JULY

https://www.reddit.com/r/Erie/comments/1lbd4ic/erie_turned_up_today/ 

PHOTO++

ARTS

AmeriMasala Creative Workshops for Teens and Adults AT at Erie Art Museum June 30 -July 3, 9 am – 3 pm, and/or July 7th -July 11th from 9 am – 2 pm. With a lunch break. Each registration fee only covers 1 week of workshop. Led by Niecey Nicole https://www.erieartmuseum.org/amerimasala-workshops

Radium Girls Jul 18 - August 3 PACA Theatre 1505 State St Erie PA Directed by: Char Newport Asst Director: Zachery Hoffman Stage Mgr: Kenna Stevens Featuring: Karen Biebel, Sam Comfort, Bella Fried, Ava Gardner, Michael Harper, Michael Jeffrey, Eric Learn, Kristina Peczel, Hannah Richardson, Luke Scribner

AmeriMasala Festival July 19 Perry Square Erie PA.11am. Parade at 12 noon " The AmeriMasala is movement that presents multi-disciplinary, multi-cultural arts events to promote cross cultural respect and value of all peoples. "

July 29-Aug 1 Blackstar Festival Philadelphia "Celebration of Black Brown and Indigenous filmmaking" In-person and virtual.

Benevolent Beers: PACA July 31 5:00-8:00 pm Erie Ale Works 416 W. 12th St. Erie, PA "Join the Staff and Board of PACA for good beer and community. Every purchase between 5PM-8PM will count toward a donation to PACA. We will be hosting a fun basket raffle, 50/50 and merch sale too!"

Chautauqua Institute events of possible interest: Lewis Black July 2 Kwame Alexander & LeVar Burton August 4 @ 10:45am Mary Chapin Carpenter and Brandy Clark Aug 8 Bonnie Raitt September 5 Also Execution of Justice July 17-25 2025 presented by CTC.

Erie Blues & Jazz Fest  Aug 2-4 at Frontier Park, Erie PA https://www.eriebluesandjazz.com/

Graham Nash in concert Aug 6 Asbury Hall, Buffalo NY

Jon Stewart at National Comedy Center Jamestown NY August 9

Ani DiFranco August 31 Outer Harbor 225 Fuhrmann Blvd Buffalo, NY -

The Haudenosaunee Micro-Short Film Program 2025 September 6 from 1- 3:00 p.m. at the Burchfield Penney Art Center in Buffalo, NY "short films created by Haudenosaunee filmmakers from all over Turtle Island followed by a live filmmaker panel discussion and audience Q&A."

Buffalo Film Festival Oct 9-16 https://www.buffalofilm.org/

DofD Film Festival DofD Film Festival June 20-22 2025. https://sites.google.com/view/dofdfilmfestival2025/finalists

COMMUNITY
East Side Renaissance Guests Marcus Atkinson and Matt Harris from the East Side Renaissance,
https://talkerie.com/2025/06/05/east-side-renaissance/

EMTA interview
https://talkerie.com/2025/06/03/erie-metropolitan-transit-authority/




DEMOCRACY

September 19 Constitution Day 2025 Featuring Dr. Lindsey Cormack, author of How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It’s Up to You to Do It) 10:00 am - 11:00 am at Robert H Jackson Center 305 E. Fourth St. Jamestown, NY It’s Up to You to Do It) Free, public. https://www.roberthjackson.org/event/constitution-day-2025/

https://www.reddit.com/r/Erie/comments/1lbd4ic/erie_turned_up_today/

DIVERSITY
How Diverse Erie is building an Erie where all have a seat at the table | Opinion Gary Lee/Erie Times-News)
https://www.goerie.com/story/opinion/columns/2025/06/15/investing-in-diversity-in-erie-is-showing-real-returns-opinion/84114291007/?tbref=hp
Crafting Erie’s Inclusive Future 07/21/2025 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM ET Free admission Free - Event Admission $5.00 - Event Admission + Vegetarian Lunch $5.00 - Event Admission + Lunch Jefferson Educational Society 3207 STATE ST ERIE, PA 16508-2821
https://www.jeserie.org/events/details/crafting-eries-inclusive-future

Erie’s Embattled DEI Troubles Make National News
May 16, 2025

"Erie’s recent DEI battles between its county government, county council, mayor, and black and brown community made national headlines via The Washington Post...We’re joined by former Erie County Council President Carl Anderson, who was sitting at the epicenter of this fact at the time. "
EARTH
Erie coke to enter plea +++


https://www.goerie.com/story/news/local/2025/06/11/vacant-basf-site-contamination-found-east-erie-pa/84067568007/

Three Reasons Why Planting Native is So Important
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?tab=rm&ogbl#inbox/FMfcgzQbfLZHbLgkWJtNfpKgtvrXpQCQ?compose=GTvVlcSGLdhVHbThCzwnMcHHXVJKDLRWFNvkpwSbktBljvBQmkpqLlQdPLpJltRVJPNxPjPrZfDWW

ELECTIONS

(Listen) One on One with Rock Copeland (NEXT with Marcus Atkinson) " Marcus Atkinson sits down with County Councilman Rock Copeland to discuss the Democratic party's endorsement of Daria Devlin for Mayor of Erie, challenging incumbent Mayor Joe Schember. " https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/next-with-marcus/episodes/One-on-One-with-Rock-Copeland-e33irqt

(Listen) Primary Reflections: Erie County Votes and What Comes Next (NEXT with Marcus Atkinson) " co-hosts Marcus Atkinson and Marc Blount are joined by intern Aaron Cronin to unpack the recent Erie County primary elections." https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/next-with-marcus/episodes/Primary-Reflections-Erie-County-Votes-and-What-Comes-Next-e33923l

PA poll worker shortage (Spotlight PA) https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2025/05/pennsylvania-poll-worker-shortage-election-crisis/
Erie County Council moves to halt unapproved spending by Davis. (A.J. Rao/Erie Times-News- https://www.yahoo.com/news/erie-county-council-moves-halt-091232817.html


Demstock August 15-16, 2025 Jefferson Co Fairgrounds Brookville PA
https://demstock.net/



FOOD
New urban farm boosts Erie’s well-being | Opinion (Liz Allen ETN_
https://www.goerie.com/story/opinion/columns/2025/05/23/erie-community-gardens-an-answer-to-possible-federal-cuts-to-snap-food-pantries-schools-opinion/83722451007/?tbref=hp

International Markets in central PA hit hard by tariffs (PennLive)
https://www.pennlive.com/food/2025/05/international-markets-in-central-pa-hit-hard-by-trump-tariffs.html


Blues for Shoes Breeze Band mid august

Second Harvest food locator https://nwpafoodbank.org/need-help/agency-locator/

Grow Erie facility produces lettuce and herbs in Savocchio Park. It also makes a statement (Jim Martin/Erie Times-News)
https://www.goerie.com/story/news/local/2025/05/27/grow-erie-greenhouse-represents-5-6-million-investment-community-erie-pa/83631331007/

Bethany Outreach team will provide people in need with free food and free clothing Wednesdays 9am to 11am. Address: 204 West 11th Street. Erie.mabel@bethanyoutreachcenter.org
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1023666173285360&set=a.407234431595207

https://www.goerie.com/story/news/2025/06/10/heres-why-pa-is-suing-the-usda-and-whats-at-stake-for-state-farms/84128152007/?tbref=hp
safer streets
https://www.goerie.com/story/news/local/2025/06/05/erie-safe-streets-for-all-plan-advances/84027135007/
https://www.eriewater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2024-Erie-Water-Quality-Report-FINAL.pdf


ISO: Gardening + Cookbooks for Little Free Library
Our Little Free Library could use a replenishment. If you have gardening or cookbooks that are gathering more dust than bookmarks, bring them in and we'll help rehome them. :)
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgzQbffXsTbZszCtdvTpbHhZvlGbW


