Positively Pittsburgh Live! 1-13-14
Free Kidz Shows and Pittsburgh Year in Review
Listen to the show online HERE
Sunita Pandit
Host of Mrs. Cardiology
Helping out with your New Year's
Resolution with a new Diet Program
WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY?
CULTURAL CLUES
Britt Floyd, Second Show Added | Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Kickstarter Campaign | Pittsburgh Symphony Music for the Spirit | Point Park alum Rob Ashford nominated for Directors Guild Award | The REP presents "Heads" | Pittsburgh Opera presents Nico Muhly's DARK SISTERS | THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS With Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra | 55th ANNUAL DOLLAR BANK THREE RIVERS ARTS FESTIVAL | January's Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District MARKS THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY
KIDZ KORNER
Free Shows Pittsburgh International Children's Festival | WQED PITTSBURGH ANNOUNCES ANNUAL PBS Kids Writer's Contest 20th Year
WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVANCEMENT
Campaign Training "Ready to Run" Advocacy Training | Conquering the Campaign Trail "Politics, Policy, and Reality: What's Really Going on in Washington" | 2014 Westmoreland County Winner's Circle | Gear Up For National Wear Red Day | Go Global Webinar- Getting Started in Exporting
BUSINESS BUZZ
BUSINESS BUZZ
Proposed Rapid Bus Route | Unemployment in Greater Pittsburgh fell in November | Paramount Pictures Film Exchange | NON-PROFIT EVENTS SPONSORED BY BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH : Recipe for Hope Gala | Living in Liberty Thrift Shop | Hair Peace Happy Hour with BonnieDiver
NEIGHBORHOOD HI-LIGHTS: Pittsburgh Restaurant Week
POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS: Debra Mason
ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT: Papagallo's
PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS
Mangiare Bene! PapaGallo Cucina in Bridgeville
When my friend and publisher Joyce Faulkner asked me to meet her at PapaGallo Cucina in Collier Plaza in Bridgeville, I was more than delighted always willing to try out a new restaurant especially an Italian one. Joyce was so excited she said it was truly an experience to experience Chef Len Spampinato's hospitality and the amazing daily specials and the ambiance of the restaurant.
Well she did not lie about a single thing.
There were so many wonderful things on the menu that I did not know where to start but I settled on one of the daily specials which was a chicken and fresh pear salad with fresh blue cheese. Wow. Joyce does not eat carbs and Len accommodated her with a plate of chicken salad smothered in cheese with fresh vegetables. Also on the specials was chicken with mushroom and blue cheese risotto. Chef Len's combinations are unique and delicious.
BRIT FLOYD World's Greatest Pink Floyd Show – DISCOVERY
Ashford and co-director Beth McCarthy-Miller were nominated in the category of Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Movies for Television and Mini-Series. This is Ashford’s first Directors Guild Award nomination.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Feb. 25.
Ashford won a Tony Award in 2002 for choreographing Thoroughly Modern Millie. He has been nominated for a Tony Award eight times and for several Laurence Olivier awards, the British equivalent of the Tony. He won the Drama Desk, Fred Astaire Award, and Outer Critics Circle awards for Cry-Baby (2008). Ashford also directed the musical numbers for the film, Beyond the Sea, Kevin Spacey’s Bobby Darin biopic, and won a 2009 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography for the 81st Annual Academy Awards.
Read the entire press release HERE
The REP presents Pittsburgh premiere of gripping, award-winning contemporary drama ‘Heads’
Directed by John Shepard, Heads previews on Thursday, Jan. 30, and runs Jan. 31-Feb. 16, in the Studio
Theatre at the Pittsburgh Playhouse, 222 Craft Ave. Performances are 8 p.m., Thursday – Saturday, and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Written by EM Lewis and called "provocative and wonderfully threatening" by Edward Albee, Heads tell the deeply human story of four hostages in a war zone and how they each respond to their ordeal by making difficult choices to survive.
2010-2011 Hodder Fellowship in playwriting from Princeton University. Lewis is a member of Moving Arts Theater Company, the Dramatists Guild, the International Centre for Women Playwrights, and the Alliance of Los Angeles Playwrights.
Read the entire press release HERE
“THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS” WITH THE PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA TAKES AUDIENCE ON A TOUR OF MAGICAL MOVIE MUSIC
Darth Vader stalking through the Death Star…Harry Potter and Indiana Jones dodging danger at every turn…E.T. finally going home. Composer John Williams has orchestrated some of Hollywood’s most iconic and indelible movie scores and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra celebrates his musical accomplishments with the fourth PNC Pops concert, “The Music of John Williams,” on Jan. 23-26, 2014.
Led by Resident Conductor Lawrence Loh, the Pittsburgh Symphony will take the audience on a whirlwind tour through Williams’s movie magic, from “Star Wars” to “E.T.” to “Jaws” (and everything in between). The concert kicks off with the stirring “Olympic Fanfare,” spreading the Olympic spirit through Heinz Hall. This concert, featuring solos from the Pittsburgh Symphony principal harp Gretchen Van Hoesen and principal contrabassoon James Rodgers, promises to be a thrilling ride through the unmistakable melodies of Williams’ masterful movie music. Audiences can also expect some hijinks and fun from Loh, a self-admitted “fanboy” of Williams’ movies and music.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Read the entire press release HERE
Pittsburgh Opera presents Nico Muhly’s DARK SISTERS
Exploring issues of suppressed individuality and subservient women’s roles, the opera uses episodes from the media – most recently the 2004 raid on FLDS leader Warren Jeffs’s compound in West Texas – to tell the story of the women’s suffering, and how one woman tries to escape. Premiered in 2012, DARK SISTERS revolves around sister-wife Eliza, who has a profound self-discovery after the world comes to the gates of her family’s complex, run by The Prophet. During an appearance on national television to defend her way of life, Eliza makes a dramatic confession, and her world falls into chaos. Resolving to make her own way in the world, she faces the consequences of leaving everything she has ever known.
