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Erie PA News and Events for Tuesday May 20, 2008

The Erie Times-News / GoErie.com reported that Teri Rhodes will enter a guilty plea on Friday. Everyone involved is being tight lipped about the deal. The plea deal takes the death penalty off the table. If the deal does not include a VERY long prison sentence, I think there will be community outrage.
Rhodes murdered her newborn baby by suffocating the poor child 10 minutes after birth on August 12 of last year. She then placed her baby in a garbage bag and took a shower.

Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy in Erie was ranked 2nd in Pennsylvania and 173rd nationwide in the 2008 Newsweek / Washington Post list of the 1,300 top US high schools. Public schools were ranked according to a ratio devised by Jay Mathews: the number of Advanced Placement, Intl Baccalaureate and/or Cambridge tests taken by all students at a school in 2007 divided by the number of graduating seniors. Although Collegiate Academy is a public school, admission is highly competitive. Last year, over 500 eighth graders applied for the 225 freshman openings.

On Saturday, June 28, 2008 a historic event will take place in Erie to mark the achievement of a goal that was set in 1988…A Swimmable Bay in Twenty Years. Thanks to the efforts of many, the water quality in Presque Isle Bay has greatly improved since 1988 and the goal has been achieved. To celebrate, a coalition of organizations is sponsoring BaySwim—-a one-mile swim across the bay. Swimmers are required to register for this one-time event. But don’t wait. BaySwim will be limited to 300 registered swimmers. Unregistered swimmers will not be permitted to participate in this event. Entrants must be at least 13 years old on the date of BaySwim to participate. Come help celebrate the results of twenty years worth of environmental awareness, major infrastructure improvements, public education, and research…all of the factors that have brought improved water quality to Presque Isle Bay. Be a part of Erie’s history. BaySwim is one component of a collaborative project being developed locally by representatives of the Presque Isle Partnership, the Regional Science Consortium at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, Lake Erie Allegheny Earth Force, PA Sea Grant, and the PA Department of Environmental Protection. Swimmable Bay-Application.

Erie photographer ron richardson will have his picture of webster featured on the cover of 5,000-10,000 copies of the book by Ben Marcus titled “Le Silence selon Jane Dark” (translates to “The Silence according to Jane Dark”). Will ron richardson become as popular in France as Jerry Lewis? Only time will tell.

Driving along the Bayfront Parkway, you can see a couple of dozen tanker railroad cars. No wonder they are just sitting there. Jeff at Erie Shipping News reported that Lake Erie Biofuels will ship out another load of biodiesel from the Port of Erie. The company recently shipped nearly 3 million gallons through the port.

Representatives from the Eerie Horror Film Festival announced that they will be making a special appearance at The Millcreek Mall in Erie, Pa on Saturday, May 24 from 11 am - 7 pm. The Fest will have information available about their upcoming season as well as revealing this season’s official T-Shirt, which will be available for purchase during the afternoon. Passes for the event are on-sale now via www.eeriehorrorfest.com. The Millcreek Mall, a landmark of the Erie County region of North Western Pennsylvania, features over 120 specialty shops and 14 anchor stores including Hot Topic, Spencer’s, Pacific Sunwear, Abercrombie and Fitch, Starbucks, Sears and Old Navy. The 3 million square foot complex also boasts over 25 restaurants and eateries and two hotels. The Eerie Horror Film Festival will be holding several special events at the Mall throughout the summer and fall months. The 5th Annual Eerie Horror Film Festival takes place October 9 - 12, at Warner Theater in Erie, Pennsylvania and will feature appearances by Sid Haig, Kane Hodder and a reunion of every living cast member of the original “Texas Chainsaw Massacre”.

Misty O’Connor, founder, owner and president, Point Click Learn Inc, was honored last night as one of the 2008 Best 50 Pennsylvania Women in Business.