HOME

Erie County United Housing Town Hall (alana Sabol/ER) Discussions on affordable and accessible housing in Erie
https://www.eriereader.com/article/erie-county-united-housing-town-hall

Erie County to receive $433,000 for housing immigration detainees, sparking public debate A.J. RaoErie Times-News
https://www.goerie.com/story/news/local/2025/05/30/holding-ice-detainees-could-earn-erie-county-federal-funds/83939499007/
Blessing Boxes/lettle free pantries



INDIGENOUS
Kathy Hochul Apology to the Seneca Nation (Ganondagan) “The Apology” MAY 20, 2025 "Cattaraugus Territory of the Seneca Nation of Indians Governor Hochul Visits Seneca Nation and Issues Formal Apology for New York State’s Role in Operating Thomas Indian School. New York State is home to the Thomas Indian School, located on the Seneca Nation Cattaraugus Indian Reservation in Irving, NY. This school operated from 1855 until 1957 This video is Dedicated to the Survivors and Former Students of the Thomas Indian School. We appreciate your Strength, Courage and Resiliency. Through your Strength and Leadership we can all begin to heal."
https://youtu.be/1ZrgAJ3a1GM?si=OSCi-d6Ci8LUasIS


IMMIGRANTS


Proposed ICE facilty in Erie



Erie County Council rejects use of ICE detention funds for prison budget. Here's why
A.J. Rao Erie Times-News https://www.goerie.com/story/news/local/2025/06/04/erie-county-council-nixes-plan-ice-funds-immigration-detainees-prison-budget/84022425007/

Public and council comments+council vote about detainee facility at Erie Co Council mtg 1-3-2025 https://www.facebook.com/events/1180670873807549/?acontext=%7B%22action_history%22%3A%22null%22%7D&ref_source=newsfeed&ref_mechanism=feed_attachment


++COMMENTS JUNE 17


Attacks on immigrants put Erie's revival in danger (Capital and Main)
https://capitalandmain.com/attacks-on-immigrants-put-eries-revival-in-danger


https://www.fastcompany.com/91353173/erie-pennsylvanias-immigrants-fueled-a-revival-its-now-in-danger-of-going-backwards
Erie County Democrats hold town hall on immigration https://www.erienewsnow.com/story/52813576/erie-county-democrats-host-immigration-town-hall

https://www.investigativepost.org/2025/04/03/lawmakers-demand-answers-on-border-detentions/
buffalo


INDIGENOUSKathy Hochul Apology to the Seneca Nation (Ganondagan) “The Apology” May 20, 2025 "Cattaraugus Territory of the Seneca Nation of Indians Governor Hochul Visits Seneca Nation and Issues Formal Apology for New York State’s Role in Operating Thomas Indian School...This video is Dedicated to the Survivors and Former Students of the Thomas Indian School. We appreciate your Strength, Courage and Resiliency. Through your Strength and Leadership we can all begin to heal."

https://youtu.be/1ZrgAJ3a1GM?si=OSCi-d6Ci8LUasIS

JUSTICE
Dr. Kristy Gnibus named new director of ECHRC(JET24 FOX66)
https://youtu.be/ho-_lqYtOwQ?si=0sPcSuXfsc1XqXgO
Gnibus explains HRC
https://www.goerie.com/story/opinion/letters/2025/06/17/readers-share-views-on-blessed-sacrament-the-erie-county-human-relations-commission-letters/84225296007/?tbref=hp

Pa.’s police misconduct database remains full of loopholes
https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2025/05/george-floyd-police-murder-pennsylvania-reform-database/

July 8 - July 11 Educator Retreat: Justice and Humanity Join us for a powerful, four-day immersive retreat that explores the historic and enduring legacy of the Nuremberg Trials. At Robert H Jackson Center 305 E. Fourth St. Jamestown, NY https://www.roberthjackson.org/event/educator-retreat-justice-and-humanity/

July 9 Designing Justice: The New Tribunal for Ukraine and Beyond @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Virtual Program, free, public, registration required. Host: Robert H Jackson Center "As Russia’s war against Ukraine challenges global norms, a new legal effort emerges: the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression" https://www.roberthjackson.org/event/designing-justice-the-new-tribunal-for-ukraine-and-beyond/

August 11 - Robert H. Jackson Lecture on the Supreme Court of the United States 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm Hall of Philosophy Chautauqua Institution, Professor Kim Lane Scheppele the featured speaker. Attending the lecture is free, but you must purchase a gate pass from Chautauqua Institution to access the grounds. https://www.roberthjackson.org/event/21st-annual-robert-h-jackson-lecture-on-the-supreme-court-of-the-united-states/
\People with mental illness can languish in jail. This Pa. county thinks a new mobile clinic can help.*Spotlight PA)
https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2025/05/mental-health-clinic-competency-allegheny/

LGBT
Tale of the GLBT Float in Erie's Bicentennial Parade 1995 In 1995, Erie celebrated its Bicentennial. The Bicentennial Commission approved a float from Erie's gay community, to be included in the Bicentennial Parade which would be held on Saturday May 27. The inclusion was fairly progressive for the time, and did include some controversy, concern, and from certain quarters, open hostility,
Late Thursday, May 25th, the float was heavily vandalized. With 36 hours before the parade, a group of supporters gathered to repair the float, ensuring its conclusion in the Bicentennial Parade. Greg Valiga wrote a wonderful account of the float story, from idea to surprising victory. The account also gives the reader a great feel for that particular moment in time. Greg was one of the organizers of the float and at the time was involved with the League of Gay and Lesbian Voters. This article appeared in the June 1995 issue of Erie Gay Community Newsletter. Also included a float photo gallery. https://www.nwpapride.org/pride-news/glbt-float-in-1995-erie-bicentennial-parade


lgbt
upmc
transfamily
365

LGBTQ
Organizer: Feds Deny Erie VA's Pride Request https://youtu.be/r2Pq83sN7Tk?si=j81ct73dexruy7j3 si=uzGrtjFpkhJEQRy_



NWPA Pride Picnic Saturday, August 16, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm Presque Isle State Park - Rotary Pavilion
LGBT
Jul 12 - TransFamily of NWPA Summer Picnic (Presque Isle State Park - Beach 11 Pavilion, Erie, PA) 12 PM - 5 PM. "We provide drinks, hot dogs, hamburgers, and vegan options. Bring your favorite dish to share! Contact us if you have any questions!" https://www.facebook.com/events/1388817129055470.

Jul 17 - Queer Open Mic Compton's Table, 3104 State St, Erie, PA . 6 PM - 10 PM. All Queer performers welcome. Suggested donation of $5 payable at event or by online donation at comptonstable.org. Contact: Gwen Elaine. Phone: (814) 580-8185.


Jul 18 - Coffee Social for LGBTQ+ Veterans 10 AM. "Coffee social for LGBTQ+ veterans at the Erie VA Veteran Canteen, located in the Erie VA basement at 135 E 38th St., Erie, PA. Times are subject to change based on availability. Info: Brittany Miklos at 814-844-5944. Open to all LGBTQ+ Veterans in all counties served by the Erie VA.

