Top 10 places to experience in Pittsburgh!

1 Ride the Duquesne or Monongahela Incline

Also known as funiculars, these “inclined planes” were built in the late 1800′s to transport immigrant workers from work at plants along Pittsburgh’s rivers to their homes atop Mt. Washington. While they still serve as transportation for area residents, they are also a great way to enjoy the beautiful panoramic Pittsburgh skyline, a view ranked as the second most beautiful place in America by USA Today. The Duquesne Incline, still utilizing the two original 1877 wooden cable cars, is also a working museum.

2 Have Lunch at Primanti’s
Get your favorite sandwich served up complete with the coleslaw and fries rolled right in! Primanti’s offer a wide variety of delicious sandwiches, with the cheesesteak being their most popular. Several locations exist around the city, but the original 1933 location in the heart of Pittsburgh’s historic Strip district, open 24/7, is the best.

To see the rest of the top ten list Click Here!

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First Night Pittsburgh 2012

NEW YEAR'S EVE!12/31/2011 @ 6pm The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents First Night 2012!

Hands-On Activities for All Ages

There is a little bit of everything at Highmark First Night Pittsburgh, from music, dance, live theater, games, puppets and fireworks!

Are you ready to get to work with some of these hands-on activities throughout the cultural district on New Year’s Eve?

Begin your creativity at Fifth Avenue Place, with free face painting with FX Studio and incredible balloon designs from Amber’s Amazing Animal Balloons. Say hello to Giggles the Clown and learn how to create your own balloon animals! With face painting, juggling, magic and balloons, you can’t miss Fifth Avenue Place activities!

After that, stop by the First National Bank Family Tent with activities for children of all ages! Make jewelry using special UV detecting beads that react to the ultraviolet light by changing colors, or design fun New Year’s hats to wear throughout the night!

Into technology? Join the fun throughout the night at the Penn Avenue Big Screen with Highmark First Night Bonanza, a mobile phone-driven interactive video game designed by local company Evil Genius!

Take a look at all of the Activities, and don’t forget about the magic, music,theater and dance throughout the district at Highmark First Night Pittsburgh!

To see more on this event, click here!

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Best of the 'Burgh 2011: Readers' Poll!

Outdoor Dining
Double Wide Grill

Happy Hour
Mad Mex

Beer List
Sharp Edge

Bartender
Dash Kaplan at Bocktown Beer and Grill

Restaurant for a First Date
Dish Osteria and Bar

Local Coffee Shop
Big Dog Coffee

Takeout
Sesame Inn

View even more of Pittsburgh's best Here!

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Vivo Revival

Owners Sam and Lori DiBattista opened Vivo Kitchen in Sewickley in August. Its interior has a style much different than their Bellevue restaurant.

After operating Vivo in Bellevue for more than a decade, Sam and Lori DiBattista closed it earlier this year, and at the end of August opened a reimagined restaurant, Vivo Kitchen, in Sewickley.

The name is almost the same, some furniture has been repurposed, Mr. DiBattista still runs the kitchen, but otherwise it's a whole new show.

Where Vivo was shabby chic, Vivo Kitchen is sleek and modern. The marble tables from Bellevue have been fused into a long, elegant bar. There's a nod to the incandescent lighting that was a signature of the old establishment -- two lines hang down the center of the long restaurant, with a few dozen more clustered into a free-form chandelier in the front window, like cascading bubbles. A clever art installation fashioned from thin pieces of old record albums adds a splash of color, and a cork floor dampens noise.

·         Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 5 to 9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 5-10 p.m.; Sunday-Monday, closed.

·         Basics: An elegant neighborhood restaurant with an eclectic, frequently changing menu, striving to suit both casual and formal meals.

·         Recommended dishes: Grilled figs with prosciutto, crispy polenta with ratatouille, pickled white asparagus with green salad, rabbit cacciatore, lamb chops with Dijon mustard sauce, red snapper with wild rice-couscous pilaf, whipped mascarpone with nutella, pumpkin spice creme brulee.

·         Prices: Starters, $7-$10; mains, $20-$34.

·         Drink: Full bar including an evolving drink list; wine list offers detailed tasting notes, with a minor focus on white wines from California and red wines from California and Italy. One sparkling, six white, six reds and one port available by the glass, $8-$15; 13 white and sparkling wines, eight for $40 or less; 25 red wines, 13 for $50 or less.

·         Summary: : Wheelchair accessible; credit cards accepted; reservations recommended for peak weekend times; corkage, $15.

·         Noise level: Low to medium loud.

In Bellevue, the partly verbal menu was creative Italian, portions were substantial and each entree was augmented by pasta and salad courses. In Sewickley, there's a printed menu of starters and mains, and the inspirations are more eclectic. There's also a full bar and wine list (the original Vivo was BYOB).

Read more: Here

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Wünderstudies: An Improvised Musical

Wünderstudies: An Improvised Musical will be held Saturday, November 12th at 8 pm at the Steel City Improv Theater (808-B Tripoli St, Pittsburgh, PA). The cost is $5 per person.  “Wünderstudies presents a completely improvised musical theater show based on your suggestions. Look out Broadway, Wünderstudies is about to steal your thunder… studies.” Visit the Wünderstudies website for more info.

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The Michael Lotenero Art Show and Benefit On November 11th!

