Positively Pittsburgh Live News 9-30-13

Positively Pittsburgh Live News

9-30-13

Listen to the show online here. 

Hank Walshak

Tonight's Co-host Hank Walshak of Walshak Communications
Hank Walshak, Founder and President of Walshak Communications, Inc., helps experts to be read, be heard, be seen, and be known. He assists experts in creating and delivering expertise-related content to differentiate themselves as experts.

He empowers experts to creatively articulate themselves and to stand out in the scarce space vis-à-vis their competitors in the markets they serve. He is adept at helping executives and business owners communicate their ideas in ways that energize and stay with their audiences.

In the last 25-plus years, Hank has helped hundreds of clients at start ups, small, and mid-size companies develop the three R’s of cogent communications – recognition, resonance, and receptivity — among their clients, customers, and prospects. Creativity and conceptual prowess drives his ability to listen deeply to clients and to elaborate stand-out communications for them.

On Tonight's Show: WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY? Military Writer Society of America Conference in Dayton Ohio last week; October 10 Entrepreneurial Thursdays

POSITIVELYPITTSBURGH SPONSORED EVENTS: October 10 Entrepreneurial Thursdays 10; PR, Media, Branding & Marketing Techno Granny speaking and copies of "Folly of Marketing Plan in Your Head" her new book to attendees

CULTURAL CLUES: Legend of Zelda Symphony of the Goddesses;The Pigeoning;PICT Costume Party;Peter Pan;Carmina Burana;Brian Stokes Mitchell, a Tony Award winner for his performance in Kiss Me Kate

KIDZ KORNER: Play Date at Tech Shop Pittsburgh

WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVANCEMENT: 2013 Day of the Girl Pittsburgh Celebration Women in Business Networking;Women and Girls Foundation Global Awardees Announced

BUSINESS BUZZ: Average weekly wages in the Pittsburgh region continue to increase; AlphaLab Demo Day

NON-PROFIT EVENTS SPONSORED BY BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH: HEARTH, 12th Annual Wine & Food Event Party In The Tropics;2013 Walk to End Alzheimer's - Pittsburgh, PA

NEIGHBORHOOD HI-LIGHTS: Brookline Halloween Parade; Carrick and Overbrook Community Council Halloween Costume Contest

POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS SEGMENT: Melody Firmani, Celebrate Caregivers

ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT: THE RUBBER DUCK PROJECT; Soldier's Heart; MWSA Conference in Dayton; Michael Buble Concert

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY?

Military Writer’s Society of America Conference in Dayton, Ohio last week; October 10 Entrepreneurial Thursdays

POSITIVELYPITTSBURGH SPONSORED EVENTS 

October 10 Entrepreneurial Thursdays 
Joanne Quinn-Smith speaking, panel on PR, Media, Branding & Marketing.
She's also giving away a paperback copy of her book Folly of Marketing Plan in Your Head 101 Compelling Reasons to Write One to all attendees. 

CULTURAL CLUES

The Last Chance to See Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses

One of the Final Dates on the Tour! 
The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses returns to Heinz Hall by popular demand with SECOND QUEST! Expect breathtaking new visuals and music exploring additional characters from the Zelda franchise, as well as the beautifully orchestrated four-movement symphony recounting the classic storylines from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Walker, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. 

DON'T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO BE A PART OF THE SECOND QUEST.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SECURE YOUR SEATS TODAY! 

Experience both of these Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts performances on one night. Individually, show tickets are $25, but you can see BOTH productions for just $30!*

The Pigeoning
October 9,10 & 12 @ 7pm
937 Liberty Avenue

The Pigeoning is a full length live performance that uses bunraku puppetry, video and original music to explore the ideas of obsessive compulsion, safety, and order in the context of the end of the world. The story is told through the main character “ Frank” an bunraku style puppet working in an office in the early 1980’s who is absorbed and ultimately transformed by his pigeon obsession. 

It's Dark Outside
October 9, 10 & 12 @ 9pm
Pierce Studio 805-807 Liberty Avenue

Inspired by experiences and research into Alzheimer’s and Sundowner’s Syndrome, Tim Watts’, Arielle Gray’s and Chris Isaac’s newest play is a heartfelt, fearless, and inventive adventure about aging, getting lost, and trying not to be found. Puppetry, mask, animation, and live performance are all expertly intertwined by the Perth-based, superbly talented cast to create a grand epic western about adventure, redemption, and dementia.

PICT Theatre's Costume Gala, PICT Plays...with Mystery and Mayhem, presented by PNC Bank and Jones Day

Monday, October 28, 2013
J. Verno Studios, 3030 Jane Street on Pittsburgh's South Side

A little bit of mystery...Venture into the city's most sophisticated playground, J. Verno Studios on the South Side.

A little bit of mayhem...Tempt your tastebuds with culinary creations from the chefs at Eleven,Soba and Casbah. Satisfy your thirst at the open bar. Dance, dance, dance.

Play dress up. Wear your favorite cocktail attire or come in costume for maximum make-believe.

Get your 15 minutes of fame.Step in our photobooth and be broadcast on 6 screens.

Need help with your costume? We've partnered with Costume World to make it simple! Learn more. Interested in Sponsoring PICT Plays? Learn more. 

Join our email list to receive updates on the gala, or call the office to learn more at 412-561-6000.  Buy tickets here.

Peter Pan
Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater, a division of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, announced Theatreworks USA’s area premiere of Peter Pan, October 20-27, 2013, at six performance locations throughout the area. “Bringing opportunities for children and their families to enjoy and experience live theater is at the heart of our goals. We are proud to present this award-winning theater group and classic story through the artistry of live performance and original music,” commented Pamela K. Lieberman, Manager of Children’s Theater Programming-Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and Executive Director of Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater.

Performance locations include: City: Byham Theater, October 20 at 2:00 p.m.; East: Penn Hills High School, October 23 at 7:00 p.m.; North: Marshall Middle School, October 24 at 5:30 & 7:30 p.m.; West: Hopewell High School, October 25 at 7:00 p.m.; South: Mt. Lebanon High School, October 26 at 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.; and Butler: Seneca Valley Intermediate School, October 27 at 2:00 p.m.

Citizens Bank is the season sponsor of Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater 2013-14 Family Series. 

TICKETS: single tickets in advance: subscribers: $9, non-subscribers $9.50; at the door: $11. Tickets can be ordered online at www.TrustArts.org/kids, by calling (412) 456-6666, or in person at the Box Office at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue. Group tickets can be ordered by calling (412) 471-6930. 


PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA OPENS 2013-2014 BNY MELLON GRAND CLASSICS SEASON WITH CARMINA BURANA
Music Director Manfred Honeck leads the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in the opening weekend of the 2013-2014 BNY Mellon Grand Classics season on Oct. 4-6, with a concert featuring one of the most recognizable works of all time, Carmina Burana, and a world premiere by Pittsburgh-based composer David Stock.

Based on 24 of the poems found in the medieval collection Carmina Burana, this 20th-century choral masterpiece has been heard countless times in film, television and even at professional sports events. This dynamic performance will include Lisette Oropesa, soprano; Andrey Nemzer, tenor; Hugh Russell, baritone; and the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh under the direction of Betsy Burleigh. 

David Stock

Acclaimed composer David Stock, one of the Pittsburgh Symphony’s Pittsburgh Composers of the Year, wrote the new Sixth Symphony (world premiere and Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra commission) specifically for his hometown orchestra. This symphony is influenced by Stock’s Jewish heritage and includes hymns from the synagogue service.The concerts will begin at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. 