Pittsburgh Opera’s DARK SISTERS features Resident Artists in the roles of the sister-wives: Jasmine Muhammad is the rebellious Eliza; Meredith Lustig is the lovesick Zina; Nicole Rodin is the troubled Ruth; Samantha Korbey is Presendia; and former Resident Artist Alexandra Loutsion (Rinaldo, 2011) is Almera. Resident Artist Joseph Barron takes the dual role of The Prophet and the newscaster King. Rebecca Belczyk (The Magic Flute, 2013) portrays Eliza’s daughter Lucinda. Resident Artist George Cederquist is the stage director for DARK SISTERS. Head of Music Glenn Lewis conducts the Pittsburgh Opera Orchestra. Composer Nico Muhly is expected to attend the opening night performance.
Performances are Saturday, January 25, 8:00 PM, Tuesday, January 28, 7:00 PM, Friday, January 31, 8:00 PM and Sunday, February 2, 2:00 PM at CAPA Theater
Read the entire press release HERE
PITTSBURGH CULTURAL TRUST ANNOUNCES 55th ANNUAL DOLLAR BANK THREE RIVERS ARTS FESTIVAL
Hair Peace Charities - 9th Annual Recipe For Hope
All Star Line Up Celebrities wearing aprons include:
Dave Crawley, Michelle Wright, Sheri Van Dyke, Scott Harbaugh, Jen Antkowiak, Rick Dayton, Val Porter, Cara Sapida, Lori Geiger, Doug Oster, Flick & Kelly, Abby Kat, Robby Incmikoski, Munch, Melanie Taylor, Shelley Duffy The Penguins' Iceburgh and a few surprises!
Live music from Morgan Moser and The Maybrays
Open 'Tini/Wine Bar, Amazing Auction & Mystery Wine Bags
For more information click HERE
New Thrift Shop: Living in Liberty
Check out a new Thrift Shop supporting victims of trafficking located right at the Northway Mall next to the old Borders. They accept clothing, furniture, toys, books, large and small items.
For more information click HERE
HAPPY HOUR FOR HAIR PEACE
Raise a glass to honor survivors! Bonny will be the guest bartender with tips going to Hair Peace! Fill up on great appetizers, auction prizes, drink specials and live music!
Friday, January 17th 5:30pm - 7:30pm - Parking $5 after 5pm
River's Club in Oxford Centre on Grant St. at 3rd St Downtown.
For more information click HERE
Congratulations to Debra Mason on her appointment as Senior Pastor at the John Wesley United Methodist Church 35 Central Ave. Washington, PA 15301 If you want to hear an inspired female at the pulpit – check her out at 11am on Sundays! Debra is also an adjunct professor at Seton Hill University.
All-America Team Member At Pitt
January 6th, 2014 - Pitt WR Tyler Boyd has been named to the Football Writers Association of America Freshman All-America Team. Congratulations, Tyler!
Read the entire article HERE
USBWA Names Brianna Kiesel National Player of the Week
The United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA) has named Pitt Women's Basketball junior guard Brianna Kiesel the Ann Meyers Drysdale Women’s National Player of the Week for her performances last week against No. 21 Florida State and Virginia.
4) The Next Big Food Town: Yes, Steel City is where you need to eat now
Like Houston, Charleston, and Nashville before it, Pittsburgh is elbowing its way onto the culinary map. Here are four reasons why: 1) The East Liberty neighborhood, with its $52 million transit center and future Ace Hotel. 2) Farmers’ markets everywhere, including Farmers @ Firehouse in the Strip District. 3) Restaurants like Cure, Bar Marco, Conflict Kitchen, Notion, Fukuda, and Meat & Potatoes. 4) Serious beer (The Brew Gentlemen) and cocktails (The Livermore (pictured above), Butterjoint).
Read the entire article HERE
Pittsburgh is 5th-happiest city in the U.S.
From: Pittsburgh Business Times Written By: Paul J. Gough,digital producer Dec 6, 2013
Hey, Pittsburgh, you're pretty happy!
The Steel City is No. 5 on the list of happiest U.S. cities put out by Jetpac, an iPhone app company that has used big-data methods to count up how many smiles there are in Instagram photos and where those cities are located.
The happiest city out of the 5,000 measured, according to Jetpac? St. Louis, which had a "smile score" of 54.7. But Pittsburgh wasn't far behind, with a score of 47.9.
Jetpac's top 10 happiest U.S. cities:
1. St. Louis
2. Kansas City, Mo.
3. Columbus, Ohio
4. Indianapolis
5. Pittsburgh
6. San Antonio
7. Minneapolis
8. Jacksonville, Fla.
9. Detroit
10. Raleigh, N.C.
Read the entire article HERE
Pittsburgh among healthiest housing markets, Zillow says
From: Pittsburgh Business Times | Written By: Louis A. Corsaro, Assistant Managing Editor Dec 13, 2013
On a list populated mostly by West Coast cities, Pittsburgh ranked among the top 10 healthiest housing markets for October, according to Zillow.
The Zillow Market Health Index, measured on a scale from 0 to 10, incorporates 10 measures of housing market health. It's calculated monthly at the ZIP code, neighborhood, city, county, metro and state levels.
Among the country's top 30 largest metro markets covered by Zillow, Pittsburgh was tied for No. 6 with a 7.4 on the index.
Pittsburgh had by far the lowest home value index of the top 10, at $111,400. The next lowest was Denver at $246,500.
