From the Editors: August 2024

InsideCreativeHouse

In last month's edition of From the Editors, this writer, along with an op-ed written by Jeff Bloodworth, lamented the loss of true patriotism in recent generations — highlighting the hopelessness that we are collectively feeling, which prevents us from having true, sustainable pride in the direction of our country.

Fast-forward one month and suddenly, national pride seems a little easier to come by.

Thanks, in part, to an uplifting announcement from our current president, who, by putting country over ego, stepped down from the race (which also happened to result in a 700 percent spike in daily voter registration — patriotism made manifest in process participation).

And thanks, in part, to Snoop Dogg and Flavor Flav — the Olympic folk heroes we didn't know we needed — bringing a wholesome, authentic enthusiasm that is, frankly, a patriotic pleasure to witness.

Oh yes, and thanks, in part, to all of the incredibly impressive American Olympic athletes who can get even the harshest domestic critic jumping off their couch, chanting, "USA! USA!" as Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky and Bobby Finke (among many, many others) blast through records at an astounding rate — making national pride feel easy.

And locally? If last month's inspiring announcement of Erie's 40 Under 40 class of 2024 wasn't enough to buoy your spirits, Erie Gives Day should have them floating above water soon enough. The 14th annual event administered by the Erie Community Foundation has us celebrating and collectively supporting (much like the pillars of the historic beaux arts building that houses the Foundation — artfully represented on this month's cover by Nick Warren) those nonprofits that make our region something to be proud of.

Many organizations depend on our community's support during this event — and Erie is always ready to show up. We have collectively given $56.6 million over the past 14 years.

Talk about civic pride — this is it, Erie. You've got it.

And as we watch the numbers at eriegives.org tick ever upward on Tuesday, Aug. 13, as more and more of us donate to all of the participating, community-changing organizations, may we all feel that same patriotic, Olympic energy.

Is anyone up for a chant? Erie! Erie! Erie!