Positively Pittsburgh Live News 11-25-13

Positively Pittsburgh Live News
11-25-13

Listen to the show online here

On Tonight's Show: WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY? 

POSITIVELYPITTSBURGH SPONSORED EVENTS: Effective Detective 2014 Marketing Jump Start Telesummit, Loudinis Rock 'n Roll Circus Benefit for Food Bank

CULTURAL CLUES: Judge Jackie Justice: A New Musical Comedy, Straight No Chaser, Sherlock Holmes and the Crucifer of Blood, WQED-FM Must Have Music Festival, MAMMA MIA, The Alchemist's Lab, The Fallingwater Museum Store in Downtown, Auditions for "By the Way, Meet Vera Stark"

KIDZ KORNER: Be a Buddy, Not a Bully!, Lights On Afterschool in Allegheny County, Toothbrushes to Peru,Puppet Making Workshops in December

WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVANCEMENT: Business Women First Call for Nominations

BUSINESS BUZZ: How the Peduto Campaign Made Pittsburgh Political History, Strong October Job Growth

HIGH SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY NEWS: Computer and Electronics Recycling Fundraiser Event for Spectrum Charter School

NON-PROFIT EVENTS SPONSORED BY BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH: Donations Requested as Two Organizations in Pittsburgh Try to Help Out the Victims of Typhoon Haiyan, Glass Slipper Ball

ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT: Isis Egyptian, 8th Annual Pa. Technology Conference, Wine & Canvas Party

PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS: Rock football team earns NCAA playoff berth

STEELTOWN HERO: Bill Strickland

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY? 

Isis Egyptian Café

POSITIVELYPITTSBURGH SPONSORED EVENTS

Can’t Attend? Donate here

2014 Marketing Jump Start Telesummit

Registration is now open for the 2014 Marketing Jump Start Telesummit! My co-hosts Weston Lyon, Joanne Quinn-Smith, and Becky Auer and I will be hosting 15 marketing experts from December 2nd through December 13th. We will be covering topics from PR to Networking, Copy Writing to Writing a book. All Free, and all online. You don't have to leave the comfort of your office or home.

Click here to register for free.

The Kickoff will be December 2nd at 3:00 PM when my co-hosts and I will fill you in on what is coming and answer questions about the Telesummit. I know I mentioned it is free, but ALSO since it is all online, even if you miss an interview the replays will be available through the end of Telesummit. So click on the link below (or copy and paste this URL into your browser: http://2014MarketingJumpStart.com ) and register for free access to some amazing information to launch your marketing new year! 

CULTURAL CLUES

 Judge Jackie Justice – A New Musical Comedy

Pittsburgh CLO is pleased to announce that the world premiere of Judge Jackie Justice – A New Musical Comedy will debut at the CLO Cabaret Theater on January 30 and will run through April 27. CMU graduates Michael Kooman and Christopher Dimond are writing the musical, commissioned for the CLO’s Cabaret Theater with dramaturgy by Mary Jane Brennan. The show is conceived and will be directed by Pittsburgh CLO Executive Producer Van Kaplan with choreography by Kiesha Lalama and musical direction by Michael Moricz.

The CLO Cabaret is downtown’s hippest venue for the hottest new shows starring the area’s finest local talent in months-long runs that often extend due to audience demand. As an alternative to Pittsburgh CLO’s large-scale Broadway musicals at the 2800-seat Benedum Center, the CLO Cabaret offers an intimate, less formal environment for theatergoers to take in many first-run, sometimes lesser-known shows. Since its inception in 2004, the CLO Cabaret has produced 12 area premieres and in 2010 its first world premiere, ‘S Wonderful, which after its Pittsburgh debut went on to a successful multi-city tour. Judge Jackie Justice is Pittsburgh CLO’s latest new work.

“We are truly excited to be creating another new musical,” said Executive Producer Van Kaplan, “especially one created for our enthusiastic cabaret audience. Judge Jackie Justice has zany humor and some “breaking the fourth wall” moments in store. I consider the CLO Cabaret to be our “Off-Benedum” venue, like Off-Broadway, though lots more fun because you can eat and drink during the show.”

Tickets to this world premiere will go on sale on November 8 and will be available online at CLOCabaret.com, by calling 412-456-6666 or in person at the Theater Square Box Office. Groups of 10 or more should call 412-325-1582 for information on group discounts and special event planning.

STRAIGHT NO CHASER, BENEDUM CENTER | DECEMBER 11 | 8:00 PM
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents the return of the popular a cappella, all-male ensemble, Straight No Chaser, at the Benedum Center on Wednesday, December 11, 2013, at 8:00 p.m. Ticket prices range from $32.25 to $52.25. For information, visit www.TrustArts.org, call (412) 456-6666, or visit the Theater Square Box Office in person at 655 Penn Avenue. This event is part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series.

Under the Influence Tour follows the group’s latest CD release of same title and will feature

Straight No Chaser, Photo courtesy of Andrew Zaeh

songs from this latest recording as well as other favorites-old and new. The CD is a re-imagined collection of the group’s all-time favorite songs, performed in collaboration with many of the superstar artists and undisputed music icons that made them famous.

Caroline Glaser, a favorite from this past season of NBC's hit show "The Voice," will bring what Shakira calls her "angelic" voice on the road this fall as opener for the critically acclaimed a cappella group. The Under the Influence Tour kicked off in Columbia, MO on October 16 and will hit Omaha, Denver, Houston, Dallas, Kansas City, Louisville, Chicago, Boston, Cleveland, Baltimore, Indianapolis, Nashville and more over two months before wrapping up in Mesa, AZ on December 31. The tour follows a month-long run of club dates which launched in New York on September 7 where fans lined up two hours before the show was scheduled to go on to make sure they got tickets. The mini-tour took her to Chicago, Ames, St. Louis and Tulsa where she received rave reviews. Jerry Wofford of The Tulsa World called Glaser "sweet and bubbly' and said while her set up was simple, "her voice and talent was all she needed to hook the crowd." Caroline will also be playing a handful of solo shows during the tour. For more information, visit www.carolineglaser.com.

Sherlock Holmes and the Crucifer of Blood by Paul Giovanni

The game’s afoot! When Irene St. Clair calls on Sherlock Holmes fearing for her father’s safety, Holmes is intrigued and Watson is smitten. With every clue, this exotic mystery becomes more deadly. Can the master detective save the day, or will an ingenious villain stay one step ahead of Holmes at every turn? From a blood oath made over a chest of jewels in India, this thriller takes us throughout foggy London, from Baker Street to spooky Pondicherry Lodge to a Limehouse opium den to a boat chase on the Thames and finally back to Baker street for a surprise denouement.

Fun for groups and the whole family! BUY TICKETS

WQED-FM’s MUST-HAVE MUSIC FESTIVAL
Classical WQED-FM plays music that you must-have in your life

From now until December 13, join the hosts of Classical WQED-FM, local artists, and members of the listening community as they nominate their “Must-Haves”—classic recordings or artists, performances, or new releases—and why these selections are Must-Haves.

Sweepstakes:

• Everyone who participates in the Must-Have Music Festival through a web or phone nomination will be eligible to win a colossal Must-Have Music Collection. The number of CDs in this collection depends on the number of participants in the campaign. For example, if 500 people participate, there will be 500 CDs awarded to the winner.
• Everyone who participates in the drive by signing-up on the web page or calling and providing contact information will be entered to win the Must-Have Music Collection sweepstakes.

How to Participate:
• Nominate your Must-Have Music by going to www.wqedfm.org/musthavemusic or by calling 888-621-6900.
• Listen December 5-13 for the Must-Have Music Festival on WQED-FM 89.3.

The Grand Prize currently includes over 470 CDs.

Mamma Mia
February 11 - 16, 2014 / Heinz Hall
A mother. A daughter. 3 possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you'll never forget!

Everyone has fallen in love with the music, the story and the characters that make MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel-good show. Now it's your turn to fall for this smash-hit musical that combines the storytelling magic of ABBA with an enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship.

MAMMA MIA! A mother confronts her past as three men return to the Greek Island they've not visited for 21 years...just as her 20-year-old daughter is about to be married!

To date, over 54 million people have had the time of their lives at MAMMA MIA!. Isn't it time you joined them?

Enter promo code SUPERTROUPER to purchase tickets before they go on sale to the public on Friday, December 6. 