The top 10 were:
1. San Jose, Calif., 9.0
2. San Francisco, 8.9
3. Los Angeles, 8.6
4. San Diego, 8.4
5. Denver, 8.1
6. Boston, 7.4
7. Pittsburgh, 7.4
8. Portland, Ore., 6.5
9. New York, 6.0
10. Sacramento, Calif., 6.0
Read the entire article HERE
NEIGHBORHOOD HI-LIGHTS: Pittsburgh Restaurant Week
POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS: Debra Mason
ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT: Papagallo's
PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS
Pitt Panther's Football | Pitt Women's Basketball | Fitness Challenge Steel City Rowing
PITTSBURGH GOOD NEWS FORUM
What Pittsburgh Can Teach The Rest Of The Country | Why Pittsburgh Owned the Media in 2013 | Bon Appetit Next Big Food Town Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh 5th Happiest City | Pittsburgh Among Healthiest Housing Markets | Study finds Pittsburghers civic-minded, neighborly
PITTSBURGH GOOD NEWS FORUM
What Pittsburgh Can Teach The Rest Of The Country | Why Pittsburgh Owned the Media in 2013 | Bon Appetit Next Big Food Town Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh 5th Happiest City | Pittsburgh Among Healthiest Housing Markets | Study finds Pittsburghers civic-minded, neighborly
WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY?
Roving Pittsburgher Report
Mangiare Bene! PapaGallo Cucina in Bridgeville
When my friend and publisher Joyce Faulkner asked me to meet her at PapaGallo Cucina in Collier Plaza in Bridgeville, I was more than delighted always willing to try out a new restaurant especially an Italian one. Joyce was so excited she said it was truly an experience to experience Chef Len Spampinato's hospitality and the amazing daily specials and the ambiance of the restaurant.
Well she did not lie about a single thing.
There were so many wonderful things on the menu that I did not know where to start but I settled on one of the daily specials which was a chicken and fresh pear salad with fresh blue cheese. Wow. Joyce does not eat carbs and Len accommodated her with a plate of chicken salad smothered in cheese with fresh vegetables. Also on the specials was chicken with mushroom and blue cheese risotto. Chef Len's combinations are unique and delicious.
Read the entire article HERE
CULTURAL CLUES
BRIT FLOYD World's Greatest Pink Floyd Show – DISCOVERY
Take a phsycadelic trip down memory lane with Brit Floyd. This stunning new three hour chronological musical journey spanning the entire recording career of Pink Floyd from 1967 – 1994 with a dazzling new light and laser show is sure to be an exciting blast from the past. With such high demand a second show has been added, so don’t miss your chance of DISCOVERY!
March 7th & 8th, 8 pm at Benedum Center
Read the entire press release HERE
HOW DO YOU GET TO CARNEGIE HALL? PRACTICE! AND A LITTLE HELP FROM YOUR FRIENDS
Read the entire press release HERE
HOW DO YOU GET TO CARNEGIE HALL? PRACTICE! AND A LITTLE HELP FROM YOUR FRIENDS
The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra to launch Kickstarter campaign to fund performance at Spring for Music Festival in Carnegie Hall
It may be an adage whose origin is lost to the annals of time, but the saying remains true—if you want to get to Carnegie Hall, you need to practice, practice, practice! But you also need to pay for instrument transportation, orchestra transportation, hotel rooms, soloists, etc., etc., etc.! The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is heading to Carnegie Hall for the Spring for Music Festival on May 10, 2014 and, along with practice, it can only get there with a little help from friends through a 47-day Kickstarter campaign.
Read the entire press release HERE
MUSIC DIRECTOR MANFRED HONECK, PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CELEBRATE “MUSIC FOR THE SPIRIT” WITH FREE CONCERT
It may be an adage whose origin is lost to the annals of time, but the saying remains true—if you want to get to Carnegie Hall, you need to practice, practice, practice! But you also need to pay for instrument transportation, orchestra transportation, hotel rooms, soloists, etc., etc., etc.! The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is heading to Carnegie Hall for the Spring for Music Festival on May 10, 2014 and, along with practice, it can only get there with a little help from friends through a 47-day Kickstarter campaign.
Read the entire press release HERE
MUSIC DIRECTOR MANFRED HONECK, PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CELEBRATE “MUSIC FOR THE SPIRIT” WITH FREE CONCERT
Music has the power to touch the human spirit, transcending time, place, boundaries and language and spurring understanding and connection. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Manfred Honeck are deeply committed to music’s ability to promote and spread a spiritual and universal message, and to that end invite the public to a free “Music for the Spirit” concert on Feb. 13, 2014, at 7 p.m. at East Liberty Presbyterian Church.
Read the entire press release HERE
Tony Award-winning Point Park alum Rob Ashford nominated for Directors Guild Award
Read the entire press release HERE
Tony Award-winning Point Park alum Rob Ashford nominated for Directors Guild Award
Point Park alumnus and Tony Award-winner Rob Ashford has received a Directors Guild Award nomination for directing The Sound of Music Live! on NBC last month.
 |
| Rob Ashford |
The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Feb. 25.
Ashford won a Tony Award in 2002 for choreographing Thoroughly Modern Millie. He has been nominated for a Tony Award eight times and for several Laurence Olivier awards, the British equivalent of the Tony. He won the Drama Desk, Fred Astaire Award, and Outer Critics Circle awards for Cry-Baby (2008). Ashford also directed the musical numbers for the film, Beyond the Sea, Kevin Spacey’s Bobby Darin biopic, and won a 2009 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography for the 81st Annual Academy Awards.
Read the entire press release HERE
The REP presents Pittsburgh premiere of gripping, award-winning contemporary drama ‘Heads’
The REP, Point Park University’s professional theatre company, continues its compelling 2013-2014 season with the Pittsburgh premiere of EM Lewis’ heart-wrenching prize-winning drama, Heads.
Directed by John Shepard, Heads previews on Thursday, Jan. 30, and runs Jan. 31-Feb. 16, in the Studio
Theatre at the Pittsburgh Playhouse, 222 Craft Ave. Performances are 8 p.m., Thursday – Saturday, and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Written by EM Lewis and called "provocative and wonderfully threatening" by Edward Albee, Heads tell the deeply human story of four hostages in a war zone and how they each respond to their ordeal by making difficult choices to survive.
