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Articles by Sam Heilmann
Scott Mitchell retires from Erie Zoo
Scott Mitchell retires from Erie Zoo Tue, November 10, 2026 at 11:39 AM EST (WJET/WFXP) — A familiar guest at JET Action News has announced his retirement. Scott Mitchell has retired from the Erie Zoo after 40 years of service. The announcement was posted to the zoo's Facebook page Tuesday morning. "Forty years of service to one organization is an extraordinary accomplishment, and we are sincerely grateful to Scott for the time, energy, and commitment he has given to the Zoo," the post reads.
expERIEnce Children’s Museum to host ‘Global Neighbors: India’
(WJET/WFXP) — The fifth stop on the expERIEnce Children’s Museum’s global tour will take place later this month. The museum will host “Global Neighbors: India” on Saturday, November 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will feature Indian classical and folk dance, led by Dr. Shreelina Ghosh and members of Erie’s Indian community. Attendees can also take part in rangoli design, creating a bright, patterned floor art design, as well as enjoy Diwali sweets.
expERIEnce Children’s Museum to host ‘Global Neighbors: India’
Sam Heilmann Sat, November 7, 2026 at 3:06 PM EST 1 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Add Yahoo on Google (WJET/WFXP) — The fifth stop on the expERIEnce Children's Museum's global tour will take place later this month.
Oil Region Astronomical Society to host public event featuring local astronomer
The Oil Region Astronomical Society will host Chris Thomas, an amateur astronomer, for a discussion at their Learning Center on Saturday, November 7 at 7 p.m. The event, titled “My Forty-Year Story in Astronomy,” will include Thomas’ story as well as an opportunity to view the sky through the observatory’s 30-inch telescope, weather permitting.
Oil Region Astronomical Society to host public event featuring local astronomer
Sam Heilmann Sat, November 7, 2026 at 12:20 PM EST 1 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Add Yahoo on Google (WJET/WFXP) — A free astronomical event will be held tonight.
Millcreek Township Fire Department to host annual Santa Gift Run for families
Posted: Nov 6, 2026 / 12:13 PM EST Updated: Nov 6, 2026 / 12:13 PM EST (WJET/WFXP) — A magical holiday event is returning for its third year. The Millcreek Township Fire Department will host its third annual Santa Gift Run on Saturday, December 12. Local firefighters, along with Santa, will deliver hand-wrapped gifts that families provide for their own children beforehand. This year’s run will begin at 9 a.m. and include two routes across the township.
Millcreek Township Fire Department to host annual Santa Gift Run for families
Sam Heilmann Fri, November 6, 2026 at 12:13 PM EST 1 min read (WJET/WFXP) — A magical holiday event is returning for its third year. The Millcreek Township Fire Department will host its third annual Santa Gift Run on Saturday, December 12. Local firefighters, along with Santa, will deliver hand-wrapped gifts that families provide for their own children beforehand. This year's run will begin at 9 a.m. and include two routes across the township.
EMTA to host ‘Stuff the Bus’ benefitting Toys for Tots
(WJET/WFXP) — An annual donation drive will return this holiday season. The Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority will host its 9 th annual “Stuff the Bus” toy drive to benefit Toys for Tots of Erie County on Friday, December 4. The drive will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Millcreek Mall Plaza, in the parking area by Primanti Brothers. A Bayliner Trolley will be stationed at the location.
EMTA to host ‘Stuff the Bus’ benefitting Toys for Tots
Posted: Oct 31, 2026 / 02:32 PM EDT Updated: Oct 31, 2026 / 02:32 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — An annual donation drive will return this holiday season. The Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority will host its 9th annual “Stuff the Bus” toy drive to benefit Toys for Tots of Erie County on Friday, December 4. The drive will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Millcreek Mall Plaza, in the parking area by Primanti Brothers. A Bayliner Trolley will be stationed at the location.