The Michael Lotenero Art Show and Benefit for the Persad Center will be held at Bakery Square on November 11th from 6pm to 10pm. This event is free and open to the public with half of the proceeds benefiting the Persad Center whose mission is to improve the well being of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and HIV/AIDS communities and their allies. Parking is available for free in the Bakery Square Parking Garage. Enter the art show near the main entrance to the Google Building near Boxwood & Verizon Fios. For more information about this event, please contact Bob McGrogan at 412-441-9786 x224 or bmcgrogan@persadcenter.org

RSVP to this event: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=156897204403926

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East Liberty's historic Highland Building finally get a second life

Great news for Pittsburgh!

Built in 1909 by Henry Clay Frick and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991, the towering Highland Building in East Liberty has proven itself a worthy adversary against four past developers who backed out of plans to renovate the vacant structure at 121 South Highland Street. However, a large and determined consortium of development groups has their fingers crossed that this time will be different, as they await approval from the Governor's Office for $4.5 million in RACP funds for a parking garage, as well as Department of Housing and Urban Development financing that will make their project possible.

Last year, the Urban Redevelopment Authority approved partnering developers Walnut Capital and Massaro Properties' plans for a $23 million conversion of the Highland Building and neighboring Wallace Building into 129 one-bedroom apartments, a new parking garage, fitness center, and small retail storefronts.

"They'll be loft style apartments with oversized windows, stone counter tops, stainless steel appliances, high ceilings, and a washer and dryer in each unit. The Highland Building is going to have the great views," says Jerilyn Donahue, underwriter for the project for Bellwether Real Estate Capital, who are helping to secure financing. TKA Architects drew up the preliminary design, which essentially calls for a total gutting of the interiors, while leaving the historic façade structurally intact.

While other developers have failed to tame the Highland Building, the parties involved believe they have a good chance of success. For one, development of the East Liberty corridor has boomed in the past several years. With the advent of Bakery Square and the Google offices, Home Depot, Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, lofts, new restaurants, and an upcoming Target, the surrounding area is far more vibrant than it was at the time of the last attempt in 2006. More directly, past developers could not secure a parking solution for the building.

Read more: http://www.popcitymedia.com/devnews/highlandbuilding031611.aspx

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Running Of The Wieners At Bakery Scare!

Have a wiener dog or a pup under 25 lbs? Sign up, it’s free!

Aren’t they cute?! Your dog could participate!

It's time to register for the 2nd Annual Running of the Wieners, presented by Better Than Treat Brands! The 2nd Annual Running of the Wieners is a part of Bakery Scare- a day long event that will feature the Better Than Treat Brands’ wildly popular event, where small dogs race in hot dog costumes! The event will also feature live music, celebrity guests, costume contests for pets and people alike, trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting and more! Proceeds will benefit Animal Friends.

To enter, send an email to EnterMyDog@gmail.com with your name, your pet's name, your pet's breed and your pet's weight. Please attach a picture of your pup if you have one!

Guidelines to enter the contest:
-Only pups 25lbs and under are eligible to participate
-All breeds are welcome
-If you do not have your own hot dog costume, you will be provided with one, courtesy of Better Than Treats Brands!
-It is 100% FREE to enter and participate!

Is your dog larger than 25 pounds and you want to join in the fun? Bakery Scare will also feature a costume contest and parade for dogs of all sizes! Details coming soon!
Learn about the Better Than Treat Brands here: http://www.betterthanbrands.com/

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Weather Emergencies Make Vehicles Lifeboats: How Prepared Are You?

Are you prepared for an emergency? Read on to find out what you should have with you in case of an emergency.

With Hurricane Irene bearing down on the East Coast and many Americans trying to evacuate the area in their vehicles, there is a very real threat for people of winding up on their own or even stranded in their vehicle, which becomes a kind of lifeboat.
But what is in that lifeboat to help an individual or a family cope with adverse conditions? Too few drivers keep basic tools and other necessities and helpers to endure a night or more alone in a car, or the basics to get a damaged car back on the road.There are a few small things you can carry to make life on the road easier. If you're going to be on the road every day, these items will prove themselves useful in the long haul. Fit as many into one carrying case as you can unless the vehicle has cleverly designed stow-away slots for specific items.
First-aid kit: It's an obvious one, but how many drivers actually carry a first-aid kit? In the critical minutes before emergency care arrives, you could give an accident victim the care they need. Many luxury vehicles come with well-equipped kits, so check before you buy.
Blanket: This one goes hand-in-hand with the first-aid kit. A victim at an accident scene may need to be kept warm to prevent shock. And if you're broken down in unexpected weather, the blanket may keep you warm when your vehicle cannot.
Spare tire and jack: A well-maintained spare tire and jack can mean the difference between a fifteen-minute inconvenience and an hour-long, $75 ordeal. While other drivers are waiting to be towed to the near tire depot, you can change your own and roll for more than fifty miles to the shop of your choice. Make sure to check the condition of your spare each month or so. If you often travel in remote areas, replace a "temporary" spare with a real fifth tire that fits the vehicle.
Water and food: This is a no-brainer, right? A few bottles of water and shelf-stable or vacuum packed snacks. Don't buy snacks that will be compromised in a hot car. And change them at least twice a year.

Do you keep an emergency kit in your car?