2010-2011 Hodder Fellowship in playwriting from Princeton University. Lewis is a member of Moving Arts Theater Company, the Dramatists Guild, the International Centre for Women Playwrights, and the Alliance of Los Angeles Playwrights.
Read the entire press release HERE
“THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS” WITH THE PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA TAKES AUDIENCE ON A TOUR OF MAGICAL MOVIE MUSIC
Darth Vader stalking through the Death Star…Harry Potter and Indiana Jones dodging danger at every turn…E.T. finally going home. Composer John Williams has orchestrated some of Hollywood’s most iconic and indelible movie scores and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra celebrates his musical accomplishments with the fourth PNC Pops concert, “The Music of John Williams,” on Jan. 23-26, 2014.
Led by Resident Conductor Lawrence Loh, the Pittsburgh Symphony will take the audience on a whirlwind tour through Williams’s movie magic, from “Star Wars” to “E.T.” to “Jaws” (and everything in between). The concert kicks off with the stirring “Olympic Fanfare,” spreading the Olympic spirit through Heinz Hall. This concert, featuring solos from the Pittsburgh Symphony principal harp Gretchen Van Hoesen and principal contrabassoon James Rodgers, promises to be a thrilling ride through the unmistakable melodies of Williams’ masterful movie music. Audiences can also expect some hijinks and fun from Loh, a self-admitted “fanboy” of Williams’ movies and music.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Read the entire press release HERE
Pittsburgh Opera presents Nico Muhly’s DARK SISTERS
Pittsburgh Opera’s DARK SISTERS features Resident Artists in the roles of the sister-wives: Jasmine Muhammad is the rebellious Eliza; Meredith Lustig is the lovesick Zina; Nicole Rodin is the troubled Ruth; Samantha Korbey is Presendia; and former Resident Artist Alexandra Loutsion (Rinaldo, 2011) is Almera. Resident Artist Joseph Barron takes the dual role of The Prophet and the newscaster King. Rebecca Belczyk (The Magic Flute, 2013) portrays Eliza’s daughter Lucinda. Resident Artist George Cederquist is the stage director for DARK SISTERS. Head of Music Glenn Lewis conducts the Pittsburgh Opera Orchestra. Composer Nico Muhly is expected to attend the opening night performance.
Performances are Saturday, January 25, 8:00 PM, Tuesday, January 28, 7:00 PM, Friday, January 31, 8:00 PM and Sunday, February 2, 2:00 PM at CAPA Theater
Read the entire press release HERE
PITTSBURGH CULTURAL TRUST ANNOUNCES 55th ANNUAL DOLLAR BANK THREE RIVERS ARTS FESTIVAL
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, producer of the Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival, will partner with the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council to host an informal discussion – open to any and all visual and performing artists – regarding opportunities to participate in the 55th annual Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival, being held June 6-15, 2014. The information session will be held on Thursday, January 16th from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. in the Big Room of the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council, located at 810 Penn Avenue, on the 7th Floor.
Visual and performing artists of all disciplines seeking to participate in the 55th annual Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival must apply before February 4, 2014. To learn more about all of the submission categories, eligibility requirements and to apply, visit the link below.
Read the entire press release HERE
Visual and performing artists of all disciplines seeking to participate in the 55th annual Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival must apply before February 4, 2014. To learn more about all of the submission categories, eligibility requirements and to apply, visit the link below.
Read the entire press release HERE
JANUARY GALLERY CRAWL IN THE CULTURAL DISTRICT MARKS THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE EVENT
Friday, January 24, 2014 | 5:30 – 9 p.m.
Introducing CrawlAfterDark at participating venues beginning at 9 p.m.
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces the line-up for its winter Gallery Crawl that takes place Friday, January 24, 2014, from 5:30–9 p.m. The crawl showcases a wide variety of thought provoking art exhibitions in downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. Live bands, DJs, dance, comedy, and participatory activities are also part of the complimentary crawl events.
2014 marks the 10th anniversary of Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District. To mark this special occasion, the Trust is introducing CrawlAfterDark, which features select venues with additional events beginning at 9 p.m. Each of the CrawlAfterDark activities requires admission, ranging from $5–$15.
Text “CRAWL” TO SMASH (76274) to receive special exclusive offers and more.
Gallery Crawl events are free and open to the public. For more information and a map visit the link below.
Read the entire press release HERE
FREE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
WQED PITTSBURGH ANNOUNCES ANNUAL PBS KIDS WRITERS CONTEST 20TH YEAR
Introducing CrawlAfterDark at participating venues beginning at 9 p.m.
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces the line-up for its winter Gallery Crawl that takes place Friday, January 24, 2014, from 5:30–9 p.m. The crawl showcases a wide variety of thought provoking art exhibitions in downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. Live bands, DJs, dance, comedy, and participatory activities are also part of the complimentary crawl events.2014 marks the 10th anniversary of Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District. To mark this special occasion, the Trust is introducing CrawlAfterDark, which features select venues with additional events beginning at 9 p.m. Each of the CrawlAfterDark activities requires admission, ranging from $5–$15.
Text “CRAWL” TO SMASH (76274) to receive special exclusive offers and more.
Gallery Crawl events are free and open to the public. For more information and a map visit the link below.
Read the entire press release HERE
KIDZ KORNER
FREE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
WQED Contest Made Possible By the EQT Foundation for past Five Years
WQED Pittsburgh announced its annual PBS KIDS Writers Contest, designed to promote the advancement of children’s literacy skills through hands-on, active learning. Partnering with WQED Pittsburgh this year are Penn State Public Broadcasting (WPSU) which serves central Pennsylvania, West Virginia Public Broadcasting (WVPB) and for the first time, witf which serves Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The Contest, made possible by local financial support from the EQT Foundation empowers children in grades K-3 to celebrate creativity and build literacy skills by writing and illustrating their very own stories.
