We hope that everyone is enjoying the days leading up to Christmas. There seem to be a lot of people who are still not finished buying gifts. The stores have been busy, which is good news for the economy. We also hope that everyone remembers those who have nothing, by making a donation to one of the many local charitable organizations that help to provide food, clothing, and a warm bed for the least fortunate among us.
We suggest that last-minute gifts are easily found in abundance in our locally owned shops and galleries. And a monetary donation in the recipient’s name to charity also makes a wonderful gift.
In a bit of sad news for the local community, Riley Power has finally closed it’s doors. This is a tough time to be put out of a job. The company started cutting jobs back in January. We hope the furloughed employees are able to find other employment soon.
On the positive employment side, employees who were laid off from Erie Shipbuilding are now being gradually recalled to their former jobs. Most of the skilled positions pay wages in the $40,000 + range. The facility was recently purchased by a firm headquartered in New Jersey.
Gambling is pretty slow at the Casino these days. Players wagered $28 Million dollars in the past week, compared to high weekly totals in the $40-50 Million dollar range a few months ago. We’re certain that the poor economy is a contributing factor. It doesn’t seem very sensible for the State and local governments to be relying so much on the income from the casinos and race tracks to fund necessary operations. Of course, those of us who live in Pa. are sort of used to that kind of voo-doo economics from our elected officials. Governor Rendell, Mayor Sinnott, and Barry Grossmann, are you listening?
A few days ago, a White Christmas seemed to be a possibility, but the latest forecast kind of dashes our hopes, calling for warmer, sloppier, rainy weather for Christmas Day.
Darryl Dobony was officially recognized by Millcreek Township officials yesterday for his heroic actions during the devastating fire at Presque Isle Condominiums earlier this month. Dobony risked his own safety by going door-to-door in the complex, waking residents and helping them get out of the danger zone. Many of the residents, including Dobony and his son, lost everything in the blaze. However everyone got out safely, thanks to Mr. Dobony’s selfless actions.
We want to wish the owner and editor of ErieBlogs, Mike Richwalsky, a speedy and not-t00-painful recovery from a shoulder injury he suffered in a fall on the ice outside his building. The good news is that nothing was broken, however Mike’s pride suffered immensely. We’re sure Jenn and the kids are taking good care of him.
Sports
The Gannon men’s basketball team will try to extend its win streak to three games when it hosts the 36th annual Porreco Cup after Christmas break. The semifinals are scheduled for Tuesday, December 29. Ferris State and Taylor (Ind.) open the action at 6 p.m., followed by Gannon and Seton Hill at 8 p.m. The tournament concludes Wednesday, December 30 with the consolation game at 6 p.m. and the championship tilt at 8 p.m.
Events
New Year’s weekend will be your last chance to see “White Christmas, the Musical” at the Erie Playhouse. The production is one you shouldn’t miss. Celebrate New Years Eve at a pre-show gathering, followed by a great performance! Information is available at the Playhouse Box Office, 814-454-2852, or online at www.erieplayhouse.org .