Point Park presents ‘The Alchemists’ Lab,’ a unique comedy devised, written by local playwright with Conservatory Theatre Company students
Under the master tutelage of seriously funny playwright, filmmaker and storyteller, Gab Cody, Point Park students have created a work never before seen anywhere. Ever. This amalgamation of wild characters, intricate storylines, improvisation and stand-up humor is loosely based on Ben Johnson's comedy, The Alchemist, first performed in 1610, and twisted into a more contemporary satire. The wildly creative mind of Cody, a Point Park alum, fuels a theatrical experience not to be missed.

The Alchemists’ Lab opens Tuesday, Dec. 10 and runs through Sunday, Dec. 15, 2013. Performances will be held Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. with one final show on Sunday at 7 p.m. Tickets range in price from $18 to $20 and can be purchased by calling the Pittsburgh Playhouse box office at 412.392.8000, or online at www.pittsburghplayhouse.com. 

The REP announces Equity Principal auditions for ‘By the Way, Meet Vera Stark’
The REP, Point Park University’s professional theatre company, is accepting Equity Principal auditions by appointment for the production of By the Way. Meet Vera Stark by Lynn Nottage.

Appointments will be accepted from 2 – 10 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3, at Point Park University’s Pittsburgh Playhouse, 222 Craft Ave. Directed by Tome’ Cousin, By the Way, Meet Vera Stark runs March 21 – April 6, 2014, with a preview March 20, in the Studio Theatre. Casting details here. 

Corsini Classic Summer 350
Photo courtesy of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy

FALLINGWATER OPENS HOLIDAY STORE IN DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH
The Fallingwater Museum Store will operate a holiday boutique in downtown Pittsburgh from now until the end of the year in a storefront on Liberty Avenue between the Harris Theater and the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Education Center.

The downtown location of the Frank Lloyd Wright house’s museum store in Mill Run, Pennsylvania., is located at 807 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, in a property owned by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. The store will be open through Dec. 31, including during the Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2014 celebration.

The store will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. It will have extended hours on Light Up Night and Highmark First Night Pittsburgh.

The Pittsburgh location will offer the same types of gifts that available in the main Museum Store, including a selection of Fallingwater items; Frank Lloyd Wright Signature Products, such as clocks, vases and stained glass; and products that represent good design aesthetic, such as items by Alessi and iittala.

All proceeds from store sales are applied to the preservation of Fallingwater, Wright’s masterwork that he designed for the Kaufmann family, the owners of Kaufmann’s department store.

In 1963, Edgar Kaufmann Jr., entrusted Fallingwater and the surrounding Bear Run Nature Reserve the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.
“We are very excited to have such a high-profile organization taking up residence in the Cultural District,” said Kevin McMahon, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust president and chief executive officer. “Central to the Trust’s mission is attracting people downtown to enjoy outstanding shows and exhibitions, dine at a broad array of restaurants and also have the opportunity to have unique shopping experiences.”

KIDZ KORNER

From After School Buddy

It's been a fantastic fall at Afterschool Buddy®, with many exciting new partners, projects and adventures, including the launch of our brand new in-school assembly!

Be a Buddy, Not a Bully!
Thanks to strong leadership, vision and community cooperation in Bethel Park, Afterschool Buddy® debuted it's "Be a Buddy, Not a Bully!" multimedia assembly to 1500+ K-4 students at five Bethel Park School District elementary schools in three days.

The bullying prevention project, endorsed by long-time Bethel Park Mayor Clifford Morton, approved by the Bethel Park School District and supported by Community Business Partners, engaged and encouraged students through live performances by Afterschool Buddy® characters and original videos featuring The Rainbow Kids® to stand up to prevent bullying in their schools and community. Thanks to everyone involved for a great team effort and a positive new template for change!




Lights On Afterschool in Allegheny County
CONSOL Energy Center was this year's home for another successful Lights On Afterschool in Allegheny County, presented by APOST (Allegheny Partners for Out-of-School Time). The free event featured activities, performances and a big Rally for Afterschool to celebrate the importance of after school programs for children.

Click to learn more about APOST.

Global Links
As part of our corporate mission, we believe it's important to encourage children to think far beyond borders. So when former Rainbow Kid Katie Seibert was named a Baton Twirling Ambassador from the United States to Peru, we were happy to support her efforts to spread cheer, presents and personal items to an orphanage overseas.

Thanks to Afterschool Buddy Board Member Dr. Jennifer Unis Sullivan, a Beaver County dentist/lawyer, we were able to send Katie off with a giant supply of toothbrushes to put happy smiles on children's faces as far away as Peru.

PITTSBURGH CULTURAL TRUST ANNOUNCES PUPPET MAKING WORKSHOPS IN DECEMBER FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE FEDEX GROUND PARADE
PART OF HIGHMARK FIRST NIGHT PITTSBURGH 2014

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces two Puppet Making Workshops, one for adults (21+) and one for children and families, will be held in December. The puppets will be part of the FedEx Ground Parade that takes place on Tuesday, December 31st during the 20th anniversary of Highmark First Night Pittsburgh, in downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District.

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Education and Community Engagement Department will host the workshops taught by Cheryl Capezzuti, owner of Studio Capezzuti and creative director for the parade. The Puppet Making Workshops will focus on this year’s parade theme, Special Delivery. Participants will design, build, and paper mâché their work all in one workshop and their creations will be showcased as part of the FedEx Ground Parade on December 31st, at 8:00 p.m., along Penn Avenue in the Cultural District.

Photo: Courtesy of Pittsburgh Cultural Trust

PUPPET MAKING WORKSHOP SCHEDULE:
Workshop For Adults 21+:
Puppet Making Happy Hour for the FedEx Ground Parade, part of Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2014, Thursday, December 12, 2013, 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Trust Arts Education Center, 805-807 Liberty Avenue, downtown Pittsburgh

This workshop, for adults 21+ and IDs required for entry, will include food, drinks and DJ SMI. This workshop is free; advance registration is recommended.

Workshop For Children and Families:
Family Puppet Making Workshop for the FedEx Ground Parade, part of Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2014, Saturday, December 14, 2013, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Trust Arts Education Center, 805-807 Liberty Avenue, downtown Pittsburgh

This workshop for children and families is free; advance registration is recommended.
To register for a workshop, visit: www.TrustArts.org/FirstNightPgh or call 412-471-6079.

WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVANCEMENT

Call for Nominations:2014 BusinessWomen First Awards
Presented by the Pittsburgh Business Times, the 2014 BusinessWomen First Awards honor the region's most influential business women at both for-profits and non-profits. They're looking for women from every industry and profession; women who've made a difference in their communities, blazed a trail for other women and are leaving a mark on the western Pennsylvania business community.

Nominees must be female residents of western Pennsylvania who are employed in the region. A nominee should be an established business leader with a strong record of innovation in her field with outstanding performance in her business or non-profit or organization.

For more information or to submit a nomination, visit the BusinessWomen First Awards page. Nomination deadline is December 20, 2013.

BUSINESS BUZZ 

How the Peduto Campaign Made Pittsburgh Political History
By Matt Merriman-Preston
May 17, 2005—standing on the upstairs deck at Doc’s on Walnut Street—we knew we were part of something special. It was the most upbeat Election Night party for a candidate that didn’t win that I have ever been to—before or since. Bill Peduto, a City Councilman finishing only his first term, had come in a distant second in Pittsburgh’s mayoral primary election.

Eight-and-a-half years later, we are all witness to something that is truly ground-breaking and remarkable. November 5, 2013, Bill Peduto took 84% of the vote citywide, winning all 32 wards. The range was a minimum of 70% to as much as 97%. There were even 14 voting districts where Bill won 100% of the vote. In January, he will be sworn in as the next mayor of Pittsburgh.

As anyone who has ever driven in Pittsburgh knows, it’s never a straight line from there to here. There were friends and allies who came and went. There were elections won and elections lost. I went from serving the campaign as a field organizer (knocking on thousands of doors and organizing coalitions of voters) in 2005 to being Bill’s campaign manager in 2007. The longest and most difficult day of my career was sitting with Bill as he called supporters one-by-one—not to ask for their time or their resources, but to let them know that he was making the difficult decision to remove his name from the ballot.

But even then, we knew that this was just going to be a bump in the road. We continued to organize. Bill continued to serve as a city councilman with a vision for a New Pittsburgh.