Tickets, ranging in price from $30.75 to $124.75, can be purchased by calling the Heinz Hall box office at 412-392-4900 or visiting www.pittsburghsymphony.org

Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra PNC Pops

Broadway and Beyond with Brian Stokes Mitchell 
Oct. 17: 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 18 & 19: 8 p.m.; Oct. 20: 2:30 p.m. Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, Pa. 15222

Brian Stokes Mitchell, a Tony Award-winner for his performance in Kiss Me, Kate, joins your PSO for a concert filled with favorite songs from classic Broadway musicals. 
Dubbed the "Broadway Baritone Extraordinaire," Mitchell takes you on a journey as he becomes the characters of each musical with every new song. This is your chance to  hear the best of Broadway from one of Broadway's best. Plus, enjoy a few non Broadway selections hand-picked by Mitchell that are sure to delight. 
INFO/TICKETS: 412-392-4900 or www.pittsburghsymphony.org

KIDZ KORNER

PLAY DATE @ TechShop Pittsburgh
192 Bakery Square | Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Saturday, October 5, 2013 / 2 pm - 5 pm | FREE Event!
Suitable for families with students 10-14 years of age

Ida Byrd-Hill, Event Organizer, Inventor of FLUKE

This Play Date will move families through an inventing skill progression to excite and motivate them to SPARK inventing in their household each and every day. Get prepared for cooking activities, video games, board games, arts & crafts, building & construction, technology
immersion, and inventing in a scavenger hunt format.  

Please RSVP at www.upliftinc.org

Click Invention Revolution link or http://www.upliftinc.org/catalyst_of_the_invention_revolution.aspx

For more info call 877.429.2370

WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVANCEMENT

2013 Day of the Girl Pittsburgh Celebration
Friday October 11, 2013 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM EDT
Goodwill of Southwestern PA , 118 52nd Street (off Butler Street), Pittsburgh, PA 15201

International Day of the Girl is almost here and it's time for Pittsburgh to celebrate. This FREE, family-friendly event includes activities from local girl and youth-serving organizations, music, and food. It's the perfect way to spend your Friday evening. 


Groups are welcome too, so bring your girl scout troop, youth group, after-school program, residential program, book club, and so on! Please feel free to download and share the flyer. 
We can't wait to see you in just a few weeks, but we need you to register online so we can be ready!  Register Now!

For the second year, we are partnered with Day of the Girl Summit, a dynamic virtual platform that brings together girls and girl-serving organizations, and leverages community resources to build the movement for girls' human rights. Elevate your voice by getting involved with the 11 Days of Action staring October 1.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions and we very much hope to see you at the Day of the Girl Pittsburgh celebration!

Sincerely, Heather Mediate, Girls Coalition of Southwestern Pennsylvania

Women in Business Networking
You're Invited to Pittsburgh Magazine's Quarterly Spotlight on Women in Business Event
Fifth Anniversary Celebration

Presented by First Commonwealth Bank

Thursday, October 3 / 5 - 8 p.m. / The Ballroom at Rivers Casino777 Casino Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15212

RSVP HERE
There is no cost to attend, but space is limited and registration is required.
Please register only if you are confident that you can attend. 21+.To register or for more info, visit pittsburghmagazine.com/wib

Global Impact Gala
This fall the Women and Girls Foundation is honoring women and girls who are engaged in expanding Southwest Pennsylvania’s global influence and who are having a global impact through their work. The awards will be presented at our annual gala on Saturday, November 16, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the August Wilson Center for African American Culture. 

We are excited to announce the amazing women who will be honored at this event:

Yinka Aganga-Williams, Acculturation for Justice Access & Peace Outreach (AJAPO)
Robin Alexander, United Electrical, Radio & Machine Workers of America (UE)
Esther Barazzone, Chatham University
Tacy Byham, Development Dimensions International (DDI)
Miriam Cremer, Basic Health International
Simin Yazdgerdi Curtis, American Middle East Institute
Anne Nemer Dhanda, PPG Industries, Inc.
M. Bernardine Dias, TechBridgeWorld
Stephany L. Hartstirn, UPMC Health Plan
Tavia La Follette, ArtUp
Ali McMutrie, Haitian Families First
Prabha Sankaranarayan, Mediators Beyond Borders International
Alberta Sbragia, University of Pittsburgh
Gail Shrott, GlobalPittsburgh
Kathy Keim Surma, The Nyadire Connection and Girl Child NetworkEmerging Leader Award
Laila Al-Soulaiman, Ellis School graduate and University of Pittsburgh student Lifetime Achievement Awards
E. Maxine Bruhns, Nationality Rooms, University of Pittsburgh
Theresa Whiteside Nimick, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI)

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO PURCHASE TICKETS
VISIT WWW.WGFPA.ORG

--OR--ON OCTOBER 3RD MAKE A DONATION THROUGH THE DAY OF GIVING 
FOR THE PRICE OF EACH TICKET YOU WISH TO ORDER!

BUSINESS BUZZ

From our friends at Pittsburgh TODAY

Average weekly wages in the Pittsburgh region continue to increase. The first quarter of 2013 saw an increase of 1.3 percent over the same quarter in 2012, the second largest increase year-over-year behind Cincinnati.

Locally, Greene County had the highest average weekly wages in the first quarter of 2013 with an increase of 1.4 percent year over year, followed by a 1.4 percent increase in Allegheny County. Thanks for your interest, Douglas Heuck, Program Director


AlphaLab Demo Day & Technology Preview
Wednesday, October 23, 2013 at 9:00am

New Hazlett Theater Allegheny Square East, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 (North Side)Join us as we l

launch the newest companies in AlphaLab's nationally-acclaimed startup accelerator program and preview the latest technology in the greater Pittsburgh region. 

To RSVP click here. 9:00 am Registration / 9:30 am Tech Preview / 10:00 am AlphaLab Demo Day

NON-PROFIT EVENTS SPONSORED BY

 BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH 

HEARTH, 12th Annual Wine & Food Event 

Thursday, October 3, 2013 / Time: 6-9 p.m

Children's Museum of Pittsburgh
10 Children’s Way, Allegheny Square, Pittsburgh PA 15212

Join Oakland Catholic High School for an elegant evening in Paris at the Leading Ladies Gala, recognizing the Pittsburgh region’s “leading ladies.” This enchanting evening in the City of Light will feature magnifique entertainment and a chic live auction! All proceeds benefit Oakland Catholic High School. Tickets are $125/per person. To purchase tickets or for additional information call 412-682-6797 or email kferrari@oaklandcatholic.org.

Party In The Tropics 
Friday, October 04, 2013 / Time: 7 – 11 p.m.

Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Garden
One Schenley Park Pittsburgh, PA 15213

Dine, drink and dance the night away in our tropical paradise! 
Don’t be a wallflower – get down under glass! Gather your friends, then head to Phipps for a healthy dose of revelry and rejuvenation as our Tropical Forest Conservatory transforms into one of the city’s most unique nightspots. This is no typical stroll through the gardens: At this reoccurring party, you can make our paradise your own as you indulge in sweet and savory morsels, taste unique cocktails, and dance to the beats of a live DJ – all surrounded by lush greenery, rushing waterfalls and exotic plants. You won’t find a venue like this anywhere else in the ‘Burgh!

2013 Walk to End Alzheimer's - Pittsburgh, PA
Saturday, October 05, 2013
Time: Registration at 7:00 a.m.; Walk Starts at 9:00 a.m

Walk to End Alzheimers

North Shore, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

The Pittsburgh Walk to End Alzheimer's will be staged on the North Shore near Heinz Field. Route: The walk route will go out the streets and sidewalks of the North Shore and return along the trail next to the river. The distance is less than a 5K and we do plan to offer a shorter distance so people of all abilities can participate. Event: In addition to the walk, there will be live entertainment, information on our organization, and an opportunity to honor and/or remember loved ones affected by Alzheimer's. Overall Logistics: Details are in the final approval stages with the city permitting and the Pittsburgh Steelers and upon their approval we will release a document outlining logistics details, etc. This will be sent to all registered participants and uploaded to our website. We thank you for your patience! Parking has been secured in a lot neighboring Heinz Field and the garage where the T-Station is located. Parking in the lot will be a $3 charge and the garage will be $4.