GE and the C-MAR Group will team to demonstrate the feasibility of a new hybrid tugboat technology that will offer customers fuel savings along with significantly reduced emissions both companies announced today. “This is an exciting project that supports GE’s ongoing commitment to investing in new technologies. The alliance will explore the viability of applying this ‘green’ hybrid technology to the tugboat industry, with possible far-reaching applications in other sectors of the maritime industry,” said John Manison, manager of GE’s marine and stationary power business in Erie, Pennsylvania. Under the alliance, GE will provide a packaged hybrid propulsion system that will feature its V228 or V250 medium-speed diesel engines, a generator and a new generation of batteries. GE’s V228 or V250 medium-speed diesel engines range in power from 1,400 horsepower (hp)/1,004 kilowatts (kW) to 5685 continuous hp/4239 kW.

The National Business Group on Health, a national non-profit organization of large employers, recently honored Erie Insurance for its commitment and dedication to promoting a healthy workplace and encouraging a healthy lifestyle for its employees and families. Erie Insurance was among 52 employers that received the Best Employers for Healthy Lifestyles award at the Leadership Summit sponsored by the National Business Group on Health’s (NBGH) Institute on the Costs and Health Effects of Obesity. Erie Insurance received a Gold award for its Healthy Directions program. This is the second time Erie has received an award.

The Bowie Baysox took game one of a four-game series over the Erie SeaWolves at Jerry Uht Park in Erie on Monday night by a final score of 8-4. The SeaWolves and Bowie Baysox continue their four-game series on Tuesday night at Jerry Uht Park…6:35 First Pitch. LHP Luke French (2-3, 3.65 ERA) takes the mound to the ‘Wolves against RHP Chris Tillman (4-0, 2.41 ERA). Fans can purchase Reserved Seat tickets for just $3. Once inside the gates, fans can enjoy great concession specials of Smith’s Hot Dogs, Pepsi soft drinks, cotton candy and popcorn for just $1 each. It’s Golf Night! The first 2,000 fans will receive SeaWolves golf tees and wear your craziest golfing get-up and win sweet prizes!

With a focus on early childhood education, Pa Department of Public Welfare Secretary, Estelle Richman has a full day planned in Erie today, Tuesday, May 20. She is scheduled to speak at the HO Hirt Auditorium Blasco Library Complex from 10:15 am to 12 noon when she will discuss the 2008-2009 Pennsylvania budget and early childhood education. Prior to Ms Richman’s presentation, Pathways PA will present “Aging in Place in Erie” at 10 am. Approximately 100 stakeholders will be in attendance including social services workers, childcare providers and elected officials, who have a great interest in how the Pennsylvania budget affects their interests. The Erie Community Foundation, United Way of Erie County along with Pathways PA are hosting the presentations. The public is welcome. Reservations are encouraged by calling (814) 454-0843. After her presentation, Ms Richman will visit Erie Family Center and Early Connections where she will engage in discussions about United Way Success by Six as well as other child development and family focused programs. A nationally recognized expert on issues of behavioral health and children’s services, Ms Richman has been honored for advocacy efforts by the National Alliance on Mental Illness; the American Psychiatric Association and the American Medical Association, among others. She holds a master’s degree from Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio.

The Gannon University Small Business Development Center along with Paulsen Productions are sponsoring “From Service To Success”, a seminar for entrepreneurial veterans. It will be held May 20 at the Gannon Yehl Ballroom, 124 West 7th St in Erie. Cost is $15 and registration is required.

The Technology Council of Northwest PA brings you the 5th Annual Business Intelligence and Technology Summit (BITS) event that will be held on Wednesday, May 21 at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. This event presents an opportunity for IT managers, CEOs, and professionals to gather, discuss, and learn about the forces shaping our regions IT industry. This year’s BITS theme will focus on Emerging Technologies for Business. This one-day event will be host to a full day of seminars, workshops and product demonstrations. They will have 15 topic speakers, as well both a morning and luncheon keynote address. Morning keynote speaker is Nortel President and CEO Michael Zafivorski who is a graduate of Edinboro. Register online.