In 2013, Bill asked me to continue my role in his campaign as a General Consultant with a special focus on direct mail and voter targeting. I never had any doubt that this was the year that Bill would come out ahead. We had built the organization, we had the team, and Bill had the vision that Pittsburgh needed to hear.

Like everything that he does, the victory in November came in a dramatic fashion. In addition to earning the largest share of the votes in modern campaign history, we did this at the time when the Democratic voter registration is at its lowest point. This was only the second time in modern history that the winner of a contested mayoral election in Pittsburgh has outperformed the Democratic voter registration in the City, and we did it by a stunning margin of 12%.

It honestly felt great on Election Night knowing that we had achieved this electoral win that we had been working on for years. But that’s not the best part of my job. Perhaps my favorite part is knowing that the best is to come. So many of us have been working so hard to help Bill Peduto get into office as the mayor of Pittsburgh, and now we can see what a progressive, neighborhood-focused mayor can do for our City.

From our friends at Pittsburgh Today

Strong October Job Growth

The total nonfarm job figure for October 2013 in the Pittsburgh region was 1,188,800, and the year-over-year job growth rate was 1.7 percent, above the benchmark average of 1.4 percent and above the August rate of 1.4 percent. Charlotte had the highest year-over-year job growth rate at 3.3 percent.

Sectors that are doing well include professional and business services (up 4.5 percent), natural resources, mining, and construction (up 4.3 percent), transportation and utilities (up 3.6 percent), and education and health services (up 3.5 percent). Information jobs in the region declined 3.2 percent year-over-year, retail trade declined 2.1 percent, and government jobs were down 1.6 percent.

Over the five-year period from October 2008 to October 2013, the Pittsburgh region gained 28,700 nonfarm jobs. Pittsburgh's job growth rate over the past five years was 2.5 percent

In other economic news, Pittsburgh's Composite Cost of Living Index for the third quarter of 2013 is 92.2, well below the benchmark average of 103.9 and is the third-lowest after Indianapolis and Cincinnati.

Pittsburgh's Housing, Utilities, and Groceries Cost of Living components are the second and third lowest of any region. The Health Care and Miscellaneous Goods and Services Cost of Living components are the eighth lowest among our benchmark peers.

HIGH SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY NEWS

Computer and Electronics Recycling Fundraiser Event for Spectrum Charter School
Drop off your old electronics & be entered into a drawing for a free local business giveaway! Spectrum Charter School will also be having a bake sale during the recycling event.

Where: Spectrum Charter School, Inc. 4369 Northern Pike Monroeville, PA 15146
When: Saturday, December 7, 2013
Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Will Accept:
Desktops, Laptops, Tablets, Servers, Hard Drives, Keyboards, Mice, Power Supplies, Motherboards/Circuit Boards, Cables, Speakers, CD, DVD, Tape and Floppy Drivers, Backup Systems, Memory Drives, Computer Fans, and Tape Backups, Routers, Switches, Wireless Routers, Access Points, Bridges, Firewalls, Cabling, Modems, and KVM Switches, Phones, Ink, Toner, AC Adapters, Projectors, Overhead Displays, Consumer Electronics, Gaming Systems, Wire, Christmas Lights, Cable Boxes, Radios, VCR and DVD Players, Typewriters, MP3 Players, iPods, iPads, Desktop Printers, Dot Max Printers, Monitors LCD and CRT

Onsite Data Destruction for hard drives will be provided upon request for a $10 fee

Televisions will NOT be accepted. Cannot make it on December 7th? Spectrum Charter School will accept donations BEFORE the event during the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Questions? Call 412-374-8130. Sponsored by TeamLogicIT of Monroeville & Commonwealth Computer Recycling.

NON-PROFIT EVENTS SPONSORED BY

BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH

Donations Requested as Two Organizations in Pittsburgh Try to Help Out the Victims of Typhoon Haiyan
The aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan has left thousands homeless, without food or shelter. Two organizations in Pittsburgh have stepped ahead to help those affected by this disaster and they hope to get donations from the locals to further increase their relief efforts.







One of these organizations is the Brother's Brother Foundation (BBF) that is located in the northern area of Pittsburgh. They have teamed up with the Philippine American Medical Society (PAMS) of Western Pennsylvania to provide assistance to those affected by Haiyan. They are requesting monetary donations from locals for the victims so that they can ship medical and other necessary supplies to the affected areas. All donations will be used entirely for the benefit of the victims.

ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT  Isis Egyptian Isis Egyptian Café has something for everyone. JoAnn Forrester and TechnoGranny have decided it is a favorite of theirs. Located on Brookline Boulevard in the South Hills at 815 Brookline Blvd., this restaurant is a mid eastern treat. We found the food interesting, not as heavily spiced as other mid east cuisine. In a little over a month, JoAnn brags, she has been to the restaurant three times. One of her favorite dishes Isalatet Batates (Potato Salad) potatoes, egg, green onions, parsley tossed with homemade mint dressing...it is so tasty.The Hummus is great and the Egyptian tea is excellent and is great for an upset stomach. Just recently JoAnn was there two days in a row sipping the tea and making her stomach feel MUCH better. The appetizer V-Arnabeet, a battered cauliflower is delicious. Everything we tried from soups to nuts was delicious. TechnoGranny’s favorite is Kushari Masri --Red lentils on pasta and rice. Looking for a moderate priced meal with delicious dishes- Isis is the place to go. What a nice treat added to the eclectic mixture of stores in Brookline. Great family restaurant and wonderful treatment by the owner, brother, and mother who is the chief cook. 8th Annual Pa. Technology Conference presented by the Duquesne University Small Business Development Center The luncheon keynote speaker was David Bishop, Fellow in Human Sciences and a Senior Designer & Researcher with MAYA, a Pittsburgh-based design consultancy and technology research lab. Bishop discussed "The future of Technology: Trillions of Devices all Talking to Each Other" where he reviewed technology trends for 2014 and beyond, from new products and gadgets to crowd sourcing, to the latest competitive threats for small business owners. It was interesting to watch him explain what a trillion was and also talk about how our washing machines and clothes will talk to each other because they will include microprocessors. If you read the book “1984” all of that sci fi stuff is now real technology! Wine & Canvas party by Donna Michele Baxter I went to my first Wine & Canvas party tonight on the South Side. Had an awesomely unique time. Check out my masterpiece and the side by side pic of what it should have looked like. Thanks to Shawn and Mecca. PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS  Rock football team earns NCAA playoff berth After watching other teams have all the fun for the last 13 seasons, the Slippery Rock University football team is going dancing again. The Rock were the No. 5 seed in the six-team NCAA Division II Super Region 1 field announced Sunday afternoon by the NCAA office via a videoconference on www.ncaa.com. As a result, the Green and White, who earned their first NCAA tournament berth since 1999, travel to fourth-seeded Winston-Salem State University for a first-round game Saturday. SRU, which lost a 42-38 decision at Bloomsburg University in last Saturday's Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championship Game, takes a 9-2 record into the NCAA opening-round game. Read the entire release here. STEELTOWN HERO From our friends at UrbanMediaToday.com Manchester Bidwell Corporation's President & CEO Bill Strickland featured in London Financial Times Front Page Story About His Mission of Hope and Educational Methodology The front page article released November 22, 2013 features Pittsburgh's Bill Strickland-President and CEO of Manchester Bidwell Corporation who shares more about his journey over the past 45 years doing what he says US state schools fail to do – getting disadvantaged kids excited about learning. Bill Strickland "Today, at a time when the 66-year-old Strickland might have considered retiring to spend more time with his third wife and their 12-year-old daughter, he still burns with a mission to spread his philosophy of hope and his educational methodology around the world. “I am type A. I can’t quit while I’m ahead,” he says." HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS MAESTRO MANFRED HONECK AND THE PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING WITH BEETHOVEN AND STRAUSS  For the sixth year, Maestro Manfred Honeck presents a special Thanksgiving concert at Heinz Hall as part of the BNY Mellon Grand Classics series on Nov. 29 and Dec. 1. During this celebratory concert, Viennese pianist Till Fellner applies his scrupulous musicianship to Beethoven’s beautiful Piano Concerto No. 4. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra musicians will then bring favorite Strauss waltzes and polkas to life and deliver a few special surprises—like the Pirate Parrot’s special appearance during the Sport Polka (raising the Jolly Roger)!  Till Fellner (jean-babtiste millot) This entertaining and uplifting concert is a family event and the perfect way to complete the holiday weekend. Bring the whole family—children ages 3 to 12 may attend free of charge! The concerts will begin at 8 p.m. on Friday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets, ranging in price from $25.75 to $109.75, can be purchased by calling the Heinz Hall box office at 412-392-4900, or by visiting pittsburghsymphony.org. Each BNY Mellon Grand Classics concert is part of the Explore & Engage program, which includes pre-concert talks, exhibits, display boards and interactive activities that illuminate the music, composers and the time in which they created. This weekend, Pittsburgh Symphony Resident Conductor Larry Loh will conduct a pre-concert talk one hour before each performance.  The Sounds of Pittsburgh Chorus presents “Christmas Memories” Contact: Pat Martin lady10er@verizon.net 724-743-0949  Award-winning Sounds of Pittsburgh Chorus, the local chapter of Sweet Adelines International, will present their annual show on Saturday, December 14, 2013 at the Rea Auditorium of Sewickley Academy at 7:00pm. The show, entitled “Christmas Memories”, will feature the chorus, chorus quartets, and a men’s Barbershop Harmony Society special guest quartet the Hot Air Buffoons. Tickets can be purchased on the chorus website www.soundsofpgh.org, from a chorus member, or by calling Suzie at 724-325-1615. A donation from the proceeds will benefit the wig fund of Magee Women’s Cancer Center. 2013 Competition Photo The chorus welcomes any woman who would like to sing Christmas Carols on the show to attend a rehearsal or call Mary Ann at 412-279-6062. Rehearsals are held at the Coraopolis United Methodist Church, 1205 Ridge Ave., Coraopolis, PA 15108 Monday evening at 7:00pm. The Pittsburgh Symphony would like to recognize and thank BNY Mellon for its 2013-2014 title sponsorship of BNY Mellon Grand Classics. Fairmont Pittsburgh is the official hotel of the Pittsburgh Symphony. Delta Air Lines is the official airline of the Pittsburgh Symphony. Peoples Gas Holiday Market™ The second annual Peoples Gas Holiday Market™ will run daily through Monday, December 23. The Market will be closed for Thanksgiving but will reopen the next day for Black Friday, the biggest shopping day of the year. For 2013, the PDP has increased vendor space more than 250%, allowing an expanded mix of ethnic and local traditions, including the addition of Käthe Wohlfahrt, world-renowned purveyor of traditional German Christmas gifts, local favorite Wendell August Forge, creators of hand-hammered metal gift items, including many featuring Pittsburgh skylines and other vendors offering fine Irish goods, Himalayan items and even a fresh Christmas tree farm stand with designer and do-it-yourself wreaths. Santa will again reside in Market Square for 30 days in his beautiful storybook home. Children of all ages will have the opportunity to have their photo taken with Santa while donating to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. This year, you may also visit any of the 29 local Northwest Savings Bank branches to make a donation to the Food Bank and receive your ticket in advance for a complimentary photo with Santa. Plus, the Market Square Stage will be be programmed every day and every night with your favorite local, community and ethnic entertainment. First Presbyterian Church of Bakerstown presents ‘A Live Nativity - Follow the Star’ Saturday, December 14, 2013 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. First Presbyterian Church of Bakerstown (FPCB) is hosting its 1st Live Nativity to bring the Christmas Story to life to the local communities. A Live Nativity has been a dream of the FPCB Children’s Ministry Team for years. This dream will come true on December 14, 2013 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a Rain Date of December 21, 2013. As a gift to our local communities, the Live Nativity will highlight the Christmas Story through five outdoor vignettes with live animals, including two camels. The vignettes will highlight Isaiah’s Prophecy of the Coming King; the Angel’s visit to Mary; the Baby in the Manger; the Shepherds’ visit; and the Three Wise Men. We hope the Christmas Story comes to life using actors from our Church and live animals. A Narration of the Christmas Story will be playing throughout the vignettes. This event will provide our community with an opportunity for fellowship, song and family memories. The Church campus will be open as Christmas music will be playing, a fire blazing in our Colonial Room, decorated trees, Carolers and plenty of cookies, hot cider and hot chocolate. There will be Children’s prizes and giveaways. Key contacts for additional information are Mrs. Sandy Floyd and Mrs. Melinda Brown, as well as Rev. Dan Muttart and Rev. Dr. Karen Anderson whom can be reached by calling our church office at 724-443-1555 or visiting our website at www.fpcb.org. Fun for the whole family! This original Christmas Production will include, music, acting, dance and live animals. Special Musical guest.December 12 at 7:00 PM. Tickets are only $5, $10 and $20. Holiday Shopping Corner. Vendors welcome.New Hazlett Theater 6 Allegheny Square East, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Put on by Brown Chapel AME Church Details here.  Christmas in Hawaii December 1, 2013 • 7pm / Byham Theater "His style and voice rival any of the rat pack and the like, in their heyday" - David Friedman, Disney Composer "Phenomenal simply phenomenal" - Jim Shorey, Jim Shorkey's Auto Group International Singer/Entertainer and Recording artist Mark Milovats brings his fun-filled family-friendly Christmas show back to Pittsburgh for one night only featuring his 15 piece orchestra, Santa Belle Dancers, Polynesian Dancers, some Hawaiian fun, The Elfin Ensemble Children's Choir and many traditional Christmas favorites from Mark's Billboard topping album "Just in Time for Christmas", plus members of Elvis Presley's Las Vegas band and other special guests. 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 11-18-13

Positively Pittsburgh Live News

11-18-13

Listen to the show online here

Co-host Lou Lombardi Rock 'N Roll Philanthropist and Founder of Loudini Rock 'N Roll Circus

On Tonight's Show: WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY? 

POSITIVELYPITTSBURGH SPONSORED EVENTS: Loudini Rock 'N Roll Circus Black Friday Extravaganza, Thanks for the Duck Video for PPL Mag, 2014 Marketing Jump Start Telesummit

CULTURAL CLUES: The Sunday Gravy Show,  ELF THE MUSICAL, Highmark Holiday Pops, Parlour Song at the Quantum Theater, The Nutcracker, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre 2013-2014 Season, Ghost the Musical, 2013 Three Rivers Film Festival

KIDZ KORNER: Time for Fun, Nickelodeon FRESH BEAT BAND LIVE IN CONCERT, First Ever Crisis Nursery in Pittsburgh

WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVANCEMENT: Best of the Batch Bridging Business and Service with a Hands-on Approach, Chatham Center for Women Entrepreneurship Open House, Sounds of Pittsburgh Chorus Annual Christmas Concert, Pittsburgh Professional Women of Integrity Award Winners, Impact of Gender Norms on Young Black Girls Health and Wellness Webinar, CHATHAM UNIVERSITY - Wonder Women! Film Screening

BUSINESS BUZZ 8th Annual Pa. Business Technology Conference, Suzy Brandtastic Interviews with Tech Vibe Radio and Pittsburgh Technology Council, 5 Pittsburgh Area Small Cities Named as Best Cities in Pa, AlphaLab Gear, LAUNCHING OUR NEW PITTSBURGH, PHAN Certified Health Reform Trainer, IT Professionals Career Event

NON-PROFIT EVENTS SPONSORED BY BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH: Hosanna Industries Festival of Trees Goodwill Power of Work Award

NEIGHBORHOOD HI-LIGHTS: The Early Mays in Harmony

POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS SEGMENT : Enhanced Creativity Holiday Food Drive

ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT: Barabara Streisand Songbook, Magic Flute, Loudini Rock 'N Roll Circus Benefits OTA, Sheherezade, ABCTV Secret Millionaire in Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS: Rock's Barksdale earns spot on Harlon Hill Trophy super-region ballot

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS: MAESTRO MANFRED HONECK AND THE PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING WITH BEETHOVEN AND STRAUSS

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS TECHNOGRANNY? 

