The Burgh, Exposed

Real Quick N'at

2012-01-30T14:42:00.002-05:00

1. I found this magnificent Pittsburgh t- shirt on Pinterest and desperately want it. What I don't want is to pay the $7 in shipping fees. Here's hoping Ford will read this post before Valentine's Day and get it for me. If Ford doesn't read it until after Valentine's Day, here's hoping he'll feel guilty enough to buy it for me anyways.

2. Ford doesn't like this shirt, even though he loves Geno, the Pens, et al. What's not to love about this shirt?!

.......................................

3.. Pittsburgh has been named the 6th most Literate City in the country. Of course, being that you're reading this blog, this comes as no surprise to you, you genius, you.

4. I automatically assume all of you readers are geniuses. You're reading my blog, arent you?

5. I still never did eat that cap egg sandwich from Primanti Bros. Don't worry it's on my "To ~~Eat~~ Do" List.

6. I don't have a "To Eat" List. That would be ridiculous. ~~Or would it!?!?~~

Pittsburgh Food

2012-01-27T09:26:00.003-05:00

1. It's voting time! Go on over to Pittsburgh Magazine and vote for your favorite restaurants in Pittsburgh! If you even consider Eat n' Park, I will find you, throw breadcrumbs in your yard, so you wake up to scores of scary-ass city pigeons outside your window. Get your ass to NOLA, or BRIX, or Girasole for the love of Sauerkraut Saul. Hugs!

2. The Pioneer Woman is coming to Pittsburgh! I stumbled upon her blog about a year or two ago, and absolutely love her recipe ideas. She has already written and published cookbook #1, and will include the 'Burgh in part of her cookbook #2 tour. On her facebook page, she is taking suggestions of where to hold her book signing, and places to visit during her time in the Steel City.

3. I'm jonesing for a Primanti Bros capicola and egg sammich. Thought you should know.

Happy Friday! It was 53 degrees when I woke up this January 27th morning!

Enjoying this might be a sign that I'm a bad person.....

2012-01-23T10:26:00.001-05:00

....or it might be a sign that I'm a great Pittsburgher.

So Pittsburgh.

2012-01-19T10:54:00.000-05:00

I took this as I was driving into work this week ....

To me, this is so Pittsburgh. Hard working, construction abounding, honesty and a terrible towel.

Pittsburgh is "In"

2012-01-17T13:56:00.002-05:00

...does this mean we get to sit at the popular table during lunchtime now?!

Obviously I'm thrilled that Pittsburgh is considered the cool place to be in 2012, as it is written in The List via the Washington Post a couple weeks ago. And we've ousted Portland. And , damn, those hipsters are PISSED.

In response, one Portland blogger wrote: "Well, we look forward to a torrent of NYT pieces lauding pierogies, chip-chop ham, and polka music in the coming year."

Wait----whaa?!? What did we ever do to Portland? It's not like David Conrad or some other black-and-gold blooded, pierogi-loving son-of-a-Pirates fan created The List. Us Pittsburghers, well, we're just here doin' what we always do. Dropping proper vowel sounds, rejoicing at the sight of the sun, balancing on the edge of our seats for Sid's return, eatin' some sammiches and waiting for Steelers Training Season (is it July, yet?).

Even the Post-Gazette asks:

"Question No. 1: Is Pittsburgh - by way of its cheap housing, fine-arts students, emerging hip-hop scene, Rust Belt bona fides and recent recognition by The Washington Post as the "in" place to be (replacing Portland, Ore.) - now, officially, a haven for hipsters?

Question No. 2: Would Pittsburgh even want to be?"

Okay.P-G. Just because Pittsburgh has been deemed awesome by the Post doesn't mean that we are going to attract the same demographic (I'm lookin' at you, hipsters) that Portland did/does.

Second - good point. Does Pittsburgh want to be considered "in?" I mean, from where I'm sitting, Pittsburgh looks just as beautiful as it did last year, and the year before that.

Style-blogger for the Post throws some salt in Portland's wound:

"Portland, with its elaborate facial hair and abundance of strip clubs, represents irony.
Pittsburgh, with its working-class pragmatism, is the opposite: earnest and straightforward. It’s a place where people drink cheap beer and wave their Terrible Towels without self-consciousness.
Hipsters take faux working-class attributes —brusque beards, Pabst Blue Ribbon and occupations such as butchery — and integrate them into their lives with an ironic wink and a superiority complex.
In Pittsburgh, you can find all of the above, only without the derision and affectation."

Well then. *loosens fictional tie knot around neck* This is awkward - and on Pittsburgh's behalf, I will say, True. Never having been to Portland, I cannot verify or disprove the claim's of ironic winking and superiority complexes abounding.

The truth is, if Pittsburgh is "in" for 2012 - that's really great. We live in a fantastic city that has a lot more to offer than chipped ham, pierogies and polka music (what?). We have a blossoming cultural district with a wide variety of genres, gorgeous green spaces, museums galore, a huge academic life, and a tight- knit community that works hard every day to improve Pittsburgh. And I've barely scratched the surface.
We hold onto traditions and we never let them go, regardless of whether we're the Most Liveable City in America or not.

Jesus Hopped the A Train

2012-01-17T11:28:00.008-05:00

This last weekend a friend and I spent a wonderful night in the Northside of Pittsburgh; something out of the norm for a Shadyside and Fox Chapel duo. After having a wonderful ( and very romantic, might I add) dinner at Brix on Western Ave, the show was next. We headed onto the New Hazlett Theater, where Barebones Productions' Jesus Hopped the A Train was hosting it's opening night.

Jesus Hopped the A Train, written by Stephen Adly Guirgis and directed by Derrick Sanders, addresses a question - perhaps The Question - that has started wars, torn families apart, inspired thousands of songs, propelled scholars to pen verses, journals, novels- and that propels the show: proving or disproving the meaning and existence of God.
Considering the vast and VIP attention this delicate subject matter has received, perhaps one wouldn't think of finding a heated and eloquent debate in a high-security prison cell. But that's where "Jesus" takes us. And that, at the core, is why it works.

We begin and end our search for God and his/her meaning in Rikers Jail, New York. Yeah, you read that right. And what better place? After all, Rikers temporarily housed Lil Wayne and is known for unruly and violent corrections officers. If you can't have a proper existential debate there, where can you?

Jesus is raw and primitive, forcing its audience and characters to confront answers to questions they'd probably rather not consider. Two killers debate right and wrong, why God does and doesn't exist, and makes you question everything you thought you knew about your own moral standards.

Angel Cruz's best friend got sucked into a cult. In an effort to save his friend, Angel "shot the cult leader in the ass" - a shot that resulted in two trips tot he hospital: one for surgery, and another in an attempt to fix surgery complications. Complications were not fixed and the cult leader died.

Lucius Jackson is a serial killer who has at least eight deaths to his name. A product of the combination of abuse, psychosis and drugs, Lucius attributes his dismembering and murder to that deadly trio.
Angel doesn't believe in God. At least, he's pretty sure he doesn't. Well, maybe - but he can't say for sure either way. Confused, at the very least.
Lucius' sunny optimism about life, life after death is almost contagious, as he repeats bible chapters in sequential order, telling anyone who'll listen about how God saved and forgave him.
Get it? - Angel and Lucius. Representatives of Heaven and Hell (if they even exist). Two killers. One after the fact, one deliberate. Does that make them the same or at opposite ends of the morality spectrum?

Simple, cages of solid steel separate and simultaneously unite Angel and Lucius; a set created by Douglas McDermot remains true to Barebones' credo of minimal production elements to enhance the subject matter presented.

Speaking of Barebones' credo, which usually boasts all Pittsburgh actors, Jesus breaks away from that, introducing brilliant actors Raul Castillo (Angel), Edwin Lee Gibson (Lucius), from NYC and Texas, respectively. Why outside of Pittsburgh this time? Jordan explains to the Trib, "We don't have a strong pool of Latino actors in Pittsburgh." And in order to accurately portray the play as it was written, they had to search and scour nationwide. And Pittsburgh is lucky for it. Elena Passarello (Angel's public defender) and Leandro Cano (a malicious corrections officer) round out the main roles, resulting in a gritty and honest performance that I would describe as "dazzling" if the show wasn't so dark.

The dark to which I refer, is the grey matter which lies between what we humans like to pretend is neatly defined in the confines in the context of a "black and white" reality - or is it fantasy?

When all is said and done, Jesus Hopped the A Train is not about the struggle and differences between the two killers, but the struggle within each of them, their beliefs and their relationship with a higher power - whether that higher power is God or the Justice System.

Jesus Hopped the A Train

Click here for times and tickets.

SIGH.

2012-01-11T14:00:00.000-05:00

Brilliant, Ben!

That ridiculous fedora atop your head is TOTALLY distracting everyone from the fact that WE LOST. ~~A LOSS OF EPIC PROPORTIONS.~~ You are so clever. And it's such an original stunt. Not like you've ever had something atop your skull meant to distract the public from a topic you'd rather not discuss. A- HEM.

Gotta go, folks. My shift for Bridge Watch here in the 'Burgh.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Playoff Time!

2012-01-06T08:39:00.004-05:00

Oh, hey there Tim!

Hey - what's wrong, buddy??

....................................

.....................................

Oh. Well, ya know. He just probably looks scarier than he actually is because he's in uniform, that's all. When you think of James Harrison in his Steelers uniform, inevitably visions like this:

...run through your mind over and over and OVER again...

(Raise your hand if you wish you knew what Harrison said to Flacco at that moment.)
*raises hands*

Seriously, out of uniform, I'm sure James Harrison is just your average, chill, non threatening Pittsburgh dad......

Hmmmmm. Perhaps not. Sorry Tim.

Cya! Oh - by the way -

Kneeling in prayer and winning playoffs has been a tradition in Pittsburgh long before you were around.

What's this called, snow?

2012-01-03T08:41:00.002-05:00

I woke up this morning at the unGodly hour of 6:45am to start my trek back to work after a lovely holiday break. Not surprising, based on yesterday's weather, I was greeted ~~and when I say greeted I mean punched in the face~~ by a thin blanket of snow covering the ground. Meh. I paid it no mind.
What I did pay attention to, however, was Pittsburgher's reaction to driving in the snow. Why? WHY?!
Snow is not a freak occurence in the 'Burgh, not by a long, long, shot. Yet during the first few "real" snows of the year, it is many Pittsburghers' moral duty to be completely flabbergasted and caught off guard when the stuff falls to the ground. These Pittsburghers are all, "What's this called, snow? How do I drive in this again? AHH, it's cooooold!"

Sigh.