Northern PA Regional College recipient of PennDOT technical education grant
(WJET/WFXP) — A local college has received a funding boost to expand their apprenticeship opportunities. On October 20, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Pennsylvania Department of Education announced a plan to invest nearly $12 million across 27 educational institutions throughout the Commonwealth through the first round of the PennDOT Career and Technical Education Program.
Northern PA Regional College recipient of PennDOT technical education grant
(WJET/WFXP) — A local college has received a funding boost to expand their apprenticeship opportunities. On October 20, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Pennsylvania Department of Education announced a plan to invest nearly $12 million across 27 educational institutions throughout the Commonwealth through the first round of the PennDOT Career and Technical Education Program.
Howard Industries announces change in ownership
(WJET/WFXP) — An Erie-based signage company has announced a new chapter. Howard Industries announced on Monday that they will undergo a transition in ownership to the Pittsburgh-based investment firm Two Step Ventures, with managing partner Dan Kelly to serve as Howard Industries’ new chief executive officer. Howard Industries is a wholesale sign manufacturer based in Erie, known in particular for their “Next-Day ADA” program, which delivers ADA-compliant signage within 24 hours.
Scratch-off ticket sold in Warren Co. fetches $1 million
Scratch-off ticket sold in Warren Co. fetches $1 million Thu, October 29, 2026 at 12:15 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — A lottery ticket recently sold in Warren County was a big winner. Tops Market in Youngsville Borough of Warren County sold a winning $1 million scratch-off lottery ticket. The "Million Dollar Win It All" ticket is a $50 game with prizes of up to $1 million. For selling a winning ticket, the Tops Market will also receive a $5,000 bonus.
PA Game Commission issues reminders on deer activity for drivers
PA Game Commission issues reminders on deer activity for drivers Sat, October 24, 2026 at 1:10 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — The PA Game Commission is urging drivers to remain alert on the roads.
WQLN to host annual Holiday Craft Show
Sam Heilmann Sat, October 24, 2026 at 1:06 PM EDT 1 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Add Yahoo on Google (WJET/WFXP) — A local holiday craft market is returning in November. WQLN will host its annual WQLN Holiday Craft Show on November 14 and 15. The craft show will feature handmade gifts and one-of-a-kind creations from more than 100 crafters.
Best of Erie 2026 nominations open
Best of Erie 2026 nominations open Fri, October 23, 2026 at 3:08 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — It's time once again to vote for your favorite people and places in Erie! Voting is now open for Erie Reader's "Best of Erie 2026." Everything Erie — from media personalities and artists to restaurants, schools, local businesses and lots more — is up for nomination.
Erie Art Museum announces change in leadership
Erie Art Museum announces change in leadership Thu, October 22, 2026 at 2:26 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — A local art institution has announced a transition in leadership. The Erie Art Museum shared on Thursday that Executive Director Laura Domencic is leaving the role as of October 22. The museum's Communications Director, Jude Shingle, was selected by the Board of Directors to lead as Interim Director.
PennDOT to complete overnight work in Corry
PennDOT to complete overnight work in Corry Sat, October 17, 2026 at 1:33 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — PennDOT has announced a new construction project for Erie County. Starting the week of October 19, there will be 24-hour construction on Route 77 and Church Street in the City of Corry. Crews will pave during the day and handle reconstruction work overnight. Work is expected to continue through Friday, October 23. Work is also expected to only take place during the day on October 22 and 23.
PennDOT to complete overnight work in Corry
(WJET/WFXP) — PennDOT has announced a new construction project for Erie County. Starting the week of October 19, there will be 24-hour construction on Route 77 and Church Street in the City of Corry. Crews will pave during the day and handle reconstruction work overnight. Work is expected to continue through Friday, October 23. Work is also expected to only take place during the day on October 22 and 23.
expERIEnce to host adult-only ‘Science of Sips’
Sam Heilmann Sat, October 17, 2026 at 12:51 PM EDT 1 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Add Yahoo on Google (WJET/WFXP) — A local kids museum will open its doors for an adult-only event next month. The expERIEnce Children's Museum will host Science of Sips on Thursday, November 5 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Participants can take part in a beer can crush lab, giant beer pong with beer goggles and a variety of demonstrations.
expERIEnce to host adult-only ‘Science of Sips’
(WJET/WFXP) — A local kids museum will open its doors for an adult-only event next month. The expERIEnce Children’s Museum will host Science of Sips on Thursday, November 5 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Participants can take part in a beer can crush lab, giant beer pong with beer goggles and a variety of demonstrations. […] (WJET/WFXP) — A local kids museum will open its doors for an adult-only event next month.