Aug 9 - 365 Block Party Perry Square Noon. Event by Erie Pride 365, Erie's Black Wall Street and Dalen Michael "Committed to championing the rights and well-being of Black, Brown, & LGBTQIA+ individuals, 365 days a year."
Queer Art Rising https://www.eriereader.com/article/queer-art-rising (Julia Carden/Erie Reader)

Aging With Pride: Erie's Queer Senior Social Club https://www.eriereader.com/article/aging-with-pride-eries-queer-senior-social-club

What Sanctuary Really Means (Dr Tyler Titus/Erie Reader) https://www.eriereader.com/article/what-sanctuary-really-means


SCHOOL

This student was told he could walk the baby, at first. But when it came time, they changed their mind and said it was a hazard. The man decided to run up! The police were already on the scene for the security of the event. Instead of making a bigger scene, the officers decided to let it go due to the cheers being received.

https://youtu.be/xQLe-yRpx8A?si=VkNQgEEbnBctPBiv

School Suspension & the School to Prison Pipeline WNY Peace Center
https://youtu.be/rdYvsET6QHo?si=EiT3ZE6PwDj6m5xS


Breaking the Cycle: Rethinking School Suspensions in Buffalo (WBFO)
https://www.btpm.org/2025-05-27/breaking-the-cycle-rethinking-school-suspensions-in-buffalo


https://www.erienewsnow.com/story/52822753/report-shortage-of-teachers-in-pennsylvania

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9woirpBAN_Q
DEI in PA schools
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?tab=rm&ogbl#inbox/FMfcgzQbfLdjgsXRqwhzPhjqbnLgBlbV

The Truth About Executive Orders and Lawful DEI in PA Schools and Colleges", where we respond to some of the many questions we've heard from our schools and parents about recent federal executive actions. This viewing will be followed by a live Q&A with ACLU-PA speakers: Harold Jordan, nationwide education equity coordinator
Kirsten Hanlon, fellowship attorney, standard public interest

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?tab=rm&ogbl#inbox/FMfcgzQbfLdjgsXRqwhzPhjqbnLgBlbV


WORK


Spurred by Job Corps loss, Allegheny County forms team to respond to Trump admin cut
https://www.wesa.fm/politics-government/2025-06-05/allegheny-county-task-force-trump-cuts-job-corps?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=GOP%20leader%20won%20t%20consider%20energy%20bills%20-%20for%20now&utm_campaign=PA%20Post%2006%2009%2025



ETC
TRANSIT
Pittsburgh dedicated bus lanes
https://www.unionprogress.com/2025/05/19/seeing-red-crews-begin-painting-exclusive-bus-lanes-in-downtown-pittsburgh-on-monday/
rom Erie Times News
INVITATION FOR BIDS
AND PROPOSALS
The Housing Authority of the City of Erie will receive sealed bids/proposals for the following:
Workers Compensation Insurance for the Employees of the Housing Authority of the City of Erie
Request for Proposals for a Project Based Voucher Program to serve the chronically homeless.
Sealed bids/proposals will be received until 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at the Authority's Administration Office, 606 Holland St., Erie, PA 16501, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.
Bid documents may be obtained at the Housing Authority office, 606 Holland St., 814-452-2425 or downloaded at www.hace.org, click on Invitation to Bid. Pre-bid meetings are listed under Specifications.
The Authority reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any informality in bidding. All communications and inquiries shall be directed to Dusti Dennis, Executive Director, at Dennisd@hace.org.
The Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Agenc


Guy from allegheny
ETC
ER Juneteenth celebrations
https://www.eriereader.com/article/eries-juneteenth-celebrations
ER Juneteenth celebrations
https://www.eriereader.com/article/eries-juneteenth-celebrations
LIBRARY
The Local Impact of Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services Cuts ER https://www.eriereader.com/article/the-local-impact-of-federal-institute-of-museum-and-library-services-cuts

https://www.goerie.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2025/06/15/juneteenth-erie-pa-perry-square/84214601007/


ARTS
BIKE
COMMUNITY
DEMOCRACY
EARTH
ELECTIONS
FOOD
HOME
IMMIGRANTS
JUSTICE
lgbtq
SCHOOL
SPIRIT
WOMEN
WORK
ETC









NO DATE
Black History Month 2020 - The Butler Institute of American Art: Bill Dotson https://youtu.be/-98SlT1-ddc?si=yWtNlpdKoGujtXc9



Cat Tales Banned Book Club: Nineteen Eighty-Four Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 5:30 PM purrista cat cafe
Share:






Erie County to receive $433,000 for housing immigration detainees, sparking public debate A.J. RaoErie Times-News
https://www.goerie.com/story/news/local/2025/05/30/holding-ice-detainees-could-earn-erie-county-federal-funds/83939499007/







american idiot paca


https://www.wxxinews.org/local-news/2025-06-04/he-survived-the-thomas-indian-school-now-85-his-story-is-to-join-hundreds-in-library-of-congress




NWPA Pride Picnic Saturday, August 16, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm Presque Isle State Park - Rotary Pavilion




https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?tab=rm&ogbl#inbox/FMfcgzQbfffgBqdFrDtmGHMsqfBZTTlc

https://www.reddit.com/r/Erie/comments/1lbd4ic/erie_turned_up_today/

MAY

BIKE
May- is Bike- Month 
Erie Bike Coop articles YourErie 4/16   Erie Reader (-Erin Phillips - 4/11)

Lake Erie Cyclefest July 24-27"Cyclists of all ages and abilities will participate in self-supported rides on routes that feature Erie’s vast terrain...Proceeds from 2025 rides will benefit Asbury Woods, Because You Care Inc., Bike Erie, Erie Downtown Partnership, Northern Allegheny Mountain Bike Association and the Presque Isle Partnership."

Rideshares and Rentals

Jeremy Peterson announced that EMTA has been meeting with local bike advocates to set up a bike rideshare program (announced at EMTA April 2005 board meeting 4/28/2025) EMTA also has bike racks on their fixed route buses.

CATA has a bikeshare program for Meadville, Lake Wilhelm and Conneaut Lake 

Yellow Bike Rental at Presque Isle 

Chautauqua Bike Rent 

ARTS & READS

Mother Earth Day at Poetry Park, May 17 from 2-3 p.m. at 636 East 22nd St. in Erie. Poetry Park was a vision of Erie Benedictine Sister Mary Lou Kownacki, she and Sister Mary Miller made it a reality.

Chautauqua Inst: Chris Hayes  June 27 Lewis Black July 2

Kwame Alexander & LeVar Burton August 4 @ 10:45am

Mary Chapin Carpenter and Brandy Clark Aug 8 Bonnie Raitt September 5

An evening with Jon Stewart at National Comedy Center Jamestown NY August 9

Ani DiFranco  August 31  Outer Harbor 225 Fuhrmann Blvd Buffalo, NY "the title Unprecedented Sh!t is not only representative of how much of a sonic departure the 11-track album is from Ani’s other work, but also a political and social commentary on the current state of the world." -

"Tyranny" original version The Stabilizers (1985) Authoritarian scenario from an underappreciated Erie-based 80s band. This was apparently the original version, using a distorted male voice in the bridge, giving it a darker interpretation than the one used for the MTV version. Still ends up with a (sort of) happy ending. 

EARTH

Jenny Tompkins speaks to Meadville City Council about the native plant pollinator gardens and property maintenance issues (Armstrong Neighborhood Channel) 0:40

ELECTIONS

City of Erie Mayoral Debate
James Carville and Mary Matalin at Chautauqua  June 23  

FOOD

https://www.eriereader.com/article/the-erie-localvore-maple-sugaring-season

Barb Newcamp addresses Meadville City Council about Grow Meadville, a local network of community gardens 4:14 (Armstrong Neighborhood Channel) Grow Meadville website

HOME
Public comments about Tenants Rights at Erie City Council 4/7 Public comments were predominantly members of Apartment Association speaking on their behalf. Also two speakers who were speaking on behalf of tenants, and Dean Hall++ speaking on need for fairness for both.