Beginning January 6, 2014, children in western, central and eastern Pennsylvania and West Virginia can submit their entries to the PBS KIDS Writers Contest. WQED Pittsburgh will select local winners and award prizes including the opportunity to record their winning story. All finalists, past and present are broadcast on iQKidsRadio.org. This year’s winners will be featured on Saturday Light Brigade (SLB) Radio in the summer of 2014.
The local winners will then be entered into the national contest where a panel of esteemed judges will rank the top 12 entries. National winners will be announced during the summer of 2014 and the winning stories will be featured on pbskids.org/writerscontest.
Read the entire press release HERE
Ready to Run Pittsburgh - Campaign Training!
WQED Pittsburgh announced its annual PBS KIDS Writers Contest, designed to promote the advancement of children’s literacy skills through hands-on, active learning. Partnering with WQED Pittsburgh this year are Penn State Public Broadcasting (WPSU) which serves central Pennsylvania, West Virginia Public Broadcasting (WVPB) and for the first time, witf which serves Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The Contest, made possible by local financial support from the EQT Foundation empowers children in grades K-3 to celebrate creativity and build literacy skills by writing and illustrating their very own stories.
Beginning January 6, 2014, children in western, central and eastern Pennsylvania and West Virginia can submit their entries to the PBS KIDS Writers Contest. WQED Pittsburgh will select local winners and award prizes including the opportunity to record their winning story. All finalists, past and present are broadcast on iQKidsRadio.org. This year’s winners will be featured on Saturday Light Brigade (SLB) Radio in the summer of 2014.
The local winners will then be entered into the national contest where a panel of esteemed judges will rank the top 12 entries. National winners will be announced during the summer of 2014 and the winning stories will be featured on pbskids.org/writerscontest.
Read the entire press release HERE
WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVANCEMENT EVENTS
Ready to Run Pittsburgh - Campaign Training!
Ready to Run is a one day training for women who want to work on a campaign, run for office, or get more involved in public life, featuring nationally known media and fundraising trainers as well as prominent local leaders.
January 25, 2014, 8:00 AM - 5:45 PM, Mellon Board Room
Miss RepresentationMiss Representation is a documentary that explores how media depictions of women contribute to the under-representation of women in positions of power in America. Featuring Condoleezza Rice, Nancy Pelosi, Rachel Maddow, Katie Couric, Margaret Cho, Rosario Dawson, and Gloria Steinem
February 27th, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Eddy Theater
Advocacy Training
A one day workshop that will help you learn concrete tools for successful organizing and advocacy, identify strategies for making change, develop an effective message, and build relationships to support and sustain your work.
March 1st, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Welker Room
For more information click HERE
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
Now in its 19th year, Westmoreland County's most prestigious business awards program is seeking nominations for women, men, businesses or organizations who advocate for women, women-owned businesses and our community. Awards will be presented at the Winners' Circle Awards Networking Luncheon on Wednesday, May 21, 2014, at the Greensburg Country Club.
NOMINATION DEADLINE is 11:59 p.m. on FEBRUARY 3, 2014.
For more information click HERE
Gear Up With The American Heart Association For National Wear Red Day
Get a head start on creating your fundraising page and speak up against heart disease this February. Donations support medical research, awareness, and education programs to help women live longer heart-healthy lives.
For more information on how to get involved with the American Heart Association's National Wear Red Day 2014 and learn about how to be heart healthy visit www.heart.org/pittsburghpa.
SETON HILL Go Global Webinar: Getting Started in Exporting
Learn how to take your small business to the world. Join E-Magnify, the U.S. Commercial Service, the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission, Duquesne University Small Business Development Center, and St. Vincent College Small Business Development Center for this one-hour webinar about getting started in exporting. Topics will include: Why export?, Myth Busting (Small companies do export!), Getting Started in Exporting: Local, State & Federal Export Assistance Programs, and Q&A will follow
Webinar Facilitator: Lyn Doverspike, Director, U.S. Commercial Service
Online Webinar: February 5, 2014, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
For more information click HERE
Developments on Proposed Rapid Bus Route between Downtown Pittsburgh and Oakland
From Our Friends at UrbanMediaToday.com
The Bus Rapid Transit project to connect Downtown Pittsburgh and Oakland has gained momentum as supporters have become determined to advance the project.
Port Authority assistant general manager for planning and development, Wendy Stern, explained that the supporters of this project would be applying for a federal funding next year in the fall. As a result, they need to complete all initial reviews on the engineering of the route and its environmental effects before fall of 2014. All the non-government funding needed for the project also has to be secured before applying for federal funds.
Planning the project in advance will help in keeping track of it until the start of the bus service in 2017.The estimated total cost of the project is nearly $200 million and a very competitive federal grant that can cover almost 50% of the cost, would be required if the project is to go underway.
Read the entire article at UrbanMediaToday.com
Codefest is Back - with some important changes for 2014!
The second annual Steel City Codefest will take place beginning at 8:30 a.m. on Sat., Feb. 22 and run through 2 p.m. on Sun, Feb. 23 at the American Eagle Corporate offices, located at 77 Hot Metal Street, SouthSide Works.
Steel City Codefest is a civic software application (app) development competition designed to grow the City’s innovation and technology community through the creation of technology infrastructure. The citywide, 24-hour Civic Hackathon brings together coders, designers and community members to create technology that benefits nonprofits and government agencies around the region.
Registration begins January 15, 2014. Participant registration is $10, which includes food and a T-shirt. Due to space constraints, participation is limited to the first 130 people who register.
For more information on Codefest and how to register visit www.steelcitycodefest.org.
