 Region:
Northwest
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Is it Erie-sistable? The city of Erie is
located adjacent to the Great Lake bearing the same name. So, needless to say there
is a lot to do in Erie in and around the water.
Let's start our journey
at Presque Isle. The words “Presque Isle” are French meaning “almost
an lsland”. This isle curves around in an arc, almost touching the mainland at
its tip. It contains a diversity of habitats for naturalists to enjoy, beit the
amateur or serious. There are countless opportunities for birdwatchers, wildlife
observers and ecologists to study and enjoy. Presque Isle has even been named a
National Natural Landmark due to its unique geological and ecological equilibrium.
There are seven miles of
sandy beaches where the “sun bum” can enjoy the day in the surf and on the sand.
The greatest problem one will encounter is deciding what to do. Swimming,
boating, water skiing, fishing, windsurfing, hiking, biking, and picnicking are all
possible here. What, you say you don't have a boat? Don't worry, you can rent
canoes, boats and paddle boats too.
Presque Isle was chosen
by the government as a site on which to build a fleet of ships during the War of 1812.
In the year 1813 Commodore Oliver Perry defended Lake Erie against the British on
the Flagship the U.S. Brig Niagara. A monument to Commodore Perry is a major
attraction at Presque Isle State Park.
The Flagship was
reconstructed in 1990 and is now an ambassador for the city of Erie and the state of
Pennsylvania. When she is not sailing to other ports, she is docked at the Erie
Maritime Museum located at 150 East Front Street. (phone 814-452-BRIG to check on
sailing dates and when the Niagara is in port.) If you happen to arrive at a time
when Niagara is off spreading good will, don't fret. The Maritime Museum has a wide
range of multimedia exhibits that will even be enjoyed by “landlubbers”.
If this isn't enough for
you do see and do, plan to be in Erie for the four-day “We Love Erie Days”
festival on the bayfront August 13- 16, 1998,11:00 am 'til 11:00pm daily. Erie Days
is host to the “International Festival”, which features the community's
ethnic heritage with ethnic displays, foods, hand made artistry, performances, music,
dance and food. The event's grand finale is an amazing fireworks show. For
information, call 814-454-7191.
To answer my question at
the beginning of this story, “is it Eriesistible?”, it sure seems that way to
me.
Smooth Sailing....
--- Sandra Lee
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