Alzheimer’s Association- Greater Pennsylvania Chapter presents “A Celebration of Caring, An Afternoon of Enlightenment and Recognition” on Thursday, May 22, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm. Luncheon at The Regency at South Shore, 322 Washington Place, Erie, PA 16505. Featuring: Melanie Titzel, MS, Co-Chair Greater Pennsylvania Board of Directors and the presentation of the “Caring Touch” Award honoring outstanding performance in dementia patient care. Join us for an afternoon of enlightenment and recognition as you hear the touching story of Melanie Titzel’s journey with Alzheimer’s disease on a personal and professional level. The Caring Touch Awards are reserved for the “the best of the best” and offer you an excellent way to salute a deserving caregiver and recognize employee accomplishments This event is open to all professionals and family caregivers, and the community. For questions, please email Kristen Bires or call her at (814) 456-9200.

KillerWolf Films is holding meetings/open auditions for their new feature film “Warriors of the Apocalypse” on Friday May 23 and Friday May 30. They will be held at the Erie Playhouse Rehearsal space at 12th and Brandes Streets in Erie from 6-9 pm both days. Shooting commences Saturday July 19 and wraps Sunday July 27, with filming being in the Northwestern PA area and possibly a few dates on the NJ/PA/NY border. KillerWolf Films latest release, “Fist of the Vampire”, is now available for pre-order on Amazon.com and is to be released worldwide July 8 from Maxim Media International/Brain Damage Films. KillerWolf Films is co-owned by Erieite Len Kabasinski and Meadville,PA native Lisa McQuiston.

The 11th annual Memorial Day Shootout soccer tournament will be held at Family First Sports Park in Erie PA, May 24-26. Over 250 teams U9-U19 are registered for the tourney. This is one of the top college recruiting tournaments in the country with dozens of colleges sending representatives. All area hotel rooms are booked and waits at area restaurants are expected.

Special events for are planned for Memorial Day weekend at the Erie Maritime Museum, Homeport of the US Brig Niagara. Climb aboard the reconstructed warship, the US Brig Niagara, which carried Oliver Hazard Perry to victory in the Battle of Lake Erie on Sept 10, 1813. The bayfront museum features hands-on exhibits, a one-of-a-kind “live fire” exhibit, a dockside amphitheater and spectacular views of Presque Isle Bay. The museum will celebrate its 10th anniversary on May 24 with hands-on activities, living history demonstrations, and live music from 10 am - 4 pm. Holiday weekend hours: Monday and Saturday: 9 am - 5 p.m.; Sunday: 12 pm - 5 pm.

The Manufacturers’ Association of Northwest Pennsylvania Eggs ‘n’ Issues topic on Wednesday, May 28 will be Keeping Pennsylvania Producing: A campaign to keep business from leaving Pennsylvania and the United States. The speaker will be David Bell, Coalition Member, The American Council for a Strong Economy. Price is $30 for members and $60 for non-members.

The Erie Capacity-Building Collaborative will be holding a FREE workshop on Fiscal Management 8:30-4 on Wednesday May 28. The workshop will be held at the GECAC Main Conference Room, 18 West 9th Street in Erie. It’s open to all community-based and faith-based grassroots organizations. Please RSVP at least one week in advance by contacting Lindsey Kimmy, 459-4581 Ext 448.

The 18th annual Erie Wild Rib Cook-off and Music Festival will be held May 28-31 at Perry Square in downtown Erie. Admission is FREE. This popular annual family event includes eight Professional National Award Winning Rib Cooking Teams offering the very best in BBQ cuisine. Added attractions include a selection of delicious festival foods, ongoing stage music, the “Kid ZONE” - a children’s fun area featuring scheduled Ride-A-Ribba-Rama packages, artist and crafts booths, educational and informational displays, specialty vendors and more. This festival has grown to attract over 50,000 visitors to Perry Square Park and the adjacent streets in Erie’s downtown district.