The Internets just told me that Pittsburgh averages a foot of snowfall in January and 9 inches in February (personally, I feel this is low). That means if you've lived in Pittsburgh for more than 3 years, you have no excuse for your jaw dropping to the floor when it snows on January 3rd. Or any day until about March 15th. Until then, here are my Pittsburgh Winter Weather Helpful Hints.

Happy Old & New Year

2012-01-01T21:51:00.000-05:00

2011 was a great year for Pittsburgh in general, and this Pittsburgher particularly...

The 'Burgh Exposed was voted the Most Valuable Blog in Pittsburgh, "Local Affairs"!

The Steelers made another Superbowl appearance,

Ford & I traveled to Punta Cana,

Pittsburgh was named The Most Liveable City, one of the Top Destinations in the World(Nat Geo).....

and the Third Worst Dressed City in the US (re: Meth Lab Casual) all in 2011

I ran in my first half Pittsburgh Marathon,

my best friend got married (to a wonderful guy),

my parents celebrated thirty years of marriage.

I can't wait to see what 2012 brings - there's nothing like anticipating the joys to come. Cheers!

Best Pittsburgh - y Christmas Stuff EVER.

2011-12-23T08:47:00.002-05:00

..Ya know. Because there are SO many Pittsburgh-Christmas songs. Whatever. As I was saying, this is an absolute favorite of mine to listen to around the holidays. It really puts me in the spirit to celebrate Christmas. And eat a Primantis sandwich. ~~And kick a Baltimore Raven~~. I kid - maybe.

So, Pittsburghers, if you haven't heard it, or even if you have, here it is for your listening pleasure:

Santa Claus is Comin' Dahtahn:

And now for your viewing pleasure, if you're still with me, here's a Christmas message from the one and only Pittsburgh Dad. Pittsburgh Dad is a hilarious mini-sitcom on Youtube created by Christ Preksta (also creator of Mercury Men) and Curt Wootton. I know Chris way back when at a local church youth program. Good people. Always funny. It's no surprise that he was involved with the hilarity that is Pittsburgh Dad. If yinz grew up in Pittsburgh, you can't help but but love this. They've spot-on captured Pittsburgh culture and what it's like to grown up Pittsburgh. I can't wait for my dad to see this. It'll be like looking in a mirror.

The Dark Knight Rises Trailer

2011-12-22T09:27:00.000-05:00

It's Pittsburghalicious. I first saw the trailer while waiting for the new Sherlock Holmes movie to begin. Allow me to reenact my reaction:

*The Dark Knight Rises Trailer Begins*

Me: OH MY GOD!
Friend who was Unfortunate to go with me: What?!
Me: IT'S HERE!
Friend: Who?
Me: *smacks friend in arm* the new Batman trailer! The one that was filmed in Pittsburgh!
Friend: Oh. Awesome! *settles back to watch*
Me: OH MY GOD I SEE HEINZ FIELD
Me: OH MY GOD LOOK IT's THAT CMU BUILDING ON 5th AVE!
Me: *smacks friend in other (in tact) arm* OH MY GOD DID YOU SEE RAVENSTAHL'S NAME ON THE BACK OF THAT JERSEY AND HINES WARD GOT THE TOUCHDOWN BUT THEY BLEW UP HEINZ FIELD!
Friend: Does anyone have any medical gauze and knows how to stitch wounds?
Me: MAN ALIVE, IS THAT SOLDIER'S AND SAILORS? SQUEEE - DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH!
Friend: Never call me again.
Me: BEST TRAILER EVERRR I CAN'T WAIT UNTIL JULY!
*turns to smack friend, but she's gone, so takes out emergency Terrible Towel and waves it*

I reacted similar when I saw the Russell Crowe film, The Next Three Days, also filmed in the 'Burgh. I think my mom's arm is still black and blue from my excitement of pointing out all the parts of Pittsburgh in the movie (the entire movie was filmed here). I can't explain why I get so excited when I see places I frequent, within my own beloved, beautiful city, up on the beautiful silver screen.
But there it is. Excitement. Flailing limbs. Peeing of the pants. Changing into emergency pants, located next to emergency terrible towel. I'm obviously destined to see the premiere of The Dark Knight Rises alone, after any potential companions read this post. *shrugs* One less distraction when I'm looking for the Terrible Towel Sneak.
Oh, here's the official Dark Knight Rises trailer:

Happy Birthday, Nina!

2011-12-21T08:35:00.001-05:00

Oh, hi there. How have you been? I've been a busy, busy little bee. Which is my excuse for not posting at all in the last week. Forgive me? No worries, just a ~~gulp~~ spoonful of medicine ~~wine~~ will do the trick and I'll be back in action before you can say Happy New Year.

Remember all those Christmas-time family birthdays I told you about? We already celebrated my dad's, and now, just like that, it is already Christmas-time family birthday # 2. So if you don't mind too much, I'd like to take a moment and say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to by beautiful little sister, Nina.
Meet Nina:

Oops. I mean -er- Meet Nina:

Precious.

Tonight we are celebrating at Buca de Beppo dahn Station Square. If you are in the neighborhood, come by and bring her gifts. Or buy her meal. It's the least you can do.

Joking! ~~kinda~~.

Fun fact: Nina is 23 years old today! On my 23rd birthday a year ~~or three~~ ago, my family also celebrated at Buca. Irony. My family haz it.

What a JAGOFF

2011-12-13T09:12:00.000-05:00

Been awhile since I've done one of these.

Pat Conway sent this to me the other day, and I thought it was too good to pass up. A musical parody about Pittsburgh traffic? In a yinzer accent? Sung to a Maroon 5 song?! Yes, please.

Sometimes I feel like a bad person, complaining about the jagoffs I run into from time to time. Here's Pat, singing his heart out about all them jagoffs there on the road while yinz are all tryin to get dahn to the Jine Iggle on time. N'at.

Yup, that'll make just about any Burgher smile - even while stuck in traffic.

Cleveland STILL Sucks.

2011-12-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

...feel the Pittsburgh STEEL.

Random Cleveland Browns fan (but lets be honest, at this point, aren't they all random?) describing and whining in detail about how jealous he is of Pittsburgh's Steelers and Pittsburgh Steeler fans.

It would be so simple to break down his points and annihilate him, point by point. But instead, I think I'll just mention the fact that last night, our quarterback beat your team with one leg.

*bows*

Just When You (I) Thought You (I) couldn't Love Troy more...

2011-12-06T18:51:00.001-05:00

...I stumble upon this gem on youtube.
DYING. FROM. THE. CUTE:

I want meatballs and candy, too Piaisos. High five!

Happy Birthday, Dad!

2011-12-05T09:54:00.001-05:00

Today is my Dad's fifty-something-or-other birthday!

Every day, I'm more and more grateful to have a wonderful, hilarious Dad who can always make me laugh.

Salute!

Pittsburgh - made Presents!

2011-12-02T08:48:00.007-05:00

So, the holiday season is upon us. For me, this means celebrating- and buying presents for - Christmas, New Years and 3/5 of my immediate family's birthdays. It can be overwhelming at times.

See? Overwhelming. Poor Puck.
...............

This is probably why I have become so textbook anal-retentive about making, tracking and completing my Christmas/Birthday List. Seriously. It's in the form of a google doc. Every time I make a purchase on my list, I ~~strikethrough~~ and type down the cost. I also have a "Christmas Confirmations/Receipts" Label in my Gmail and...well, it's intense. And meticulous. I love it. It is my End of the Year Survival Guide, so I don't go crazy, and can actually enjoy shopping, and more importantly - savor the twinkly ambiance of the most wonderful time of the year ~~except for my birthday~~.

This year, my gift list has included a lot of handmade or locally made gifts. I'm really excited about this for several reasons. First, they are unique which makes each gift extra-personal and special, and second, it feels really great to support local Pittsburgh artists. There are SO many local Pittsburgh artists on Etsy that you can peruse - and I use "Artist" loosely, as it covers anything from paintings to baby clothes to skincare products. And did I mention it's all right here in Pittsburgh?

If you're worried that it might be too late to make a purchase on Etsy for your gift to make it in time, There are "I Made it Markets" happening at different spots all over the city to help you out. This weekend, December 2nd & 3rd, there is a huge I Made It Market at the newly-renovated Bakery Square in East Liberty.

From personal use and experience, I can happily recommend many of these artists to you:
Una Biologicals makes great organic skincare products.
Garbella makes the most adorable baby (and adult) clothes (P is for Pierogi, anyone?), and I've been coveting a "Greeting from Gotham City" shirt from the Cotton Factory. And I haven't even scratched the surface.
Do yourself a solid, and check it out this weekend - and if you see a certain redhead, wave hello!

Happy Holiday (local) Shopping!

The Manliest Restaurant in America is....

2011-11-26T15:41:00.001-05:00

Primanti Brothers!

This month's issue of Men's Health has compiled a list of the manliest restaurants in America... and Primanti Bros tops the list. Men's Health's list had 50 restaurants all in the running, but none topped the testosterone-boosting concept of the main dish and all side dishes stacked between two enormous pieces of italian bread.

Men's Health deems Primanti Brothers the The Manliest Restaurant in America

The Triumphant Return of Sid the Kid

2011-11-22T08:09:00.002-05:00

sparkle!
magic!
black and gold glitter dust!
SIDNEY CROSBY.
In case you didn't know he's back. And he's back to the tune of 2 goals and 2 assists.
Concussion what?

As Lange says, "slap me silly Sidney!!!" ( I don't know)

Here's Sid's first glorious return goal:

Make sure you slow down, rewind back and forth and read Sid's lips after he scores *giggle*

Food for all 'Burghers

2011-11-17T19:16:00.001-05:00

In the spirit of Thanksgiving - in case some of you forgot, that's the holiday that occurs between Halloween and Christmas, in the month of November. The one when we stuff our faces with turkey and mashed potatoes, rather than candy or ham.

SO! Thanksgiving is upon us! Sadly, there are many people in Pittsburgh who won't have tables upon tables of buffets of desserts, appetizers and entrees to feed a small army. Two of my favorite Pittsburghers, Kiss FM Morning Freakshow's Mikey & Big Bob have created a Thanksgiving rap, appropriately titled " Gobble Gobble." Now, Mikey & Bob rap a lot. From stink bugs, to Justin Bieber's puberty, this would usually not be news.

But!

The hilarious "Gobble Gobble" is available for all to purchase on iTunes, for merely 99 cents. The best part about it is that 100% of profits made go directly to the Pittsburgh Food Bank. So now they've done it. If you have internet access (a fair assumption, on my behalf, since you are reading my blog which exists on. the. internet) purchase "Gobble Gobble: have some laughs -in between shoving pumpkin pie in your mouth, naturally- celebrate the poorly represented Thanksgiving holiday, and support your local Pittsburgh food bank and fellow Pittsburghers. Burghers helping Burghers? Best in the 'Burgh.

image from KissFM Freakshow's blog

This is a Positive Post

2011-11-14T19:52:00.000-05:00

On Friday, the Pens won!
On Saturday, Pitt won!
On Sunday, the Steelers won!