During the Break for Veteran’s Day:The Magic Flute, Barbara Streisand Songbook at PSO, James Malinchak ABCTV Secret Millionaire at NoBS Marketing Meeting, Wholey’s Fish Market, Sheherezade at Pittsburgh Symphony, Loudini’s Rock 'N Roll Circus Benefit for Operation Troop Appreciation

POSITIVELYPITTSBURGH SPONSORED EVENTS

2014 Marketing Jump Start Telesummit
Registration is now open for the 2014 Marketing Jump Start Telesummit! My co-hosts Weston Lyon, Joanne Quinn-Smith, and Becky Auer and I will be hosting 15 marketing experts from December 2nd through December 13th. We will be covering topics from PR to Networking, Copy Writing to Writing a book. All Free, and all online. You don't have to leave the comfort of your office or home.

Click here to register for free.

The Kickoff will be December 2nd at 3:00 PM when my co-hosts and I will fill you in on what is coming and answer questions about the Telesummit. I know I mentioned it is free, but ALSO since it is all online, even if you miss an interview the replays will be available through the end of Telesummit. So click on the link below (or copy and paste this URL into your browser: http://2014MarketingJumpStart.com ) and register for free access to some amazing information to launch your marketing new year! 

Loudini’s Rock 'N Roll Circus Black Friday Extravaganza

CULTURAL CLUES

WAMMO

PRESENTING: THE SUNDAY GRAVY SHOW
Calliope: The Pittsburgh Folk Music Society is proud to announce our new series which is a partnership with The Sunday Gravy Show. Hosted by Wammo, co-founder of the Asylum St. Spankers and recent transplant to Pittsburgh from Austin, TX.

The first Sunday Gravy Show happens on November 24, 2013 at 4 PM and will feature Frank Orrall of Poi Dog Pondering and Thievery Corporation. More information and tickets can be found at http://calliopehouse.org/sunday-gravy/.

A house concert like no other, The Sunday Gravy Show crashes a neighborhood near you each month for a fun, interactive gameshow/ performance featuring internationally touring artists and musicians. Hosted by Wammo—professional recording artist and co-founder of The Asylum Street Spankers—each show takes place in someone’s living room and is limited to only 50 seats.

ELF THE MUSICAL
NETworks Presentations, LLC, Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures and Unique Features, bring the Broadway musical ELF to the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh. Tickets are available, but limited, for performances Tuesday, November 26 to Sunday, December 1, 2013; with best availability on Thursday, November 28. ELF THE MUSICAL is part of the PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh series, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Broadway Across America and Pittsburgh Symphony.

ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. Read the entire release here. 

Todd Ellison
Credit Ronnie Nelson

Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Highmark Holiday Pops
Dec. 12-15 & Dec. 20-21, 2013
Dec. 12: 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 13, 14, 20 & 21: 8 p.m.;
Dec. 14, 15 & 21: 2:30 p.m.

Celebrate the season with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Mendelssohn Choir and an all-star cast of guest artists in this spectacular Pittsburgh tradition! Enjoy your favorite carols and much-loved holiday music, including "Deck the Hall," "Joy to the World," and more. Renowned conductor Todd Ellison leads this festive concert. And Santa makes a special visit from the North Pole bringing more delightful surprises! Before and after the concert, enjoy the ornate decorations at Heinz Hall, complete with a magnificent 25-foot tree in the Grand Lobby. 412-392-4900 or www.pittsburghsymphony.org for tickets.

Parlour Song
By Jez Butterworth
Directed by Martin Giles
November 1–November 24, 2013
Waterfront, West Homestead

Edgy, funny, and occasionally sinister, Parlour Song explores the mysteriesbeneath the manicured surface of a suburban housing tract, where all is not well in the lives of two friendly couples.
"The lost-in-thesuburbs themes in this tragicomic play have been visited before, butresonate in this fresh telling. See it before it disappears." -- Pittsburgh Tribune-Review



Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Celebrates the Holidays with “The Nutcracker”
Featuring more than 200 costumes, 100 colorful characters and Pittsburgh-inspired set design, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s grand-scale production of “The Nutcracker” illuminates the holiday season Dec. 6-29, at the Benedum Center.

For the first time this season, PBT will present a special, autism-friendly performance of “The Nutcracker” at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27, in addition to 22 public performances. PBT will be the first professional ballet company in the country to adapt this holiday classic for patrons with sensory sensitivities and their families. More details here.


Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre 2013-2014 Season
Timeless Stories, Pittsburgh Premieres, Cutting-Edge Choreography

An Evening of Twyla Tharp. Experience powerhouse choreography by an American icon.
The Nutcracker. Illuminate the holidays with this seasonal spectacular.
Swan Lake with the PBT Orchestra. Plunge into classical ballet’s most revered love story.
3x3. Push the boundaries of ballet with a trio of today’s most compelling choreographers.
Don Quixote with the PBT Orchestra. Embark on an adventure of love, illusion and balletic bravado.

Subscribers enjoy the best seats, savings and exclusives. Visit www.pbt.org or call 412-454-9107 today!

Ghost, The Musical

December 31 - January 5, 2014 / Heinz Hall
Relive the iconic and magical moments from the Oscar-winning movie GHOST in a brand-new Broadway musical. GHOST The Musical breathes glorious new life into a timeless love story. The musical features an original pop score from multiple Grammy Award-winners Dave Stewart, one half of the ‘80s pop duo the Eurythmics, and Glen Ballard, co-writer with Alanis Morissette on the multi-platinum album Jagged Little Pill, among many other notable credits and collaborations.

Ring in the New Year with GHOST and celebrate 20 years of Highmark First Night Pittsburgh!
Enjoy a classic night in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. GHOST opens in Pittsburgh on New Year’s Eve. Come downtown early for pre-show fireworks, catch a short performance before the main event, and be out of the show in time for the countdown to midnight! This package offers special pricing on show tickets and an all-access Highmark First Night Pittsburgh button. CLICK HERE to buy your New Year's Eve package!

THE PITTSBURGH CULTURAL TRUST ANNOUNCES: Welcome to the 32nd Three Rivers Film Festival!
The 2013 Three Rivers Film Festival, presented by Pittsburgh Filmmakers and Dollar Bank, runs November 8 – 23. Celebrating 32 years, it is the oldest and largest film festival in the region. This year sees a substantial expansion of films with an added venue. The 2013 Film Festival presents approximately 80 films – independent American cinema, sneak peeks, new documentaries, restored classics, a competitive shorts program, critically-acclaimed international films, a sidebar of Polish films, and new this year: a microcinema component. There are visiting filmmakers, informal discussions, live music events and more. The venues are the Harris Theater, the Melwood Screening Room, the Regent Square Theater and Waterworks Cinemas.

The Three Rivers Film Festival has its own unique personality. Many other film festivals haveemerged since 1982, each with their own target audience. But the Three Rivers Film Festival is a celebration of all the things that “film” can be – and there’s a little something for everyone. We hope you enjoy this very special film festival! Come early, come often, and bring a friend. Details here.

KIDZ KORNER 

Hand Made Theatre
Pittsburgh International Children's Theater 412-456-6666, Byham Theater

Hand Made Theatre

November 17, 2013 - November 24, 2013 Ticket Prices: $9.50 in advance; $11 day of show if available

Hailing from St. Petersburg, performers literally roll up their sleeves to create a captivating–and quite unique–magical world. Wonderfully choreographed, hands and arms interlock and entwine to create trains, sailboats, ticking clocks, flocks of birds and more. With clever lighting design, the limbs dance in space and assemble into recognizable shapes and words. Best for all ages. 60 minutes. www.handmadetheatre.ru/en

THE FRESH BEAT BAND LIVE IN CONCERT
The Fresh Beat Band, Nickelodeon’s preschool music group, and stars of the hit TV series of the same name, are giving fans the opportunity to see them live as they hit the road again for

The Fresh Beat Band

60 performances on their nationwide concert tour. The live concert comes to Pittsburgh’s Benedum Center on November 21, 2013 at 6:00 p.m. Tickets start at $32.75 and may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), online at www.TrustArts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666. To purchase group tickets, please call group sales (412) 471-6930. This event is part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series.

This month, the wildly popular The Fresh Beat Band Live in Concert Tour begins its new tour in San Antonio, Texas. The group will travel to theaters in new markets and revisit places including New York City’s Theater at Madison Square Garden and Los Angeles’ Nokia Theater L.A. Live. In 2012, more than 400,000 fans saw the concert. Read the entire release here.

From Our Friends At Urban Media Today

New Year Brings First Ever Crisis Nursery to Pittsburgh
When parents have a lot of social and professional responsibilities, children can often be neglected or worse, abused. A woman that relies on her neighbor to take care of her 2-year old son will most definitely be frustrated if the neighbor calls just as she is leaving home for work, to let her know that she cannot watch the kid today.