IMMIGRANTS

ICE is reversing termination of legal status for international students around US, lawyer says (YourErie)
https://www.yourerie.com/digital-first/digital-exclusive/ice-is-reversing-termination-of-legal-status-for-international-students-around-us-lawyer-says/ +++
Public speaks on immigration at Erie City Council mtg (YourErie)

A New Normal for New Americans? (Dan Shank/Erie Reader)

A look inside Multicultural Center (Erie News Now)

City of Erie releases statement on recent federal immigration policy changes (ENN)

[LISTEN] Immigrants: A Contemporary Immigration Lamentation from  Benedictine Sisters of Erie

[WATCH] Way of the Cross Way of the Migrants interviews (Erie News Now) Speaking with people at  Pilgrimage for Peace

INDIGENOUS

New York Oral History Project of National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition (NABS) in Rochester, NY, May 19-23, 2025 "This project works toward the creation of a permanent national oral history collection. If you attended a federally supported Indian boarding school before 1970, we would love to hear your story"  NABS Project information 

ARTS
Mother Earth Day at Poetry Park, May 17 from 2-3 p.m. at 636 East 22nd St. in Erie. Poetry Park was a vision of Erie Benedictine Sister Mary Lou Kownacki, she and Sister Mary Miller made it a reality.

Aug 9 - An evening with Jon Stewart at National Comedy Center Jamestown NY

Chautauqua Inst: Chris Hayes June 27 Lewis Black July 2
CHQ Chris Hayes June 27 Lewis Black July 2

Kwame Alexander & LeVar Burton August 4 @ 10:45am

Mary Chapin Carpenter and Brandy Clark Aug 8 Bonnie Raitt September 5

An evening with Jon Stewart at National Comedy Center Jamestown NY August 9
Kwame Alexander & LeVar Burton August 4 @ 10:45am

Mary Chapin Carpenter and Brandy Clark Aug 8 Bonnie Raitt September 5

An evening with Jon Stewart at National Comedy Center Jamestown NY August 9

Aug 31 - Ani DiFranco Outer Harbor Buffalo 225 Fuhrmann Blvd Buffalo, NY "the title Unprecedented Sh!t is not only representative of how much of a sonic departure the 11-track album is from Ani’s other work, but also a political and social commentary on the current state of the world." https://anidifranco.com/tour/

"Tyranny" original version The Stabilizers (1986) Authoritarian scenario from an underappreciated Erie-based 80s band. This was apparently the original version, using a distorted male voice in the bridge, giving it a darker interpretation than the one used for the MTV version. Still ends up with a (sort of) happy ending. https://youtu.be/Ykv0HGwSzBU?si=Th-vHJV2QSILXdjI https://soundcloud.com/dave-christenson/stabilizers-tyranny-original

BIKES

Rideshares and Rentals

Jeremy Peterson announced that EMTA has been meeting with local bike advocates to set up a bike rideshare program (announced at EMTA April 2005 board meeting 4/28/2025) EMTA also has bike racks on their fixed route buses.

CATA has a bikeshare program for Meadville, Lake Wilhelm and Conneaut Lake https://www.catabus.org/bike-share

Yellow Bike Rental at Presque Isle http://www.presqueisleyellowbikerental.com/

Chautauqua Bike Rent https://www.facebook.com/chautauquabikerent/

Erie Bike Coop articles YourErie
https://www.yourerie.com/community/erie-bike-co-op-looking-to-rebrand-expand-to-double-donations/
Erie Reader
https://www.eriereader.com/article/the-erie-bike-coop-building-community-on-two-wheels


Lake Erie Cyclefest July 24-27 https://www.eriesportscommission.com/lakeeriecyclefest/ "Cyclists of all ages and abilities will participate in self-supported rides on routes that feature Erie’s vast terrain...Proceeds from 2025 rides will benefit Asbury Woods, Because You Care Inc., Bike Erie, Erie Downtown Partnership, Northern Allegheny Mountain Bike Association and the Presque Isle Partnership."

EARTH

Jenny Tompkins speaks to Meadville City Council about the native plant  pollinator gardens  and property maintenance issues (0:40) https://www.youtube.com/live/gzPPSJ9v13g?si=WMyOLSx3U69yxHUt

ELECTIONS
City of Erie Mayoral Debate
https://www.erienewsnow.com/clip/15507494/city-of-erie-mayoral-debate

elections

James Carville and Mary Matalin CHQ https://www.chq.org/things-to-do/events/weekly-themes/week-one-2025/

FOOD
https://www.wrfalp.com/fda-suspends-program-that-tests-milk-dairy-products/
NY State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball issued a statement on the FDA’s suspension of the milk quality control testing program that said, “I want to be clear: this move does not put the safety of New York milk and dairy products in jeopardy. I want to reassure New Yorkers that the State’s Department of Agriculture and Markets, which already routinely tests New York’s milk and dairy products at plants, receiving stations, and farms, will continue its work as usual. 

https://www.eriereader.com/article/the-erie-localvore-maple-sugaring-season

FOOD

Barb Newcamp addresses Meadville City Council about Grow Meadville, a local network of community gardens 4:14 (Armstrong Neighborhood Channel)

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/grow-meadville-city-gardens-taking-134600532.html

Grow Meadville website 

https://mdvlnghbrhdcntr.org/grow/

HOME

IMMIGRANTS

ICE is reversing termination of legal status for international students around US, lawyer says (YourErie)
https://www.yourerie.com/digital-first/digital-exclusive/ice-is-reversing-termination-of-legal-status-for-international-students-around-us-lawyer-says/
Public speaks on immigration at Erie City Council mtg (YourErie)
https://www.yourerie.com/news/local-news/public-speaks-on-immigration-at-latest-erie-city-council-meeting/
A New Normal for New Americans? (Dan Shank/Erie Reader)
https://www.eriereader.com/article/a-new-normal-for-new-americans

A look inside Multicultural Center (Erie News Now)
https://www.erienewsnow.com/story/52727601/a-look-inside-the-mcrc-of-erie

City of Erie releases statement on recent federal immigration polcy changes
https://www.erienewsnow.com/story/52722897/city-of-erie-releases-statement-on-recent-immigration-policy-changes-at-the-federal-level
https://mail.go
ogle.com/mail/u/0/?tab=rm&ogbl#inbox/FMfcgzQbdrXLXvLjWXcwJcVmZKcCHpMP

 

Immigrationts

A Contemporary Immigration Lamentation

Benedictine Sisters of Erie
https://eriebenedictines.org/news-stories.html/article/2025/04/22/a-contemporary-immigration-lamentation

IMM

 [WATCH] Pilgrimage for Peace comments on plight of immigrants

https://www.erienewsnow.com/clip/15507317/45th-annual-good-friday-pilgrimage-for-peace

INDIGENOUS

New York Oral History Project of National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition (NABS) in Rochester, NY, May 19-23, 2025 "This project works toward the creation of a permanent national oral history collection. If you attended a federally supported Indian boarding school before 1970, we would love to hear your story"  https://www.facebook.com/100068250904343/photos/997484179203270/ 

Project information https://boardingschoolhealing.org/oral-history-project/ 

Criminal justice advocates call for changes in Pennsylvania

https://www.abc27.com/pennsylvania/criminal-justice-advocates-call-for-changes-in-pennsylvania/


JUSTICE
Guardians of the Constitution May 14 Virtual event via Robert H Jackson Center Jamestown NY  https://www.roberthjackson.org/event/guardians-of-the-constitution/ 


DOJ Then and NowJune 5 Robert H Jackson Center Jamestown NY 


https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?tab=rm&ogbl#inbox/FMfcgzQbdrTrrkkHbdLWxZXTVbDCLRXs SCHOOLS

https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2025/04/pennsylvania-schools-trump-diversity-blocked/

Marc Brown: I created 'Arthur.' Trump's PBS funding cut is a loss for kids everywhere. | Opinion (USA Today) Erie native and children's author Marc Borown sounds off about Trump's PBS cuts.https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/voices/2025/05/03/trump-executive-order-pbs-npr-funding-cut/83410041007/