On this day, Monday November 14, 2011... it was 70 degrees in Pittsburgh.
*blink blink*
You did not read that sentence wrong. 70 degrees. Mid-November. Pittsburgh.

From this, I can only gather Mother Nature is softening us up before the proverbial shit hits the fan. And by shit, I mean snow. And by snow, I mean knee-deep, freezing, beautiful-for-a-split-second-before-it-turns-to-nasty-slush SNOW.
Can you tell I'm not winter's biggest fan? I would cheat on winter every year with fall and summer if I could. But I digress. This post began on a positive note, and it shall end on one.

THIS was Monday in Pittsburgh:

I'm going to breathe that image in on the coldest of days in January. Happy fall!

Real Quick N'at

2011-11-08T19:03:00.002-05:00

1. I forgot (again) that Halloween weekend marked The 'Burgh Exposed and mine's anniversary. I would write a reflective post, but I mainly want to say that I am grateful I have an outlet to creatively express how I feel about the city I love. I'm very grateful other people read my creations, to those who voted The 'Burgh, Exposed as the Most Valuable Blog in Pittsburgh local affairs.....and I certainly plan on continuing all the good stuff (and more) for the forseeable future. There's so much of Pittsburgh yet to be discovered, so much that I want to share with you - the good, the bad, and everything in between. Cheers! *clinks and gulps wine*

2. The boys over at the Freakshow shared these hilarious YouTube clips about how fed up Cleveland fans are with the Browns - oh, and how they think Pittsburgh smells. I don't know. Just watch, and laugh:

3. The Steelers need to beat the Bengals on Sunday. This is all. This is the only thing.

4. Hump day is here! Let's all hold hands and jump over it together...the weekend is in the air....

In Steel Town: Best of the Burgh Children's books.

2011-11-05T23:29:00.001-04:00

As I was shopping this weekend for a birthday present for my 4 year old cousin, I stumbled upon The Gift. It was perfect - not just for my cousin (which it was) but it is a perfect gift for someone who has a 4-8 year old Pittsburgher on their list.

Steel Town, written by Texas native, but Pittsburgh-dweller Jonah Winter & illustrated by Terry Widener, depicts the daily life of steel mill and coal barge workers circa the 1930's industrial era. I was immediately drawn to the colorful and luscious illustrations, before I even read the story that tells the history of Pittsburgh. Oh, and don't be surprised when you recognize places like Birmingham Bridge and Hot Metal Street. I especially loved that Winter included the culture of that era in Pittsburgh -ahem, Steel Town - like the regularity of home-cooked dishes of spaghetti or pierogies waiting after a long hard days' work.

Check it out:

Gorgeous cover.

That seems about right. Pittsburgh: traditional steel town, music, neighbors,

pierogies and spaghetti, churches & front porches.

And a look at a few of the pages:

I stumbled upon Steel Town at Kards Unlimited, on Walnut Street in Shadyside, but it's available on Amazon as well and other local book stores.

Your funny for the day..

2011-11-01T22:05:00.000-04:00

In case you've been living under a rock and haven't seen this classic Pittsburgh-y Halloween picture, courtesy of Geno's twitter, aka best twitter account EVER.

Geno tweeted this picture on Halloween of him and Sid. How do I get an invite to that party?

Halloween in Pittsburgh: Weekend Roundup

2011-10-30T11:41:00.003-04:00

Halloween weekend in Pittsburgh is always a fun one - this year was no different:

1. My mom ran her first 5k on Saturday, at an ungodly hour in the morning - in the SNOW. Yes. Snow. October 29th. Snow. I digress. I'm so proud of her for working hard to reach her goal. She ran her first 5k through the snow in 34:24!

This is my mom right before she crossed the finished line. It reminds me of a quote I love:

Here's to good women:

May we know them

May we be them

May we raise them.

2. I went as Rosie the Riveter this year for Halloween. Highly recommend - easy, comfortable, and has a lot of power and meaning. I found a great plaid workers shirt in blues, already had a red bandana, threw on some workman's boots, jeans and a big belt - some brown eye shadow as dirt on my brow and voila!

The classic Rosie the Riveter shot:

The full costume shot:

3. The infamous Puck & Elphie either love Halloween, or love being in boxes:

Halloween Kitteh - Puck - loves pumpkin-flavored booze. ~~Just like her mama.~~

Halloween Kitteh - Elphie - loves....being in the Pumpkin booze box.

Pittsburgh, PA: Vacation Hot Spot!

2011-10-27T09:23:00.004-04:00

When I was just a little thing, about 10 years old, my parents took myself, my brother and sister on vacation to Kid Heaven, aka, Disney World. I still remember how excited I was, from packing and buying new "Florida" clothes, to imagining if the rides would be as I imagined them. There are so many good memories I have from that vacation, from meeting the Disney characters (my sister was on a mission to meet Pocahontas, and my brother loved Goofy) to riding Space Mountain for the first time.

One memory that has vividly stuck in my head, and comes front and center from time to time is this: On Epcot day of our vacation, we made our way through all the different countries - although some kids may have found this boring, I personally loved it. During our time in "Italy" we were lucky enough to catch an "Italian street performance." It involved audience participation, and a honeymooning couple was chosen to dance with the performers in some kind of competition. When the competition was over, they announced that the winner won a "fabulous, exotic vacation to.....Pittsburgh!!" And everyone laughed. And I didn't understand.

At first, I was excited - "Hey, mom- they said where we're from, they said where we're from!"- and then - "Mom, why is everyone laughing - what's funny about that?" And that was when my mom explained sarcasm. She said that it was funny because no one would want to vacation to Pittsburgh - no beaches, lots of rain, a shy sun. No, it was funny because everybody knew that no one wants to go to Pittsburgh.
And I was sad - and no kid wants to be sad while visiting the Happiest Place on Earth. I loved everything about the city I lived in - why wouldn't people want to come visit and see why I loved it so much?
Yet...how the tables have turned in just ~~sixteen~~ a little over ten years. BOOM:

National Geographic has named Pittsburgh among its "Best of the World" places to visit in it's "Best Trips 2012" article. That's right. Pittsburgh - among the top places to visit - world wide. I bet those people laughing at Disney World all those years ago, and probably thousands across the country (especially Philadelphians) never thought this day would come. Over 400 bridges, three rivers, and a lot to love.
But it has. My ten-year old self has found justice. And it's glorious - just like Pittsburgh.

BEST. PITTSBURGH. SHIRT. EVER.

2011-10-24T08:05:00.008-04:00

There are no words to describe this shirt.

My sister and her BF, Bob~~bus~~ (remember him?) went t-shirt shopping down the Strip District last weekend and, while perusing the variety of t-shirts, found the Gloriousness that is this Troy Polamalu:

$7. Strip District. You're welcome

Favorite Haunted Places in Pittsburgh

2011-10-20T21:41:00.000-04:00

Can yinz believe we've hit the last 2 weeks of October already? I love October, and it always seems to fly by.

If you haven't got your scary on yet, and are interested in some of the most haunted places in Pittsburgh, look no further! I've done the research for you, and here's my top three favorite haunted places in Pittsburgh:

1. University of Pittsburgh's Cathedral of Learning
For those of you who aren't familiar, the Cathedral of Learning, one of the world's tallest education buildings (that also happens to resemble Hogwarts!) is home to dozens of Nationality rooms, such as these:

It's a great place to visit when you're in town... or if you want to catch a ghost! Pittsburgh legend has it that the Early American Nationality room is haunted by Martha Jane Poe, a descendent of the great Edgar Allan, whose quilt adorns the bed within the room. Visitors, students and professors alike have noticed strange things about the room...items out of place in a split second, smells of baking bread, imprints in the pillows as if a person was just sleeping there...and a once unbroken frame of Ms. Poe which became cracked out of nowhere. Intrigued? Spooked? Here's more info.

2. The Clayton House - at Frick Art & Historical Center
A historical Pittsburgh landmark, the Clayton House - perhaps better described as a mansion - was the home of Henry Clay Frick and his family from 1883 to the early 1900s. His daughter, Helen, loved the house so much that, even after the family moved to NYC, she came back in 1981 and lived there until she died, just three years later. Many people believe that Helen Clay Frick has yet to really leave her beloved childhood home; security guards have heard the sound of someone walking on the third floor in the middle of the night, when no one is there. You should probably go visit, and check it out for yourself!

3. Last but not least is Greenman's Tunnel
I admit, this mainly made the list because it was a ~~childhood~~ middle school-age favorite of mine. It just so happens that Greenman's Tunnel is very close to where I grew up in Pittsburgh, and, naturally, my friends and checked it out many the October night.
Oh, the story? Depends on who ya ask, but since you're here and still reading, I'm assuming you're asking me. *clears throat*

Greenman's Tunnel was so named when nearby resident reported a man who was mentally disturbed peeping into neighbors' windows while wearing a green mask. ~~Urban~~ legend has it that this man lived in a shack a stone's throw away from the tunnel, and who would scare away anyone who went near it at night. This man is rumored to be a former electrical worker, who was working late one dark and stormy (what else?) night, was struck by lightning, not only disfiguring him but drawing out a death that night. The legend continues that this man's ghost has remained in the tunnel, taunting late night drivers ~~and middle schoolers looking for a thrill~~. Greenman's is located in-between Jefferson Hills and South Park, about 30 minutes south of downtown Pittsburgh. OH, and it's creepy.

Happy haunting!

Monday LOL

2011-10-17T11:23:00.002-04:00

Because it's Monday....
And it was hard getting up this morning....
And because the Pittsburgh weathermen & women are forecasting SNOW on Friday....

A Classic Pittsburgh LOL, to make your Monday a bit better:

No Drama like a Greek Drama

2011-10-13T08:19:00.005-04:00

Pittsburgh Public Theater's newest production, Electra, brings the drama. As you may or may not know, I review local productions in an effort to bring light and emphasis to Pittsburgh's fast-growing theater community. Last week I had the pleasure of seeing Pittsburgh Public's season-opener and widely known Greek drama, Sophocles' Electra.

"Dramatic, yes. Lovely, no. Worn and edgy and boiling with anger, yes." This was Director Ted Pappas' qualifiers in his search for for the perfect actress to play the title role in Pittsburgh Public's production. Ironically, it is the perfect descriptor for yours truly to accurately describe what audiences can expect when they go see Electra.