In such a situation, frustration builds up. Some parents take it out on their children, while others choose to leave their kids unprotected and unguarded at home to fulfill their other responsibilities.

Most cities in the U.S. have at least a single crisis center where people can leave their children in good hands. Pittsburgh, however, currently has none. But the New Year does not come without its share of good news for parents in Pittsburgh! By mid-January, a crisis nursery by the name of Jeremiah's Place will be opened at the Kingsley Association in Larimer, Pittsburgh.
To protect the children from neglect and abuse, and to relieve the parents of the long processes involving child welfare that end up costing them a fortune; every city or county needs to have its drop-in nursery.

Jeremiah's Place

Jeremiah's Place is one of the nearly 60 centers present throughout the country that work independent of the public service agencies. It has been co-founded by a Pediatrician named Lynne Williams, who chose the name of a foster-sibling to christen the crisis center.

The center will be located in 3,500 square feet of rented space within the Kingsley Association. It is being run on private funding and has received a $100,000 funding from the R.K. Mellon Foundation. However, this amount barely covers one-fourth or one-fifth of the total amount that will be required and more funding options are being explored at present.

Parents and guardians who are stressed and fear for the safety of their children can leave them at this center. It will also act as a protective location for children whose parents have certain medical conditions or are in danger, for instance, from a spouse who breaks restraining orders.
Crisis nurseries are usually staffed with social workers and other professionals who can adeptly deal with the problems that the children and their families are suffering from. The professionals can provide crisis counseling to ensure that the issues are sorted out calmly without violence.
A lot of surveys were conducted before the initiation of this project to determine the need of a crisis nursery within the area. The center also held several fundraisers during this past summer, including the Jeremiah's Place 5 kilometer Run/Walk and a Family Fun Day in April. These activities helped raise nearly $10,000 for the cause.

The founders of the relief center agree that leaving a child alone to go to a bar is not the most responsible behavior. However, they would feel a lot better if the child was left at Jeremiah's Place for care during that time duration, even if the parents had to go away for unsuitable reasons. Initially, Jeremiah's Place will cater to 20 children during the day and 6 to 12 children during the night. The age limit is set to children under 6 years of age.

Eventually, the center has plans to expand its locations to other areas as well in the upcoming three to five years so that it can benefit the local population even more!

WOMEN AND GIRLS ADVANCEMENT

Women Business Leaders Breakfast Series 

Latasha Wilson-Batch

Friday, December 13, 2013 (7:30 AM - 9:00 AM)

Topic: "Best of the Batch: Bridging Business and Service with a Hands-on Approach"

Speaker: Latasha Wilson-Batch, Executive Director, Best of the Batch Foundation

Latasha Wilson-Batch is Continuously Helping Uplift Community Kids™. She serves as the Executive Director of Best of the Batch Foundation, whose mission is her passion. The mission is to help unlock potential in financially challenged communities with resources for children and families through education and empowerment. Her passion is to empower those she reaches to give their best efforts.

Latasha has adopted how to "Live with Meaning." She fully believes that success comes from within and that her attitude determines how successful she will be. She encourages everybody to be somebody for someone. Click here for more information and to register for this event.

HELLO LADIES OF ALL AGES
Do you love Christmas? Do you love Christmas Carols? So does the Sounds of Pittsburgh Chorus! And we are inviting you to join us singing three familiar carols on our annual show Saturday, December 14th. The show will be at the Rea Auditorium of Sewickley Academy. In addition to performing with us you will be admitted free to enjoy our performance and the hilariously funny quartet, The Hot Air Buffoons. Rehearsals for the performance will be Monday evenings from 7:00-7:45 at the Coraopolis United Methodist Church, 1205 Ridge Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108. For more information please contact Mary Ann at 412-279-6062 or masember@mac.com.

Meet the 2014 Pittsburgh Professional Women of Integrity Award Winners
Beth Caldwell Lead Instructor,Leadership Academy For Women
Becca Chapman, Executive Director, The Pittsburgh Fellows
Rev. Brenda J. Gregg, Executive Director, Project Destiny
Kimberly June, Holistic Psychotherapist, Center for Holistic Therapy
Marcy Park, District Manager, Walmart Stores, Inc.

Celebrate these and other local business women at the awards luncheon on Tuesday, December 3, 2013 from 1-3pm at The Club at Nevillewood, 1000 Nevillewood Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15142. Luncheon Tickets are $49 for members, $59 for non members and table of ten for $425

Guest Hostess and Emcee Michelle Wright, WTAE TV 4 News Anchor. Tickets must be purchased by Friday, November 29th. For program ads or vendor opportunities, call Beth Caldwell 412-202-6983. Register online here.

From Our Friends at the Girls Coalition

Impact of Gender Norms on Young Black Girls' Health and Wellness - Webinar
Join the FISA Foundation, The Heinz Endowments, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, and the Girls Coalition for a unique webinar devoted to the impact of gender norms on young Black girls' health and wellness. Dr. Scyatta Wallace, professor and CEO of Janisaw Company and Riki Wilchins, executive director of TrueChild, will present the findings of their recent paper, with special emphasis on basic health, intimate relationships, and reproductive health.

Participants will leave this webinar with a broader knowledge of basic terminology of gender norms; key concepts; research findings; and emerging ideas around gender norms that are shaping the field and have strong implications for policymaking, programs and funding priorities.

This webinar is part of a series of conversations hosted by the Endowments and FISA, focused on improving health and wellness among young Black girls, particularly as they are affected by feminine norms. This program is appropriate for directors and direct service staff working in health and human service settings.

Wednesday, December 3, 2013 from 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm EST. This is a FREE webinar, there is no cost to participate. However, space is limited to the first 100 people who register online.

CHATHAM UNIVERSITY - Wonder Women! Film Screening
The Psychology of Gender Research Team is hosting a FREE screening of Wonder Women! The Untold Stories of American Superheroines. The evening will include a screening of the film, panel discussion with Q&A and fun activities!
Friday, November 22, 2013 starting at 7:00 pm / Chatham University, Eddy Theatre 

GIRLS ON THE RUN - 5K Health Expo and Pep Rally
Don't miss the Girls on the Run Health Expo and Pre-Race Pep Rally before the November 5K

run! Help the GOTR team members get pumped up for this season's inaugural 5K by coming together to celebrate health and teamwork. It's sure to be a fun and energetic afternoon!

Friday, December 6, 2013 from 4:00pm - 6:00pm (5K race will take place on Sunday, December 8) / North Park Rose Barn, South Ridge Road  / Call 412-641-1596 for more information or contact Dr. Britney Brinkman at bbrinkman@chatham.edu.

BUSINESS BUZZ

8th Annual PA Business Technology Conference
Duquesne University Small  Business Development Center
Nov 21  / 8:30 - 4:30 | $119
Register Here 

Thanks to South Hills Realtor Denise Marasco for calling our attention to this:

5 Pittsburgh Area Small Cities Named as Best Cities in Pa
So what is the best city in Pennsylvania? According to our study, Mount Lebanon took the top spot, beating out stiff competition. Here are the top 10 cities in The Keystone State:

1. Mount Lebanon
2. Radnor Township
2. King of Prussia
4. Willow Grove
5. Scott Township
6. Bethel Park

Mt. Lebanon

7. Drexel Hill
8. West Chester
8. Greensburg
9. Upper St. Clair
10. Phoenixville

Based on following six criteria: Amenities (shopping, dining, entertainment, etc.); Cost of living (percent above or below state average); Crime (percent above or below state average); Education (high school graduation rate compared to state average); Median Income (city’s average compared to state average); Home value (percent above or below state average).

Read full article here. 

Dear Friend of Innovation Works
In 2008, we launched AlphaLab, one of the nation’s first startup accelerators, to help technology entrepreneurs capitalize on industry trends allowing software startups to launch faster and more successfully. We offered not only investment and office space but also a rich curriculum focusing on agile development, mentorship and lean startup growth strategies. AlphaLab has helped over 150 entrepreneurs launch 67 companies that include some of the fastest growing startups in our region. Now, five short years later, Innovation Works has recognized that advances in additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping and other processes have helped further democratize product creation, enabling hardware entrepreneurs everywhere to turn their ideas into thriving, high-growth businesses.

