We’re feeling sorry for all those poor folks who live in the Pittsburgh area as the G-20 Conference opens today.  It looks and sounds like everyone in the country with something to protest or an agenda to push has descended on the City.  Several groups couldn’t wait for the official opening, and started their shenanigans a day early.  Many popular businesses all over town and beyond have been warned to take precautions against the protesters.  It must make a great impression on the global visitors to see the city shut down, windows boarded up, and protestors everywhere. About 25 Erie police officers are there to help provide security.  Meanwhile, Erie is fair game for law-breakers!

The tall ship Denis Sullivan, a three-masted schooner is spending a few days in Erie, giving 500 area students the opportunity to get some hands-on education aboard the floating research vessel.  The ship will leave on Saturday.

Better get your annual flu shot scheduled ASAP.  The company that is manufacturing the vaccine is not keeping up with shipments as promised.  They appear to be too busy preparing swine flu vaccine.

Local cultural organizations are upset over plans by the state legislature to add a 6% tax to all ticket charges.  Most of the organizations are non-profits who are already having a difficult time financially.  I understand sporting events are exempt, however.

The EPA and DEP have filed a lawsuit in federal court to force Erie Coke Corp. to bring the aging plant into compliance. 

Hamot Medical Center has agreed to increase its payment in lieu of taxes by seventy thousand dollars this year.  I would certainly think they can afford it.

Congrats to Mike Sopp, who was the winner of our $50 gift certificate giveaway with DiningVerse. He writes: “After much deliberation even though i am a die hard Browns fan i have to try Steel City.” Brave man.

Sports

Erie Otters Defenseman Tyler Hostetterhas signed his first professional contract with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers. Congratulations from Erie Blogs, Tyler!!

The Otters’ home opener will be Saturday, October 3 at 7:p.m. against the London Knights.  Pre-game party at 5 p.m. with Geek Army, dollar hot dogs and other refreshments available.

The Penn State Behrend women’s soccer defeated the Grove City Wolverines yesterday by a score of 1-0 at the Behrend Fields.  Julia Schroeck took a great pass from teammate Lindsey Steinsdoerfer and put it into the net.  Goalkeeper Kayla Frost recorded her fourth shutout of the season with three saves.

Mercyhurst’s Lady Lakers stunned Slipper Rock 2-1 yesterday by  scoring two late goals to overcome a 1-0 deficit.  Taylor Hilinski headed the game winner.  The Mens’ Golf team tied for fifth place at Wheeling Jesuit. 

Edinboro will hit the road for it’s first away game in 2009 when they take on the Gannon Knights this Saturday with a 12 noon kickoff. The  Fighting Scots hold a 3-1 record, while Gannon is 2-2.

Allegheny(2-0)will meet Oberlin(0-2) Saturday at Oberlin.  This is the first time in 13 years that the Gators have opened the season with a 2-0 record.

Events

Time is running out to get your tickets for the current Erie Playhouse production, ‘Chicago’.   This is the final  weekend to experience this great show, right here in Erie.   Those who have already seen the production give it rave reviews.  A few tickets may still be available  by calling the box office at 454-2852.

Be sure to set aside some time this weekend to enjoy the fruit of the vine at the annual North East Wine Festival, which takes place from Friday through Sunday afternoon.  There will be wine tasting, winery tours, wine tasting, music, wine tasting, crafts, wine tasting, more music, perhaps you may even wish to sample some wine from each of North East, Pa.’s seven award-winning wineries.  The Wine Fest takes place in both Gibson Park, in downtown North East, and at Gravel Pit Park,  just west of North East on Rt. 20.  See you there!!

Gannon University and the Community Blood Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania are teaming up for a blood drive to be held at Gannon’s Hammermill Center Wednesday, Oct. 7. The drive will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the lobby of the Hammermill Center, corner of Peach Street and South Park Row. No appointment is needed, and donors may walk in at their convenience.