Spare wiper blades: This may seem like overkill, but it's not. Foul weather can wear down wiper blades more quickly than you think -- especially in wintry climates with snowy, salted roads. Keep them on hand and change when the windshield gets bleary. Most blades can be refilled in less than a minute; the replacements are available, usually for less than $5, at local car-parts stores or from your dealer.
Jumper cables: You can always find another driver to give you a jump-start - but can you always find a set of cables? A good set of cables costs less than $20, and offers instructions on how to jump your car if you're not sure. Most major department stores, such as Kmart and Target, stock these in addition to the car-parts stores.
Sharpie and paper: In the event you have to leave your vehicle, you want to be able to leave a note.
Phillips and standard-style sizes: This tool is far more versatile than a regular screwdriver because you can pick the bit type and size that exactly fits the fastener you're trying to remove. Some kits come with a small selection of sockets and drivers for those Torx (star-shaped head) screws that are increasingly commonplace. It's an essential tool to have and keep with you in the car.
A roll of duct tape or electrical tape: Duct tape has been the emergency mechanic's best friend for years; with it, you can temporarily bind a leaking radiator hose or quickly patch up shattered glass. Electrical tape is great to have on hand when you need to keep an exposed electrical connection from touching something it shouldn't. Toss a roll of each into your tool kit.
Pen magnet: This handy tool can help you dig out keys that fell between the seats, or retrieve a tiny screw you dropped someplace inaccessible to your hand. Get the telescoping type that looks and functions just like a radio antenna. There are also flexible models that can be bent to work around obstacles. Both are great to have in certain circumstances where almost nothing else will do.
Emergency cell phone: If you are one of the few who don't have a regular cellphones, invest in an emergency-use cell phone that tucks away in the glove box. These phone are inexpensive (the plans call for a very limited number of calls per month or even just 911) but can be lifesavers if you have or witness a serious accident. You can also use them to report possible drunk drivers and other emergency situations.
Flashlight, disposable lighter and Flares: The flashlight and lighter are self-explanatory. Flares can be used to signal for help, mark off your car from oncoming traffic and even work as emergency lighting.

Read more: http://autos.aol.com/article/car-evacuation-emergency-safety-kit/

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Free Admission To Carnegie Science Center On Sunday!

Get free admission to the Carnegie Science Center on Sunday!

Event: Free Admission Day at the Carnegie Science Center
Location: Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Avenue, North Shore, Pittsburgh, PA
Date: Sunday, September 25, 2011
Time: 10am until 5pm
Cost: Free
Description: Enjoy free admission to the Carnegie Science Center, thanks to2011 RADical Days. Note: the Miniature Railroad will be closed for maintenance, however you can still enjoy robots, fish, experiments, activities and fun for all ages! Special performances: Prime Stage Theatre and the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra will present short staged readings from their new stage adaptation of the award-winning fantasy novel, A Wrinkle in Time. Shows at 1pm and 3pm.

Thanks to http://www.livingpittsburgh.com/2011/09/free-admission-day-at-the-carnegie-science-center-radical-days-pittsburgh-free-events/ for the details on this event!

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Spend This Weekend At Bakery Square!

Spend this weekend at Bakery Square! On Saturday is the Back to School Bash, Bakery U, from 5 pm to 10 pm.

Bakery U is the ultimate orientation to Pittsburgh for students, professional transplants and current residents to learn more about how to become more active in our amazing city! Local companies, charities and non-profits will be showcasing all that Pittsburgh has to offer. Volunteer opportunities, internships and activities abound-all while you groove to Pittsburgh’s premier Dave Matthew’s tribute band, One Sweet Burgh and dance to the sounds of 91.3 WYEP’s favorite DJ’s.The complimentary bar will feature craft brews and 100% of donations will got to support 91.3 WYEP Pittsburgh’s publicly funded radio station - “Where the Music Matters."

Don’t forget about the final Sunday Marketplace in the Summer Street Party series at Bakery Square on Sunday, September 25th from Noon to 4 pm.  Browse the Bakery Square retail stores or head on over to the I Made it! Market featuring crafts, art, clothing, jewelry and more! Also check out the Abby Lee Dance Company of  Lifetime’s “Dance Moms” perform at 1pm and 3pm with a meet and greet following each of the shows.

For more information or to RSVP to these events please visit: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=210148035716625

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Free Performance by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is giving a free performance on September 20th. Read below for more details:

 

Event: Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s BNY Mellon Grand Classics Season Preview
Location: Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Avenue, Downtown, Pittsburgh, PA
Date: Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: Free
Description: Join the PSO for a FREE concert to preview the 2011-2012 BNY Mellon Grand Classics Season! WTAE’s Sally Wiggin hosts an evening of highlights from the upcoming BNY Mellon Grand Classics Season. Join Music Director Manfred Honeck, along with conductors Lawrence Loh and Thomas Hong, as they lead your Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra through Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Gershwin and more. Plus, see the PSO’s new Principal flute, Lorna McGhee, make her solo debut! Call 412-392-4900 to get your free tickets now (limited quantity).

Information courtesy of: http://www.livingpittsburgh.com/2011/09/free-pittsburgh-symphony-orchestra-performance-pittsburgh-events/

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Days and Places For Cheap Tacos In Pittsburgh

Check out the day by day list of where to get yourself cheap tacos during the week in Pittsburgh~!

Monday

Franklin Inn in the North Hills offers $1.00 tacos, made from quality ground beef they cook and season themselves and chicken they cook and shred. They’re the same ones they serve in their dinners. Soft or hard tacos are available, made with beef or chicken. The deal is available from  7pm to 10pm (valid at the bar only).

Duke’s Station in Bethel Park offers $1.00 tacos on Monday nights, along with $1.00 16 oz Yuengling Drafts and $1.00 hot dogs (valid at the bar only).

You’ll also find 95 cent tacos and $2.95 regular margaritas at Patron Mexican Grill in Wexford.

William Penn Tavern in Shadyside also offers $1.25 tacos and $2.50 20 oz Coors or Coors Light drafts.

Las Velas Mexican Restaurant has $1.00 tacos, nachos and quesadillas during Happy Hour from 5 to 7 pm, along with $4.00 margaritas and $2.50 drafts.

