Get ready for the 26th Annual Lake Erie Gala

The Erie Sisters and Brothers 26th Annual Lake Erie Gala takes place November 12th through 16th at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel. The event attracts crossdressers, transgender people, their loved ones, and friends from throughout Erie, the surrounding cities, and even other states. The gala originated at the historic Riverside Inn in Cambridge Springs. However, in 1917, a kitchen fire broke out and engulfed the 132-year-old building in flames.

To prepare attendees for the gala, three special spa sessions have been scheduled at Studio 71 Hair Salon, located just three minutes from the host hotel. The shop is also offering, by appointment only, one-on-one sessions on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday morning.

"There will be an amazing buffet dinner on Thursday evening," according to Sherry Cole, Lake Erie Gala co-hostess, who also serves as Erie Sisters secretary and event coordinator. "This year's theme is the Wild Old West, and the theme is sure not to disappoint at the Friday night theme dinner." There is a formal Saturday night buffet dinner. "All ladies and gents are encouraged to wear their finest sparkle, glitz, and glam for this special evening," said Sherry.

For a list of events taking place at the gala, go to www.lakeeriegala.com. For more information, email info@lakeeriegala.com.

About the Author

David Gurzenski-Lukes David Gurzenski-Lukes has a bachelor's and master's degree in journalism from Arizona State University and the University of Arizona. He has a long career as an editor and communications professional for a number of universities, including UCLA. He was a publications editor for United Way of Greater Los Angeles and community relations director for Pacific Beach Community Hospital in San Diego, California. Since David has been retired, he has written a book, "A Gay Grandfather Grows Up," which details his difficult coming-out journey. While David has only been an Erie resident for a short period, he is already involved with various local organizations, including Aging With Pride. He has two daughters with professional careers. Jennifer is an attorney in Washington, DC, and Julie is a computer programmer in Jupiter, Florida. He also has two grandsons. Drew is a pilot with American Airlines, and Jake is a student at Florida State University.