYmSKk91m8niu9_ Religion and Reform in the "Burned Over District" Buffalo Toronto Public Media https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKxEOmAZCd8
WOMEN
Abortion Policy Judge blocks Planned Parenthood ‘defund’ provision for Pa., 21 states and DC
Pennsylvania and the other states, along with the District of Columbia, sued the federal government in July.https://penncapital-star.
Pennsylvania and the other states, along with the District of Columbia, sued the federal government in July.https://penncapital-star.
Crown Act
https://pittsburghlaborhistorytrail.org/historic-locations/WORK
Pgh Post-Gazette journalists declare victory and return to work after three years on strike, (Public Source) https://www.publicsource.org/
Dozens of cities, states hiking minimum wages in 2026 amid federal inaction (but not in Pa.) capital star) https://penncapital-star.com/
House Bill 274, amending the Unemployment Compensation Law to make it easier for victims of domestic violence to receive unemployment benefits
It's (A) "Low- and moderate-income workers." Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit
Via Spotlight PA: The Shapiro administration estimates that around 940,000 people will qualify for the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit next tax season. ETC
Via Spotlight PA: The Shapiro administration estimates that around 940,000 people will qualify for the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit next tax season. ETC
MISC
How Billionaires Broke Bills' most loyal fans (More Perfect Union)
Do We Still Believe in Free Speech January 9, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Robert H Jackson Cemter Jamestown NY. Featured speaker Aaron Saykin, leads the Media and First Amendment Practice at Hodgson Russ LLP in Buffalo, where he advises clients on defamation, free speech, and access-to-information issues under New York’s Open Meetings and Freedom of Information Laws.
https://www.roberthjackson.org/event/25-years-speech/
Erie's Year in Review 2025animal shelters in ny
https://youtu.be/INUGg6g3lLA?
https://www.roberthjackson.org/event/25-years-speech/
New Laws taking effect in Pa
Erie's Year in Review 2025
https://www.eriereader.com/
https://youtu.be/INUGg6g3lLA?
Faces of Erie project dissolved (Reddit)
https://www.reddit.com/r/Erie/comments/1p2hc90/faces_of_erie_inc_dissolved_full_irs_990_filing/
https://www.reddit.com/r/Erie/comments/1p2hc90/faces_of_erie_inc_dissolved_full_irs_990_filing/
Jan 7 - Immigration Basics presented by French Creek Indivisible Wednesday, January 7, 2026 from 7 PM to 9 PM Edinboro Boro Hall, 124 Meadville St., Edinboro, PA 16412 Review of Immigration policies, legal information. This program will begin with a brief review of immigration as a public safety issue over the past decades, culminating with current views, trends, and especially federal policies and practices. Information presented will include various community responses in light of Civil Law, Constitutional Rule and Human Rights. For more information, please visit http://FrenchCreekIndivisible@gmail.com
Jan 9 & 2nd Fridays - Immigration Vigil Friday, January 9, 12:15 - 12:45 p.m.Join us at Perry Square directly across from and facing the Federal Courthouse for this 30-minute vigil. NETWORK's Erie Chapter and Benedictines for Peace invite you to take part in this gathering: "You Are Not Alone" Community Witness for Immigrants, Migrants, and Refugees. We will gather on the second Friday each month for this vigil. Info: Mary Nelson at 814-746-6783.
Planned MHEDS facility for Erie's immigrants, underserved gets funding boost The PA Department of Community and Economic Development's ... Erie's refugees, immigrants. The East Side Renaissance is currently ...
Erie Habitat for Humanity responds to ‘vitriol’ surrounding latest project (YourErie)
Pennsylvania
Nuns, sisters bring ‘moral authority … in spades’ to anti-ICE actions (Public Source) "The Sisters of St. Joseph, Pax Christi and Casa San Jose have been hosting prayer vigils outside Pittsburgh’s ICE facility every Friday morning since August. They invited religious leaders from different faiths across the city, and plan to continue their weekly demonstrations for as long as they can."
PA immigration news in PennCapital Star Stories from around the state
WNY
Refugees, Families, and the Power of Support (WBFO) Exploring two ways WNY communities are responding to need and opportunity.JUSTICE
DOJ upends civil rights unit, why that matters to us all | Opinion Signed by Kyle Stock, of Erie, a former trial attorney in the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, and 200 other former employees of the division. This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News:
MLK
15th Annual Dr. King Awards Dinner January 17, 2026 Ambassador Hotel & Conference Center 7794 Peach St. Erie, PA Theme is Injustice Anywhere Is A Threat To Justice Everywhere with guest speaker nationally recognized civil rights attorney, Benjamin Crump. Dinner will begin at 6:00 p.m. Info: Martin Luther King Center at 814.459.2761 or www.mlkcentererie.org.Jan 19 - Annual Martin Luther King Day March Perry Square Erie PA Begin assembling at around 11am Step off at noon.
MeadvilleJan 19 - The Martin King Luther Jr. Scholarship Fund celebration returns on Jan. 19 for its third year. Panel discussion. Service opportunities begin at 8:45 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. at the Allegheny College Lawrence Lee Pelletier Library. Noon to 2 p.m., at Schultz Banquet Hall, 549 Park Ave.,Luncheon with music, readings and a panel discussion. Concludes with tradition of Rev. Marvin Burnett’s rendition of the “I Have a Dream” speech by King Jr. Tickets for the luncheon will be $15 and can be purchased at Family Community and Children Association, 378 Chestnut St., Meadville.
Jan 19 - https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/mlk-jr-scholarship-fund-announces-144700244.html
AP Wire
‘Some kids don’t really have anyone to talk to or trust.’ Chill rooms fill that gap (Public Source) "This Chill Room is one of 50 in K-12 schools across Allegheny, Washington, Bedford and Erie counties The program sets up calming spaces in participating schools that evoke natural environments..."
Hidden Voices: The Unheard Struggle of Students ( Jefferson Ed. SOciety) "JES Raimy Fellows Katie Phillips and Jacob Jones will delve into the escalating challenges confronting public school students in Erie County, Pennsylvania, grappling mental health issues."
Erie Center for Arts and Technology Teen program
https://www.goerie.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2025/11/11/erie-center-for-arts-and-technology-teen-program/86932791007
Erie Center for Arts and Technology Teen program
https://www.goerie.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2025/11/11/erie-center-for-arts-and-technology-teen-program/86932791007
Civil rights probes at Pa. schools appear to lag after federal cuts (USA Today Network)
