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VisitErie Blog

The Bean NE April 2023 MM

Celebrating Women-Owned Businesses in Erie County

Wednesday Mar 6th, 2024

TamaraWalters TheBean

The Bean Coffee House – Tamara Walters
Investing in her beloved hometown community of North East, PA was always Tamara Walters’ goal. She left her job in higher education to start the Small City Roasting Company and soon after, opened The Bean Coffee House in 2016. The Bean sources its coffee from diverse corners of the globe, importing beans that are roasted fresh on-site daily, ground to perfection, and brewed fresh daily. Beyond its exceptional coffee offerings, The Bean boasts a wide selection of specialty drinks and seasonal delights. Complementing these offerings is a creative café menu, featuring homemade breakfast and lunch items served seven days a week.

Are there any role models or mentors who have influenced your entrepreneurial journey?
 
I actually found mentorship from Erie restauranteur John Melody. He was a huge mentor for me, giving me the confidence to take the leap. We were office neighbors when we worked together in higher education. He was a huge part of me chasing my dreams and switching careers to find something greater for me and my family."

 

Sara Harris Pulakos

Pulakos Chocolates – Sara Harris
Pulakos Chocolates was founded in 1903 and is Erie's oldest chocolate company. Sara Harris and her husband Randy purchased Pulakos in January 2023, and their excitement to continue the legacy of this iconic 120-year-old Erie business is palpable. Pulakos’ display cases are overflowing with tempting confections including assorted truffles and creams, chocolate novelties, seasonal selections, and of course, chocolate-covered strawberries made fresh daily.   

How do you balance your personal and professional life while running a business?
"Work / Life balance is a constant effort. I focus on being self-aware and flexible, recognizing and addressing the needs of both personal and professional life as one or the other needs more attention. Being a business owner takes up a lot of your time. When I shifted my perspective to “I get to do..."  from "I have to do..." it made a positive difference. It's vital to take time for yourself, spend time with those, or do the things that "fill your cup" to keep you energized.
 "

DIna Petro Moose Head Pottery

Moose Head Pottery – Dina Petro
Each time Dina and her husband Robert crack open up their kiln, anticipation fills the air as they eagerly unveil their latest creations. Dina’s passion for locally crafted functional art radiates through Moose Head Pottery, delighting customers who share in their enthusiasm. Through the years, their studio has curated a distinctive array of hand-painted, one-of-a-kind pieces, offering the added touch of personalization to suit each customer’s unique taste.

 What inspired you to start your own business?
“After my husband had a vision to produce a product that was a functional piece of artwork that people would want to use or display, I saw how happy they made people and as a result, I got hooked on pottery. I love designing new shapes and coming up with new color combinations that make people smile. In 2021, we opened up our retail gallery on Upper Peach Street to sell locally-made functional stoneware pottery to people all over the country.”

Partner Spotlight

Dobbins Landing Spring 2022 EB 2

Dobbins Landing

Located on the southeast shore of Lake Erie, the Port of Erie has been promoting industrial, commercial, and recreational opportunities on the waters of Lake Erie since 1959.

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u pick 6 spotlight

U Pick 6 Craft Beer Pubs & Restaurants

Erie’s own local craft beer pubs are a must-visit! With 4 great locations, just pick one that’s convenient for you! A casual, family friendly dining experience with something for everyone! To view our menu, check out what’s on tap, or get to directions to our pubs, learn more now!”

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Fall Harvest at Port Farms

Happy Fall Y’all! Come enjoy the farm during Fall Harvest season September 14 – October 31. Grab your friends and family and enjoy a variety of fall themed activities for every age. With over 25 attractions, our guests create long-lasting memories worth repeating. General admission includes wagon rides, an 8-acre corn maze, slide mountain, ball zone, game garden, pedal carts, corn box, Kid’s Village, animal exhibits, mindbender mazes, trike track, tire fort and so much more! Plan a birthday party with a campfire spot! PLUS, enjoy themed events and character visits!

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UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

UPMC Hamot is a 458-bed hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services. The hospital serves as a regional referral hub and is the only accredited trauma center in the region.

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erie events spotlight

Erie Events

Erie Events manages a four facility entertainment complex that includes the Warner Theatre, Erie Insurance Arena, Bayfront Convention Center and UPMC Park. These four venues host a variety of events that include world-class entertainment, family friendly shows and sporting events.