NEIGHBORHOOD HI-LIGHTS

Brookline Halloween Parade
Saturday, October 26, more info TBA; check the District 4 public calendarCarrick and Overbrook Community Councils’ Halloween Costume Contest
Saturday, October 26, 12:00 p.m. at the Phillips Park Rec Center (201 Parkfield St)

POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS SEGMENT

Melody Firmani is the founder and CEO of Celebrate Caregivers, LLC. Melody created this organization to give caregivers the opportunity to refill their energy levels.

As a transformational

Melody Firmani

energy coach, she works with caregivers to increase, maintain and protect their energy so they can continue to serve those they love. 

Melody also sponsors events to recognize and support caregivers throughout southwestern Pennsylvania. Melody can be reached at: Celebrate CareGivers / PO Box 353 / Murrysville, PA 15668 / 724-289-0449

ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT

THE RUBBER DUCK PROJECT
Friday was the long-awaited reveal of “The Rubber Duck Project,” an The four-story-tall duck

floated merrily around the three rivers. During the Rubber Duck Bridge Party the duck traveled under the West End Bridge, round the Point and cruised to the Clemente Bridge. 

The Duck, photo by Tara Darazio

The bridge was closed to traffic and packed with food and art vendors as part of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership’s Night Market. DJ Scottro from 96.1 KISS provided the music and thousands of area people partied on the bridge. 

All You Need Is Love...Or A 40 Foot Rubber Duck
Roving Pittsburgher Reporter Tara Darazio
Normally in a crowd of people, you find a lot of pushing, yelling, general annoyance, but I didn't see one ounce of that by the duck. People were overly happy, excited, joyous. I counted 10 people who asked someone if they wanted them to take a picture, and we had a lovely family man snap one for us, as well. People were kind, quick to move away so the next batch of folks could see, and I myself stopped in my tracks for about three minutes so I wouldn't ruin someone’s shot, and I saw dozens of others doing the same. RESPECT was floating all around that day. Read the full review here.

MWSA Conference Review
Review by Joanne Quinn-Smith
You know you are in a good place when the President of an organization starts off the orientation by announcing that the members donated and he and a committee packed and delivered over 500 books to the local Veterans hospital.  Such was the case as Dwight Zimmerman, MWSA President opened up the conference. Read the full review here.


I Have Seen The Enemy and It is Us 
Review of A Soldier’s Heart by Roving Pittsburgher Reporter, Joyce Kane of Cybertary 
The Studio Theatre of the Pittsburgh Playhouse is the venue for the world premiere of the play, written by Pittsburgher Tammy Ryan and directed by John Amplas. The staging and lighting are stark and gray, befitting the mood of the work itself and the audience’s reaction. The use of the

same set for both stateside and Iraq was enhanced by the videos projected on the back wall; the videos also served as a flashback mechanism, a graphic demonstration of what Casey encountered in Iraq.

Marie Elena O’Brien is remarkable as Casey Johnson. The range of emotions that she displays throughout the performance is heart-wrenching. Joshua Elijah Reese as Kevin is likable; you root for him to be successful in breaking through the shell, helping and supporting Casey in her return to life. Margie, Casey’s mother, ably portrayed by Jenna Cole, is everywoman, while not perfect, loves her daughter and grandson and tries her best. Michael Fuller (Captain Baines, Casey’s Commanding Officer), Justin Lonesome (Staff Sergeant Williams), Jaime Slavinsky (Lance Corporal Hernandez), and Sundiata Rice (Sean) round out the small but emotionally powerful cast. Read the full review here.


Michael Bublé Concert

Michelle and Domenic Lanzilatti, left
Tara and Justin Darazio, right

Reviewed by Roving Pittsburgher Reporter, 

Tara Darazio

Bublé is now not only one of my favorite singers, he's one of my favorite people. I have been to a lot of concerts in my day and have never come across someone so genuine. I read a blog saying that when you go to his concerts, you feel like he is crooning just for you, and I absolutely agree with that.

When he first came out, he immediately started interacting with the crowd. He made mention of some of the signs, even a few way in the back with LED lights on them. One girl had a sign saying it was her 18th birthday, so he brought her down to the stage, gave her a hug and a kiss, and had the whole stadium sing Happy Birthday to her. Right from the get go, the show was about his fans, not him. What a special night for that girl, and what an awesome memory to make. He brought up a little girl later in the show that had a sign for him, and serenaded her with You've Got A Friend In Me. Her face was priceless, and he even gave her the mic to sing along with him. Read the full review here.

VETERANS AND MILITARY NEWS 

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. 

This was reported as a reproduction of PositvelyPittsburghLive news done by Joanne Quinn-Smith. (c) Joanne Quinn-Smith and PositivelyPittsburghLive(TM) 2013 All rights reserved. 


Listen to the show online here.

Tara Darazio is a Positively Pittsburgh Live reporter, an independent copywriter, blogger, article writer, and social media strategist. If you are in need of writing assistance, or need help with your social media efforts connect with Tara on LinkedIn here.

Positively Pittsburgh Live News 9-2-13 - 9-10-13

Positively Pittsburgh Live News Part I

 9-2 and 9-10 

Listen to the show online here.

Tonight's co-host: Sunita Pandit, Producing Mrs. Cardiology-Heart Tips Not Tricks on TalkShoe network every Wednesday at 8:30 AM, soon on PPLMag.com As the wife of a cardiologist, she has become passionate about combating the "perils of the heart." Constantly in pursuit of preventive care, she is dedicated to recording her husbands observations on what keeps a heart healthy. 

Constantly in pursuit of preventive care, she is dedicated to recording her husbands observations on what keeps a heart healthy. Sunita also has 32 years experience in caring for a severely handicapped child, adolescent and adult. Her son Sachin was born with severe cerebral palsy and mental retardation. She has designed her home that allows her family to live a normal lifestyle while giving excellent care to her severely handicapped adult son. Those designs are soon to be available on her website: http://mrscardiology.com. Sunita has two e-books in progress one on healthy heart care and the other on designing a lifestyle as the caregiver to an individual with handicaps.

On tonight's show: WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY: Producing Mrs. Cardiology-Heart Tips Not Tricks, October 10, Enterpreneurial Thursdays Panel


CULTURAL CLUES: MICROSCOPIC OPERA COMPANY Therese Raquin, Disney’s THE LION KING, Impractical Jokers, Poptastic! The Art of Burton Morris, GHOST THE MUSICAL, Calliope Presents Christopher Mark Jones, 2013-2014 PNC BROADWAY ACROSS AMERICA PRE-SHOW EDUCATION PROGRAM, Pittsburgh Ballet Theater 2013-2014 Season, Pittsburgh Dance Council Presents Compagnie Marie Chouinard, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Musikfest Berlin

KIDZ KORNER: Tune In, Tune Out, Learning with Games, Girls Growing Up With Media, Health, Wellness and Technology, 5 Toddlers + Tech, Online Identities and Social Media, Common Sense Media, Every Child, Inc.

WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVANCEMENT:Eighth Annual Think Big Forum, The Affordable Care Act: the Facts, the Effects, and the Bottom Line, Dress for Success Women Need Mentors

BUSINESS BUZZ: Pittsburgh Has An Epiphany, African American Small Business Owner Survey, With a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in July of 6.7 percent, Pittsburgh is lower than the benchmark average of 7.2 percent.