As you enter, even the set reflects the raw, emotional drama that theatre-goers are about to witness, even before the lights are dimmed and any words are spoken. Enormous, rusted metallic walls with bloodstains set the scene while Electra bemoans her murdered father, long lost brother and disconnected sister.

But before we get any further...for those of you who need a brief brush-up on your Greek drama: Many years before the play begins, Clytemnestra, the queen, and her lover murdered the king- Agamemnon. Daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra, Electra, saved her brother Orestes by sending him away with a servant. Electra (Catherine Eaton) opens with Orestes (David Bielewicz) returning to his homeland, and ready to seek revenge and end Electra's grieving. Oh yea, and true to Greek drama, Electra is a one act play.

-Please don't ask me to say any of those names three times fast - it simply can't be done.-

The emotional anchor of the play is the title character, played by Catherine Eaton, who describes the role of Electra as "one of the most exciting rand challenging roles in the female canon." Save for the last three minutes of the play, Electra is absolutely miserable, filled with an all-consuming sadness, remorse, and the injustice of it all. Rest assured, it takes not just a skilled actress, but one who is able to maintain a certain emotional depth throughout the play, to portray Electra as she was meant. Eaton carries this role, and all its weight, as only a Greek drama queen can.

The rest of the cast is supplemental, but important. Bielewicz' portrayal of Orestes and Edward James Hyland's portrayal of the Servant should especially be noted. Lisa Harrow as Clytemnestra is the definition of tainted royalty, from her slender heels to her crown.

I always appreciate when classics are presented in a way that is true to the play's origin, yet delivered in a way where a modern girl such as myself can comprehend with ease. Pappas' production is delivered in such a way - where each character is not just reciting beautiful poetry on stage, but placing deliberate and unmistakable meaning behind every syllable.

Avid theatre-goers will undoubtedly enjoy Pittsburgh Public Theater's Electra, as they will receive everything a Greek drama promises: familial fights, scandal, death, lamenting and of course, revenge. Newbies to the theatre scene, as well as the occasional theatre goer would do well not to miss this opportunity to broaden their horizons, as Pittsburgh Public does Greek drama like no one else.

Electra runs from September 29- October 30th - For more ticket & show info, click here.

Oh, and for your viewing pleasure, here's a video of Ted Pappas discussing directing Electra:

Superheroes in Pittsburgh

2011-10-10T19:51:00.005-04:00

Does anyone else miss having Batman in Pittsburgh? I mean, I know he caused some traffic problems, but I miss the random bat-gadgets speeding down streets. I miss my social media feeds being inundated with Batman pictures, updates and rumors. I miss the potential of running into Christian Bale ~~when I'm waiting for him outside his trailer~~ randomly on the streets.

Look, its not that I'm a dork or anything. Now excuse me for a minute while I close my Pottermore web browser and pause Lord of the Rings (The Two Towers).

What was I saying? Ah, yes, LOOK PEOPLE, I'm not a dork or anything.

I just miss Batburgh. Luckily for me, the Warhol Museum is quenching my geeky thirst, by bringing not one, but over 130 superheroes to Pittsburgh. *fist pumps awkwardly*

Starting October 1 until January, the Warhol Museum will host Heroes & Villians, the first museum exhibition celebrating the artwork of Alex Ross, today’s foremost comic book artist. Heroes & Villains features over 130 photographs, drawings, paintings and sculptures - ranging from a crayon drawing of Spiderman he created at the tender age of 4, early-career projects, and recent work. Superheroes like Superman, Flash Gordon, Batman, and Wonder Woman (girl power YEA!) are among the featured. It also features the bad guys. Like this guy:

I gotta go, I was in the middle of catching up on some Shakespeare and admiring my stamp collection. *pushes glasses up nose* Just a typical Monday night.
Let's wrap up:

This is the first exhibit featuring Ross' work, and has even created an original piece of art just for his premiere at the Warhol. For more information and details go on over to the Warhol Museum's website.

Best Troy Polamalu Video EVER!

2011-10-07T20:10:00.000-04:00

You all know how much I love Troy Polamalu, right?
Now I love him even more. And you will too.

Behold! Hilariousness:

Pittsburgh at Night

2011-10-06T08:18:00.000-04:00

....or the wee hours of the morning, depending on when you go to bed :)

As much as I love the city during the day and all of it's hustle & bustle, I find it so calming to look at images like this of Pittsburgh and think about an entire city being still for just one brief, inevitably fleeting, moment.

Pittsburgh Love for Pittsburgh Gives

2011-10-03T21:41:00.002-04:00

All day tomorrow, October 4th, is the Pittsburgh Foundation’s Day of Giving, a 24-hour time period where the Pittsburgh Foundation will match a donation (25 cents to the dollar) you give to any listed non-profit, local organization.

This is a great opportunity to give a little out of your wallet that magically (okay okay not magically but it does happen!) increases. Minimum gift is $25, and ranges all the way up to a whopping $10,0000.

When it comes to giving, I always think of that childhood bible story --the one when, during donation time at mass, all these rich guys loudly and obnoxiously gave a ton of money, so everyone could see just how much they gave and how rich they were. Then an old, poor woman quietly gave one coin, but it was all she had. -- Please, try and hold back your praise and admiration for my amazing biblical paraphrasing prowess. My great aunt (whose been a nun for 60 years plus) would be proud. Or not.--
I digress. The moral of this story ~~probably~~ (or at least my interpretation for these purposes) is, it doesn't matter how much you give, just that you give - and you do it for the people in need.

I could easily rattle off a list 5, 10, or even 20 long of recommended non-profits for you to give to, but the truth is, you can't go wrong here. Find an organization close to your heart, that supports a cause you believe in whole heartedly, and give a little to improve that part of Pittsburgh. You can read the fine print here, or you can browse the long list of nonprofits in need here.
When they say every dollar counts, they aren't lying.

Most Valuable Blog in Pittsburgh!

2011-09-30T08:13:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to say THANK YOU for voting for The 'Burgh Exposed as the Most Valuable Blog in Pittsburgh!! My flattery and shameless self-promotion must have worked. Or my dad did nothing else but vote for 3 weeks. Thanks, dad! Ahem. Anyways....

The Burgh, Exposed won in the "Local Affairs" category in the "MVB" contest held by CBS Local Pittsburgh, and I couldn't be happier that yinz chose me! I will try to continue to provide snarky, informative and hopefully entertaining posts all about local stuff all over the land of black and gold.

The 'Burgh, Exposed = Most Valuable Blog in Pittsburgh!

Kisses, readers. SO many kisses on your heads.

It must be Steeler season, the seizures have returned

2011-09-26T08:58:00.002-04:00

I think pretty much all of Pittsburgh, not to mention everyone who watches Sunday Night Football was expecting a blow out in last night's game against the Colts.And then, I remembered what team I root for, and what that means. As one twitter-friend so accurately put it:
"I have a heart condition. It's called being a Steeler Fan."

Like every other Steeler game, my emotions were All. Over. The. Board. I've put this little post together to fully portray these emotions.

Lets begin at the beginning. Happy times. I think Collinsworth even managed to eek out a small compliment about the Steelers before he spent the rest of the night bashing their every move - at least when he wasn't singing Manning's praises. You know. Manning. The guy who didn't play last night.

Hey Collinsworth, STFU. James Harrison will eat you.

But it was OK because after so many nights of Sunday Night Football, I've learned how to drown out his voice. The game started off pretty good, the Steelers were up by 10 and I was all relaxed and smiles.

"This might be as easy as we thought it was going to be" she thought to herself. "I'll just sit back and chill"

And suddenly. HORROR of HORRORS.

Not only can the Steelers D not hold the Colts in the Redzone, but Suisham misses a 36 yard field goal?!
Picture, if you will, a lot of flailing appendages going on. Chips and dips- scattered everywhere.

I may or may not have been throwing out WTFs all over the place.
Athough not as many as Manning Praises from Collinsworth.

And then, out of nowhere, Benny forgot what color the Steelers were wearing! We're the ones in WHITE, Benny. IN WHITE.

Then Jonathan Scott got injured, and I tried to pretend I was sad he was out of the game, but with his track record so far this season....well, lets just say being "sad" began and ended on the surface.
Finally, Troy saved, and he showed, once again, why he was appropriately and deservedly named Defensive Player of the Year in 2010, and how he's still got it *snap snap*

(no matter what any underrated CBS Sports Reporter claims)

Luckily, by the end of the game, the Steelers made me smile and giggle again. Well, either they did, or I was delirious from needing sleep.

HEY. A win's a win's a win.

Thanks to LOLcats & dogs for portraying my vast emotions throughout this post. And a cameo from my own LOL cat, Puck.

Real Quick N'at

2011-09-21T21:07:00.002-04:00

A couple things...

1. If you grew up in Pittsburgh, moved away, and came back....or if you grew up somewhere else, and decided to settle in Pittsburgh, this is a great article to read, from Pop City Pittsburgh, entitled "Why I moved Back to Pittsburgh".
That house is So. Cool. Since I've recently been spending more time in the Northside than usual, I can tell you that the area really has some incredible houses. Me wants.

2. Check out fellow Pittsburgh blogger, Ginny's (aka PittGirl), post today, item #2 - I sent her an image that scared me to my very bones - a pic of girl's wrist, featuring a Steelers tattoo/dermal implant ~~monstrostity~~ creation.
*shudder shudder*
I knew I had to alert Ginny immediately.
Also bloop-bloop down a bit to her Steelers post-game "What They're Really Thinking". If you're anything like me, you will ROFL & LOL and probably do a few other mnemonic devices that I don't even know about.

3. I went to the Steeler game against the Seahawks this past weekend, and had the best time! We had the most amazing seats for the fraction of the price (thanks, eBay!). I was about 10 feet away from where Mike Wallace scored his TD.
BAM:

Sitting back, relaxing, enjoying the pre-game stretching sesh. Helloooo there, boys.

Gotcha!

My "game time" face. LETS DO THIS! What should I do - go deep, QB sack!?

Oh...just sit and watch? Ok.

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

2011-09-19T21:40:00.001-04:00

Except....well...without the chicken dinner. Sorry.

Today's winner is brought to you by random.org. And the winner is..... *pounds hands on lap*.........

Comment # 14!

"Di" said her favorite thing bout Autumn in Pittsburgh: " Hmmm apple cider, for sure. And wearing sweaters again. Although I guess those aren't burgh specific."

Nope, those aren't Burgh-specific, but I'll let you slide this time - congratulations! I will be e-mailing you shortly.Thanks to all who participated in the awesome Pittsburgh Photo Giveaway! I hope to have more giveaways for you in the near future!

Kisses on your black & gold heads.