 

spirit

at Chautauqua Inst- Potluck Nation: Why We Need Each Other to Thrive  June 21-28
In partnership with Interfaith America

Erie SSJs on new Pope (Erie Times)

https://www.yahoo.com/news/eries-sisters-st-joseph-praise-090049152.html

https://www.chq.org/event/jim-wallis/ June 23

 
VIETNAM WAR
https://www.unionprogress.com/2025/04/27/recalling-the-fall-of-saigon-50-years-later-with-a-refugee-familys-story-and-a-veterans-breakfast-club-event/



WORK
https://www.erienewsnow.com/clip/15507967/38th-annual-workers-memorial

DEMOCRACY

May Day protest on Erie's Bayfront Pkwy (JET24/FOX66)

https://youtu.be/i5_Ze8MTQaM?si=O_zcX0z-REBrhC0L

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgzQbdrMwlvCqCNZdLdndnGZhnsGW



















ETC
https://www.ceasefirepa.org/featured/themissingconversation_release/




https://youtu.be/PUZN1N8bMKI?si=3LYJ5Tdx-FAmvTYs


https://www.yourerie.com/news/local-news/erie-gay-news-editor-speaks-on-upmc-decision-to-end-gender-affirming-care-for-trans-youth/


https://www.wrfalp.com/united-way-community-baby-shower-starts-today/




https://keepourlibrarypublic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kolp-bingo.pdf

kitties

FAMILY

I have a family of black domestic shorthair kitties that I have fostered since last fall.

They are still with me because +++ 

I did find homes+++ for two of the boys.

I sort of coasted with it because I wanted to +++

I preferred to go through an organization that has standards. I am however low income and am somewhat maxed out for their care.

They need to be spayed and neutered ... that's a little more than what I can handle at this point.

They are entering puberty, and it is a mixed gender situation, so I would like to at least get the boys situated elsewhere.

I'm going to rehome at least one gender at this point, preferably the boys.

But I'd just like to get things moving along.

They are a lovely family. If I could keep them together I would. They're very loving and secure with each other, and in a very healthy situation, but I

They are a lovely family. If I could keep them together I would, they're very loving with each other in a very healthy situation. but I am not able to. I am looking for someone who can continue fostering or rehoming them.
I am not able to. I am looking for someone who can continue to foster or help rehome them.

I'm going to present background on the mother and each of the kids.

BABY

My father would have said of her that she is a "character". She can be funny, flirty, and show offy at times, if she is in the mood. She is friendly and affectionate. Not a fan of laptime but loves being petted and "scritches."

When she is happy to see you she flops on the floor and flops back and forth; I call it her wiggle worm dance. She may chirp a "Hey there” from a favorite chair, and occasionally let go with a chattering sentence that kind of reminds of a tot who chatters without using words. She will complain if there is something wrong, such as spilled water or a litter box that needs tending to.

She has always been good with litter. She gets a little fussy if there's a "situation " in the box, and I've been scolded for not taking care of it fast enough. Some stuff about wet food. I need to let you know about it.

When she was younger she was the smallest of the litter, and her brothers would sometimes intimidate her when wet food was being served, Even when I'd feed her in another room, they would dart after it. As a result she developed some anxiety about eating the stuff. So I started taking her into another room to feed her, closing the door for about ten minutes, during which she could relax and eat the wet food. It has made a real difference. There are still times when she won't eat, but this has made a big difference.

Now if there are no other pets in her living space, that could make a difference. ust making you aware.

When I call her I say "Baby" and she responds to the sound, ++++



BIG GUY

Big Guy is a little over nine pounds. He is all cat, no fat. He's a lot to hug, loves to cuddle he's all black with a floofy belly that he loves to have rubbed, pet anywhere

MUSCLES

Muscles is the most muscular cat I have ever encountered. He is also affectionate and playful. Puberty has made him a little bit of a stinker, but I am guessing once he is fixed he will return to being the sweet boy he was/


He is company and enjoys attention

Sometimes loves having tummy rubbed sometimes not

 

At April 5 "Hands Off" rally in Perry Square, Erie. Scroll to bottom for Democracy & Freedom listings. Photo: Deb Spilko

EARTH

Earth-focused events, news, views and resources on a separate page. 

ARTS & READS

PSU Behrend Smith Creative Writers Reading Series begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. (preceded by receptions at 5:30 p.m.). April 10 – Avitus B. Carle, Fiction Metzgar Lobby April 17 – Julie Danho, Poetry Metzgar Lobby "All events are free and open to the public"

Gangstagrass in concert   April 26 7:30 PM Reg Lenna 116 East 3rd St. Jamestown, NY

April 26 & 27 - Youngstown May Day Festival 755 Mahoning Avenue , Youngstown, OH, "the fifth annual fun free celebration of labor, climate justice, human rights, social justice, and the honoring of Beltane. We’ll have music, maypole dancing, arts and crafts for young and old, workshops, demonstrations, speakers, and other merriments." Free, family friendly. youngstownmayday@gmail.com Event by Youngstown May Day Festival, Youngstown Solidarity Network and Youngstown Action Center

Mother Earth Day at Poetry Park, May 17 from 2-3 p.m. at 636 East 22nd St. in Erie. "celebrate poetry that cultivates our love of Mother Earth as home. Featuring local poets Niecey Nicole and Matt Borazon, plus open mic" Sponsored by Trinity Square Foundation and Poetry NWPA. Poetry Park was a vision of Erie Benedictine Sister Mary Lou Kownacki, she and Sister Mary Miller made it a reality.

Chris Hayes at CHQ June 27 MSNBC host, editor-at-large of The Nation and the author of The Sirens’ Call: How Attention Became the World’s Most Endangered Resource, Hayes will discuss Sirens' Call.

National Theatre Live: Dr. Strangelove  Fredonia Opera House Fredonia NY Oct 4

COMMUNITY

One-Hundred Black Men: National Impact to Erie's Chapter  April 11 at 12:00 PM Professor/Instructor/ Speakers: Parris Baker and Marcus Atkinson. "Join JES Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Parris Baker and Marcus Atkinson, President of the Erie Chapter of 100 Black Men, as they discuss the history of 100 Black, its relevance in light of recent attempts to eradicate significant historic gains of the Civil Rights movement, and the role of the local chapter in addressing community challenges in the African American communities. " Host: Jefferson Educational Society Location: 3207 State St, Erie, PA *Community Conversation (Free) Lunch optional, vegetarian available $5/person, register 48 hr ahead.

Benevolent Beers benefitting Journey: Healing Together   April 17 5:00PM  at Erie Ale Works, 416 W 12th Erie. Journey: Healing Together (J:HT) exists to foster connections and build equity among diverse affinity groups, uniting communities in collective healing. J:HT is a 501c3 non-profit offering healing spaces to New Majority communities and providing opportunities for diverse groups to gather, heal, restore, discover, and rebuild. Every sale rung in between 5:00 and 8:00pm will provide a donation to this great group.

CRITTERS

PA Legislation Affecting Animals 2025/26 (Humane PA PAC)

My Dog and Me "Purrista Cat Cafe" (via Armstrong Neighborhood Channel) Host Sue Anderson interviews Dena Rupp, owner of Purrista Cat Cafe in Erie, who explains the cafe and its collaboration with Because You Care, with lots of helpful wisdom about kitties included. 48 minutes. 

ELECTIONS & GOVERNANCE

Erie City and County candidates in primary (Kevin Flowers/AJ Rao) /Erie Times-News)  Erie PA mayoral primary debate  April 16 at 1 p.m. at WQLN. Broadcast on WQLN, WICU and WSEE at a later date.  