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ASCEND spotlight ad photo 400 x 300

COME SEE WHAT ASCEND ERIE IS ALL ABOUT!

ASCEND is a community hub in downtown Erie that features climbing, fitness, yoga, youth programming, and so much more. We opened up last year and would love to meet you! Visit on your own, with friends and family, or book a team-building event with your coworkers.

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Two45 Waterfront Grille Now Open!

Savor an exquisite waterfront dining experience at Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, where culinary excellence meets panoramic views. This signature restaurant invites you to indulge in a delectable journey with a menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients and global inspirations while overlooking the serene waters of Lake Erie.

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Tia Book Cellar

Tia Book Cellar is an independent bookstore offering new and bargain books, unique gifts, puzzles, and games for all interests and ages. Located across from Gibson Park in North East, their brand embodies the local business model and the local grape heritage. Tia's believes that "there is always … local, an alternative, and a story." They look forward to helping you discover your next read or gift here.

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Now Open in Downtown Erie

Five Iron Golf is blurring the lines between indoor golf and entertainment. State-of-the-art simulators and world-class instruction meet premium events and amenities plus delectable food and cocktail menus.

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Visit Edinboro, PA!

Edinboro Community and Economic Development is a regional Edinboro area non-profit committed to fostering positive community-wide growth. Through economic and civic initiatives, the ECED seeks to empower the Edinboro community to effectuate targeted change to meet current needs and build regional resilience. Edinboro is a unique area where rural and urban values intersect, and the best "small town America" qualities shine.

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Zoo partner spotlight

Discover the wild wonders of the Erie Zoo!

Home to over 300 animals from around the world - the zoo offers an immersive experience with a variety of engaging exhibits, from playful otters to majestic big cats. Enjoy up-close animal encounters, special events, and interactive keeper talks that inspire conservation and a deeper connection to nature. Whether you're visiting with family or friends, the Erie Zoo is the perfect destination for fun, education, and unforgettable memories. Join us in supporting wildlife and conservation efforts!

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Exclusive Tourism Rewards

If you live more than 50 miles from Millcreek Mall, stop by the Customer Service Center to register. You’ll receive a Guest Rewards Tourism Program Luggage Tag. Scanning the QR Code on it will reveal special offers from participating mall merchants. If you spend $200 or more that day, take your receipts back to the Customer Service Center and you’ll get a FREE $20 Mall Gift Card. You get rewarded just for shopping!

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The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

Set sail for an inspiring dining experience! Enjoy a unique casual dining experience on Erie's Bayfront. The Cove's nautically inspired decor and an unbelievable view of Presque Isle Bay will have you feeling the venturous spirit of those who live their lives on the sea.

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miac postmodern jukebox partner spotlight

MIAC Live: Postmodern Jukebox

Famed “Pop Music in a Time Machine” concert act Postmodern Jukebox brings their 10th anniversary tour to Mercyhurst University’s Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. Concertgoers can expect a dazzling trip through the PMJ Universe — where modern-day earworms and iconic pop hits alike are reimagined in classic genres like 1920s jazz, swing, Doo-wop, and Motown, and brought to life by a cast of some of the world’s best singers, dancers, and instrumentalists.

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splash lagoon partner spotlight

Treasure Island Arcade at Splash Lagoon

Looking for something fun to do? Spend a day in the Treasure Island Arcade, where no water park admission is required! The Treasure Island Arcade is home to over 100+ games! From sports games and racing games to retro games and all-new VR motion games, there is something fun for everyone to enjoy!

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mazza spotlight

Mazza Vineyards and the South Shore Wine Company

The Mazza family welcomes you to explore 3 unique locations in Lake Erie Wine Country. Sip and savor award-winning wines at Mazza Vineyards and the historic South Shore Wine Company, both located in North East, PA, and be sure to visit their combination winery, distillery and brewery, Mazza Chautauqua Cellars/Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing, in nearby Westfield, NY.

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Just for fun!

Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!

Ante-up, Erie.

Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row

One stop convenience.

Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.

Soak in the fun!

Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.

One stop convenience.

Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.

Just for fun!

Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!

Award-Winning Compassionate Care

Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row

Soak in the fun!

Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.

Ante-up, Erie.

Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.