Over the Hump Day Giveaway!

2011-09-13T20:01:00.006-04:00

----This Giveaway has been closed. Winner will be announced on Monday (9/19/11)!----

Because it's Wednesday, which means only 2 more days left of the work week...
Because I love Pittsburgh....
And because, dear readers, I love you.....

A Mid-Week Giveaway!

What's up for grabs:

A free (man, I love that word) 8x10 print of any image of photographer KJ Neubauer's etsy shop, Spackle the Gap! If you win, KJ will even matte the print of your choice to an 11x14 size.
That right there is a great size for that blank spot over your fireplace mantle, or your brand-spankin' new office at work (or to spice up your tired cubicle) or even a lovely birthday (or holiday, if you're feeling ambitious) gift!

I know I can't win. Since this is my blog and all. You know. But my personal fave of KJ's happens to be this:

The bold colors! Kennywood Park! I hear my childhood and an order of potato patch fries smothered in cheese calling my name!

Then there's this beauty:

And her best-seller:

Who wants one? Let's get to Giveaway rules:

All ya gotta do to win a gorgeous print of your choice, tell me your favorite thing about Autumn in Pittsburgh in the comment section. Make sure you include your e-mail (won't be public, no worries) and do it before Friday at noon. I'll use the random number generator to pick one winner of all entries when the work day is over on Friday - in celebration of the weekend, of Autumn, of Pittsburgh, and some kick- ass photgraphy!

Good luck, darlings!

Happy Steelers Season!

2011-09-10T09:13:00.003-04:00

Welcome to Pittsburgh.

We have two seasons in this city. Steeler season, and the rest of the year. This weekend, Steeler season begins.

Get yer towels out, or, if you live in my apartment, off the Steelers Shrine Wall.

The Boys are Back. And they look GOOD.

It's like Christmas in September - except it lasts for 16 weeks minimum. *happy dance*

Happy Steeler Season, everyone!

Muh Steeler Shoes

2011-09-09T13:40:00.002-04:00

These are what I have officially dubbed to be...my Steeler shoes. I bought them from Modcloth a couple years ago, and they might be one of the most comfortable pair I own. Plus, they are Pittsburgh colors. I like to wear them in celebration of my Steeler pride when I don't wear a jersey. *waves terrible towel*

Love them. Covet them. Lick them (not really, please don't)

The Post in which I Relentlessly Make Fun of Dance Moms

2011-09-07T22:13:00.004-04:00

(the post title was your warning)

Like Toddlers & Tiaras (which, thankfully I've only seen previews of) when I see two pounds of makeup on girls younger than 13 makes me sad. It seems to me that Dance Moms on Lifetime, like Toddlers & Tiaras, is all about making young girls (especially their own) feel like they aren't good enough when they're obviously trying their best. Sure, it's under the ~~kind of not really but some people think so~~ Reality Entertainment Cloak, watching mama-drama bash each other (again, in front of the children at times) and put dance above All Else. All Else seems to include: physical pain, emotional stress, education, and - oh!- a childhood.

Who wouldn't want to be taught dance by this lovely woman? What a treat. (pic from aoltv.com)

Can I just get on my soap box for a brief second? *climbs up*
If my daughter's (fictional) dance teacher (also fictional) screamed viciously at her and I knew about it, or witnessed it... there is NO way I would pay said fictional dance teacher to continue to "teach" dance to my child. What kind of a lesson and example is being set for your daughter, and how does this empower her as a person, a female?
I understand that it is important for children to be motivated and always "reach for the stars" as they say, but isn't it more important that they just had the courage to try in the first place?
I don't know. I'm not a mother, and I'm certainly not a dance mother, or dance sister or even dance cousin for that matter. But I do know that paying (therefore encouraging and enabling) an adult to scream and demean my children under the pretense of "tough love" is something I have no - and will never have - any interest in.
Ok, I'm off my soapbox!
*climbs down*

You know what we should be thankful for? That Dance Moms doesn't really advertise that they are from Pittsburgh. They might mention or allude to the fact that their dance studio is in a Pittsburgh suburb, but if any Rando was channel surfing and was so unfortunate as to land on Dance Moms, even if they only watched it for a few minutes (because, really, how much more could they stand?) they would probably have no idea it takes place in Pittsburgh. And that's the way I like it. Let's keep it that way.
In fact, I think I'm prouder of our GQ "one of the worst dressed cities" status than our city hosting Dance Moms. Give me Meth- Lab Casual over "Home to the Atrocity that is Dance Moms" any day.
I am officially dubbing Dance Moms as one of the Worst things about Pittsburgh. Forever and ever. Amen.

*Please bear in mind that these are merely my opinions and observations, nothing more. It is my blog, after all. It should not be taken as a generalization towards all children and parents involved in dance. In fact, I wish there was a more positive example of the topic on TV .*

New Coffee Shop on the Block

2011-09-02T00:22:00.004-04:00

A new favorite place of mine in Pittsburgh can be found on 17th & East Carson Street in the Southside. Delanie's Coffee is cozy, intimate and has a great menu with lots of options. I went there last Saturday and was instantly able to relax with an amazing chai, a caprese wrap, cookie the size of my face...and of course, a good book!

I foresee many lazy weekend afternoons being spent in Delanie's - and I can't wait. But don't take my word for it - try it out yourself:

I love the exposed brick, paintings from around Pittsburgh,

natural elements and the loft. So cozy!

You can find Delanie's at

1737 East Carson St.

Pittsburgh, PA 15203

Kelly at Delanie's Coffee tweets: @brightheaded & @DelaniesCoffee or just check out the website. When you go, don't be surprised if you see me there!

Super Mario Kitty

2011-08-29T10:52:00.001-04:00

Free kitten to good, loving, awesome home - obviously, all of you lovely people who visit my blog apply:

"Super Mario" has been tested for cat Leukemia and Aids and has been vaccinated and neutered. When the program neuters strays, they clip the tip off of their right ear.
Mario is super-social, and gets along great with other pets- both other cats and BIG or small dogs! He is currently in a foster home that has 3 cats & a boxer.
This Pittsburgh kitten for adoption, Mario (yes, MARIO, named after, of course, Mario Lemieux) is super cuddly, playful and loving. If you can't adopt this loveable ball of fluff, maybe you know someone who can, or will - keep this adorable kitten in mind. Super Mario Kitty needs a "forever" home and would love you to make him yours:

As you can see, he is absolutely precious, loves people and I heard he loves the Steelers & Buccos-- but the Penguins the most. Please e-mail me or comment for further information.

Shameless Self-Promotion.

2011-08-23T10:06:00.007-04:00

Hiya, readers. Have I mentioned you look exceptionally beautiful/handsome/thin/toned and all-over ravishing today?
Well you do.

Completely separate and not having anything to do with my lavish flattery that was in no way said to get you in my good graces, I have news!

My blog is a finalist for the "Most Valuable Blogger" award over at the CBS Local Pittsburgh website (category: "Local Affairs"). I sure would like to win. The only way I can win is if you vote for me. Alot. And often. By September 8, 2011.

Have I mentioned you look stunning today?

Vote for me (and The 'Burgh, Exposed) as the "Most Valuable Blogger" in Pittsburgh!

I love Pittsburgh. And I love you.

Bye Bye, BATMAN

2011-08-22T10:40:00.003-04:00

Well, the Batman has left the 'Burgh.

Traffic will no longer be held up by hours of filming explosions, getaways, race scenes and rogue fake snow. Now, traffic will only be jammed due to incessant construction. I think I prefer traffic jams due to fake snow, any day.
Just sayin'.

Ladies, if you haven't already, I'm sad to say that the Prime Christian Bale-Stalking Time allotment has passed. Lesson learned in procrastination.

Facebook and Twitter feeds Pittsburgh-wide will no longer be filled to the brim with picture of Batwings, Batmobiles, Bat-tumblers and fight scenes. Can I get a moment of silence?
******
And did we all see how Batman left Pittsburgh? Classy as ever:

Photo from 96.1KISS Mikey & Bob's Blog

Personally, I can't wait for July 2012, when we get to see how Nolan interpreted the wonderful city of Pittsburgh on screen, as Gotham. But more than anything, I can't wait to see if some brave, yinzer soul who bleeds black & gold accomplished the Terrible Towel Sneak.

Fall in Pittsburgh: Some stuff to do

2011-08-16T22:24:00.004-04:00

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:

1. Jackie Evancho is coming to Pittsburgh on October 16th, where she will be performing at the Benedum Center! Not only can this pre-teen girl sing like an angel and cute as a button, she's sweet as pie! I bet. I mean, I've never met her but she repped Pittsburgh hardcore on America's Got Talent, and has given nothing but stellar interviews.
To complete Jackie's return to the Burgh, her performance will include accompaniment by the Pittsburgh Opera’s resident artists, orchestra, and chorus, with music director Anthony Walker directing.

So who hasn't purchased their tickets yet?

2. The JAWPA is having their awesomely burgh-a-licious Golden Ticket raffle to raise funds that benefit students in their program. What, you ask, is the Golden Ticket Raffle?

Why, it's a chance for you to not only donate to a great local organization, but also a chance for you to win:

A Pair Of Season Tickets To...

-Pittsburgh Steelers games

-Pittsburgh Penguin games

-Pitt Panthers Football games

-Pitt Panthers Men's Basketball games

-Penn State Football (4 Tickets!)

-Duquesne Men's Basketball

-March Madness 2012 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball - Rounds of 64 & 32, CONSOL Energy Center

Holy Burghtastic, Batman. Each raffle ticket you buy gets you closer to all this gloriousness.

So, who wants to win some season tickets?!

3. Fall Theater Round Up

Pittsburgh Public Theater

Not only does PPT have a great fall line up in store, they're also hosting a Preview Party to kick off their season and give anyone who wants to join this very Happy Hour a sneak peek into their 2011-12 season! That's a lot for only ten bucks. If last year's season was any indication, we have a lot to look forward to from PPT.

Barebones Productions
One of my very favorite theatre organizations in Pittsburgh, Barebones will (locally) debut Jesus Hopped on the A Train, a drama written by Stephen Adly Guirgis. The show will run from September 22-October 9th. Ticket information will be available soon, and you can check for ticket updates here. FYI, I've seen 2/3rds of all Barebones shows, and am always floored by them. Highly recommended by yours truly.