Collaboration or combat? How Fetterman & Lamb take different Democratic approaches to Trump (Chris Potter/WESA)

Latest jackassery updates: Audit: Davis admin made changes to 2025 budget without council approval (AJ Rao/Erie Times-News) Erie Co. Council, in override vote, reaffirms that county resources be free of politics (AJ Rao/Erie Times-News) "Council introduced the ordinance after Davis used the county's official Facebook page to criticize council Democrats."

FOOD

4th Street Community Farm Work Day April 26, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at 4th Street Farm,  318 East 4th Street Erie, PA. "Join the Food Policy Council for a work day to prepare for spring planting... Food grown here will go back to the community at Emmaus Soup Kitchen and distributed to the Pay What You Can Network this summer. Bring a water bottle and a shovel and rake if you have one!"

Meadville Market House First Farmers Market  May 10  9am-1pm

Benevolent Beers: Meals on Wheels May 15 at Erie Ale Works 416 W. 12th "Every purchase between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. will count toward a donation to this great group!"

Gov. Shapiro  Appeals USDA’s Unlawful Decision to Cancel Local Food Purchasing Assistance Program (PA Gov press release) Shapiro Tells Farmers We Have Your Backs  (Penn Capital-Star)  TEFAP is a win-win for farmers and hungry families | Letters (Gregory D Hall/Erie Times-News)

Edinboro food pantry seeking new location (Erie News Now)

Grow Chautauqua Food Distribution returns (WRFA) Program that brings boxes of locally grown and sourced foods to the Chautauqua Co. community returned in March. 

HOME

Erie landlord group explored waivers related to new tenant's rights bill (Erie Times-News)

Erie County United Housing Townhall April 26 12pm – 3pm at ECU office 1720 Holland St Erie, PA

Chautauqua Co. new housing security program (WRFA) Women's shelter opens in Jamestown (WRFA)

Habitat ReStores are independently owned reuse stores operated by local Habitat for Humanity organizations. "The sales from donated items help Habitat for Humanity partner with local families to build, rehabilitate and repair safe and affordable homes in your community and around the world" Erie location: 4922 Pittsburgh Ave. Erie, PA (814) 464-8946

IMMIGRANTS

Good Friday Pilgrimage for Peace on April 18. This year’s theme is The Way of the Cross; The Way of the Migrant. The walk begins at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Cathedral in Erie (W. 10th & Sassafras). Host: Benedictines for Peace 

 

City Council Study Session Immigration - April 10, 2025  (City of Erie)    Presentation by Alexandria Iwanenko,

Refugee services

Erie refugee agencies seeking lifeline (Erie News-Now)

Refugees help Erie - now it’s our turn to help them | Opinion Kim Thomas and Karen Bilowith

Refugee resettlement - what it is, what it isn’t, and why it matters for Erie | Opinion Katie Kretz Your Turn

Warren continues to support Ukrainian refugees (Erie News Now)

“Office of New Pennsylvanians” State Rep. Izzy Smith-Wade-El plans to reintroduce legislation creating an office to attract, retain and “embrace” immigrants statewide. (Lancaster Online) 

SCHOOLS & YOUTH

DEI Is Disappearing - Not by Force, But By Compliance (by Dr. Jay Breneman, President, Erie School Board/Erie Reader) 

PA says schools already comply with civil rights laws and are not ordered to scrap DEI (Chalkbeat Phila.) NY Education Dept refusing to sign anti-DEI (Chalkbeat) 

Opinion: Why we need diverse teachers in PA schools (Lacey Anderson/Penn Capital-Star) 

Mental health

Our Youth are in Crisis: How You Can Make a Difference April 25 12:00 PM Admission: Free. Lunch $5. (veg option available) Location Jefferson Educational Society 3207 State Erie PA 

Hidden Voices: The Unheard Struggles of Students May 15 | 7:00 PM JES Raimy Fellows Katie Phillips and Jacob Jones will delve into the escalating challenges confronting public school students in Erie County, grappling mental health issues.  Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State St, Erie, PA

[LISTEN] Rural Reach addressing adolescent mental health in rural WNY (What's Next/WBFO) 

SPIRIT

Good Friday Pilgrimage for Peace on April 18. This year’s theme is The Way of the Cross; The Way of the Migrant. The walk begins at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Cathedral in Erie (w. 10th & Sassafras). Host: Benedictines for Peace 

The Rev. Jim Wallis at Chautauqua Inst. June 22 "Jim Wallis is a writer, teacher, preacher and justice advocate who believes the gospel of Jesus must be emancipated from its cultural and political captivities."

Our Neighbor's Place ends first season at permanent location (YourErie) “Thanks to the commitment of the coordinating churches, volunteers, EUMA staff, Erie BlueCoats, and Erie County, we were able to provide shelter with a pathway to permanent housing for individuals facing homelessness,” said Kurt B. Crays, CEO of EUMA. “Together, we really are ending homelessness, just as Jesus would!”

[LISTEN] Sister Lou (NEXT with Marcus Atkinson) "special guest host Daryl Craig—better known as Brother D—leads a powerful conversation honoring the life and legacy of Sister Lou, one of Erie’s most influential and respected community figures. Joined by friends and family, Brother D explores the profound impact Sister Lou had on the streets of Erie, the lives she touched, and the community she built through unwavering determination and prayer."

[WATCH] Meadville 1825: "Harm Jan Huidekoper" Josh Sherretts from the Crawford Co. Historical Society on Harm Jan Huidekoper's life, legacy and involvement in the Unitarian faith, which helped lead to the opening of the Meadville Unitarian Universalist Church and the Meadville Theological School. Huidekoper was also an active abolitionist, though that is not the focus of this presentation.

WORKING PEOPLE

 

PA House approves Harkins bill bringing OSHA standards to public workers 👏 

"Pennsylvania’s House of Representatives has approved a bill designed to improve workplace safety standards for public employees honoring a former EMTA employee who died on the job.
"State Rep. Pat Harkins, who sponsored the bill, announced the House passing of H.B. 308, also known as the Jake Schwab Worker Safety Bill, which would extend OSHA protections to public sector workers."

~~~~~

Click to enlarge. 

https://bsky.app/profile/50501eriepa.bsky.social 

https://bsky.app/profile/frenchcreekind.bsky.social 

 DEMOCRACY & FREEDOM

April Recess 12 - 27  From Indivisible: "Our Members of Congress will be home April 12 through April 27, and we need to make sure they hear from their constituents. The stakes are high, and both the Senate AND the House will be back home in their districts. We must speak out against the Republican Tax Scam and their plan to slash Medicaid and take food off our tables to pay for tax breaks for their billionaire buddies. Sign up now and we'll send you opportunities for action during April recess!"

TAX DAY - Families Over Billionaires April 15  Noon-2pm Perry Square. Host: Democracy PA (check original link for updates and accuracy)

Next National Day of Action: April 19  IN ERIE: Perry Square 12pm-2pm. "Join us in the fight to uphold the Constitution and end executive overreach. 50501 is a peaceful movement. Violence of any kind will not be tolerated. 50501 is a peaceful movement." Host 50501 Erie PA and French Creek Indivisible  (check original link for updates and accuracy)

French Creek Indivisible is now on BlueSky    @frenchcreekind.bsky.social   50501 Erie PA now on Blue Sky  @50501eriepa.bsky.social 

Voters have questions about DOGE cuts, Rep. Mike Kelly should face them | (Letter by Chris Magoc) 

Rachel Maddow posts Sister Jacqueline's message about Mike Kelly (Erie Benedictines)

Erie Times-News coverage of Hands Off rally  (by AJ Rao, includes photos) Hands Off rally in Jamestown NY (WRFA)

PA Dems are angry. Fetterman’s old rival Conor Lamb is listening (The Independent) "Fetterman’s only planned public event in recent weeks was a joint event with his state’s Republican US senator, Dave McCormick. The joint appearance at a Pittsburgh winery was aimed at promoting a book on mentorship written by McCormick and his wife."

Just posted some of my photos of April 5 rally I didn't spend a lot of time on photos of Erie rally, but click on the link if you'd like to see what I have. Lots more from others, on French Creek Indivisible social media.

PRO-DEMOCRACY ALERTS

To stay informed of local events:

• 50501 Erie PA now on Blue Sky @50501eriepa.bsky.social
• French Creek Indivisible "To get on list, email: frenchcreekindivisible@gmail.com with your name, email, and contact information and we will add you to our email List-Serve." Find on Facebook and BlueSky. 

• Benedictines for Peace mailing list Go to benedictinesforpeace.com There's a blue box in the logo on the landing page, 'Join our mailing list.' There's a simple form, only asks for name and a captcha check.

• Vote Save America PAC Local actions across the country 