Finally, there’s Mexican Monday at Embury in The Strip.

Tuesday

Las Velas Mexican Restaurant has $1.00 tacos, nachos and quesadillas during Happy Hour from 5 to 7 pm, along with $4.00 margaritas and $2.50 drafts.

Lava Lounge on E. Carson St. in the South Side offers 85 cent beef or veggie tacos for Taco Tuesdays, along with $4.00 Sauza Margaritas. Think you can eat more tacos than anyone else in the room? Test your chompers every Tuesday at Lava Lounges’s “Dude VS Food” taco eating contest for a chance to get yours for free!

You’ll find 99 cent tacos and $2.75 Coronas at Rumerz Sports Bar and Grillin Shadyside as well.

Mexi-Casa in Dormont has $1 crunchy beef tacos every Tuesday. Wash a few of those down with a $2 domestic bottle of beer.

Redbeards in Mt Washington has 75 cent tacos from 8pm – 1am with $2.75 Coronas all day.

Also, in Mt Washington, Cafe Niko’s has 2 tacos for $3 and $1.75 drafts.

Hal’s Bar & Grill in the North Hills offers $1 tacos every Tuesday.

Cains in Dormont has $1.00 tacos, $2.50 Coronas & $5 Margaritas.

The Trolley Stop Inn in Bethel Park features 99 cent tacos all day, as well as 50 cents off margaritas.

Cappy’s in Shadyside has Taco Tuesday and offers $1.50 tacos (beef, chicken or veggie), $3 burritos and $3 Mexican beers form 7-11pm.

Finally, Monkey Bar in Pleasant Hills has 50 cent tacos today.

Wednesday

On Wednesday nights from 9pm until midnight, you can take advantage of $1 tacos and FREE bluegrass music at the Park House Tavern in East Allegheny/Deutschtown. They also offer $2 Yuenglings.

The Loose Moose Saloon in Baldwin dishes up 50 cent tacos on Wednesdays, along with $2.00 off any drink during happy hour from 4 to 6 pm.

Stinky’s in Lawrenceville serves up dollar tacos from 7pm-11pm.

William Penn Tavern in Shadyside also offers $1.25 tacos and $2.50 20 oz Coors or Coors Light drafts on Wednesdays as well.

Las Velas Mexican Restaurant has $1.00 tacos, nachos and quesadillas during Happy Hour from 5 to 7 pm, along with $4.00 margaritas and $2.50 drafts.

Thursday

Mendoza Express has a deal on Thursdays offering 3 tacos with either rice or beans, all for just $5.00.

Mulligan’s Sports Bar & Grill offers 3 tacos for $3.00 on Thursday nights, along with $2.50 Bud and Bud Light drafts and bottles. Go at happy hour from 4 to 6 and you can also get $1.00 off all drinks and half-off appetizers.

Backdraft Bar & Grille in Baldwin has $1.00 tacos today from 4pm-11pm.

Steel Towne Inn in Braddock Hills offers 50 cent tacos on Thursday nights as well, along with a $1.00 off all appetizers.

And finally, both Breeze’s Bar & Grille in Bethel Park and Stinky’s Bar & Grille (7-11pm) both offer dollar tacos.

Article courtesy of: http://www.livingpittsburgh.com/2010/05/dinner-deals-restaurant-specials-cheap-taco-pittsburgh/

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2011 Pittsburgh Irish Festival

If you are looking for a cultural experience check out the 2011 Pittsburgh Irish Festival this weekend!

Event: 2011 Pittsburgh Irish Festival
Location: Riverplex at Sandcastle, 1000 Sandcastle Drive, West Homestead (Pittsburgh) PA, 15120
Date: Friday-Sunday, September 9-11, 2011
Time: Friday 4pm-midnight, Saturday 11am-midnight, Sunday 9am-6pm
Cost: Adults are $10 inadvance and $12 at the gate. Kids 12 and under are free.
Description: A 3 day Irish Festival featuring Irish music, live bands and musicians, bagpipe performers, Irish dancing, food and more. For the families, they will also have Irish Arts and Crafts for the wee folk. Take home a hand-made souvenir, enjoy an Irish story, sing-a-long, Irish games and even dance an Irish Jig!

Bargain Alert! Friday is happy hour admission. Arrive between 4-6pm and get in for just $3! Additionally, students with I.D. get in for $5.00 on Friday between 6-8pm. Children under 12 receive FREE admission for the entire event. Other I.D. discounts include $8 for Students and Seniors over 60, and also $5 for active or retired military and public safety officers. Don’t forget your I.D.!

Information courtesy of: http://www.livingpittsburgh.com/2011/08/2011-pittsburgh-irish-festival-pittsburgh-events/

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The Sit Stay Love Event At Bakery Square

Time: Saturday, September 24th from 12-5pm.

Location:  Bakery Square

More Info:  Stop by Bakery Square for The Animal Rescue League’s pet adoption event. We hope you find room in your heart (and home) for one of our area's homeless pups!

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Check Out These Birthday Dinner Deals In The Burgh!

Looking for a dinner deal for your birthday? Living Pittsburgh did the research for you and found some good deals.  Read on for more info:

Living Pittsburgh has found some great ways for you to celebrate your special day in Pittsburgh for less. Some places even offer you the ability to cash in on your free birthday meal during the week before and after your birthday so you can space out the bargains. Look for more LP Birthday bargains coming soon. Here’s a hint – we’ve found deals all day! If you know of any other local birthday dinner deals in Pittsburgh, please send the details to info@livingpittsburgh.com.