Dafmark Dance Theater and Erie Homes for Children and Adults (EHCA) presents “Partners in Dance VII: Modern Jazz Ain’t No Cakewalk.” The performance will begin at 1:30 pm on Thursday May 29 at Saint Benedict’s Community Center located at 320 East 10th Street and will feature dancers from the Dafmark Dance Theater and EHCA. The event is FREE and open to the public. For more information, call (814) 454-1534 x103.

JR’s Last Laugh Comedy Night Event to benefit Because You Care will be held at 6:30 pm on Thursday, May 29. Comedian: Juston McKinney. Food and drinks are available before and during the show. Ticket price: $15.50 Juston McKinney is one of the hottest comedians in the country. Coming to us from New York City, he has headlined many of the clubs in NY such as Caroline’s, Comic Strip Live, Dangerfield’s, and Stand-up NY. He’s been featured at the Toyota Comedy Festival and on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno and had his own show on Comedy Central. He is a US Comedy Arts Festival Award Winner, and delivers a funny, original, high energy performance, which has made him a huge hit all over the country. Call (814) 899-0061 to buy single tickets or blocks of tickets. Circle May 29 on your calendar today and plan to enjoy a great night of entertainment. Get your party together and share the night with friends and family! A big thank you to JR’s Last Laugh Comedy Club for sponsoring the 6th annual Comedy Night event. The money raised will help Because You Care pay for the spay and neuter of the many kittens taken in during April and May.

The charity bellydance event, “Shimmy for a Cure”, will be held May 31 at the Erie Playhouse in downtown Erie, PA. This event will benefit the John Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation.

The Saint Vincent Sports Medicine 2008 Edinboro Triathlon will be held May 31. You can register here.

Preview dresses owned and worn by nationally-recognized celebrities like Martina McBride, Beyonce, Amy Grant, Ann Curry, Raven Symone, Patti LaBelle and many others from 12:30-3 pm June 1 at Lake Shore Country Club. The Celebrity Dress Preview event will benefit My Father’s House of Erie, a nonprofit transitional program for homeless/abused women and their children. The organization operates the retail store Bella Designs, 4801 Peach Street, in which women in the program have the opportunity to learn vocational skills and work experience. “These dresses are telling of the personalities who owned them ,” said Connie Miller, My Father’s House Of Erie, special projects administrator, “and this event will be a casual Sunday afternoon here in Erie by the lake to see them before they travel to Los Angeles for our live on-line fashion show auction in the Fall,” she added. The event will also feature guest speaker, Pete McDaniel, Senior Writer, Golf Digest Magazine and “Training a Tiger” co-author with the late Earl Woods, will entertain the audience with his storytelling and will auction four original Tiger Woods autographed photos from the legendary golfer’s PGA 20007 victory. Sponsored by Fishtank creative, an Erie-based marketing advertising and communications agency, powered by the Velocity Network, the host committee is comprised of Melanie Johnson, Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership, Cynthia Phillips, Motivational Speaker, Alan and Angie Rossum, NFL San Francisco 49ers (formerly of the NFL Pittsburgh Steelers), Shaun and Shonda Smith, NFL Cleveland Browns, and Dr. and Mrs. Matthew Thomas, St Vincent Health Center. Tickets are $35 per person or $50 per couple and available at the following locations: Bella Designs, 4801 Peach Street; All GE Federal Credit Union branches; and National City Bank, 801 State Street. For more information, please call (814) 879-0880.

The Technology Council of Northwest Pennsylvania will hold a Breakfast Briefing, “Understanding Financial Ratios Your Banker Looks At”, Wednesday, June 4, 7:30 am to 9 am, at the Holiday Inn Express, 8101 Peach Street in Erie. Free to members, $40 non-members. RSVP by May 30. Advanced registration is required.