 ~~~~~

Host: Democracy PA

Info/RSVP here TAX DAY - FAMILIES OVER BILLIONAIRES · Democracy PA 

Click to enlarge 

 ~~~

 

Calendar and local info sharing for people who believe "a better world is possible." Focus is local/regional. All listed events are nonviolent. Not affiliated with any organization. Submissions, sub requests and inquiries send to brynn16501@proton.me or use form on blog.  Expect confirmation from me if you email.

Blog URL https://eriebluegreen.blogspot.com/

PHOTOS: Deb Spilko

 

"Hands Off" Erie rally: some photos

 under construction 

EARTH

Earth-focused events, news, views and resources on a separate page. 

ARTS & READS

PSU Behrend Smith Creative Writers Reading Series begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. (preceded by receptions at 5:30 p.m.). April 10 – Avitus B. Carle, Fiction Metzgar Lobby April 17 – Julie Danho, Poetry Metzgar Lobby "All events are free and open to the public"

Gangstagrass in concert   April 26 7:30 PM Reg Lenna 116 East 3rd St. Jamestown, NY

Mother Earth Day at Poetry Park, May 17 from 2-3 p.m. at 636 East 22nd St. in Erie. "celebrate poetry that cultivates our love of Mother Earth as home. Featuring local poets Niecey Nicole and Matt Borazon, plus open mic" Sponsored by Trinity Square Foundation and Poetry NWPA. Poetry Park was a vision of Erie Benedictine Sister Mary Lou Kownacki, she and Sister Mary Miller made it a reality.

Chris Hayes at CHQ June 27 MSNBC host, editor-at-large of The Nation and the author of The Sirens’ Call: How Attention Became the World’s Most Endangered Resource, Hayes will discuss Sirens' Call.

National Theatre Live: Dr. Strangelove  Fredonia Opera House Fredonia NY Oct 4

COMMUNITY

One-Hundred Black Men: National Impact to Erie's Chapter  April 11 at 12:00 PM Professor/Instructor/ Speakers: Parris Baker and Marcus Atkinson. "Join JES Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Parris Baker and Marcus Atkinson, President of the Erie Chapter of 100 Black Men, as they discuss the history of 100 Black, its relevance in light of recent attempts to eradicate significant historic gains of the Civil Rights movement, and the role of the local chapter in addressing community challenges in the African American communities. " Host: Jefferson Educational Society Location: 3207 State St, Erie, PA *Community Conversation (Free) Lunch optional, vegetarian available $5/person, register 48 hr ahead.

CRITTERS

PA Legislation Affecting Animals 2025/26 (Humane PA PAC)

My Dog and Me "Purrista Cat Cafe" (via Armstrong Neighborhood Channel) Host Sue Anderson interviews Dena Rupp, owner of Purrista Cat Cafe in Erie, who explains the cafe and its collaboration with Because You Care, with lots of helpful wisdom about kitties included. 48 minutes.

ELECTIONS

Dems in flipped Pa. Senate race took inspiration from an Iowa special election campaign (Penn Capital-Star) Democrats build on their down-ballot winning streak in PA (Politico)

Democracy champions list the commonsense election solutions Pa. still needs | Opinion
(Ed Rendell, Melissa Hart, Jim Gerlach and Keith McCall )

Four Ways PA Could Fix Its Campaign Finance Laws to Reduce the Power of Money In Politics. (Spotlight PA)

Collaboration or combat? How Fetterman & Lamb take different Democratic approaches to Trump (Chris Potter/WESA)

Erie County Council, in override vote, reaffirms that county resources be free of politics (Erie Times-News) 

FOOD

4th Street Community Farm Work Day April 26, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm 4th Street Farm 318 East 4th Street Erie, PA. "Join the Food Policy Council for a work day to prepare for spring planting... Food grown here will go back to the community at Emmaus Soup Kitchen and distributed to the Pay What You Can Network this summer. Bring a water bottle and a shovel and rake if you have one!"

Meadville Market House First Farmers Market May 10 9am-1pm

Benevolent Beers: Meals on Wheels May 15 at Erie Ale Works 416 W. 12th "Every purchase between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. will count toward a donation to this great group!"

Gov. Shapiro Stands Up for PA Farmers, Appeals USDA’s Unlawful Decision to Cancel Local Food Purchasing Assistance Program (PA Gov press release)

Edinboro food pantry seeking new location (Erie News Now)

Grow Chautauqua Food Distribution returns (WRFA) Program that brings boxes of locally grown and sourced foods to the Chautauqua Co. community returned in March. (WRFA)

HOME

Erie landlord group explored waivers related to new tenant's rights bill (Erie Times-News)

EUMA +++ 


Erie County United Housing Townhall April 26 12pm – 3pm at ECU office 1720 Holland St Erie, PA

Chautauqua Co. new housing security program (Spectrum) Women's shelter opens in Jamestown (WRFA)

Habitat ReStores are independently owned reuse stores operated by local Habitat for Humanity organizations. "The sales from donated items help Habitat for Humanity partner with local families to build, rehabilitate and repair safe and affordable homes in your community and around the world" Erie location: 4922 Pittsburgh Ave. Erie, PA (814) 464-8946

IMMIGRANTS

Good Friday Pilgrimage for Peace on April 18. This year’s theme is The Way of the Cross; The Way of the Migrant. The walk begins at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Cathedral in Erie (W. 10th & Sassafras). Host: Benedictines for Peace

Refugee services

Erie refugee agencies seeking lifeline (Erie News-Now)

Refugees help Erie - now it’s our turn to help them | Opinion Kim Thomas and Karen Bilowith Refugee resettlement - what it is, what it isn’t, and why it matters for Erie | Opinion Katie Kretz Your Turn

Warren continues to support Ukrainian refugees (Erie News Now)

“Office of New Pennsylvanians” State Rep. Izzy Smith-Wade-El plans to reintroduce legislation creating an office to attract, retain and “embrace” immigrants statewide. (Lancaster Online) 

SCHOOLS

DEI Is Disappearing - Not by Force, But By Compliance (by Dr. Jay Breneman, President, Erie School Board/Erie Reader) 

NY Education Dept refusing to sign anti-DEI (Chalkbeat) 

Opinion: Why we need diverse teachers in PA schools (Lacey Anderson/Penn Capital-Star) 

Savor for Scholars, a Meadville Heritage Celebration Fundraiser for Meadville Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Fund, Inc., founded in 1968. Held April 26 at the Italian Civic Club, 869 Water St., Meadville from 5pm - 9pm.

Mental health

Our Youth are in Crisis: How You Can Make a Difference April 25 12:00 PM Admission: Free. Lunch $5. (veg option available) Location Jefferson Educational Society 3207 State Erie PA 

Hidden Voices: The Unheard Struggles of Students May 15 | 7:00 PM JES Raimy Fellows Katie Phillips and Jacob Jones will delve into the escalating challenges confronting public school students in Erie County, grappling mental health issues.  Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State St, Erie, PA

[LISTEN] Rural Reach addressing adolescent mental health in rural WNY (What's Next/WBFO) 

SPIRIT

Good Friday Pilgrimage for Peace on April 18. This year’s theme is The Way of the Cross; The Way of the Migrant. The walk begins at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Cathedral in Erie (w. 10th & Sassafras). Host: Benedictines for Peace 