Join Big Burrito’s mailing list to receive a complimentary entree from one of their restaurants for up to $30! You can choose from Casbah, Eleven, Kaya, Mad Mex, and Soba, and the coupon is valid one week prior to and one week after your birthday. You also receive a booklet each holiday season filled with free meal coupons – up to a $10 value each.

Sign up for the Doublewide Grill’s Birthday Club, and you’ll get half off your meal for up to four people on your birthday and half birthday. The coupon must be used on the date, 3 days before or 3 days after the date. Tax and gratuity not included. To sign up and get your coupons, please email your address and birthdate to promotions@doublewidegrill.com.

Join Atria’s to receive a free entree coupon that is valid one week prior to and one week after your birthday. Purchase one regular priced entree, and receive a complimentary entree of equal or lesser value with valid proof of identification. You’ll also receive receive a special for your anniversary.

Sign up for Houlihan’s Email Club and receive a coupon for a free entree on your birthday, plus a free appetizer coupon when you join.

Register for Benihana’s Chef’s Table and you’ll get a complimentary $30 birthday certificate for Japanese cuisine to use during the month of your birthday.

If you register for the Inn Crowd Online from the Franklin Inn, you’ll get birthday certificates, a welcome coupon & more.

Read more: http://www.livingpittsburgh.com/2011/01/happy-birthday-dinner-deals-in-the-burgh/

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2011 South Park Rib & Wing Challenge This Weekend

Looking for something to do this weekend? Why not the 2011 South Park Rib and Wing Challenge?

Event: 2011 South Park Rib & Wing Challenge
Location: Allegheny South Park Fairgrounds
Date: Saturday, September 3 through Monday, September 5, 2011
Time: Saturday & Sunday noon until 10pm, Monday noon until 8pm
Cost: $8 pre-sale, $10 at the door*
Description: Enjoy live music, a children’s zone, crafter’s market, Wild World of Animals shows, an activity tent, pony rides, a petting zoo and lots more. The South Park Rib and Wing Challenge has some of the best BBQ’s from all over the country.  Come out to taste the perfection that these ribbers and wingers are preparing and you decide who will take home the Challenge’s 1st place trophy. For additional information, please visit their website.

Information courtesy of: http://www.livingpittsburgh.com/2011/08/2011-south-park-rib-wing-challenge-pittsburgh-festiva/

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Looking For Something To Do? Check Out The ToonSeum!

Located in downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District, the ToonSeum is a must see! Admission for children 12 and under is free while adults and children over 13 are just $4.00. 

The mission of the ToonSeum is to celebrate the art of cartooning. Their goal is to promote a deeper appreciation of the cartoonists and their work through hands-on workshops, community outreach, cartoon-oriented educational programming, and exhibitions of original cartoon art. Pittsburgh's Museum of Cartoon Art, is one of only three museums in the United States dedicated exclusively to the cartoon arts. The ToonSeum features exhibitions of original comic and cartoon art, with new exhibits every two months.

For more information please visit: http://www.toonseum.org/about_us.html

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The Burgh, Exposed: Fall in Pittsburgh: Some stuff to do

Fall is almost here.  Don’t worry, we’ve found some cool things to keep you busy this fall thanks to The Burgh, Exposed.  Check out the links for some fun events coming this fall:

Let's face it. Fall is coming.

Let's also face this: fall in Pittsburgh is great. I would be content if the only season we had here was fall.

I digress.

Here's some of my personal recommendations of things to do in Pittsburgh this fall:

The Burgh, Exposed: Fall in Pittsburgh: Some stuff to do

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Improvements to the CMU Bakery Square Shuttle

Some changes have been made to the CMU shuttle service and we wanted to update all of our CMU students, employees, and affiliates.

We also have the Bakery Square (Google Headquarters) and PTC Shuttles (Pittsburgh Technology Center) which are buses dedicated to transporting CMU affiliates between campus and those locations.  Improvements have been made to the Bakery Square Shuttle which will provide another transportation opportunity to campus for affiliates who reside in the Shady Avenue and Fifth Avenue areas.

Check out all the details on the CMU Shuttle and Escort website!

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Renters insurance and 4 reasons you need it

If you don’t have renters insurance yet, read this article.  It’s cheap and can be a life saver.

If you're renting for the first time, or have been renting for years without insurance, you'll want to consider purchasing some insurance. MSN.com debunks four myths about renters insurance, which just might persuade you to buy a plan:

Renters insurance and 4 reasons you need it - MSN Real Estate

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Dark Knight Filming at Heinz Field: Extras Needed! in Boring Pittsburgh

Want to be an extra in the new Batman movie?  All you have to do is what Pittsburgher’s do best: be a football fan!  Check out the link for more details if you’re interested in participating Saturday.

Not only is Batman making a movie in the Burgh, he’s going to film it in Pittsburgh’s favorite place, doing Pittsburgh’s favorite thing! The Dark Knight Rises is scheduled to shoot a scene at Heinz Field and they want to fill the stadium with Steelers fans like YOU! For yinzer comic book fans this is a dream come true. The only thing that could make August 6, 2011 any better is if Troy Polamalu throws on a Gotham Rogues uniform and plays strong safety for the cameras.

Dark Knight Filming at Heinz Field: Extras Needed! in Boring Pittsburgh

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Steelers 'interested' in Burress, who dines twice with Steelers

The Steelers are thinking of resigning Plaxico Burress.  What do you think about this?

Plaxico Burress dined twice with the Steelers at Saint Vincent College today and while he did not talk to the press, it appears it may come down to an AFC championship game matchup for his services: the Steelers vs. the New York Jets.