Erie Chamber Orchestra presents “A Tribute to Victor Herbert” on Friday June 6 at St Patrick’s Church, 130 East 4th St in Erie. A tin-pan alley composer, Herbert played the cello and wrote many light operas. Some of these works include “The Wizard of the Nile,” “The Fortune Teller,” and “Babes in Toyland.” The concert is FREE and open to the public. Show time is 7:30 pm.

On Saturday, June 7, 2008 there will be a Nautical Flea Market from 10 am to 1 pm at the BCMS (Bayfront Center for Maritime Studies) 40 Holland Street, Erie, PA. The event is FREE and is held in conjunction with Erie Safe Boating Day. All boaters (power/sail) are welcome. Tables for selling nautical wares are available FREE of charge but table reservations MUST be made by calling Linda Dunbar before May 28th at (814) 456-9060. A bulletin board will also be available to post items too large to display.

Head Coach John T Reilly of Gannon University will conduct three sessions of basketball camp this summer. Sessions will be held June 9-13, June 23-27 and August 4-8. His coaching staff, area high school coaches and several of his players will serve as camp instructors. The sessions are designed as teaching camps that emphasize the fundamentals of the game of basketball. The camps are for students in Grades 3-10.

Penn State Behrend will host its second international conference on injection molding, “Injection Molding: Innovation and Emerging Technologies,” from June 10-12. The three-day conference will feature 24 technical presentations, offered concurrently in the mornings, and hands-on tutorials in the afternoons. Two keynote speakers will address attendees on Wednesday and Thursday - Rob Neilley, editor-in-chief of Injection Molding Magazine, and William Carteaux, president and CEO of The Society of the Plastics Industry, Inc, respectively. On Tuesday, all are invited to tour the local Rehrig Pacific Company plant, located at 1738 W 20th Street in Erie. Advance registration for the conference if required.

The first Erie Downtown Partnership Block Party of 2008 will be held Thursday June 12 on the 1300 block of State Street in front of Calamari’s Squid Row. The event is FREE. Food and beverages will be available for sale. One World Tribe will provide the music.

The 84th annual Lake City Fire Company Carnival will be held June 12-14 in Lake City, PA.

The eMarketing Learning Center at eBizITPA will hold a roundtable titled Aligning Marketing and IT for Success from 4 pm to 5:30 pm on June 18.

The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) will hold a Summer On Campus Day, 1 pm - 4:30 pm on Friday, June 20 to provide opportunities for prospective students to tour the campus facilities and learn about the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Doctor of Pharmacy Program and the Health Sciences Post Baccalaureate Program. Please confirm your attendance for the event with Maggie Crosswhite or Camille Jennings.

The Erie Summer Festival of the Arts will be held June 27-29 at Liberty Park.

Erie’s gay, lesbian bisexual and transgender (GLBT) community will come together the weekend of June 28-29 to celebrate Pride 2008 with a picnic, march/rally, and social opportunities. Festivities get underway Saturday, June 28, with the Pride Erie Picnic at Rotary Pavilion, Beach 7 at Presque Isle State Park. The Pride Picnic runs from 1-6 pm with food being served from 2-4 pm. The Pride March will step off from The Zone Dance Club at 1 pm. Sunday, June 29, with the Pride Rally beginning in Perry Square at 2 pm. Information about the Erie area Pride March/Rally is available at www.ErieGayPride.org, by email at eriegaypride@gmail.com, or by calling 866-229-1974 (toll free).

There will be a Rust Belt Bloggers Summit on July 11-12 in Erie. People from Youngstown, Buffalo, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and other area cities will be attendance to discuss economic development issues in the region.

The Manufacturers’ Association and Erie-Western Pennsylvania Port Authority annual Roar on the Shore motorcycle rally will be held July 17-20, 2008. While downtown Erie serves as the hub of the rally, related events take place throughout the city and region. Most notably, two outdoor concerts featuring major artists will be held Friday and Saturday, July 18 and 19, at Liberty Park along Presque Isle Bay.

Posted by Dennis at May 20, 2008 7:01 AM

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