Erie County Community College announces new chairperson
(WJET/WFXP) — An Erie college has announced a transition in leadership. The Erie County Community College Board of Trustees has elected EJay Fyke as the new chairperson of the Board. Fyke will replace Dr. Michael Victor, who will serve as vice chairperson. Fyke has served on the Board of Trustees since 2024. As chairperson, he […] (WJET/WFXP) — An Erie college has announced a transition in leadership.
Erie County Community College announces new chairperson
Erie County Community College announces new chairperson Fri, October 16, 2026 at 3:12 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — An Erie college has announced a transition in leadership. The Erie County Community College Board of Trustees has elected EJay Fyke as the new chairperson of the Board. Fyke will replace Dr. Michael Victor, who will serve as vice chairperson. Fyke has served on the Board of Trustees since 2024.
Family Services CEO announces retirement
(WJET/WFXP) — The CEO of a local organization has announced a step back. Greg Loop, president and CEO of Family Services of NW PA will be retiring in April of 2027. The decision was announced at the organization’s Annual Meeting on October 6 before a public announcement on Friday. “I made the decision to come […] (WJET/WFXP) — The CEO of a local organization has announced a step back. Greg Loop, president and CEO of Family Services of NW PA will be retiring in April of 2027.
Family Services CEO announces retirement
Family Services CEO announces retirement Fri, October 16, 2026 at 12:34 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — The CEO of a local organization has announced a step back. Greg Loop, president and CEO of Family Services of NW PA will be retiring in April of 2027. The decision was announced at the organization's Annual Meeting on October 6 before a public announcement on Friday.
Millcreek Township shares fall leaf pickup schedule
Posted: Oct 15, 2026 / 03:05 PM EDT Updated: Oct 15, 2026 / 03:05 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — The leaves are falling, and local townships are ready to pick them up. Millcreek Township has announced its schedule for curbside Fall Leaf Pickup. The first pickup will take place the week of October 19 through 23. “When leaves are collected on schedule, we keep roads passable, drains draining, and neighborhoods safe for everyone,” said Jessica Stutzman, director of Community Relations and Sustainability.
Millcreek Township shares fall leaf pickup schedule
Millcreek Township shares fall leaf pickup schedule Thu, October 15, 2026 at 3:05 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — The leaves are falling, and local townships are ready to pick them up. Millcreek Township has announced its schedule for curbside Fall Leaf Pickup. The first pickup will take place the week of October 19 through 23.
Gannon University announces change in presidential leadership
Gannon University announces change in presidential leadership Fri, October 9, 2026 at 5:39 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — A local university has announced a change in leadership. Gannon University announced in a statement on Friday that Dr. Walter Iwanenko concluded his service as president on October 8. "Serving Gannon University has been a tremendous privilege," Iwanenko said.
PennDOT to accept project proposals through October
WJET/WFXP ) — PennDOT is looking to the private sector for transportation project proposals this month. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's Office of Public-Private Partnerships is accepting transportation project proposals from the private sector through October 31. PennDOT holds an unsolicited proposal period in April and October every year. The submissions can be related to PennDOT-owned projects, infrastructure or services, according to a statement from the department on October 1.
PennDOT to accept project proposals through October
PennDOT to accept project proposals through October Sat, October 3, 2026 at 3:03 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — PennDOT is looking to the private sector for transportation project proposals this month. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's Office of Public-Private Partnerships is accepting transportation project proposals from the private sector through October 31. PennDOT holds an unsolicited proposal period in April and October every year.