Economy / Employment and Unemployment
From: PittsburghTODAY By:Douglas Heuck, Program DirectorPittsburgh's unemployment rate decreased year-over-year by 0.7 percent and was below the November 2013 benchmark average of 6.8 percent. The Pittsburgh region's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in November 2013 was 6.6 percent, which was slightly lower than the rate in October 2013 (6.7 percent).
Employment and unemployment indicators, which are updated monthly, come from the U.S. Department of Labor's Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS) program.
Unemployment in Greater Pittsburgh fell in November and is appreciably lower than November 2012. Click here to see how Greater Pittsburgh ranks among other PittsburghTODAY regions.
A Renovation of Paramount Importance
From Our Friends at UrbanMediaToday.com
PFEX Inc., a real estate development company formed by Alexander Denmarsh, recently acquired the vacant Paramount Pictures Film Exchange building located at 1727 Blvd of the Allies in the City’s Uptown neighborhood. The company is renovating it for use as a coworking/incubator facility by StartUptown, a non profit business incubator; Denmarsh Photography will also occupy the building.
The Paramount Film Exchange (PFEX) building was constructed in 1926 and served as a facility where films were distributed to movie theaters throughout the Pittsburgh region. The building was originally built for Nickelodeon Films and later housed Paramount Films. The building fell into disrepair in the 1960’s and has been largely abandoned for the last 50+ years.
January 25, 2014, 8:00 AM - 5:45 PM, Mellon Board Room
Miss RepresentationMiss Representation is a documentary that explores how media depictions of women contribute to the under-representation of women in positions of power in America. Featuring Condoleezza Rice, Nancy Pelosi, Rachel Maddow, Katie Couric, Margaret Cho, Rosario Dawson, and Gloria Steinem
February 27th, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Eddy Theater
Advocacy Training
A one day workshop that will help you learn concrete tools for successful organizing and advocacy, identify strategies for making change, develop an effective message, and build relationships to support and sustain your work.
March 1st, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Welker Room
For more information click HERE
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
NOMINATION DEADLINE is 11:59 p.m. on FEBRUARY 3, 2014.
For more information click HERE
Gear Up With The American Heart Association For National Wear Red Day
For more information on how to get involved with the American Heart Association's National Wear Red Day 2014 and learn about how to be heart healthy visit www.heart.org/pittsburghpa.
SETON HILL Go Global Webinar: Getting Started in Exporting
Webinar Facilitator: Lyn Doverspike, Director, U.S. Commercial Service
Online Webinar: February 5, 2014, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
For more information click HERE
BUSINESS BUZZ
Developments on Proposed Rapid Bus Route between Downtown Pittsburgh and Oakland
From Our Friends at UrbanMediaToday.com
The Bus Rapid Transit project to connect Downtown Pittsburgh and Oakland has gained momentum as supporters have become determined to advance the project.
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| (photo credit: www.pghdowntowncdc.org) |
Planning the project in advance will help in keeping track of it until the start of the bus service in 2017.The estimated total cost of the project is nearly $200 million and a very competitive federal grant that can cover almost 50% of the cost, would be required if the project is to go underway.
Read the entire article at UrbanMediaToday.com
Codefest is Back - with some important changes for 2014!
The second annual Steel City Codefest will take place beginning at 8:30 a.m. on Sat., Feb. 22 and run through 2 p.m. on Sun, Feb. 23 at the American Eagle Corporate offices, located at 77 Hot Metal Street, SouthSide Works.
Steel City Codefest is a civic software application (app) development competition designed to grow the City’s innovation and technology community through the creation of technology infrastructure. The citywide, 24-hour Civic Hackathon brings together coders, designers and community members to create technology that benefits nonprofits and government agencies around the region.
Registration begins January 15, 2014. Participant registration is $10, which includes food and a T-shirt. Due to space constraints, participation is limited to the first 130 people who register.
For more information on Codefest and how to register visit www.steelcitycodefest.org.
Economy / Employment and Unemployment
From: PittsburghTODAY By:Douglas Heuck, Program DirectorPittsburgh's unemployment rate decreased year-over-year by 0.7 percent and was below the November 2013 benchmark average of 6.8 percent. The Pittsburgh region's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in November 2013 was 6.6 percent, which was slightly lower than the rate in October 2013 (6.7 percent).
Employment and unemployment indicators, which are updated monthly, come from the U.S. Department of Labor's Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS) program.
Unemployment in Greater Pittsburgh fell in November and is appreciably lower than November 2012. Click here to see how Greater Pittsburgh ranks among other PittsburghTODAY regions.
A Renovation of Paramount Importance
From Our Friends at UrbanMediaToday.com
The Paramount Film Exchange (PFEX) building was constructed in 1926 and served as a facility where films were distributed to movie theaters throughout the Pittsburgh region. The building was originally built for Nickelodeon Films and later housed Paramount Films. The building fell into disrepair in the 1960’s and has been largely abandoned for the last 50+ years.
NON-PROFIT EVENTS
SPONSORED BY BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH
SPONSORED BY BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH
Dave Crawley, Michelle Wright, Sheri Van Dyke, Scott Harbaugh, Jen Antkowiak, Rick Dayton, Val Porter, Cara Sapida, Lori Geiger, Doug Oster, Flick & Kelly, Abby Kat, Robby Incmikoski, Munch, Melanie Taylor, Shelley Duffy The Penguins' Iceburgh and a few surprises!
Live music from Morgan Moser and The Maybrays
Open 'Tini/Wine Bar, Amazing Auction & Mystery Wine Bags
For more information click HERE
New Thrift Shop: Living in Liberty
For more information click HERE
HAPPY HOUR FOR HAIR PEACE
Friday, January 17th 5:30pm - 7:30pm - Parking $5 after 5pm
River's Club in Oxford Centre on Grant St. at 3rd St Downtown.