In response to these trends, Innovation Works has launched AlphaLab Gear, one of the first accelerator programs in the country offering services specifically designed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs working in the hardware space. Like AlphaLab, AlphaLab Gear provides companies with investment, office space, and mentorship; however, companies selected for this program also receive membership to prototyping studio TechShop, access to AlphaLab Gear’s onsite lab, and the hardware/robotics product design curriculum we’ve put together with our program partner StartBot. AlphaLab Gear is being led by Managing Director, Ilana Diamond with additional leadership assistance from StartBot’s Managing Director, Josh McElhattan. Together, we hope to catalyze the next generation of regional manufacturers and innovators – building an even stronger entrepreneurial community.

The first cycle of AlphaLab Gear companies moved in to the program’s East Liberty home on October 21st. These companies will be profiled in next month’s newsletter along with Afshan Kahn, Program Manager of Innovation Works’ Innovation Adoption Program and an AlphaLab Gear mentor, so stay tuned!

As always, check out the current job openings with our partner startups and take a look at a few newsworthy highlights of the region’s tech scene by following the links below.

Best - Rich Lunak, President and CEO, Innovation Works

LAUNCHING OUR NEW PITTSBURGH
This past week, we unveiled the new online home of the Office of the Mayor-Elect: www.ournewpittsburgh.com. Check it out now to stay up-to-date with all things transition related!

HE MOST TALENTED AND DIVERSE MAYORAL CABINET IN PITTSBURGH'S HISTORY

On Thursday, we announced the formation of my mayoral cabinet, which is the most talented and diverse in Pittsburgh's history. From left to right: Guy Costa, Chief Operations Officer;

Peduto and Staff

Debbie Lestitian, Chief Administration Officer; Lourdes Sanchez Ridge, Solicitor & Chief Legal Officer; Dr. Curtiss Porter, Chief Education & Neighborhood Reinvestment Officer; Valerie McDonald-Roberts, Chief Urban Affairs Officer; Kevin Acklin, Chief of Staff and Chief Economic Development Officer; Debra Lam, Chief Innovation & Performance Officer.

Learn more about the new team here.

We Want YOU

Public participation is requested for transition teams. Today, we announced the creation of eight transition teams: Economic Development, Innovation & Performance, Administration & Finance, Operations & Infrastructure, Housing & Urban Empowerment, Education & Neighborhood Reinvestment, Public Safety, and Law & Ethics.

The teams will each be made up of members of the public who are Pittsburgh residents. We are now accepting applications online for positions on each team - the deadline to apply is 5pm on Monday, November 18 so apply now!

Learn how to educate others on health care reform
Sign up to be a PHAN Certified Health Reform Trainer.

We'll train you to be an expert on the health care law and also best practices for messaging and organizing your own educational events.

Dozens of graduates have already gone on to give talks at churches, libraries, universities and more. This is the last series for a few months.

Upcoming trainings:
Central Pennsylvania: November 22nd
Western Pennsylvania: December 3rd

Get more information and apply here.

Tuesday Night Policy Calls
This series offers listeners an opportunity to learn from some of the state and nation's best experts.


Small Business Health Options Program November 26th 6:00 - 7:00 PM. RSVP/more info here.

New Medical Assistance Rules for Determining Income Eligibility (advanced) w. Ann Bacharach, Pennsylvania Health Law Project - Dec 18th 2:00 PM
RSVP/more info here

IT Career Event
At UPMC, we are more than just health care. We are working with state-of-the-art technologies that transform the delivery of patient care.

How have we made this happen?

Invested more than $1 billion in information technology over the last five years to improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of patient care. 

Undertaken an enterprise-wide initiative called Enterprise Analytics focused on mining and analyzing data in order to provide more precise care. 

Partnered with leading vendors, such as IBM, GE, and Alcatel-Lucent, to develop technology solutions that benefit health care providers and patients worldwide.

How can you become a part of it? This event will give you the unique opportunity to meet with our top IT professionals and leaders to learn why UPMC has been recognized consistently as a top technology leader and innovator. So come meet our team, and discover where you belong. When and Where?

Thursday, Dec. 12 / 5 to 7 p.m. / U.S. Steel Tower / 600 Grant Street / Center for Connected Medicine, Floor 60 / Pittsburgh, PA 15219

HIGH SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY NEWS 

2nd Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest
Presented by UPMC

We are proud to again offer an opportunity for regional youth to thoughtfully consider Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy, his mission, and his challenge to, "develop a kind of dangerous unselfishness." The Second Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest, presented by

UPMC, challenges young people to highlight a female activist, either past or present, who shares and lives out MLK's vision. By using Dr. King's birthday to highlight female activists who are changing the world, we will raise awareness around gender equality, and promote the incredible ways that women are working towards justice for all.

Students in grades 6 - 12 are encouraged to submit entries and use their creative voices to raise awareness, encourage positivity, and acknowledge women and girls who have made a lasting impact in history, or who are changing the world today.

Finalists and winners will receive cash prizes and community recognition. The DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION is Monday, January 6, 2014. Click HERE for more information about this contest.

Books in the 'Burgh: 12th Annual Book Fair
Featuring Bestselling Author Augusten Burroughs / Sat., Dec. 7 | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

'Tis the season to kick off your holiday shopping at the History Center's 12th annual Books in the 'Burgh book fair, featuring #1 New York Times bestselling author of "Running with Scissors," Pittsburgh-born Augusten Burroughs.

Mingle with more than 60 Western Pennsylvania authors representing nearly 150 titles and purchase signed copies of books from all genres. The free event will feature special talks with bestselling author Augusten Burroughs (1 p.m.) and "The Civil War in Pennsylvania: The African American Experience" editor Samuel W. Black (11 a.m.), and an Animal Friends story-time with "canine reading specialists" and their handlers.

Books in the 'Burgh admission is free. History Center members receive a 15% discount on purchases. Please click here for a complete list of authors schedule to appear at Books in the 'Burgh.

NON-PROFIT EVENTS SPONSORED 

BY BLACK TIE-PITTSBURGH 

FESTIVAL OF TREES ON NOVEMBER 23

Hosanna Industries holds fundraiser at Quality Gardens

Hosanna House

On Saturday, November 23, Hosanna Industries will be holding its second annual Festival of Trees fundraiser to benefit the needy households that Hosanna Industries helps.

Over 25 local businesses, churches, and individuals are involved in the event as tree sponsors and have donated their time and treasures to decorate artificial Christmas trees with a specific theme. The trees will be decorated on November 17 and will be for sale on November 23. Trees will be priced individually.

What: Hosanna Industries' second annual Festival of Trees
Why: Fundraiser for Hosanna Industries, local nonprofit. Goal is to raise $10,000.
Where: Quality Gardens 409 PA Rt. 228 Mars, PA
When: November 23 10AM-3PM

Butler Eagle is the media sponsor, and Mars Brew House and Valencia Donut Company are the refreshment sponsors. Tree sponsors include but are not limited to: Pine Richland National Honor Society, Hope Lutheran Church, Cross Roads Presbyterian Church, Tom Henry Chevrolet, Nest Expressions, Westmont Hilltop High School Art Club, Grove City Phi Sigma Chi, First Congregational Church of Etna, Rich-Mar Rotary, and Butler Area Woodturners.

There will be no charge for admission, but attendees are invited to donate a dollar to vote for their favorite tree.

Josh Inklovich

Pittsburgh Industrial Coating Contractor and New, Non-Profit win the Goodwill Power of Work Award for Previously Homeless Veteran Employment Efforts.
Josh Inklovich Vice President, Business Development at Envirosafe Stripping

GOODWILL NAMES WINNERS
OF 2013 POWER OF WORK AWARDS
Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania today announced  the winners of its 2013 Power of Work Awards which honor employers and organizations for their efforts in support of workforce development . Selected from over 80 nominees, the winners are:

Focused Industrial Training and Envirosafe Stripping, Inc. – A nonprofit corporation
based in Sewickley, Focused Industrial Training (FIT) provides skilled trade training and
employment services for individuals with barriers to employment. FIT worked with
Envirosafe Stripping, Inc., an industrial surface-preparation and coating business in
Carnegie, to develop a training and employment-support program that has enabled the
company to employ veterans with difficult backgrounds in positions with substantial
incomes and long-term potential.