The Cultural Trust
Among a variety of events and shows, the two fall performances that the Cultural Trust is bringing to the Burgh is Wicked (Sept-Oct) and Chess (Oct.), both musicals. In case you've never heard of Wicked....what am I saying? I'm just going to assume you've all heard of Wicked, a musical about what happens before Dorothy landed in Oz...
Chess, a lesser known musical is a rarity and will most likely not see the likes of our three rivers for at least a decade. Chess is a rock opera, featuring the gets-stuck-in-my-head-for-days song "One Night in Bangkok." See one, see both -I'm seeing them both. And uber excited.
Learn more about the shows and ticket info

Quantum Theatre
Only have a handful of Twelfth Night productions left! It runs at the West Penn Research Hospital Facility until August 21st. If Shakespeare is your homeboy (are people still using that word? My geekdom is showing) check it out! Here's what the rest of Quantum's 2011-12 season looks like.

City Theatre
Pittsburgh City Theatre brought tears to my eyes last season with 39 Steps...tears of laughter. I can't wait to check out a couple of shows on their fall lineup, which begins October 15th with the Broadway hit, Time Stands Still. Here's their fall lineup!

Free Phipps Fun

2011-08-11T08:13:00.004-04:00

Summer is quickly coming to an end in the 'Burgh. Have you checked off your Pittsburgh summer to do list? It should probably look something like this (at least mine does):

Kennywood
Sandcastle
Movies in the Park
Farmers Market (fresh produce grown locally!) shopping
Brace for the inevitable Big Ben faux-pas (that's French for royally Effing Up.)
Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows Part 2 ~~oops how did that get on the list~~
Buccos Baseball game
Star in Batman movie
~~Stalk Christian Bale while he's still in town~~
Phipps Conservatory

If you haven't check off all markers yet, don't fret- you're in luck - there is still about 2 weeks left of summer, and this upcoming Monday, August 15th, Phipps Conservatory is offering free admission! Not just free admission for kids under 6,and not just free admission for seniors, but general free admission! Everyone knows Phipps is one of the major Pittsburgh attractions, and the blooms are too tempting to resist amidst the gorgeous summer. I went to Phipps last summer, and absolutely loved it; definitely one of my favorite Pittsburgh activities.
The Buncher Family Foundation has kindly made it possible for all Pittsburghers and visitors to see the butterfly garden, edible garden (yum) and gorgeous flowers of Phipps free of charge, from 9:30am - 5pm. So if you know any Buncher Family members, be sure to thank them.
Phipps has something in the works that seems really cool, and you might wanna check out when you stop by:
You'll be able to see the Tropical Forest–the most energy-efficient conservatory in the world–to view history in the making at the construction site of Phipps’ Center for Sustainable Landscapes, a new research, education and administrative complex opening in spring 2012. Slated to be one of the greenest buildings on Earth, this revolutionary structure will generate all of its own energy, and capture, treat and reuse all water on site.

Cabaret for Kathy

2011-08-07T09:57:00.001-04:00

Tonight at the CLO Cabaret Theater downtown, I will be performing, along with many others, at the 2nd Annual Cabaret for Kathy.
Maybe this means something to you already, maybe it doesn't- allow me to continue.

Kathy Cecotti was my high school theatre teacher, who left this world about five decades too early when she lost her battle with cancer 3 years ago. She is one of the people responsible for my passion for theatre, especially musicals, to this day. She was the first person to give me a leading role.

She was a great teacher, but more than that she was a daughter, a wife, and a mother to three wonderful (and really, really tall!) boys. We all miss her.

So tonight, in Kathy's honor, my fellow Thomas Jefferson High School Alumni and I will be performing various monologues, scenes, and songs in Kathy's honor, and for your entertainment. There is a fantastic Chinese Auction, in addition to dinner and drinks. Every ticket sold goes to a scholarship that has been set up in Kathy's name, and presented to one graduate from TJHS who wishes to pursue theatre in college.

Here's the details:

What: Cabaret for Kathy
When: TONIGHT, August 7, 2011 at 6pm
Where:The CLO Cabaret Theater downtown (655 Penn Ave)
Why: It's a great show for a great cause, plus you can eat drink and win stuff!
Who: YOU. Get your butt down there tonight. And bring me flowers. JK. Kinda.

PS: Tickets may no longer be available online, so just purchase them by phone at 412-456-6666 or at the door!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Update!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Cabaret for Kathy was a huge success! Thank you to all the people show showed up in support of this great event - even Sally Wiggin: Check out what you missed!

Track the Batman Before He Leaves the 'Burgh

2011-08-05T08:01:00.000-04:00

Image from BoringPittsburgh.com

The best websites/sources to track The Dark Knight Rises rumors, updates and news while they're still filming in Pittsburgh:

-Batman News site

-The Primary Movie website

-The 96.1 KISS FM Morning Freakshow Blog

-Site Devoted to Dark Knight Rises Rumors

-The Huffington Post

-Boring Pittsburgh's site

-Super Hero Hype

Happy Batman Tracking!

A Very Pittsburgh Wedding!

2011-07-31T20:04:00.005-04:00

As you may or may not have read, I was recently the maid of honor in my best friend's wedding. Even though the happy couple currently lives in DC, they both are from, and plan on returning to the "Burgh. Their wedding and most pre-marriage events happened in Pittsburgh (like the best Pittsburgh bridal shower there ever was), and they even had a Pittsburgh- theme to their wedding.

For example, this was the awesome groom's cake:

What's not to love about an Iron City Beer groom's cake? This should become a Pittsburgh tradition!

Then there was the amazing wedding photographer, Weddings by Heather. Some of you may be familiar with Heather's work; she photo-documented the birth of both of TV Local News Anchor Kelly Frye's babies. Heather is based in Pittsburgh and has a great website with a blog that shows all the great weddings in and around Pittsburgh that she has photographed It's been said that a picture is worth a thousand words; but Heather seems to uncover about ten times that in every picture she takes. Check out her blog and the pictures of my best friend's wedding!

The ceremony took place at St Peter's Parish, in the Northside/Northshore area of Pittsburgh, right next to North Park. Beautiful location, plus the park and surrounding Mexican War Streets made for amazing wedding picture background.

Lastly, there were the brilliantly 'Burgh favors:

Homemade Pierogi Recipes to take home. What's more Pittsburgh than that?

Perhaps a Clark Bar?

The clear winner for most Pittsburgh-y wedding favor! Mini personalized Heinz Ketchup bottles!

Remember Mike, Happy Wife, Happy Life. Love you both :)

So Ya Wanna Be An Umpire....

2011-07-27T08:15:00.005-04:00

SO ya wanna be an umpire?

Let's review the basics:

THIS is a "Bat" That's pronounced B-AAT.

This is a baseball.

Now: the difference between "Safe" and NOT safe, or "Out."

Safe: Wearing your seatbelt when getting in an automotive vehicle.

Not Safe: Not wearing a helmet when getting on a motorcycle ~~(ahem Ben~~)

Safe: Eating fish.

Not Safe: Eating fish that's been in your fridge for 5 weeks.

This is what we like to call "SAFE" in Major League Baseball.

Safe:

THIS is what we like to call, "NOT SAFE ~~YOU BLIND JAGOFF~~" or more commonly, "OUT" in Major League Baseball

Worst. Call. Ever.
THIS is why instant replay should be a thing in MLB - especially when a game goes into extra innings. I can understand reasoning for not wanting instant replay during regular 9- inning games, but this is a baseball travesty and Jerry Meals' head should permanently be hung in shame.

Jerry Meals, you're a stupid-head blind jagoff. An 8 year-old I know who was able to see that Atlanta Braves player Lugo was NOT SAFE told me to tell you so.

Blurbs: Why I Love Pittsburgh

2011-07-25T20:53:00.000-04:00

Visit Pittsburgh is holding an opinion poll open to anyone who feels the need to express their feelings about the 'Burgh. You can love, hate, etc.
Rarely one for being short on opinions - especially on one of my favorite topics - Pittsburgh.

Here's what I said:

"I love Pittsburgh for it's honesty: for not wanting or trying to be any other city than what it is. I love Pittsburgh for embracing team loyalty, seeing the value in tradition and the old, and it's tight-knit sense of community. I love Pittsburgh because we don't care if fashion gurus judge us for wearing jerseys nearly every day of the week- even during off season; because the cost of living makes my friends who live around the world envious; because we still get excited when we get national attention every so often - the occasional movie filming, being dubbed the most liveable, affordable city. For all it's flaws that we don't try and hide, only try to work hard to improve; for all the beauty we lavish praise upon. I love Pittsburgh because it's not just where I live - it's my home."

How do you feel?

Shocking News: People in Pittsburgh aren't fashionistas; sky is blue.

2011-07-18T08:32:00.006-04:00

According to GQ, Pittsburgh ranks third on the "Worst Dressed City" list.

(pic from midwestsportsfans.com)

Apparently people are willing to be in Pittsburgh despite this, judging from the "Most Liveable City" title Pittsburgh holds.
In the article, GQ states that “The citizens of Pittsburgh, that hardened, blue collar town on the banks of the Monongahela River, long ago described as ‘Hell with the lid taken off,’ indulge a style that could be referred to as 'Game Day Casual' (or "Meth Lab Formal," depending on your preference."
It stems from their love of a certain NFL franchise and an utter indifference to their personal appearance and what you think of them."
"During the blustery winter months, Pittsburghers will often apply heavy winter coat. But there is no city on Earth that can equal the utter sloppiness of Pittsburgh."

Well then. They sure showed US. Thoughts:

1. Although I'm used to "Game Day Casual," Meth-Lab Formal has a certain ring to it.

2. In case you're wondering, we were ranked as dressing worse than the trendy cities of Detroit, Cleveland and....the Jersey Shore.

3. The author also uses the word "keister" in her description/explanation for Pittsburghers' shabby-chic attire. Haven't seen that word used in awhile.

4. As long as we're still the most affordable, liveable and the city of champions, I don't care much about our fashion. I need some eye candy when I go to county fairs and amusement parks.

5. I'm sure I don't know what we Pittsburghers' did to deserve the title as Third Worst Dressed City in the U.S.: They must not have been to Kennywood or the Big Butler Country Fair (affectionately known as the Big Butt), where they would have, most assuredly, experienced the creme de'la creme of Pittsburgh fashion; the true runway of the city.

I think THIS is "Meth Lab Formal"

And this must be "Game Day Casual"

Pittsburgh Etsy

2011-07-15T07:30:00.011-04:00

I've recently discovered Pittsburgh on Etsy. If someone who never visited Pittsburgh before wanted me to describe why I love this city so much, all I would do is direct them to a "Pittsburgh" search on Etsy.
For all the questionable, the hilarious and the random, there is the beautiful, the unique and the Pittsburghalicious.
These are just my humble opinions, of course. And I always have to remind myself that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But (and I do mean Butt):

This lovely item is a Pittsburgh Steelers G-string Man-thong. Just rolls right off the tongue, doesn't it? For those of you who are interested, it is "one size fits all"... I can't make this stuff up.

