With the easing of pandemic restrictions, many big events in Erie are returning after a year’s hiatus. The Barber Beast on the Bay is set for Presque Isle State Park on Sept. 11, and the annual Barber Christmas Ball, a mainstay on Erie’s social calendar for more than 50 years, will make a big comeback on Dec. 11.
Former U.S. Rep. Phil English and his wife, Chris, will serve as chair couple for the ball, which was started by Gertrude Barber in 1965. Phil English, who represented northwestern Pennsylvania in Congress from 1995 to 2009, is now a senior government relations advisor and co-chairman of the government relations practice for Arent Fox, a law firm supporting nonprofits, trade associations and coalitions.