NEIGHBORHOOD HI-LIGHTS

The Early Mays

Saturday, December 7, 2013
6:00pm

Get Tickets
(www.facebook.com)

Join us for this wonderful music and tasty event. We are partnering with M.J. and Dennis McCurdy, owners for the Bottlebrush Gallery in Harmony and Harmony in the House music productions as well as the Stohr Haus Bakery to provide a delicious evening of food and music. This is something you won't want to miss. RSVP to HITH@zoominternet.net or www.facebook.com/harmonyinthehouse or call Dennis directly at 724-452-0539 Tickets are 20.00 for the show and buffet or 10.00 for the show only.

Food and community connecting: 6:00 PM / Music: 7:30 PM

POSITIVE PITTSBURGHERS SEGMENT 

Thanks-for-Giving Holiday Food Drive & Give Thanks Mixxer
"Please lend a hand and bring a can"

Join Enhanced Creativity and Flawless Fashions this year as we help the community. Starting Friday, November 8, 2013 thru Friday, November 22, 2013, donations of non-perishable food items and/or gift cards can be made at Flawless Fashions, 4370 Murray Avenue, Pgh PA 15217 during regular business hours Monday-Saturday 11am-8pm. Donations will benefit two local food banks and families in-need. At the time of donation, register to win a full Thanksgiving Dinner basket created by Enhanced Creativity (including Turkey and trimmings!) valued at $250.00. All You need to do is fill out our guest sheet with your complete info, drawing will be announced during the Mixxer on the 22nd. For more information, please contact Rae Coleman @724-831-7321 or Lucia @412-904-3582.

Flawless Fashions

Donations are appreciated and Flawless Fashions want to show customer appreciation. Customers will receive 10% off any purchase in the store, including sale and clearance merchandise!

Enhanced Creativity Invites you to be their guest on Friday November 22, 2013 as we prepare for Thanksgiving with our Give Back Mixxer for loyal customers! From 7pm-12am, enjoy seasonal cocktails and a mini-Thanksgiving dinner to prepare your palette for Thanksgiving Day! Join us for a night of music, networking and a Fall fashion show.

Tickets are just $10 and can be purchased at Flawless Fashions. Today and Tomorrow bring a friend for this great price. Two for one special.

There is limited room so please purchase your tickets in advance! A portion of the proceeds benefit local food banks and families in-need. 

ROVING PITTSBURGHER REPORT

Barabara Streisand Songbook, Ann Hampton Callaway
The Streisand Songbook with the Pittsburgh Symphony
PNC POPS in Concert… An Entertainment Delight!
Review by Empress of Biz, JoAnn R. Forrester

The Pops program included “Don't Rain on My Parade” from “Funny Girl,” Marvin Hamish’s “The Way We Were,” “Evergreen” from “A Star Is Born,” and Callaway's “At the Same Time.”

Ann Calloway Hampton has a strong command of the stage and a delightful sense of humor. She did a great improvisation form the stage based on suggestions from the audience about a steelworker, therapist, a rendezvous at the Fairmont hotel and love blooming a year later. It was a fun piece and demonstrated how talented and versatile she is. I really joyed her work presenting the Streisand Songbook…and when she comes back to the ”burgh” I hope it is a show based on her own songs and work. What a talented and creative person she is. Read the full review here. 

Clique Vodka donated!

Loudinin Rock 'N Roll Circus Benefits OTA
Food, entertainment, vodka tasting, beer! Partied with a purpose. Also Clique Vodka donated tastings and a huge basket of cheer raffled off benefiting Operation Troop Appreciation.

Rich Massafra was up on the street with his famous Cardiac Cart making of all things, Caramel Fries. Yum! And TechnoGranny, Joanne Quinn-Smith tried her hand at his new invention which is a portable cart for tailgating that you can hitch to your bumper and take to the party with you.

Joanne Quinn-Smith

It was so easy to make the fries there, she did it in her snakeskin jacket, WITHOUT AN APRON. For information, friend Rich on Facebook. It is so cool! This was right on the street in Bellevue outside the 565Live and the cart didn’t take up any more room than a parking space. I understand that Rich will even sell one of these to you in your team colors and with a logo on it.

Owner of 565 Robert Hebrling, Fans John Pournaras
 and Chase, Mentalist Alex Vornoff
 and Lou Lombardi, Center

The fans had a great time in an amazing venue.

Sheherezade
Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos, Spain’s Gift to America
Review by Empress of Biz, JoAnn R. Forrester

Maestro Frubeck

The Pittsburgh Symphony performance of Sheherezade on November 8, 2013 was amazing. I do not know many conductors names, and seldom if ever really glow over a conductor. But oh my, Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos is an exceptional conductor who led the orchestra and featured guests to a brilliant performance.

The second half was all Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos and he led the PSO on a thrilling performance of Scheherazade, Opus 35 by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. I love the story of the Sultana Scheherazade weaving tales of adventure to amuse and outwit the fickle Sultan Shakira who had the practice of putting each of his wives to death after the wedding night. Night after night Scheherazade weaves these wondrous tales and the PSO make them come alive under his exceptional direction. Read the full review here. 

ABCTV Secret Millionaire, James Malinchak in Pittsburgh
What a day at No BS Marketing Meeting, November 5. 

Malinchak and Quinn-Smith

Great information from a basketball player from Donora, near Pittsburgh, who is now a Millionaire from his Big Money Speaker’s Business. His biggest lesson was how to relate to others by telling “your story.” And his story is pretty amazing. TechnoGranny got her picture taken when he got her book which he wrote a testimonial for.

PITTSBURGH LOCAL SPORTS 

Rock's Barksdale earns spot on Harlon Hill Trophy super-region ballot
Nigel Barksdale’s Rock-solid senior season as Slippery Rock University’s starting quarterback has officially earned him a spot among this fall’s elite members of the NCAA Division II football fraternity.

Barksdale was named Thursday as a Super Region 1 finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy award presented annually to the NCAA Division II College Football Player of the Year.

A second-year starter for The Rock, the 5-foot-10, 170-pound Barksdale earned the position of prominence by being the throttle man of a no-huddle, Air Raid offense that ranks among the best in the nation.

SRU currently ranks first among NCAA Division II teams in total offense with a 573.4 yards per game average. The Green and White also rank third nationally in scoring offense (46.2 points per game) and fourth nationally in passing offense (375.5 ypg).

Those offensive numbers have propelled The Rock to a 9-1 overall record and a seven-game win streak heading into Saturday’s Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championship Game at Bloomsburg University. Read the entire release here. 

PITTSBURGH GOOD NEWS FORUM

Post your Rubber Duck photos to our Facebook page.

Let's Keep the Duck in Pittsburgh Promotion. Post your pictures  and we will turn them into a Remember the Duck Video and post on the front page at PPLMag.com

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

MAESTRO MANFRED HONECK AND THE PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING WITH BEETHOVEN AND STRAUSS
For the sixth year, Maestro Manfred Honeck presents a special Thanksgiving concert at Heinz Hall as part of the BNY Mellon Grand Classics series on Nov. 29 and Dec. 1.

During this celebratory concert, Viennese pianist Till Fellner applies his scrupulous musicianship to Beethoven’s beautiful Piano Concerto No. 4. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra musicians will then bring favorite Strauss waltzes and polkas to life and deliver a few special surprises—like the Pirate Parrot’s special appearance during the Sport Polka (raising the Jolly Roger)!

Till Fellner
(jean-babtiste millot)

This entertaining and uplifting concert is a family event and the perfect way to complete the holiday weekend. Bring the whole family—children ages 3 to 12 may attend free of charge!

The concerts will begin at 8 p.m. on Friday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets, ranging in price from $25.75 to $109.75, can be purchased by calling the Heinz Hall box office at 412-392-4900, or by visiting pittsburghsymphony.org.

Each BNY Mellon Grand Classics concert is part of the Explore & Engage program, which includes pre-concert talks, exhibits, display boards and interactive activities that illuminate the music, composers and the time in which they created. This weekend, Pittsburgh Symphony Resident Conductor Larry Loh will conduct a pre-concert talk one hour before each performance.

The Pittsburgh Symphony would like to recognize and thank BNY Mellon for its 2013-2014 title sponsorship of BNY Mellon Grand Classics. Fairmont Pittsburgh is the official hotel of the Pittsburgh Symphony. Delta Air Lines is the official airline of the Pittsburgh Symphony.

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.