The Rev. Jim Wallis at Chautauqua Inst. June 22 "Jim Wallis is a writer, teacher, preacher and justice advocate who believes the gospel of Jesus must be emancipated from its cultural and political captivities."

[LISTEN] Sister Lou (NEXT with Marcus Atkinson) "special guest host Daryl Craig—better known as Brother D—leads a powerful conversation honoring the life and legacy of Sister Lou, one of Erie’s most influential and respected community figures. Joined by friends and family, Brother D explores the profound impact Sister Lou had on the streets of Erie, the lives she touched, and the community she built through unwavering determination and prayer."

[WATCH] Meadville 1825: "Harm Jan Huidekoper" Josh Sherretts from the Crawford Co. Historical Society on Harm Jan Huidekoper's life, legacy and involvement in the Unitarian faith, which helped lead to the opening of the Meadville Unitarian Universalist Church and the Meadville Theological School. Huidekoper was also an active abolitionist, though that is not the focus of this presentation.

WORK

Workers Memorial Day (AFL-CIO) Nearly 55 years ago on April 28, Workers Memorial Day, the Occupational Safety and Health Act went into effect, promising every worker the right to a safe job—our fundamental right. 

FREEDOM & DEMOCRACY

Voters have questions about DOGE cuts, Rep. Mike Kelly should face them | (Letter by Chris Magoc) 

Rachel Maddow posts Sister Jacqueline's message about Mike Kelly (Erie Benedictines)

Erie Times-News coverage of Hands Off rally (includes photos) 

ICYMI: This Once-Undecided Erie PA Union Leader Is Backing Harris. Here’s What Made Up His Mind (Capital & Main) Living in Erie County, I just come to ignore the election year interviews with swing voters. However, this one with a union activist bears a look. Ryan Sanders is president of the Erie-Crawford Central Labor Council (CLC), the local arm of the AFL-CIO and member of the Sheet Metal Workers. In the initial interview he talks about his reasons for being hesitant with Harris, even though he knows Trump is not union-friendly. In a later interview with Capital & Main, he says he decided to vote for Harris, and explains why. There are certainly many union members who like, Ryan Sanders, "lean conservative," so I'm not picking on him, he was new to it after all. But the national AFL-CIO has resources for educating members about pro-working class voting, and judging from this fellow's early remarks, he seems to not made aware of those resources.  By the way, in 2024 Harris did better with the union vote than Biden did in 2020. 

Benevolent Beers: Journey: Healing Together   April, 17 5:00PM  Journey: Healing Together (J:HT) exists to foster connections and build equity among diverse affinity groups, uniting communities in collective healing. J:HT is a 501c3 non-profit offering healing spaces to New Majority communities and providing opportunities for diverse groups to gather, heal, restore, discover, and rebuild. Every sale rung in between 5:00 and 8:00pm will provide a donation to this great group.
https://www.eriealeworks.com/the-latest/events/event/04/17/2025/benevolent-beers-journey-healing-together

First Annual Ethnic and Gender Studies Symposium April 10, 2025 9am to 11am Williams Center S204-ABC, Conference Room SUNY Fredonia, Fredonia NY Open to public https://events.fredonia.edu/event/first-annual-ethnic-and-gender-studies-symposium

diverse erie

One-Hundred Black Men: National Impact to Erie's Chapter April 11 at 12:00 PM Professor/Instructor/ Speakers: Parris Baker and Marcus Atkinson. Host: Jefferson Educational Society Location: 3207 State St, Erie, PA Lunch optional, $5/person, rgister 48 hr ahead. https://www.jeserie.org/events/details/one-hundred-black-men-exploring-the-history-and-relevance-from-national-impact-to-eries-chapter



https://www.erienewsnow.com/story/52629891/canadianfunded-billboard-sign-on-tariffs-appears-in-erie

Sunday, April 6, 2025

"Hands Off" Erie rally: some photos

 April 5, 2025

photos coming+++

EARTH EVENTS & LOCAL NEWS

EVENTS  

April 21-26 - Earth Day Extravaganza at Erie Co Library (various locations) "A celebration of Earth Day, Arbor Day, and all things nature! Erie County Public Library hosts programs at our library locations and highlights partner events at community locations." 

April 22 - Sustainability through a child’s eyes: Camille Licate "As the featured speaker for Mercyhurst University’s annual Sister Maura Smith Earth Day Lecture, Licate will present at 7 p.m. in Mercyhurst's Walker Recital Hall. Sponsored by the Office of Sustainability and Office of Mission/ Free, open to public, provides Act 48 credit for area educators.

April 22 - Earth Day Silent Peace Walk 7:00 pm Perry Square (west side), Erie PA Host: Benedictines for Peace

April 26 - DCNR Earth Day Cleanups in the area: Pymatuning Shoreline   Presque Isle shoreline   Maurice Goddard 

April 26 - Earth Day Festival - City of Hermitage 9am to 5pm 3580 Innovation Way, Hermitage Pa 16148 Lindenpointe

May 1 - Erie County High School Envirothon "Any Erie County school district can put together up to five teams of 3-5 students grades 9-12. Homeschoolers and cyber school students may also form teams. For schools outside of Erie County, please contact your county's conservation district for information on your local event."

May 1 - Benevolent Beers: Groundwork Erie At Erie Ale Works 316 W 12th, Erie. Every sale rung in between 5:00pm and 8:00pm will provide a Groundwork’s environmental workforce programming for young people. 

May 3 - Native Plant Sale Event 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Westfield Nursery, 8320 W Main St, Westfield, NY Hosts:  Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy and Westfield Nursery

May 17 - Mother Earth Day at the Poetry Park, 2-3 p.m. at 636 East 22nd St. in Erie. "celebrate poetry that cultivates our love of Mother Earth as home. Featuring local poets Niecey Nicole and Matt Borazon, plus open mic" Sponsored by Trinity Square Foundation and Poetry NWPA. Poetry Park was a vision of Erie Benedictine Sister Mary Lou Kownacki, she and Sister Mary Miller made it a reality.

 
May 17 - Bird Walk at Morton Conservation Easement 9:30am, register by 5/14. "Dr.Bridget Stutchbury invites us to explore an Audubon-designated Important Bird Area in the French Creek watershed" (outside Cambridge Springs) 

May 30 - June 1 Allegany Nature Pilgrimage 2025 Red House area of Allegany State Park in NYS. Hosts: Audubon Community Nature Center (Jamestown), Buffalo Audubon Society (Buffalo), Presque Isle Audubon (Erie, PA), Burroughs Audubon Nature Club (Rochester), Allegany State Park

 

PBS Science & Nature programming for April

LOCAL/REGIONAL NEWS & VIEWS 

Earth Day by Dorothy Stoner, OSB, Marlene Trambley, Oblate, Kathi Pae, Oblate 

IRG plastic waste plant canceled (Erie Times-News)

Water Taxi returns to Erie (Erie Times-News) The Water Taxi plus EMTA's PI Express bus shuttle and multipurpose/bike trails will offer options for car-free travel to and within Presque Isle.

The Guardian: New Bill to Recognize Legal Rights of All Water Bodies in NY State (CELDF) 

Opinion: Why Kristy Gnibus gave up shopping (Kristy Gnibus)

PAVinES" Grape growers resource "PA VinES (Vested in Environmental Sustainability) is a voluntary program that promotes sustainable viticulture practices through a grower self-assessment workbook. "