Next: Do you know a particularly bitter Capitals or Flyers fan that loves a good cross-stitch? No need to go shopping, I've already found you the next birthday gift for your jaded friend:

You know what sux? This person's spelling.

The following are in the "Love this, but I still have massive tuition debt and can't afford but will gawk at for awhile" category:

Beautiful.

Spot-on captured the energy of Pittsburgh.

Ohhh, SO THIS.

And these are some items I will probably purchase within the next 15 minutes, give or take:

Very cool map of Pittsburgh light switch cover.

If you think I'm not going to buy this for my non-existent infant, you're just kidding yourself. At the very least, I'll probably pick up a few for some preggos I know & love.

And that's my Pittsburgh Etsy round-up. Happy shopping (especially if it's local)! You can click on the image to link to the Etsy page.

Please note that the aforementioned products are merely described according to my personal opinions, as it is my personal blog. If a Pittsburgh Steelers G-String Man-Thong is a must-purchase for you, I don' judge. In fact, I kinda love it.

The Good, the Bad & the Ugly

2011-07-13T23:01:00.002-04:00

Luckily, there's more good than bad...or ugly.

The Good.

batman poster courtesy of screenrant.com

1. Sometimes it's hard to keep track of all the Batman movie- making rumors that are flying around Pittsburgh. Rumors like, will the scoreboard at Heinz Field explode in the movie? Has anyone attempted the Terrible Towel Sneak, yet? In order to help you yinzers stay updated on any last-minute casting calls, crowd scenes, rumors, ~~where Christian Bale's trailer is,~~ check out this Dark Knight Rises Rumors website.

2. Two Carnegie Mellon University grads, and two Pittsburgh natives have made it to Broadway's biggest hit: The Book of Mormon. Created by the composer of Avenue Q, and the writers of South Park, The Book of Mormon recently won nine Tony Awards out of the 14 for which they were nominated. I've heard that it is pee-your-pants hilarious, and so, so badly want to see it. It is definitely something we can all celebrate, that four Pittsburgh-influenced actors are tearing it up on Broadway's most popular stage. Learn more about our fellow Pittsburghers in The Book of Mormon!

pic from the Post-Gazette.

The Bad

Hines. Harrison. What can I say?

Why can't the Steelers exercise good judgement when it comes to the off-season? Why do they go back to Georgia, where we have already learned from previous off-seasons, that no good can come from Steelers being in Georgia. A-HEM:

And why do they open their mouths without thinking, where we have already learned from previous loose talk, that no good can come from Steelers rambling to them general media. A-HEM:

Moral of the story: Learn from the past. Shut up. Hire a damn driver. Focus on football.

The Ugly

I hate politics and try and stay oblivious to them as much as I can. I know this probably isn't the best thing. Whatever, it's not my thing.
But this guy is becoming harder and harder for me to ignore. I have the gut-wrenching feeling, sneaking-suspicion that Tom Corbett hates education and wants to see it die. That's the only logical reason I can see in regards to the astronomical education budget cuts he is pushing, not to mention his other plans for education in Pennsylvania. Or should I say lack of education. I must have missed his "all children left behind" campaign slogan.

Pretty in My City

2011-07-12T07:30:00.002-04:00

Some shots from my blackberry from around Pittsburgh.

I've been living here my entire life.

Well, not at this exact point on the North Shore.

But close enough.

Beautiful shot, walking back from the Point on the Fourth of July. Just imagine what I could do with a real camera, and not my phone camera.

Sand sculpture on display at the point! Even thought it wasn't of Pittsburgh I still loved it.

Happy 30th Anniversary!

2011-07-11T10:30:00.000-04:00

To my wonderful parents, without whom, this blog would never exist, and without whom I would not be who or where I am today. I couldn't be more grateful, and feel more blessed.

I love you; here's to 30 more years!

The Best Chair...

2011-07-08T21:21:00.003-04:00

in Pittsburgh - nay - the world!

On the Fourth, I found this treasure while I was ~~rifling through~~ passing by my friends' bedroom. He said it was his grandfather's way back in the 1970's.

Ahh, old school Steelers gear. Reminding us that Pittsburgh has been a football force to be reckoned with for 4 decades.

I'm in love, and what to sit in this chair, drink an I.C. Light and watch Steelers football until my eyes bleed.

Tell me I'm not alone on that sentiment.

Three Things I'm Excited About

2011-06-28T08:00:00.000-04:00

....whether or not it's against my better judgement.

1. The Pirates are exciting to watch again! I feel like I've been waiting so long. I hope this is for real. I hope the game is the thing I look forward to going to PNC Park for the most, not the food, or drinks, or fireworks, or bands, or bobblehead night, or the spectacular view. I even sing along with Mikey & Bob's rap, now:

2. According to the Post-Gazette, the city of Pittsburgh will have a rally in honor of Hines Ward & his fancypants Mirror-ball Trophy! I know I probably shouldn't be this excited...but I am. Hines is the only reason I watched DWTS this season, and I really hope him and Kym Johnson are dating and have really cute, cross-cultural, terrible-towel waving dancing babies. Too much?
Anyhoo, the hoopla will begin at noon on Thursday, in front of the City Council building on Grant Street. Here's the details.

3. My 26th Birthday! I'm celebrating the last year I can officially state I'm in my "mid-twenties" at Piccolo Forno for dinner and Round Corner Cantina for karaoke and margaritas this Thursday. I love birthdays, especially mine. Ask any member of my family, they'll tell you June is actually my birthday month; we celebrate all month long ~~the glorious day I was born~~. I don't care if it doesn't make sense. I love it. If you care to send gifts, I'd be happy to give you a PO Box number ~~just kidding not really yes I am~~.

Worth Running For

2011-06-23T23:15:00.000-04:00

Can we talk seriously for a post?
If you remember, last June, Pittsburgh mother Lisa Clay Styles was out with two of her three children in a jogging stroller. All of a sudden, a young man driving under the influence blew a stop sign and hit Lisa mid-jog. As any mother would, her last instinct was to push our children out of the path of the vehicle and sacrifice herself.
Everyone deserves a mother who loves her children that fiercely and unconditionally.
In honor of Lisa's memory, who was an avid runner, loving wife and mom, this Saturday there will be a stroller-friendly 5K run and 1 mile walk at 9am in South Park.
The race begins on Corrigan Drive & Brownsville Road by the Children's Playground. Race packets can be picked up the day before the race at Fleet Feet Pittsburgh. Registration is $25 for the 5K Run and $20 for the 1 Mile Walk.
All proceeds of the race will go directly to the Watson Institute's LEAP Preschool, which helps autistic children interact with their typical-developing peers.

If you cannot (or do not) run/walk but would like to donate money to the cause, click here.
Thank you.

Random N'at

2011-06-22T20:17:00.004-04:00

1. Dan "I like to munch on a Qdoba Burrito before playoff games" Bylsma won head NHL Coach of the Year. Pittsburgh, hell yes! Love him. He's so cool and down to earth. Oh also, he's pretty good at coaching Pens Hockey.

2. I enjoy this article that talks about how the housing market has exploded everywhere except in Pittsburgh. I enjoy it so, because it's always amusing to read about the city we all know so well from an outside perspective...especially when they're wrong. Not that it's wrong about the housing market, but the descriptions and locations of the neighborhoods is what gets me. It makes me giggle.

3. Furries are in town! It's Anthrocon weekend, Pittsburgh. This means taking a camera with you everywhere you go.

(pic from boringpittsburgh.com)

4. My WHAT THE HELL of the week goes to Kennywood Park Management, whose apparently trying to sell the ride, the Pittfall. I am saddened by this for several reasons. First, way back when I was one of like, the 18 KDKA contestant winners who named the Pittfall. It's my claim to fame, ~~and yes I know that is pathetic.~~ I always thought it was a fun ride, and a truly fantastic way to see different parts of Pittsburgh from a unique view for 13 seconds before plummeting to the ground. Was that just me? Oh, and also, I didn't even know it was possible to sell amusement park rides. The last time I was this upset with Kennywood Park Management, it was when they opted to take out the classic "Old Mill" ride for that stupid, commercialized Garfield peice of junk. If anyone reading this who's a Pittsburgher and doesn't know what the Old Mill is, get off my blog.

(pic from mostlypittsburgh.com)

Don't go, Pittfall.

Hello there, Joe Manganiello. Mrowrr.

2011-06-19T08:10:00.049-04:00

Hi there! Just a friendly reminder that there's only one week left before the season 4 premiere of True Blood on HBO. Why, you ask, does this tidbit of information appear on a blog dedicated to exposing the best and worst of Pittsburgh? Oh, that's easy. I suspect my answer will delight (and maybe surprise) you.

This is Joe Manganiello:

Everyone wave high to Joe.

Now everyone wave your terrible towel with Joe:

That's right. He's a Pittsburgher. And a Steeler fan. A Carnegie Mellon University grad.

Joe plays Alcide (lead werewolf) on the HBO hit series, True Blood.

As far as I'm concerned, Pittsburgher Joe Manganiello might be the best thing about True Blood.

And that's why he's on my blog ~~and it had nothing to do with his abs. Or arms. Or chiseled jaw.~~

Not too bad on the eyes, am I right? If I was still in school he'd totally be taped all over my locker.

All I have to say is, YOU'RE WELCOME.
Oh, also....mrowrr.

**Update: Here's a link to Joe's GQ Photoshoot in Greece. I kinda wish I was one of those models. Greece, Joe, Sun. Yes, please!**

Why you may not hear too much from me this week...

2011-06-13T15:23:00.002-04:00

This is my BFF's Wedding Week, and as her Maid of Honor it is my job to keep ~~her brain from imploding~~ everyone nice and calm. No matter how excited and happy I am for her, no matter how worried I am about falling down the aisle or not being able to bustle the bustle correctly and in a timely fashion, no matter how many knots I get in my belly that my worst fear may be realized and no one will laugh at my MOH toast... I must remain, on the surface, the very definition of calm, cool and collect ~~and bring extra deoderant~~.

Details of this Pittsburgh themed wedding will be posted as soon as I get a sedative ~~or five.~~

What a JAGOFF!

2011-06-10T08:01:00.003-04:00

There are three things ya just don't do when it comes to Pittsburgh:
You don't trust the weather.
You don't take the coleslaw off your sandwich.
And YOU DON'T EVER INSULT TROY POLAMALU.