For more information click HERE
POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS
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| Pastor Debra Mason |
Congratulations to Debra Mason on her appointment as Senior Pastor at the John Wesley United Methodist Church 35 Central Ave. Washington, PA 15301 If you want to hear an inspired female at the pulpit – check her out at 11am on Sundays! Debra is also an adjunct professor at Seton Hill University.
PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS
January 6th, 2014 - Pitt WR Tyler Boyd has been named to the Football Writers Association of America Freshman All-America Team. Congratulations, Tyler!
Read the entire article HERE
USBWA Names Brianna Kiesel National Player of the Week
See highlights HERE
TEST YOUR METTLE: Fitness Challenge Steel City Rowing
This event helps support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (SCRC Ergatta) and Steel City Rowing Club will also benefit your rowing! This event will test your 6000 meter, 7 minutes of bench pulls, 7 minutes of squats and 7 minutes of plank/push-up/pull up (or 4000 meter, 3 minutes of bench pulls, 3 minutes of squats and 3 minutes of plank/push-up/pull-up). We tested the beginning of our winter training with the Row for Humanity on December 7, and we will test the end of winter training on Feb 8. Test your training and help worthy organizations!
For more information click HERE
What Pittsburgh Can Teach The Rest Of The Country About Living Well
Good News Forum from our friends at the URA
From The Huffington Post By Laura Schocker
(Posted: 12/18/2013 7:46 am EST, Updated:12/18/2013 9:49 am EST)
TEST YOUR METTLE: Fitness Challenge Steel City Rowing
This event helps support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (SCRC Ergatta) and Steel City Rowing Club will also benefit your rowing! This event will test your 6000 meter, 7 minutes of bench pulls, 7 minutes of squats and 7 minutes of plank/push-up/pull up (or 4000 meter, 3 minutes of bench pulls, 3 minutes of squats and 3 minutes of plank/push-up/pull-up). We tested the beginning of our winter training with the Row for Humanity on December 7, and we will test the end of winter training on Feb 8. Test your training and help worthy organizations!
For more information click HERE
PITTSBURGH GOOD NEWS FORUM
Good News Forum from our friends at the URA
What Pittsburgh Can Teach The Rest Of The Country About Living Well
Good News Forum from our friends at the URA
From The Huffington Post By Laura Schocker
(Posted: 12/18/2013 7:46 am EST, Updated:12/18/2013 9:49 am EST)
Our Living Well, On Location series explores cities and countries from around the world. How do other people pursue health and happiness? We're going coast to coast, country to country to find out.
As a city whose signature sandwich comes with fries on top, we wouldn't blame you if Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania wasn't the first place to spring to mind as an icon of healthy living.
But over the years, as Pittsburgh has evolved from a steel city of the industrial boom into a modern mecca of culture and education, many consider it a hidden gem. In fact, it has even been named as Forbes' most livable U.S. City. What's more, a 2012 survey found that residents in the Pittsburgh area rated their happiness as a 7.8 out of 10, compared to the 7.4 national average. While Pittsburghers still have room for improvement in the health department (despite some gains, they have one of the highest air pollution rates nation-wide, for one), there are more than a few things to be gleaned from Pennsylvania's second-largest city.
The nine lessons Pittsburgh offers on living well.
1. The housing is affordable.
2. Their hospitals are world-class.
3. They're whip-smart (not to mention cultured).
4. They root, root, root for the home team.
5. It's a great place to retire.
6. Pittsburgh invests in green space.
7. The city is among the country's most secure.
8. Pittsburgh is a reading capital.
9. Their employees are happy.
As a city whose signature sandwich comes with fries on top, we wouldn't blame you if Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania wasn't the first place to spring to mind as an icon of healthy living.
But over the years, as Pittsburgh has evolved from a steel city of the industrial boom into a modern mecca of culture and education, many consider it a hidden gem. In fact, it has even been named as Forbes' most livable U.S. City. What's more, a 2012 survey found that residents in the Pittsburgh area rated their happiness as a 7.8 out of 10, compared to the 7.4 national average. While Pittsburghers still have room for improvement in the health department (despite some gains, they have one of the highest air pollution rates nation-wide, for one), there are more than a few things to be gleaned from Pennsylvania's second-largest city.
2. Their hospitals are world-class.
3. They're whip-smart (not to mention cultured).
4. They root, root, root for the home team.
5. It's a great place to retire.
6. Pittsburgh invests in green space.
7. The city is among the country's most secure.
8. Pittsburgh is a reading capital.
9. Their employees are happy.
Read the entire article HERE
10 Reasons Why Pittsburgh Owned 2013
From a giant rubber duck to cutting-edge restaurants to a yarn-bombed bridge, our city had the world buzzing this year.
10 Reasons Why Pittsburgh Owned 2013From a giant rubber duck to cutting-edge restaurants to a yarn-bombed bridge, our city had the world buzzing this year.
From: Pittsburgh Magazine | Written By:Virginia Montanez
By anyone’s standards, 2012 was a landmark year for Pittsburgh, capped off by “The Dark Knight Rises” hitting theaters and unveiling the ’Burgh as the fabled Gotham, not to mention National Geographic imploring the world's travelers to train new eyes on our formerly smoky city.
Little did we know, that was just the beginning. As we get ready to tuck this year away, let's take a look back at how Pittsburgh owned 2013.
Brace yourself, Portland.
1. We made ALL the lists
2. A baseball town once more
3. And not a duck pun was left unquacked
4. They came, they saw, they yarn-bombed
5. One app to rule them all
6. Proud to be quirky
7. SurfPittsburgh ... because why not?
8. All that’s missing is the paparazzi
9. Conflict Kitchen hits the world stage
10. Pittsburgh’s Old Faithful returns
Read the entire article HERE
The Foodist Predicts the Next Big Ingredients in 2014
By anyone’s standards, 2012 was a landmark year for Pittsburgh, capped off by “The Dark Knight Rises” hitting theaters and unveiling the ’Burgh as the fabled Gotham, not to mention National Geographic imploring the world's travelers to train new eyes on our formerly smoky city.