Steelers 'interested' in Burress, who dines twice with Steelers

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More details for BARKery Square and an exciting pet-friendly weekend!

Calling all pet lovers, animal enthusiasts, and families: Join us at Bakery Square for a weekend of pet-friendly fun.  BARKery Square this Saturday is an afternoon of fun for you and your pup!  AND the Sunday Marketplace from Noon-4:00pm will feature artists, fresh baked goods, and produce from Grow Pgh!

At BARKery Square, guests will enjoy pet-friendly activities, live music from local bands, THE PRESSURE & MACE BALLARD, and Bakery Square’s first YAPPY HOUR – a 21+ happy hour featuring free micro-brews and Clique vodka cocktails.

BARKery Square and Sunday Marketplace are FREE and open to the public events – rain or shine.  FREE event parking is available in the Bakery Square garage.

BARKery Square THIS SATURDAY from 1-4pm Activities include:

• Pet Fashion Show featuring models in clothing from Bakery Square’s Anthropologie and Free People posing with their pups.
• Pet Look-a-like Contest: Do you and your pet resemble each other?  Get your photo and be automatically entered to win great prizes!
• Yappy Hour!  FREE cocktails and craft beers while you jam to great music with your furry friends.  Your suggested donations at the door will benefit Animal Friends.
• Face Painter for kids and adults.  Get your favorite animal face!
• Adoptable Pets On-site courtesy of Animal Friends.
• The Doggie Dip: Think it’s too hot to bring your pup?  Fear not, as BARKery Square will feature kiddie pools for your furry friend to cool off.
• Doggie Biscotti: Enjoy free treats for your pup courtesy of Enrico Biscotti Company.
• Kids Craft Area: Design a take home puppy bandana for your pet and take a Bakery Square water bottle home for you.
• The Pittsburgh Zoo will have an animal character on-site for kids, and their sidwalk chalk muralist will be on-site as well!

Can’t make it on Saturday?  Visit the Sunday Marketplace from NOON-4pm at Bakery Square on July 24th featuring over a dozen I Made It! Market artists, fresh baked goods, and produce from local urban gardeners Grow Pittsburgh!

Want to get your company or organization involved?  Email events@bakery-square.com to learn how.

ABOUT BAKERY SQUARE:

Bakery Square is a new mixed-use development located in the East End neighborhood of Pittsburgh, built out of the existing site of the historic Nabisco Factory.  Offering an exciting lifestyle center environment while hosting numerous free events to connect with its neighbors and guests.

Bakery Square is home to Google, UPMC, Anthropologie, Free People, Urban Active Fitness, Jimmy Johns, Coffee Tree Roasters, Learning Express Toys, Springhill Suites Marriott Hotel, Massage Heights, Boxwood, University of Pittsburgh, Veteran Administration, and more!

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Happy 4th of July!

“You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness.  You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism.”
-Erma Bombeck

We wish everyone a Happy 4th of July!

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EQT Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta :: July 2 - 4, 2011

It’s the Fourth of July weekend and for Pittsburghers, that means it’s time for the Three Rivers Regatta!  Check out the link for all the details this year for the event that runs from Saturday to Monday.  This is just a fun way to spend the holiday weekend.

The 34th annual—all FREE—EQT Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta is the tri-state's most anticipated summertime event... and rightfully so. Every year, over 600,000 spectators swarm the banks of the Allegheny River, the inviting lawns of historic Point State Park, and the meandering river-walk of scenic North Shore to celebrate the region's most prolific festival of air, land and water entertainment.

Get ready to welcome the “Beach in the Burgh” as Sandsational builds the largest sand sculpture Pittsburgh has ever seen. Skies will explode nightly with Circus Orange—the most exhilarating combo of pyrotechnics and aerial stunt performers in North America.

Speed? Oh yeah, the North American Powerboat Championships are here again to tame the Allegheny at 125/mph! And, of course, one of the nation's top fireworks shows—the EQT “Flashes of Freedom” Fireworks Fantasia, produced by Pyrotecnico, caps it all. In between, there's music, food, kids zone, dragon boats, bass fishing, bike stunt shows, “Anything that Floats,” and so much more at the summer's largest family extravaganza and your FREE Vacation Destination!

EQT Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta :: July 2 - 4, 2011

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Sip in Style at Bakery Square on June 25th

Join vitaminWater zero at Sip in Style on Saturday June 25, 2011 from 5p-10p at Bakery Square benefiting Dress for Success!

See this summmer's newest trends from Sew Addicted, Trendy Trousseau and Bakery Square's own Anthropologie and Free People. DJ Michael Cunningham will be spinning while the fashions come alive on local models! Shop sidewalk and trunk sales and get the looks straight from the runway.

The vitaminwater Zero VIP Lounge will be hosted by 85 Broads, a global women's networking group, on the terrace of the 2nd Floor of the Google Building. Connect with Pittsburgh's finest and most fashionable while sipping a specialty vitaminwater zero cocktail, courtesy of Clique Vodka. Cool down with a frosty brew provided by Frank B. Fuhrer Wholesale. Get to know other local business professionals, entrepreneurs, and fashionistas! Guests are encouraged to bring gently worn women's apparel, footwear, and accessories to donate to Dress for Success.

A suggested donation is asked to enter the vitaminwater Zero VIP Lounge. 21+ and older guests only please. IDs will be checked upon entry.