LIST: 2026 Halloween and fall events around Erie
(WJET/WFXP) — It's that time of year! There are plenty of fall festivals, family-friendly events and spooky experiences to take advantage of this season. Below, you can find the details for various local events through October and November. Events are ordered by starting date, but many run throughout the month. Click the name of the event to find more information! Fall Events: Pumpkintown Sept.
LIST: 2026 Halloween and fall events around Erie
(WJET/WFXP) — It's that time of year! There are plenty of fall festivals, family-friendly events and spooky experiences to take advantage of this season. Below, you can find the details for various local events through October and November. Events are ordered by starting date, but many run throughout the month.
Pumpkin Walk 2026 to be held at Waldameer
(WJET/WFXP) — A popular fall event is returning to Erie in early October. Penn State Behrend will host Pumpkin Walk 2026 on October 9 and 10 at Waldameer Park from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. The event is organized by the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Erie County. The walk features more than 1,100 illuminated carved pumpkins created by 52 local groups, from schools to community organizations.
Pumpkin Walk 2026 to be held at Waldameer
Posted: Sep 26, 2026 / 12:35 PM EDT Updated: Sep 26, 2026 / 12:35 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — A popular fall event is returning to Erie in early October. Penn State Behrend will host Pumpkin Walk 2026 on October 9 and 10 at Waldameer Park from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. The event is organized by the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Erie County. The walk features more than 1,100 illuminated carved pumpkins created by 52 local groups, from schools to community organizations.
Pumpkin Walk 2026 to be held at Waldameer
(WJET/WFXP) — A popular fall event is returning to Erie in early October. Penn State Behrend will host Pumpkin Walk 2026 on October 9 and 10 at Waldameer Park from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. The event is organized by the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Erie County. The walk features more than 1,100 illuminated carved pumpkins created by 52 local groups, from schools to community organizations.
Flags ordered lowered in honor of Bryce Kaufmann
Flags ordered lowered in honor of Bryce Kaufmann Wed, September 23, 2026 at 3:22 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — Flags in Erie County have been ordered to be lowered following the passing of a local junior firefighter. On Wednesday, September 23, Governor Josh Shapiro ordered Commonwealth and United States flags on all public buildings, grounds and Commonwealth facilities in Erie County to fly at half-staff in honor of Junior Firefighter Bryce Kaufmann.
Flags ordered lowered in honor of Bryce Kaufmann
(WJET/WFXP) — Flags in Erie County have been ordered to be lowered following the passing of a local junior firefighter. On Wednesday, September 23, Governor Josh Shapiro ordered Commonwealth and United States flags on all public buildings, grounds and Commonwealth facilities in Erie County to fly at half-staff in honor of Junior Firefighter Bryce Kaufmann. Kauffman, 17, was a junior firefighter for the A.F. Dobler Hose and Ladder Co. in Girard.
Erie Zoo announces passing of Visayan warty pig, Darla
(WJET/WFXP) — The Erie Zoo has announced the passing of one its animals. Darla, a female Visayan warty pig, passed away at 11.5 years old after complications from anesthesia from a routine sedated exam. Darla had no signs of health concerns prior to her exam, but her condition worsened the following morning before she went into cardiopulmonary arrest. The zoo is awaiting results of additional testing to better understand what underlying conditions may have contributed to her passing.
Erie Zoo announces passing of Visayan warty pig, Darla
Erie Zoo announces passing of Visayan warty pig, Darla Wed, September 23, 2026 at 12:20 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — The Erie Zoo has announced the passing of one its animals. Darla, a female Visayan warty pig, passed away at 11.5 years old after complications from anesthesia from a routine sedated exam. Darla had no signs of health concerns prior to her exam, but her condition worsened the following morning before she went into cardiopulmonary arrest.
Primary Health Network highlights gun lock program, suicide prevention efforts
(WJET/WFXP) — A regional healthcare provider is reminding the community of its suicide-prevention resources. In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September, Primary Health Network is highlighting the growth of its gun lock program. The program was established to strengthen the connection between healthcare, suicide prevention and firearm safety, according to a statement from PHN.