HIGH SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY NEWS: Using Hip Hop to Educate

PITTSBURGH HISTORICAL STUFF: First Night World Series Game 

NON-PROFIT EVENTS SPONSORED BY BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH: 2013 Racial Justice Awards, Cocktails for a Cause

NEIGHBORHOOD HI-LIGHTS: Deer Creek Winery Fall Fest, Latino Day Comes to Kennywood Park, Rubber Duck Project Bridge Party, Community Bridge-Building Network's Pittsburgh Mansions

POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS SEGMENT: Meg's Photo Booth, PURELY PITTSBURGH 

ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT: Back to School Block Party, Lion King, All My Sons 

PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS: Tanya Longo earns spot in UWEC Hall of Fame, Pitt begins ACC play, Florida State And Pitt Announce Kidz1stFund Helmet Decals

STEEELTOWN HEROES: Dr. Mervat Abdelhak

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY

Producing Mrs. Cardiology-Heart Tips Not Tricks; NAWBO Greater Pittsburgh Board Meeting; Last Week: The Lion King and wedding at Carmichaels Firehall, throwing that in for fun, Where is Carmichaels?; October 10, Enterpreneurial Thursdays Panel on PR, Media, Branding & Marketing: Also giving away paperback copy of her book Folly of Marketing Plan in Your Head 101 Compelling Reasons to Write One to all attendees.

CULTURAL CLUES

THE MICROSCOPIC OPERA COMPANY PRESENTS: Therese Raquin 
Join us for a gripping start to Microscopic’s fourth Season, as we stage the Pittsburgh premiere of Therese Raquin (2001)by composer, Tobias Picker (Fantastic Mr. Fox, An American Tragedy) and librettist, Gene Scheer (Three Decembers, To Hell and Back). Based on the controversial masterpiece by Emile Zola, the opera was originally co-commissioned by Dallas Opera, San Diego Opera and Opera de Montreal. It is Picker’s third opera, and this chamber version, which has only been performed a few times, is scored for seven singers and

an 18 piece orchestra. Therese Raquin will be staged at the CAPA High School Theater, under the musical direction of artistic director, Andres Cladera, and stage direction of Gregory Lehane. The cast includes many outstanding Pittsburgh opera stars: Katherine Drago, Anna Singer, Dimitrie Lazich, Sean Donaldson, Jeffrey Gross, Erica Olden and William Strom. In addition to the innovative and stunning scenic design by Britton Mauk and lighting by C. Todd Brown, Microscopic Opera is excited to collaborate with renown videographer and projection artist, Joe Seamans, who will help us create unique, interactive visual elements, which will be integrated into the story and music of the opera. 

Special Nights: Friday, Sept. 13: Join us on opening night for a special conversation with composer Tobias Picker and Artists from The Microscopic Opera Company, following the performance. Sunday, Sept. 15: Starving Artists Night: A night for all Artists to attend for a special Artist Rate of $18. Tuesday, Sept. 17: Ladies Night, featuring a pre-performance wine and cheese reception. 

WHERE: CAPA High School Theater, 111 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 

WHEN: September 13, 15, 17, 19 and 21 8:00 pm 

TICKETS: $25 in advance / $35 at door / $15 student / $18 Artist Night rate Tickets available online at: www.microscopicopera.org 

The Lion King,
Courtesy of trustarts.org

Disney’s THE LION KING 
The Pittsburgh return of Disney’s THE LION KING opens for a limited engagement of four weeks through Sunday, September 29, 2013. “Sales for Pittsburgh’s third return engagement of Disney’s THE LION KING are brisk, but tickets can still be purchased, with weeknights having the best availability. By the end of the four-week, 32-performance run of the blockbuster engagement, we expect to host over 80,000 people at the Benedum Center—many who will be dining out, shopping, and booking hotel stays. All together, the economic impact for Downtown Pittsburgh and the Cultural District is expected to be significant,” comments Marc Fleming, Vice President of Marketing and Communications-Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. 

The award-winning musical’s sold-out six-week premiere engagement in 2004 was followed by a sold-out return run in 2008 at the Benedum Center.

Disney’s THE LION KING is part of the PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh series, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Broadway Across America and Pittsburgh Symphony. 

In Pittsburgh THE LION KING will play Tuesday through Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m., Friday evenings at 8:00 p.m., Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. and Sunday at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. There will be a 1:00 p.m. matinee performance on Thursday, September 26. Tickets are on sale (starting at $30) in person at Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue, online at www.TrustArts.org or by calling (412) 456-4800.

Saturday, October 5, 2013: Impractical Jokers
7:30pm · Byham Theater

You have seen them on truTV. Now come and see the Impractical Jokers Tour featuring The Tenderloins Live at the Byham Theater!

Come see the cast of Impractical Jokers live on stage in this interactive comedy show with

improv, never before seen videos inspired by the hit television show Impractical Jokers on TruTV, and more. Q, Sal, Joe and Murr have been entertaining each other for years with the most hilarious dares they could imagine. Now you can watch them on stage with their signature brand of comedy!




Poptastic! The Art of Burton Morris 
Retrospective of the Pittsburgh artist's work opens this Sun., Sept. 15
Poptastic! The Art of Burton Morris, the first retrospective of the Pittsburgh artist's work, opens at the History Center this Sun., Sept. 15. Morris, who first gained national attention in the mid-1990s when his artwork was chosen to hang on the set of the hit television series "Friends," puts an energetic and colorful spin on today's culture.

Burton Morris
Courtesty of History Center website

Over the years, his artwork has been selected for the 76th Academy Awards®, the Paris World Cup Soccer Games, the 38th Montreux Jazz Festival, and the 2004 Summer Olympic Games, and he has created signature artwork for international brands including Absolut Vodka, the H.J. Heinz Company, Chanel, and Pop Tarts.The History Center is the first Pittsburgh museum to organize a major exhibition of Morris' work. 

Artist Talk & Children's Activities: At 1 p.m. this Sun., Sept. 15, participate in a talk with Burton Morris and enjoy children's art activities.

FULL CAST ANNOUNCED FOR THE FIRST U.S. NATIONAL TOUR OF GHOST THE MUSICALPNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh, December 31, 2013-January 5, 2014
Heinz HallTroika Entertainment and Michael Coppel in association with Hilary Williams, Margot Astrachan Production/Dennis Grimaldi Productions/Paul Lucas Productions/Robert Sher and Paramount Pictures are pleased to announce casting is complete for the first U.S. National

Tour of Ghost The Musical based on the film by Bruce Joel Rubin and Paramount Pictures. 

The supernatural power of love is taking North America by storm as the new Broadway and West End musical Ghost The Musical, adapted from the Academy Award-winning film, launches its first national tour in Schenectady, NY, at Proctors Theater on September 14, 2013. Read the entire release here. 

CALLIOPE PRESENTS CHRISTOPHER MARK JONES
The Pittsburgh Folk Music Society welcomes CHRISTOPHER MARK JONES to THE ROOTS CELLAR, Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, Shadyside, on October 3, 2013, 7:30 PM.

Tickets and information are available online at www.calliopehouse.org or by contacting the Calliope office at (412) 361-1915: $17 / $12 (student rush w/ID at door) *includes handling fees.

"...the sound is layered and warm, and the best songs are perfectly suitable for radio play on stations aimed at grown-ups. Perhaps my favorites are “Home At Last,” a paean to

Christopher Mark Jones

homeownership, which seems almost trite when expressed that simply, but in reality articulates a heartfelt desire to belong somewhere – and for somewhere to belong - and “The Numbers,” a folk-pop future classic that has rooted itself in the part of my brain that prompts unsolicited outbreaks of song at completely inopportune moments."