Little did we know, that was just the beginning. As we get ready to tuck this year away, let's take a look back at how Pittsburgh owned 2013.
Brace yourself, Portland.
2. A baseball town once more
3. And not a duck pun was left unquacked
4. They came, they saw, they yarn-bombed
5. One app to rule them all
6. Proud to be quirky
7. SurfPittsburgh ... because why not?
8. All that’s missing is the paparazzi
9. Conflict Kitchen hits the world stage
10. Pittsburgh’s Old Faithful returns
Read the entire article HERE
The Foodist Predicts the Next Big Ingredients in 2014
From: BON APPÉTIT | Written By: Andrew Knowlton December 18, 2013
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The Livermore(photo credit: Adam Milliron) |
4) The Next Big Food Town: Yes, Steel City is where you need to eat now
Like Houston, Charleston, and Nashville before it, Pittsburgh is elbowing its way onto the culinary map. Here are four reasons why: 1) The East Liberty neighborhood, with its $52 million transit center and future Ace Hotel. 2) Farmers’ markets everywhere, including Farmers @ Firehouse in the Strip District. 3) Restaurants like Cure, Bar Marco, Conflict Kitchen, Notion, Fukuda, and Meat & Potatoes. 4) Serious beer (The Brew Gentlemen) and cocktails (The Livermore (pictured above), Butterjoint).
Read the entire article HERE
Pittsburgh is 5th-happiest city in the U.S.
From: Pittsburgh Business Times Written By: Paul J. Gough,digital producer Dec 6, 2013
Hey, Pittsburgh, you're pretty happy!
The Steel City is No. 5 on the list of happiest U.S. cities put out by Jetpac, an iPhone app company that has used big-data methods to count up how many smiles there are in Instagram photos and where those cities are located.
The happiest city out of the 5,000 measured, according to Jetpac? St. Louis, which had a "smile score" of 54.7. But Pittsburgh wasn't far behind, with a score of 47.9.
Jetpac's top 10 happiest U.S. cities:
1. St. Louis
2. Kansas City, Mo.
3. Columbus, Ohio
4. Indianapolis
5. Pittsburgh
6. San Antonio
7. Minneapolis
8. Jacksonville, Fla.
9. Detroit
10. Raleigh, N.C.
Read the entire article HERE
Pittsburgh among healthiest housing markets, Zillow says
From: Pittsburgh Business Times | Written By: Louis A. Corsaro, Assistant Managing Editor Dec 13, 2013
On a list populated mostly by West Coast cities, Pittsburgh ranked among the top 10 healthiest housing markets for October, according to Zillow.
The Zillow Market Health Index, measured on a scale from 0 to 10, incorporates 10 measures of housing market health. It's calculated monthly at the ZIP code, neighborhood, city, county, metro and state levels.
Among the country's top 30 largest metro markets covered by Zillow, Pittsburgh was tied for No. 6 with a 7.4 on the index.
Pittsburgh had by far the lowest home value index of the top 10, at $111,400. The next lowest was Denver at $246,500.
The top 10 were:
1. San Jose, Calif., 9.0
2. San Francisco, 8.9
3. Los Angeles, 8.6
4. San Diego, 8.4
5. Denver, 8.1
6. Boston, 7.4
7. Pittsburgh, 7.4
8. Portland, Ore., 6.5
9. New York, 6.0
10. Sacramento, Calif., 6.0
Read the entire article HERE
Study finds Pittsburghers civic-minded, neighborly
From: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette | Written By: Timothy McNulty November 27, 2013
Pittsburgh-area residents are more likely to be civically engaged and befriend their neighbors than others in the state and nation, according to a joint new study from programs at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, but their deep attachments to local government stand in the way of large-scale municipal mergers.
People in the Pittsburgh region are 37 percent more likely to trust their neighbors than those nationwide, 46 percent more likely to participate in a religious group and 48 percent more likely to join other groups. They are 37 percent more likely to have contacted a government official than other residents of either the United States or Pennsylvania.
Read the entire article HERE
First Ever Good News Award Goes to the URA
STEELTOWN HERO : VETERANS VET AND MILITARY METTLE
Also we would like to go back to our Steeltown Hero Segment so please send us your stories of ordinary Greater Pittsburgh Area residents doing good things that are GOOD NEWS.
Hope you like our new format for the news and looking forward to some area businesses sponsoring segments.
This was reported as a reproduction of PositivelyPittsburghLive news done by Joanne Quinn-Smith. (c) Joanne Quinn-Smith and PositivelyPittsburghLive(TM) 2014 All rights reserved.
From: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette | Written By: Timothy McNulty November 27, 2013
Pittsburgh-area residents are more likely to be civically engaged and befriend their neighbors than others in the state and nation, according to a joint new study from programs at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, but their deep attachments to local government stand in the way of large-scale municipal mergers.
People in the Pittsburgh region are 37 percent more likely to trust their neighbors than those nationwide, 46 percent more likely to participate in a religious group and 48 percent more likely to join other groups. They are 37 percent more likely to have contacted a government official than other residents of either the United States or Pennsylvania.
Read the entire article HERE
First Ever Good News Award Goes to the URA
STEELTOWN HERO : VETERANS VET AND MILITARY METTLE
Also we would like to go back to our Steeltown Hero Segment so please send us your stories of ordinary Greater Pittsburgh Area residents doing good things that are GOOD NEWS.
Hope you like our new format for the news and looking forward to some area businesses sponsoring segments.
Listen to the show online HERE
This was reported as a reproduction of PositivelyPittsburghLive news done by Joanne Quinn-Smith. (c) Joanne Quinn-Smith and PositivelyPittsburghLive(TM) 2014 All rights reserved.
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