Primary Health Network highlights gun lock program, suicide prevention efforts
(WJET/WFXP) — A regional healthcare provider is reminding the community of its suicide-prevention resources. In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September, Primary Health Network is highlighting the growth of its gun lock program. The program was established to strengthen the connection between healthcare, suicide prevention and firearm safety, according to a statement from PHN.
Friends of the Erie County Library to host Fall Drive-Thru Book Drive
(WJET/WFXP) — A local volunteer group is making it easy to donate used books, games and music. The Friends of the Erie County Library will hold a drive-through fall book drive on Saturday, September 26 at the Flo Fabrizio Ice Center next to the Erie Zoo.
Friends of the Erie County Library to host Fall Drive-Thru Book Drive
(WJET/WFXP) — A local volunteer group is making it easy to donate used books, games and music. The Friends of the Erie County Library will hold a drive-through fall book drive on Saturday, September 26 at the Flo Fabrizio Ice Center next to the Erie Zoo.
Buzz N’ B’s to hold goldfish, koi intake event with Erie Zoo
Buzz N’ B’s to hold goldfish, koi intake event with Erie Zoo Thu, September 17, 2026 at 3:17 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — A local pet store is offering the chance to protect native and non-native fish. Buzz N' B's Aquarium and Pet Shop is partnering with the Erie Zoo's Last Chance Lagoon, providing a safe and ecologically responsible way to give away unwanted goldfish and koi. The pet shop will hold an intake event on Saturday, September 26 from 12 to 4 p.m. in recognition of Neighborhood Pet Store Day.
Buzz N’ B’s to hold goldfish, koi intake event with Erie Zoo
(WJET/WFXP) — A local pet store is offering the chance to protect native and non-native fish. Buzz N’ B’s Aquarium and Pet Shop is partnering with the Erie Zoo’s Last Chance Lagoon, providing a safe and ecologically responsible way to give away unwanted goldfish and koi. The pet shop will hold an intake event on Saturday, September 26 from 12 to 4 p.m. in recognition of Neighborhood Pet Store Day. The shop is located at 2500 Yoder Drive in Erie.
Rep. Merski’s Erie office to host vaccine clinic Thursday
(WJET/WFXP) — A one-day vaccine clinic is coming to Erie this week. State Representative Bob Merski will host a flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinic at his district office — 3921 Buffalo Road, Erie — on Thursday, September 17. The clinic will run from 9 a.m. to noon. According to a statement from Merski’s office, recipients […] (WJET/WFXP) — A one-day vaccine clinic is coming to Erie this week.
Rep. Merski’s Erie office to host vaccine clinic Thursday
Rep. Merski’s Erie office to host vaccine clinic Thursday Wed, September 16, 2026 at 2:32 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — A one-day vaccine clinic is coming to Erie this week. State Representative Bob Merski will host a flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinic at his district office — 3921 Buffalo Road, Erie — on Thursday, September 17. The clinic will run from 9 a.m. to noon. According to a statement from Merski's office, recipients must present a valid insurance card to receive vaccinations.
Erie Arts and Culture hosts exhibition from Pittsburgh’s ‘Let’s Get Free’
Sam Heilmann Sat, September 12, 2026 at 3:07 PM EDT 2 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Add Yahoo on Google (WJET/WFXP) — A local art organization is partnering with a Pittsburgh-based group to share stories from people formerly and currently incarcerated.
Erie Arts and Culture hosts exhibition from Pittsburgh’s ‘Let’s Get Free’
(WJET/WFXP) — A local art organization is partnering with a Pittsburgh-based group to share stories from people formerly and currently incarcerated.
PA State Historic Preservation Office to host virtual Archaeology Month talks
PA State Historic Preservation Office to host virtual Archaeology Month talks Sat, September 12, 2026 at 1:56 PM EDT (WJET/WFXP) — A free research lecture series on Pennsylvania history will be available throughout October. The Pennsylvania State Historic Preservation Office will celebrate Archaeology Month with a series of webinars from experts throughout October.
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