--Rob F. for Leicester Bangs. [Review of Suburban 2-Step - released April 24th, 2012

Christopher Mark Jones’ long musical itinerary includes busking in Paris, the English folk club circuit, tours of Denmark and Holland, the Bristol and Rotterdam festivals, BBC and Capitol radio appearances in London, electric clubs in Boston and showcase clubs, house concerts and coffeehouses in Pittsburgh. His 1978 album for Transatlantic No More Range to Roam was released in five countries and distributed in the U.S. by Rounder. After forays into rock, jazz and swing, and time off to raise two sons, 2010’s Heartland Variations marked a return to the soulful country and blues-inflected Americana narratives of the first recording. The dozen new songs of Suburban 2-Step were released in April of 2012 and have found favor with folk DJs both nationally and internationally. Here's his website.

PRE-SHOW EDUCATION PROGRAM PREPARES PATRONS FOR 2013-2014 PNC BROADWAY ACROSS AMERICA - PITTSBURGH SERIES
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is pleased to announce the 2013-2014 Know The Show Before You Go program schedule for the 2103-2014 PNC Broadway Across America – Pittsburgh Series. Know The Show Before You Go is hosted by Christopher Rawson, senior theater critic for KDKA-TV and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Ticket holders are invited to join Mr. Rawson and cast/company members at the Trust Arts Education Center (805-807 Liberty Avenue, 15222) on select evenings prior to PNC Broadway Across America – Pittsburgh

performances.

Know The Show Before You Go provides educational and background information on each of the Broadway performances, aiming to further deepen each patron’s theatrical experience. PNC Broadway Across America – Pittsburgh is a presentation of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Broadway Across America and the Pittsburgh Symphony. Read the entire release here. 

Pittsburgh Dance Council
The Pittsburgh Dance Council, a division of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, brings you Compagnie Marie Chouinard on Saturday, September 28, 2013, at 8:00 p.m., at the Byham Theater. Marie Chouinard and her Compagnie will open the Dance Council’s 2013-2014 season and launch the Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts*, performing two U.S. premieres Michaux Mouvements and Gymnopedia.

Compagnie Marie Chouinard

Inspired by the book Movements, by Belgian artist Henri Michaux, Marie Chouinard creates dreamlike and interpretative dance using the poetics of the body in Michaux Movements. The dancers form silhouette projections portraying the books India-ink drawings and poetry pieces. Gymnopedia features eleven dancers with music set to the glorious piano pieces by Eric Satie. Please note, these performances contain nudity. Read the entire release here. 


Musikfest Berlin 
As part of their European tour, Manfred Honeck and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra will give the inaugural performance at this year’s Musikfest Berlin on August 31 at 2:00 p.m. EST. The concert with violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter at the Philharmonie Berlin can be seen live online on arteliveweb.com and on the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Web site (pittsburghsymphony.org/berlin2013).

The complete concert will be available for three weeks; the orchestral works will stay online for six months in the archive of ARTE Live Web and on the Web sites of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and American Public Media.

KIDZ KORNER 

WQED iQ: smartparentWQED launched iQ: smartparent in response to a research study of regional parents (conducted by WQED in spring 2012) who expressed their desire to build their confidence with

educational, 21st century media and expand their capacity for co-learning with their digitally savvy children. Through a series of six broadcasts and a robust online community iQ: smartparent equips parents and caregivers with tools and resources to aid their understanding and use of digital Future episodes can be found in the entire release here. 

From Our Friends at the Soul Pitt

Go to bat for the children and families in your communityBecome a foster parent and join the team that cares about kids. In Allegheny County there are over 1,000 children in foster care each day. These children and families are often coming from hard places and are in need of a loving coach to get them through these difficult times. There are many teenagers and large sibling groups waiting to join your family team. Become a foster parent and win the game we can’t afford to lose!

Foster parenting is a commitment to helping troubled youth become All-Star players. 
Foster Parents step in and pinch-hit when birth parents are challenged with their own struggles. Foster Parents provide a safe, stable and loving home to children in need for as long as it is necessary. Help us win the game and become a foster parent with Every Child, Inc. today! 
Informational sessions are held at Every Child, Inc.Tuesday afternoons from 5:00 - 5:30 PM. Stop on by to receive your playbook and get the game started. Every Child, Inc. experienced staff will train and support your family on how you can best meet the needs of the children that will join your team. 

Every Child, Inc. begins the next round of certification trainings on September 24, 2013.

Contact Matching and Recruitment Specialist,Emily Welte, at ewelte@everychildinc.org or412-665-0600 for more information on how you can be a winner with Every Child, Inc.!

Every Child, Inc.
The Village of Eastside (in the plaza with Staples)
6401 Penn Avenue, Suite 300 | Pittsburgh, PA 15206
www.everychildinc.org

WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVANCEMENT 

Register Today! Friday, October 18th, 2013 (8:00 AM - Noon) 
Eighth Annual Think Big Forum: Topic: "Women Who Lead" 

Keynote Speaker: Jill Blashack Strahan, Founder & CEO, Tastefully Simple, Inc Panel Moderator: Deborah L. Acklin, President & CEO of WQED Multimedia 

Panelists:

- Ellen M Mclean, Interim CEO of the Port Authority of Allegheny County

- Barbara Span, VP of Global Public Affairs for Western Union

- Bernadette Turner, CEO of Addison Behavioral Care

Click here for more information and to register for this event.

Women Need Mentors
How to Find, Create or Be a Mentor Erroline Williams, Director, Professional Development and Corporate Outreach, School of Leadership and Professional Advancement, Duquesne University

Thursday, September 26th, Registration 7:30 a.m., Program 8:00 a.m.
Omni William Penn

Women can and should benefit from being mentored AND from being mentors. Studies have found that mentoring is widely considered a critical component to career success.

Mentoring can provide valuable opportunities for both the mentor and the protégé to grow,

Erroline Williams

develop, and gain a broader perspective about their career and life. Mentoring relationships are especially important for a women's success since they often face challenges in building social capital at work. The concept and practice of mentoring informs both career mobility and psychosocial aspects in a woman's life.

SO - Find, Create, and Become a Mentor and a Better YOU - It really works! A good mentor can make all the difference in your career. You may have the talent and ambition to succeed, however the right mentor can help direct you in a positive direction to achieve career success.

The right mentor can be the key to unlocking your full potential, providing insights into your talents and finding ways to leverage them to advance your career. Mentors truly can change your life, open up new opportunities and give you a new perspective. 
Individual tickets are $30. Call 412-201-4204 for more information. All attendees will receive a gift bag and a ticket for door prizes.

BUSINESS BUZZ 

From Our Friends at the URA

Pittsburgh Has An Epiphany Epiphany Solar Water Systems is a water treatment company that has developed a system that can economically and reliably provide clean water from contaminated or sea water. In July, the company received a $150,000 loan through the URA’s Pittsburgh Business Growth Fund (PBGF), a program designed to stimulate the growth of new and existing businesses in the City. 

"We felt that the loan process (with the URA) was surprisingly easy, smooth and quick, " said Mike Broeker, COO at Epiphany. "The fact that we had a couple of meetings and the people we worked with were prepared with all the right questions made everything easy.”

Epiphany, who recently moved into a manufacturing facility in Lawrenceville, has discovered a truly unique and cost effective way to convert water produced by hydrofractured natural gas wells into pure, distilled water, clean salt and other metals. Harnessing concentrated solar energy to power a high efficiency distillation process, the company has created a system that allows for the beneficial reuse of industrial byproducts. With this environmentally sustainable technology, Epiphany will reduce operating costs for gas producers while simultaneously diminishing environmental risks.

