Media For Us, By Us: Diverse Communication Outlets in Erie Panel Discussion
Thursday, April 13
7 - 8:30 p.m.
Erie Center for Arts & Technology (ECAT)
Featuring Sonya Byes and Michael Kenton Mahler, B.S.
In this panel discussion, local media pioneers Sonya Byes (Chatting with Sonya and Friends) and Michael Mahler (Erie Gay News) will discuss the origins of their platforms and their importance to diverse communities in the Erie area.
Important to Note:
- Location: Erie Center for Arts & Technology (ECAT) -- 650 East Avenue, Erie, PA 16503.
- Date/Time: Thursday, April 13 at 7:00 p.m.
- Admission: FREE, walk-ins welcome!
Invasive Species in the Great Lakes: A Brief History of the World's Most Invaded Freshwater System
Friday, April 21
12-1:30 p.m.
Jefferson Educational Society
Featuring James Grazio, Ph.D.
The history of biological invasions in the North American Great Lakes basin spans two centuries and involves multiple vectors of spread including shipping, canals, aquarium release, bait release, aquaculture escapes, and intentional stocking. More than 180 non-native species have become established in the basin since the arrival of European settlers. The vast majority have little or no known adverse impacts. A subset of these non-native species known as Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS), however, have had adverse effects on the ecology and economy of the region, and some of these problems have been profound. Dr. Jim Grazio, Ph.D., has worked as Pennsylvania's Great Lakes Biologist for most of his career and has a unique first-hand knowledge of the problems caused by invasive species in the Pennsylvania waters of Lake Erie. Jim's presentation will cover the history of biological invasions in the Great Lakes, highlighting some of the most interesting and destructive invaders. Jim will also discuss ongoing challenges and opportunities related to AIS management in one of the world's most valuable freshwater ecosystems.
*Please note: the lecture is free, but we ask you to register 24 hours before the event if you are purchasing a lunch. There will not be extras available for purchase at the lecture. You are welcome to bring your own lunch as well. Thank you for understanding!
Important to Note:
- Location: Jefferson Educational Society -- 3207 State Street, Erie, PA 16508.
- Date/Time: Friday, April 21 at Noon
- Admission: FREE, optional $5 lunch (must pre-register 24 hours in advance)
Places of Grace and Beauty: Reflections on Erie's Christian Places of Worship
Monday, April 24
7-8:30 p.m.
Jefferson Educational Society
Featuring Michael DeSanctis, Ph.D.
This lavishly illustrated presentation will offer participants a variety of tools for better appreciating the rich heritage of Christian church architecture in the city of Erie. The presentation will identify the "Five Ps of Church Architecture" (plan, proportion, perspective, placement, purpose) as Dr. DeSanctis finds them operating in the design, construction, and use of Erie's church buildings. Though local groups of Christians certainly embrace the beauty and intelligibility of this world, special attention with be devoted to explaining the means by which they lend architectural expression to their shared belief in a supernatural realm surpassing this one. Time at the presentation's conclusion will be directed to participants' questions and comments.
Important to Note:
- Location: Jefferson Educational Society -- 3207 State Street, Erie, PA 16508.
- Date/Time: Monday, April 24 at 7:00 p.m.
- Admission: FREE
A Humane Response to the Overdose Epidemic: Exploring the Impact of 'Harm Reduction' in Erie
Tuesday, April 25
7-8:30 p.m.
Jefferson Educational Society
Featuring Daniel Schank, Ph.D.
As the addiction and overdose crisis worsens in our community, diverse strategies to provide help are often collectively categorized as "harm reduction." This blanket term can describe conventional overdose prevention strategies (such as providing support services and reducing stigma), as well as more controversial measures (such as drug decriminalization and legalization). This lecture will define and characterize a variety of harm reduction measures, including naloxone distribution, medication-assisted treatment, needle-exchange programs, and supervised injection sites. As the term becomes clearer, we will assess its current use in Erie – as well as its potential to address addiction more effectively moving forward.
Important to Note:
- Location: Jefferson Educational Society -- 3207 State Street, Erie, PA 16508.
- Date/Time: Tuesday, April 25 at 7:00 p.m.
- Admission: FREE
Conserving Our Greatest Regional Asset: Local Perspectives on Erie's Water Quality
Wednesday, April 26
4 - 5:00 p.m. EST
Zoom Live-Stream Webinar and JES Facebook Live
Featuring Raven Clark, B.A.
Water is the Erie Region's greatest asset. Protecting the abundant freshwater resources in our backyards remains a complex challenge. Asbury Woods and PennFuture are teaming up to host a panel discussion featuring representatives from Pennsylvania Lake Erie Watershed Association, Master Watershed Stewards, Lake Erie Region Conservancy, and Trout Unlimited. This panel discussion will highlight the experiences of these organizations focused on protecting, conserving, and restoring our local waterways. Questions will explore local challenges to water quality, initiatives undertaken to address these challenges, and additional work to be done. Actions that individuals can take to promote clean water will also be discussed.
Important to Note:
- Location: Zoom Live-Stream Webinar / JES Facebook Live
- Date/Time: Wednesday, April 26 at 4:00 p.m. EST
- Admission: FREE
The Power and Potential of Philanthropy: Inspiring Generosity, and Fueling Community Transformation
Friday, April 28
12-1:30 p.m.
Jefferson Educational Society
Featuring Karen Bilowith, M.P.A.
More than a century ago, Cleveland banker Frederick Goff had a vision: to pool the charitable resources of community philanthropists into a single, great, and permanent endowment for the betterment of the city. That vision led to the formation of the Cleveland Foundation -- and a movement that has transformed philanthropy in the United States and worldwide. Today, nearly 800 U.S. community foundations collectively grant more than $6.5 billion each year and manage more than $82 billion in charitable assets. In Erie, the Erie Community Foundation (ECF) traces back to 1935 when Elisha H. Mack, co-founder of the Boston Store, created a charitable endowment fund. At ECF, community isn't just a part of our name. It's central to who we are and what we do. We inspire, engage, and empower people and communities across our region to create a vibrant, united, thriving region for all. This presentation will explore the role of philanthropy in community transformation and Erie Community Foundation's commitment to inclusive community engagement and equitable community growth.
*Please note: the lecture is free, but we ask you to register 24 hours before the event if you are purchasing a lunch. There will not be extras available for purchase at the lecture. You are welcome to bring your own lunch as well. Thank you for understanding!
Important to Note:
- Location: Jefferson Educational Society -- 3207 State Street, Erie, PA 16508.
- Date/Time: Friday, April 28 at Noon
- Admission: FREE, optional $5 lunch (must pre-register 24 hours in advance)