Sip in Style at Bakery Square and pop by retailers like Boxwood for timeless fragrances and lifestyle items. Stop in to Coffee Tree Roasters and Jimmy Johns for a bite, grab a gourmet dog from Franktuary or satisfy your sweet tooth by visiting the Dozen Cupcake Mobile or The Goodie Truck!

Sip in Style is an all ages, FREE event that is open to the public. Parking is available at no charge in the garage on-site at Bakery Square.

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Bakery Square in the Wall Street Journal

There is once again confirmation that Pittsburgh is one of the best places to live!  Also, we were excited to see Bakery Square mentioned in the Wall Street Journal!

There are a few abandoned mills along the rivers, but most seem to have been razed and replaced with office parks. The old Heinz ketchup factory on the North Side is now luxury apartments. Google does engineering and robotics research in a former Nabisco factory near Shadyside on the East End.

Pittsburgh's Housing Market Thrives - WSJ.com

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Happy Memorial Day

 

“It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.” – General George S. Patton

We would like to wish everyone a Happy Memorial Day and extend a sincere thanks to everyone who serves or has served in the United States Military!  Check out some of this great Memorial Day history:

http://www.usmemorialday.org/backgrnd.html

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No More Availability in Oakland

We just wanted to update our fans and let you know that all our Oakland apartments have been leased.  However, we do still have availability throughout Pittsburgh.  Give us a call 412-683-3810 so we can help you find an apartment while we still have availability!

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This Week’s Featured Townhome

If you are looking for a great townhome in Pittsburgh, be sure to check out the New Walnut on Forbes from Walnut Capital.  These townhomes feature a two car garage, 3 bedrooms, central air, and an included washer/dryer.  If you are interested, please give us a call at (412) 683-3810.

Seven brand new townhomes have been added to the Walnut on Forbes community. These units capture the charm of the historic homes, but are completely new construction from the ground-up, with all new interiors and appliances. Enjoy all the amenities of the Walnut on Forbes plan, including a great location in the heart of Squirrel Hill and convenient public transportation. In addition, these homes each have a two car garage.

Walnut Capital - Pittsburgh's Best Properties

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Read about the awesome engineering that went into the design of Urban Active at Bakery Square

But the work – and the challenges – didn’t stop there.  Urban Active’s BkSq space was essentially constructed out of pre-cast concrete and partially enclosed by a parking garage. “It was basically one giant precast box,” explained Eric Pascucci, PJ Dick Project Manager. 

That 47,000 square foot pre-cast box, however, was ultimately transformed into a state-of-the-art fitness space including a swimming pool, tanning salon, racquetball and basketball courts, locker room facilities with saunas and lounges, personal and group fitness studios, as well as a mezzanine level complete with a smoothie bar and pro-shop.

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Happy Mother’s Day!

We want to wish all the mothers a Happy Mother’s Day!  Tell us how you are honoring your mom this year.

 

Also, check out some of these interesting Mother’s Day facts:

Here is a collection of amazing Mothers Day trivia. You'll find that most of these Mother Day trivia are hard to believe yet true. Just for your ease we have segregated these Mother's Day facts and trivia into various sections. You may use these Mother's Day Trivia to amaze your friends or put them as questions in any Mothers Day Quiz programme.

Mother's Day Trivia,Mothers Day Facts,Mothers Day Trivia

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Pop City's 5th Birthday Bash at Bakery Square

This exciting Pop City 5th Birthday Bash is just over a week away on Wednesday the 11th.  If you buy tickets in advance, they are $5 off the normal price.  For just $20 you will enjoy local food, cocktails, and live music!  Click the link for full details and to order tickets from ShowClix.

Pop City invites you to celebrate its 5th anniversary on 5.11.11 at Pittsburgh's newest East End development, Bakery Square!
Enjoy an evening of local food, cocktails, live acoustic performance by Melinda (http://listentomelinda.com/) and DJ J. Malls ((http://www.myspace.com/j_malls) spinning his danceable groove, and a special POP-era performance by Pittsburgh Opera (www.pittsburghopera.org)! Experience local art and more musical performances from Pop City's supporters and partners over the past five years. Expect the edgy, cool vibe you've come to know and love from Pop City.

Tickets for Pop City's 5th Birthday Bash in Pittsburgh from ShowClix

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Pop City’s fifth anniversary coming in just a couple weeks to Walnut Capital’s Bakery Square!

Has the 'burgh morphed into the city that never sleeps?  Holy Batman!  Still, there's one more party to add to your list.  Pop City is celebrating its fifth anniversary mid-May with a birthday bash at Bakery Square.  Food, cocktails, acoustic set by blues-rocker Melinda and grooves courtesy of DJ J. Malls.  Best of all, you'll rub shoulders with those we've partnered with and written about over these many years.  Pittsburgh is filled with great people doing extraordinary things and we'll raise a glass to that as well as you, our readers.  Join us for a night that does Pittsburgh right.

Let's Get This Party Started

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Don’t forget to file your taxes by Monday, April 18th

Before you rush to file your taxes today, remember that you actually have three more days to get your forms turned in to the tax man.

Instead of being due on April 15, which is typically the filing deadline, your taxes are due Mon., April 18 this year.

The three bonus days come thanks to Emancipation Day, a little-known Washington, D.C., holiday that celebrates the freeing of slaves in the district.

Emancipation Day falls on Sat., April 16, but it is observed in D.C. on Fri., April 15. That prompted the IRS to extend the tax filing deadline to April 18 this year. Under the tax code, filing deadlines can't fall on Saturdays, Sundays or holidays.

Tax Day extended to April 18 - Apr. 15, 2011

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WV’s EDISON.21 Team Connects with Pittsburgh Innovators . . . At Bakery Square!