"We had some final questions about the loan process. We were able to work with Kevon (Copeland, senior business development specialist, URA) and he had the answers we needed," said Gordon Craig, strategist at Epiphany. "He is a really nice, laid back guy. We found working with the URA really enjoyable overall.” The company plans to assemble, install and test 15 additional distillation units, and is projected to create 12 new jobs in the City of Pittsburgh. URA Investment: $150,000 / Total Investment: $430,000

From Our Friends at Pittsburgh Today

The unemployment rate in the Pittsburgh region continues to be one of the lowest compared with its benchmark peers. With a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in July of 6.7 percent, Pittsburgh is lower than the benchmark average of 7.2 percent. Pittsburgh's unemployment rate decreased year-over-year by 0.6 percent and was slightly lower than the rate in June 2013 (6.8 percent).

HIGH SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY NEWS

From Our Friends at Urban Media Today

Using Hip Hop to EducateWhen Winchester Thurston Upper School English teacher Patrice Alexander decided to challenge her students, she looked past conventional methods and instead turned to the world of hip hop. Alexander's English elective, Memes, Music and Language combines rap, spoken word and other elements of hip hop to teach students. UrbanMediaToday's Allegra Johnson recently spoke with Alexander about her class and how hip hop bridges the racial and cultural divide. 

Allegra Johnson: As a former student, how did you become a teacher at your high school Alma mater?

Patrice Alexander: I had always had an interest in teaching, I just didn't necessarily expect to become a teacher right out of college. I received a call, shortly after my graduation from the University of Chicago from the Upper School Director. I have been there four years now.

AJ: What is your program Memes, Music and Language all about?

PA: I started thinking about creating an English elective my first year at the school. I was teaching poetry to freshmen in American Lit. I noticed that sometimes the students struggled with simple assignments such as remembering a poem. But when I walked through the school halls, I would hear many of those students rapping or sharing some of their favorite song lyrics. And I thought; if they can do that, they can definitely remember a poem. I thought it would be cool to create a class that teaches poetry and literary elements but uses rap music and hip hop as the main form that we examine everything through. I then partnered with Hip Hop on L.O.C.K, an arts education program here in Pittsburgh.

AJ: How does the culture of Hip Hop, that is often looked down upon by the mainstream fit into the curriculum of an English class?

PA: I think with many things in life, there's the negative and there's the positive. Hip hop was born out of some negative circumstances but from that has come wonderful, beautiful things that have affected entire generations. Hip hop was formed to unite people, so we focus on that and the positivity of it. And hip hop is something that is slightly more appealing to students then a regular poetry 101 course. It's nice because we can link some of the classics to hip hop as well. One of the things I do in my course; we'll take a look at a poem by Emily Dickinson and then we'll compare it side by side with rap lyrics by Tupac. So students are seeing that alliterations, metaphors and similes have been around for a long, long time. Then I challenge them to go home and create lyrics using techniques like metaphors.

PITTSBURGH HISTORICAL STUFF 

First Night World Series Game - 1971. Game 4 of the 1971 World Series was the first night game in Series history. Pittsburgh tied the series in that game with a 4-3 win and went on to win the series, 4 games to 3. This was one of the last big moments in the career of well-loved Pirate, Roberto Clemente. Fourteen and a half months after the 1971 World Series, he died in a plane crash off the coast of his native Puerto Rico as he attempted to take food, clothing and medical supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua . 

NON-PROFIT EVENTS SPONSORED BY

 BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH

2013 Racial Justice Awards
Now accepting nominations! 

Do you know an individual, company, or organization that has demonstrated a commitment to eliminating racism? Nominate them for a 2013 Racial Justice Award. 22nd Annual Racial Justice Awards Dinner
Wednesday, November 13, 2013 / Westin Hotel, Pittsburgh, PA

RJA 2013 NOMINATION FORM AWARD CATEGORIES/SELECTION CRITERIA
LIST OF PAST RJA AWARDEES

Cocktails + a cause = good and good for you. Don't miss the YWCA Young Leaders Board 2nd annual Cocktails for a Cause Party, 9/12/13 at Tavern 245. Food, fodder, fun, raffles and you.

Take advantage of this evening to connect with other like-minded, motivated women and men on September 12th at Tavern 245, Downtown, at 5:30 pm. 

Tickets are $25, and raffle tickets are $10. For more information, please visit ywcapgh.org 
Presented by YWCA Young Leaders Board and Pittsburgh Magazine.

NEIGHBORHOOD HI-LIGHTS

From our Friends at LocalWineEvents.com 

Deer Creek Winery Fall Fest 

September 15, 2013 (Sun) 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Deer Creek Winery
3333 Soap Fat Rd.
Shippenville, PA 16254

FREE ADMISSION. Bring your lawn chairs to enjoy the music by Ricci Hardt and the Sexy Alligators. Get involved with interactive wine tours, bottle your own wine and enjoy free food, fun games and lots of prizes! Latino Day Comes to Kennywood Park 
Saturday, September 14 Latino Day is the newest ethnic day to join the annual Nationality Days at Kennywood Park. In partnership with Kennywood, the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (PMAHCC) announced that Saturday, September 14th, 2013 will be the Latin community’s First Annual Kennywood Latino Day! This marks the beginning of the Hispanic Heritage Month (9/15-10/15).

If you have not been to one of the Community Bridge-Building Network's meeting in awhile you don't want to miss this one. 
Wednesday September 18, 2013 

9:30-11:30 AM (Please plan on staying for the 2 hours) Courtyard Marriott, 401 Waterfront Drive Homestead Waterfront 

Our very special guest this month is Melanie Linn Gutowski author of Pittsburgh Mansions. Her book explores the stately homes of the area's prominent residents from 1830s through the 1920s. http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/life/home/grand-mansions-of-pittsburgh-700565/ 

She will have her book available if you would like to purchase it or have one signed. We are looking forward to hearing what good deeds Molly Loney did with the RAK funds. As an attendee to our monthly meetings here are things you need to know. If you are planning on attending the Purely Pittsburgh Conference October 11, 2013 don't forget you have to register. 

Check out our website for update, photos and RAK testimonies www.communitybridge-buildingnetwork.com. "We can all do more." 

Millvale Knows how to throw a Party! 

2013 marks the 20th anniversary of Millvale Days in the Borough of Millvale. Come celebrate with us!  This year we are commemorating the 20th Annual Millvale Days festival in the Borough of Millvale. The event will be held Thursday, September 12, 2013 through Saturday, September 14, 2013. Celebrating along with us will be the Corinthian Lodge No. 573 who are also marking their 125th anniversary this year.

There will be carnival rides, food and drink provide available from vendors, live bands/entertainment nightly, a Car Cruise on Thursday evening, and KWSA Wrerstling Friday evening and Saturday afternoon. As in the past, we will hold our Millvale Days parade on Saturday starting at 11:00 a.m. This year's parade will include the Shriner's, the Corinthian Lodge, local dignitaries and officials, and an exciting assembly of marching units, dance ensembles, and community groups as well as many neighboring fire departments.

We hope you can all come join us and help make this year's celebration a success! 

POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS SEGMENT 

Platno Ink

Some of you many not know that my daughter, Megan Boboige, is 17 years old and is a business owner. She has a photography business now called "Platno Ink" (formerly - "Meg's Photo Booth'). She recently won first place in the George W. Tippins Regional Business Plan Competition held on June 6th at The Rivers Club in downtown Pittsburgh. In October, she will compete in NYC for the National Business Plan title and a chance to take home $25,000 to put toward her business.

As another aspect of the NYC competition, she made a commercial (or elevator pitch) over the summer and is trying to get the most cumulative votes to win $2500 to be awarded during the final night in New York. There are also prizes awarded for the most votes each day. 

