Erie Times-News, Pa., Kevin Cuneo column [Erie Times-News, Pa.]

Sept. 30--You can't help but feel a sense of pride as you tour the impressive new Erie Insurance Arena. Casey Wells, executive director of the Erie County Convention Center Authority, wisely invited top event promoters -- some of whom hadn't been to Erie in years -- to a recent reception at the arena. Each promoter raved about what is essentially a brand-new building, which could lead to bigger concerts and shows down the line. ... From the building's upper windows, you get great views of the field at Jerry Uht Park and, on the other side, the Warner Theatre. For me, the light shining through the windows makes it seem like a brand new arena. ... The Rev. Philip Oriole will present the first check from the estate of Monsignor Jack Hagerty to Cathedral Preparatory School today. Hagerty, who served as headmaster at Prep, provided funding for the chapel there. A great guy, Hagerty died in April. ... The current Catholic monsignors could be the last of their breed, according to Pope Francis, who plans to do away with the title. The pope said, "Father is good enough." ... Charlie Ingram, president of the Erie Philharmonic board, sounds excited about the appointment of Jeffrey Collier as the group's new executive director. Collier served for five years as voice program manager for the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, as well as stints at Juilliard and the Kennedy Center. He worked closely with opera star Marilyn Horne and clearly has good contacts in the field. ... Charles Faulkerson, who died Wednesday at the age of 69, was dedicated to the community. He volunteered for many good causes and was always willing to work hard for organizations that help make Erie a better place. ... Congratulations to George Lyons on the 20th anniversary of the founding of Contemporary Motorcar. George and his partner, Gary Miller, opened their doors at 4910 Peach Street in the spring of 1993 and have been an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer ever since. ... Olympic champion gymnast Shawn Johnson, who won four medals, including a gold at the 2008 games, will speak Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at Penn State Behrend's Reed Union Building. Johnson was just 16 when she competed in Beijing. She and her partner, Mark Ballas, also won ABC's "Dancing with the Stars." ... Cleveland Beer Week, set for Oct. 18-26, will feature more than 1,000 craft beers at the downtown festival. The Great Lakes Brewing Co. will be in the spotlight.

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