Bakery Square is proud to be a LEED certified development and it was great to help the EDISON.21 Team by discussing this innovation and setting an example for future developers!

The EDISON.21 Project, a program dedicated to cultivating innovative thinking that leads to new business development, heads to the Pittsburgh area Thursday for its first full immersion in sustainable community design.

The EDISON.21 team, a group of 12 young adults, plus design and construction professionals, mentors and program sponsors, are slated to visit several sites that are the world’s first examples of high performance building in several categories.

The three-day tour will include stops at Bakery Square, where the group will meet and talk with developer Todd Reidbord of Walnut Capital; Consol Energy Center, the world’s first LEED Gold Certified hockey arena; and the David L. Lawrence Center, the world’s first “green” convention facility.

WV’s EDISON.21 Team to Connect with Pittsburgh Innovators – American Banking News

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Walnut Capital's Next Big Development Project Waiting in the Wings

Target may be the next big thing in East Liberty, but there’s a project waiting in the wings that would bring the Highland Building back to life, along with the nearby Wallace Building.
Giving an historic building its purpose back seems more meritorious and more interesting than slapping up a giant box store... sorry Tar-zhay.
The state holds the key — a $4.5 million grant from its Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program. That money would be spent to build a parking garage between the Highland and Wallace buildings. Lack of parking has been the main reason why four developers over a decade have walked away from repurposing plans for the Highland.

Waiting on the Governator

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Bakery Square State Fact Sheet!

Check out the great fact sheet about Bakery Square produced by the state:

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Pittsburgh Named America's Most Livable City

Just in case anyone didn't believe it before, more proof that Pittsburgh is the best place to live!

Each year Carnegie Mellon's Tepper School of Business attracts some of the brightest master's degree candidates in the country. But the admissions staff occasionally has to sway prospective students with their choice of top schools who wonder why they should relocate to Pittsburgh, Pa.

"Pittsburgh has a really great cultural scene. We have a great ballet and a great symphony that travels the world and performs to packed houses, and there's a restaurant scene that's much more diverse than it ever was when I was growing up," says Wendy Hermann, director of student services for master's programs and a Pittsburgh native. "And it's an easier sell, now that the Steelers and Penguins won their respective titles."

America's Most Livable Cities - Forbes.com

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Move over, Honolulu; Pittsburgh's No. 1 in U.S.

Chalk it up as another win for the City of Champions.

A new study released Monday from the London-based Economist Intelligence Unit listed Pittsburgh as the "most livable city" in the U.S., narrowly edging out Honolulu for the top bragging rights.

Move over, Honolulu; Pittsburgh's No. 1 in U.S.

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Walnut Capital helping East Liberty go green

Kevin Driscoll has no physical infirmity, and he obviously never will be pregnant.

But when Driscoll visits Bakery Square in East Liberty, he quickly can grab a designated parking space that would get most people towed if they took it. Such are the benefits of driving a "green" vehicle.

"It's kind of a nice reward," said Driscoll, 44, an information technology consultant from McCandless who has owned a hybrid Toyota Prius for the past five years.

Reserved parking in East Liberty goes green - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

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Bakery Square wins “Best Mixed Use” at the 18th Annual NAIOP Award Banquet

 

Bakery Square was recently presented with an award for “Best Mixed Use” for 2010 at the 18th Annual NAIOP Award Banquet.  Thank you for the support from our fans!

Award Banquet

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Will East Liberty's historic Highland Building finally get a second life?

Last year, the Urban Redevelopment Authority approved partnering developers Walnut Capital and Massaro Properties' plans for a $23 million conversion of the Highland Building and neighboring Wallace Building into 129 one-bedroom apartments, a new parking garage, fitness center, and small retail storefronts.

Will East Liberty's historic Highland Building finally get a second life?

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Happy St. Patrick's Day

We want to wish all our fans a Happy St. Patrick’s Day!  Check out the link below for some fun St. Patricks’s Day facts:

St. Patrick’s Day is observed on March 17 because that is the feast day of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It is believed that he died on March 17 in the year 461 AD. It is also a worldwide celebration of Irish culture and history. St. Patrick’s Day is a national holiday in Ireland, and a provincial holiday in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The actual color of St. Patrick is blue. Green became associated with St. Patrick's Day during the 19th century. Green, in Irish legends, was worn by fairies and immortals, and also by people to encourage their crops to grow.

Fun Facts about St. Patrick's Day

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CMU and Bakery Square Shuttles

Check out all the great shuttles available through CMU including our very own Bakery Square Shuttle:

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Walnut Capital Shuttle

Did you know about the Walnut Capital Shuttle?  This shuttle is offered free of charge for all tenants of properties managed by Walnut Capital and is available Monday through Friday.  Click the link below to see the schedule:

Walnut Capital Shuttle Schedule

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Daylight Savings Time Begins on March 13

 

Daylight savings time is coming up this weekend.  Don’t forget to set your clocks forward!

Every year, daylight savings time seems to take people by surprise. In the United States, daylight savings time begins on March 13 at 2 a.m. local time except in parts of Arizona and Hawaii. As the popular saying goes, clocks need to "spring forward" to observe the change. In other words, clocks need to be set ahead by one hour when the clock strikes 2 a.m.

Daylight Savings Time Begins on March 13 in the U.S. - Yahoo! News

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Just 2 townhomes left at University Commons

 

Don’t miss your chance to live right in the heart of Oakland at the University Commons.  We only have 2 townhomes left starting at $1680.  View all the details about these townhomes on the Walnut Capital Website.  You can even download an application as well!

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