Please remember to vote for Megan EVERYDAY in September. Click HERE to watch her pitch/commercial and vote. When you get there, search for Megan's, titled "Meg's Photo Booth". All you need to do is click on the link that says 'Vote For This' on her block. It will prompt you to enter your email address and zip code and verify that you are at least 13 years old. Encourage everyone in your household to vote (they just need to be 13 or older and have a different email address). Please pass this along to anyone else you think would be kind enough to also vote for her... The kid who won last year had about 2,200 votes. So you can see why we need as much help as possible. Thank you so much! We thank you for your support! 

MEGAN BOBOIGE, PLATNO INK (Formerly 'MEG'S PHOTO BOOTH') 
Facebook 
Etsy

PURELY PITTSBURGH! 

If you are looking to network, gather resources, promote your business or learn more about some of Pittsburgh’s finest contributors to our community, then this unique fast-paced event is for you. 
Sponsored by The Community Bridge-Building Network www.communitybridge-buildingnetwork.com 

A Community Conference celebrating business, education, recreation, social service from the Pittsburgh region 

This free conference brings together both the profit sector as well as the not-for-profit sector in a casual business environment where we guarantee that everyone will walk away with something they can use both professionally and personally.  A complimentary lunch will be provided as well as many GREAT giveaways throughout the day. Bring your Marketing materials and business cards to share. 
Friday October 11, 2013 / 8:30 am - 5:00 pm 
Hyatt North Shore Hotel, 260 N. Shore Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 

(412) 321-3000 / Cost: FREE 
How to Register: Send an email to CBridgeBN@aol.com with “Conference” in the subject line. Include: Name, Company Name. Phone Number 

Registration deadline is Wednesday October 9, 2013. Register early to guarantee a seat. 
Once you submit your RSVP you will receive a confirmation by e-mail. You need to bring this with you to the conference, as this will be proof of your registration. 

Vendor Tables: Limited vendor tables are available for $75.00. 
Please call (412) 735-0947 to obtain a table. 
Presentations: What’s not to love about Pittsburgh? 
Michael Bartley is the cohost of WQED programs “360” and “4802”. Michael is a Pittsburgher through and through and it shows in all his interviews. His love, knowledge and ambas-sadorship for this City are what make him the quintessential proud “Pittsburgher.” Who better to open this event than Michael? 

A Staple of Pittsburgh Culture Rob Rogers considers himself a true Pittsburgher. As a Staff Cartoonist for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, his editorial cartoons cover national and international issues. He also lampoons local topics, particularly in his weekly feature “Brewed on Grant.” His work regularly appears in The New York Times, The Washington Post and USA Today. Rob’s cartoon “The Gingrich Who Stole Christmas” was the cover of Newsweek’s 1994 year-end issue. 

Community Projects that are Catalyzing Change in Pittsburgh Cathy Lewis Long is the Founding Executive Director of the Sprout Fund, a non-profit organization that supports innova-tive ideas and grassroots community projects. The Sprout Fund was named one of the “Top 50 Influences on the Arts” of the last decade by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. 

Helping Business Leaders Harness the Power to Fuel our Local Economy

Rhonda Carson Leach, Director, Urban Entrepreneurship Program at the Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence, Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business. Celebrating 20 years of the regional economic development. The Institute’s mission is to be the innovative leader of economic renewal and growth serving enterprising people and businesses in our region.

WYEP 91.3 FM Where the Music and the Community Matter 
Abby Goldstein, General Manager, WYEP 91.3 FM is an independent voice, inspiring us with diverse music, vibrant ideas that help build our community. Can you believe it all started in 1974 in a dusty, dark basement in Oakland, driven by a group of volunteers from the Pittsburgh community? 

What is the World Affair Council of Pittsburgh and What Does it Mean to our Region? 
Dr. Steven Sokol is the President and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh, an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to the promoting a deeper understanding of key contemporary international issues throughout our region.

Some of the Really Cool Things Going on at the Robotics Institute at CMU 
David Bourne is the Principal Systems Scientist at the Ro-botics Institute at CMU. David has been researching for 30 years and some of his areas of expertise are: Artificial Intelli-gence, Robotics and Manufacturing, Robotics and Medicine and Robotics and Education. 

Pittsburgh, Prepare to Increase Your Awesomeness Matt Gaston is the Founder and Trustee of Awesome Pitts-burgh. Awesome Pittsburgh will mine the brilliance of our city's artists, inventors, designers, leaders, creators, champi-ons, and dreamers and fund projects that have both local impact and global resonance. We believe that Pittsburgh, with all of the resources and amenities that drive us to the top of most of the "Best City..." lists, can bring more awe-someness to the global community, and we give $1000 each month to the people who show us the best ways to do that. 

It’s All Pittsburgh and Something to be Proud of 

Rich Fitzgerald, County Executive, Closing remarks about “Purely Pittsburgh” 

Grand finale entertainment by Pittsburgh Jazz Great Etta Cox 

ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT 

From our friends at the Sprout Fund from a Youth ReporterBy Tracey Thomas
Back to School Block Party

On August 24th, 2013, Faison held its annual Back to School Block Party. The block party consisted of 24 tables for all the community organizations including Westinghouse High School and Lincoln Elementary and the Pittsburgh Promise. 

There were tables also set up for face painting that overlooked the blowup bouncy house set up in the field. Upon entering the block party, one had to register and was handed tickets to get food and also enter the photo booth. The food consisted of icies, popcorn, cotton candy, water, hamburgers and hotdogs. The Lighthouse Project’s musical group Profound Myndz and a group of girls from Obama each performed a couple of their original songs.

Arthur Miller’s All My Sons Still Resonates for 21st Century Audiences All My Sons (1947) was Arthur Miller’s first commercially successful play. In fact, Miller vowed to give up playwriting and “find some other line of work” if it was a flop. Fortunately for Miller and for us, All My Sons ran for 328 performances, won numerous awards, and made him famous. The play’s subject was rather provocative in those days of the Cold War, an indictment of the pursuit of

All My Sons: Daina Michelle Griffith, Philip Winters,
Penelope Lindblom, Shaun Cameron Hall
 Photo: Jeff Swensen, 2013 

“The American Dream,” and the unintended consequences that can happen when greed supersedes moral integrity. In our time, these themes are just as relevant as we question the ethics of the pursuit of corporate profits at the expense of social responsibility. All the action takes place in the idyllic suburban setting of the Keller family’s backyard. 

Linda says,
“More than 65 years after its debut, Miller’s powerful story is still moving and relevant to audiences today, and the strong performances by the excellent cast shouldn't be missed.”

All My Sons runs until September 22 at the Pittsburgh Playhouse in Oakland. Read the entire release here.

PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS 

SRU coach Tanya Longo earns spot in UWEC Hall of Fame
Slippery Rock University Head Women’s Basketball Coach Tanya Longo has been selected as an inductee into the UW-Eau Claire Blugold Hall of Fame, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire athletic department announced Tuesday.

Longo, The Rock’s head coach since 2010, will be honored Sept. 28 as part of the Hall’s seven-member Class of 2013.

As a UWEC student-athlete, the player then known as Tanya Bauer scored 1,022 points in four seasons, was named to the conference’s five-player All-Defensive team three times and earned all-conference and honorable mention Kodak All-American honors as a senior.

Longo played in all 116 Blugold games, started 96 games and helped lead her team to a 98-18 overall record, four appearances in the NCAA Division III playoffs, two conference championships and a pair of conference runner-up finishes. She was a starter on the 1997

Tanya Longo

national runner-up team.

A 1998 UW-EC graduate as an education major, Longo put up her best offensive numbers as a senior, when she averaged 13.6 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game. She set the school single season 3-point field goal percentage record (.463) that year as well and is tied for the school’s single-game free throw percentage record, having hit all 12 attempts in one game against Stevens Point.

Longo was the tournament MVP in the eight-team First Virginia Bank Tip-Off Classic in Marymount, Virginia during the 1997-98 season.

Upon completion of her playing career, Longo served one season as a UWEC assistant coach, three seasons as an assistant coach at Division I Drake University, four seasons as the top assistant at D-1 Santa Clara University, one season as head coach at Division II Minnesota-Duluth and one season as an assistant at D-1 Southern Indiana University before being named as The Rock’s head coach.

Longo and her husband Phil, the offensive coordinator for The Rock football team, are the parents of two daughters, Gianna and Macaria.
From Our Media Friends at UrbanMediaToday.com

Pitt begins ACC play with Labor Day matchup vs. FSU

(Photo: Ray Porter Jr.)

Well it’s finally here. Almost two years of planning, talking and scheduling, it’s finally here: The inaugural season in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) for the Pitt Panthers will happen one week from Monday as they take on defending ACC Champion-Florida State Seminoles at Heinz Field before a national audience on ESPN. The game will start at 8pm.

At his opening season news conference, Pitt Head Coach Paul Chryst gave his views on this special game “The players are excited, the coaches are excited, we have a lot of respect for Florida State, and we’re excited for this week to begin.”

The Panthers and Seminoles began playing each other in 1971, but haven’t played since 1983 when Pitt won a tight 17-16 contest at Pitt Stadium. The last time they played at Florida State was in 1982 and Pitt also won that one 37-17. The Panthers lead the now-revived series 5-3 and are on a 3-game winning streak against the Seminoles, who’re led by 4th-year Head Coach Jimbo Fisher, who has a career 31-10 record with the team. They’re ranked #11 in preseason polls.

When asked about the depth on defense, Chryst replied “Where we’re at, we’ve found some depth and we’ve certainly have a lot of players on defense that we feel good about. Anyway we can make the opposing quarterback comfortable. I think that if you listen in on any news conference across the country, the goal will be to make the opposing quarterback comfortable. And we know that Florida State wants to make Tommy (Savage) uncomfortable.”

On the value of having standout defensive end Aaron Donald back for his senior season: “I don’t know if you can put a value on Aaron, he’s very important to us. Obviously he’s a good player but he’s one of our leaders. Aaron, like every senior has to play the very best football of their career. It’ll be a challenge because one of the strengths of Florida State is the offensive line and the advantage is who controls the line of scrimmage. Aaron’s one of our leaders. If we’re gonna be successful, he’s going to play well.” Donald is a preseason All-American and is on several Defensive Award Watches.

Pitt returns eight starters from a defense that ranked 17th nationally in fewest yards allowed last season (330.5 avg.). The Panthers will face a retooled Florida State offense that averaged 39.3 points (10th in FBS) and 470.8 yards in 2012.

There are many changes to the Panthers offense and it starts at quarterback where redshirt senior Tom Savage will take over behind center after Tino Sunseri started there from 2010-12. Also at running back where junior Isaac Bennett takes over after the graduation of Ray Graham and the sudden departure of Ruschel Shell, and at wide receiver where freshman Tyler Boyd, who was a star at Clairton HS will start alongside senior Devin Street.

Also from UrbanMediaToday.com 

Florida State And Pitt Announce Kidz1stFund Helmet Decals For Labor Day Game
When the Florida State Seminoles and Pittsburgh Panthers open their 2013 college football seasons versus one another on Labor Day, the teams won’t only be fighting for the first victory of the young season. The two squads will join forces to fight for a very personal cause for FSU head coach Jimbo Fisher. Both schools announced today that they will each wear a special ‘I Fight Fanconi’ Kidz1stFund decal on the back of their helmets during the nationally televised ESPN broadcast.

In the spring of 2011, Jimbo and Candi Fisher’s youngest son Ethan was diagnosed with Fanconi anemia, a rare and serious blood disease. The Fisher’s began Kidz1stFund later that fall to raise awareness and FA research dollars at the University of Minnesota Amplatz Children's Hospital in hopes of finding a cure.

Pittsburgh head coach Paul Chryst felt especially drawn to help the Fisher’s and Kidz1stFund after the story of 2-year-old Logan Stevenson became national news. The terminally ill boy from western Pennsylvania, about 25 miles outside of Pittsburgh, served as the best man in his parents wedding before passing away on August 6. Logan was born with Fanconi anemia and shortly after his first birthday diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia.

“I thought it was a tremendous gesture by Coach Chryst and the University of Pittsburgh for suggesting that we wear the decal,” said Fisher. “Candi and I and our foundation can’t be anymore thankful as this will continue to bring awareness for the fight against Fanconi anemia that affects many. I can’t thank the University of Pittsburgh enough for such a great idea.”

"In talking to Jimbo this summer, we felt our ESPN nationally televised primetime opener was the perfect opportunity to help build awareness about Fanconi,” said Chryst. “Awareness and education will hopefully lead to more impactful research and funding that will eventually lead to a cure. College football really is like an extended family and we are proud to team with fellow ACC member Florida State on this tremendously important effort."

Patients with FA may have a variety of health issues including short in stature, dark and light areas of skin, abnormalities of the arms and hands, kidney problems, heart defects, hearing problems and many others. Some patients have no physical manifestation, but nearly all will have a decline in their blood counts over time, eventually leading to bone marrow failure. FA is something present at birth. The FA genes are responsible for preventing cancer and bone marrow failure by repairing DNA damage that occurs in everyday life (from sun exposure, x-rays, chemicals in our food and surroundings). Without this restorative ability, people with FA have a significantly higher chance of developing certain types of cancers at a much earlier age than the general population.

STEELTOWN HERO

Mervat Abdelhak

2013 Celebrating Women! Having a Global Impact Nominees {Mervat Abdelhak} Dr. Mervat Abdelhak, chair and associate professor of Health Information Management and Health Informatics at the University of Pittsburgh, is an inspiration to young girls and women in every facet of her life.

Dr. Abdelhak immigrated to the United States from Egypt when she was just eighteen to pursue an education with endless possibilities. She now helps young people expand their thinking in this safe environment full of freedom, prosperity, and knowledge. Now a United States citizen herself, Dr. Abdelhak shares her story often to help young people embrace the change of a new country and be the people they truly aspire to be.

At the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Abdelhak excelled in the fields of Health Information Management (HIM) and Health Informatics (HI) and went on to found the graduate programs and PhD studies of the subjects. In addition, she enhanced the quality of the HIM undergraduate program at Pitt and turned it into one of the top programs of its kind in the country. This program prepares students to make a difference in the field and to take what they have learned and apply it in all countries and in all places. It is with her hard work that the HIM/HI department at the University is prospering in this way.

When she is not working directly at the University of Pittsburgh, she consults throughout the United States and Puerto Rico about HIM/HI issues. She traveled to Kuwait, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Japan, Australia, Canada, and her native Egypt to teach, as well. Her foundation textbook and ancillaries, currently in its fifth edition, and her over forty published works on the subject, are being read and studied across the globe.

Dr. Abdelhak’s impact is being felt at more than just the university, but through her publications and the work of her students, it is being felt around the world.

This was reported as a reproduction of PositvelyPittsburghLive news done by Joanne Quinn-Smith. (c) Joanne Quinn-Smith and PositivelyPittsburghLive(TM) 2013 All rights reserved. 


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Tara Darazio is a Positively Pittsburgh Live reporter, an independent copywriter, blogger, article writer, and social media strategist. If you are in need of writing assistance, or need help with your social media efforts connect with Tara on LinkedIn here.