Some jagoff at CBS Sports, senior writer Pete Prisco, must have been bored and decided to write an article entitled:
Overrated-underrated: Polamalu can't cover; Pack's Williams can
Talk about poking the proverbial hornet's nest.
Brought to my attention by the boys over at the Freakshow around 7:15am on my way to work, you can imagine this did nothing for my road rage.
So what does Prisco have to say about our beloved Troy? Let's take a look:

"They love the signature hair flying out from his helmet.
They love his name. They love his game. Troy Polamalu is an NFL darling.
He's also the league's most-overrated player. There, I said it."

He continues to shove his foot in his mouth:
"That has to mean something in the rating game, doesn't it? He's good. I just don't think he's great. That makes him overrated. I bet even some Steelers fans would concur after the playoffs.
I know the stats that show the Steelers have a better record when he's on the field. But you can twist numbers any way you like. I call it like I see it."

Where do I begin?
Prisco pretty much disproves his own argument here, when he claims that "you can twist numbers any way you like." Yes, you jagoff, you can - and you did. While the statistics over his career say different, you've taken about one month of one year and claimed it conclusive and defining of his entire history as a Safety in the NFL.
I can't decide if this guy is jealous of Troy's luscious locks, or maybe he's from Cleveland, or maybe I'm just overanalyzing and Pete Prisco really is an outstanding moron. I suspect its a combination of all three.
No Steeler fans will agree with you, Prisco. In fact, I bet the majority of Steeler fans will happily come to your office and present to you about 189,035 reasons and instances why your argument has absolutely zero validity.
Off the top of my head, through my rage, I was immediately able to recall at LEAST 3 games in the past year or so when the Steelers wouldn't have won if it wasn't for Troy - more when I sat down to actually think about it, and I wasn't planning the quickest way to get Prisco's ass fired.

I checked this jagoff's bio out, and guess what I discovered:

"After living for a time outside of Philadelphia, where his first NFL game was the Eagles and Steelers at old Franklin Field, Prisco moved south with his family and spent his high school years in the warmth of South Florida."
Methinks Prisco has a hidden agenda.

Steeler Nation, if you love Troy, as I do, as it is written, I recommend you contact this jagoff and let him know why we're the greatest sports nation in the world - and part of that means defending our 2010 Defensive Player of the Year: Pete Prisco's Twitter

Full Article.

dananananana danananananana...BATMAN!

2011-06-07T08:18:00.005-04:00

Is that sound clip repeating itself constantly in any one else's head? What about Christian Bale's insane batman-body? Anyone? Bueller?

image from cvnewspaper.com

As every Batman fan, Pittsburgher and then some know by now, the last Batman movie in the trilogy will be filmed in Pittsburgh, because we're the best city ever and Christopher Nolan has decided to make Pittsburgh the new east-coast Hollywood.
I may or may not be paraphrasing. Nolan actually said something along these lines:

"Pittsburgh is a beautiful city," Nolan said in a statement. "We have been able to find everything we were looking for here, and I am excited to spend the summer in Pittsburgh with our final installment of Batman."

Sounds like someone is in love. ~~And I'm not referring to me and Christian Bale~~.
E News can barely believe it, neither can most of Hollywood...who have never been to the 'Burgh. But it's here! We got it! And now...casting! Yes, open casting calls are fast approaching. Here are the dates and times:

June 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.
June 12, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 6 p.m.
June 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m
June 19, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 6 p.m.

@ the Omni William Penn Hotel, 530 William Penn Place, Downtown. Use the Oliver Street entrance and head downstairs to the William Penn Ballroom.
Here's what they're looking for:
"A Warner Bros. film requires extras to play as victims and perpetrators within a city besieged by crime and corruption. Take part in the urban action adventure ripping through the streets of Pittsburgh from July 28 through Aug. 21."
I agree with the Freakshow; WE NEED TO SNEAK A TERRIBLE TOWEL IN THERE. When I sit down to watch the last Batman Trilogy installment, knowing it has been filmed in Pittsburgh, I want to see some terrible towels throughout the crowd scenes. I mean, about 2,000 people are needed. Of 2,000 Pittsburghers, one of you has to have the stealth to get a terrible towel into the final movie edits.

I would totally go to every casting call and attempt the Terrible Towel Sneak, but I'll be busy ~~staking out Bale's trailer location~~ at work and the gym.

A Burgh Bridal Shower

2011-06-06T22:03:00.005-04:00

Since December 2009, I've taken on a very special, exclusive role as Maid of Honor to my best friend. Getting married in less than 2 weeks, I've tried my best to make her time as a bride-to-be the very best possible, because she deserves nothing less.

Best Bride to Be and her fiance have planned a Pittsburgh-based wedding (wait til I post their wedding favors!). I thought I'd continue the Pittsburgh theme when it came to planning bridal shower - one of the most important maid of honor responsibilities.

But where, oh where, to have a kick ass bridal shower in Pittsburgh? It had to be somewhere unique, cozy - not your typical banquet hall (though there's nothing wrong with that).
As a Pittsburgh blogger and native, this should be a pinch, right? I searched, and I thought, and I searched some more...and I found the perfect place.
You wanna know what place I chose, right?

The Gypsy Cafe!

Heard of it? I wouldn't be surprised if you hadn't. Even as an avid explorer of the Burgh, I didn't find out about the Gypsy Cafe until a couple years ago. Gypsy Cafe is this cozy one-huge-room restaurant owned and run by a husband and wife couple. Located right next to the City Theatre in the heart of the South Side, it gets a lot of traffic from pre-show audiences. It's one of those rare spots that you kinda stumble upon, and once you know about it and have experienced it, you feel like you know Pittsburgh a little bit better.

Off the main drag of South Side, you could walk right past the Gypsy if you weren't looking for it. And if you walked by, you'd have no idea what you were missing.

According to it's site: Gypsy Café follows a seasonal path through Europe, offering an eclectic selection of homestyle dishes that is a perfect fit to our location in a landmark reclaimed church on the historic South Side.

it felt more like a big living room filled with friends & family than a restaurant:

As a returning customer, I can verify all that as true. I can also verify that it is the perfect place for an event, like a bridal shower in Pittsburgh. The service, the food, the event coordination: all spectacular. And Best Friend Bride was crazy happy. And that was my goal.

It's beautiful inside!

The decor ranged from pictures of Pittsburgh to Italian Renaissance art:

I loved the exposed brick:

They even gave the happy couple a gift certificate for a free meal as a wedding gift!

me and my BBTB

If you're looking for a place to have an event (a Pittsburgh Bridal Shower, for example), or just looking for a new restaurant to try in Pittsburgh, I highly recommend the Gypsy Cafe! I knew if the bridal shower went well, that I would want to blog and tell yinz all about it.

Check out their site for some more information about delicious noms.

Hello, gorgeous!

2011-05-29T16:40:00.000-04:00

Finally - a sunny weekend to enjoy!
And I enjoyed the crap outta it:

Have a great long weekend!

Steeler Nation > American Idol nation, HINES > ...whoever those Idol kids are

2011-05-27T08:13:00.002-04:00

According to the New York Post, the Dancing with the Stars finale FINALLY, and for the first time ever, beat American Idol in ratings.
Conclusion: Steeler Nation, as I suspected, is slowly taking over the country.

Also, how cute are Hines and Kym? Everyone says that they are hooking up, or a couple. I hope so. Then they can have lots of uber-cute babies with big smiles and australian accents and infant 86 Steelers jerseys.

This is all. *waves terrible towel violently*

Go Bob Go!

2011-05-24T13:26:00.003-04:00

Hey guys, whats up? Care if I ask you to help me out with a little ~~shameless self-promotion~~ humanitarian work?
Great!

This is Bob. Bob dates my younger sister. She loves Bob. My family loves Bob. Even Ford loves Bob -- oh, and ditto for me.

After graduating from ~~Slimy Pebble~~ Slippery Rock University last May, Bob was hired at Bobby Rahal Volvo and Benz dealership out in Cranberry-ish. Bob, who hails from ~~somewhere~~ north of pittsburgh ~~but I can't remember the name of the town~~ is one of the friendliest, most amiable and good-natured people I know - and at that, he is great at his job. In fact, even though he has been there less than a year, he already competed and went to the semi-finals in a Bobby Rahal Competition, winning 2 trips to New York.

Like me, and almost every other recent (or not so recent) college graduate out there, Bob has to pay off his tuition ~~even though I think all of our tuition should be paid off by the government or Oprah~~, and doesn't have an extra $500 around to buy an iPad 2.
But if YOU vote for him, by clicking on 5/5 stars on his video (linked below), he could win an iPad 2! Sure, it won't help pay his tuition, but it won't hurt either. Plus, he has only been at his job barely one year, and already made it to the semi-finals of a National Bobby Rahal Competition about how well salesmen know their cars. Trust me when I say, he deserves this.

Bob needs you to VOTE. All day today, and tomorrow - voting ends May 25th! How do you vote? Just click on the link, choose "Robert Kissell," and give him 5 stars....if you're feeling generous, you can even do so more than once!

Happy Voting! <---click me!

So I guess this isn't really self-promotion - its loved-one promotion on behalf of myself. Please take 1 minute out of your day, watch the video, and vote for Bob --or, if you're pressed for time, just VOTE!
If you do, just like Pittsburgh, I'll love you forever and ever.

Go Bob, Go!

Your Funny of the Day

2011-05-17T17:17:00.000-04:00

This makes me giggle:

You can go to the "There I Fixed It" site where they have more ingenious "handyman" ideas, like this one.

I AM the Madness

2011-05-15T18:17:00.001-04:00

Guys, I did it!!!

me before the marathon began!

I completed my first half-marathon! It's hard to believe; since January I've been preparing for this one day, and now it's already over. I'm very proud to report that my finishing time was 2:22, a time of which I am pretty pleased.

That grey blur is me, about to cross the finish line!

It wasn't easy. But it wasn't the impossible feat I thought it was gonna be. In fact, I really loved running through the different neighborhoods of Pittsburgh - with a vantage point that I can't get on any other day of the year. I loved crossing the bridges, running through the West End and the North Side, jogging through streets I have only seen before from my car window, and seeing the thousands of spectators cheering runners on at every single foot of the marathon.

I didn't think I could love or appreciate this city any more than I already do, but Pittsburgh never fails to surprise and delight me.

And there's no way I could've done it without the support of my friends and family - and fellow twitter runners!

love my parents!

& the support of Ford

And yes, I think I'll do it again next year - try and beat my time.

It's Showtime in Pittsburgh!

2011-05-09T21:36:00.001-04:00

Batman isn't the only exciting performance going on in Pittsburgh this summer! Just because I love you, and I love Pittsburgh, and I love theater, Ithis post will give you access to most theatre organizations in Pittsburgh and a link to their summer calendar. I was going to list them all, and then realized I would never finish my post, because Pittsburgh theatre has THAT much to offer. But I will give you an insider's tip to which shows are already circled on my calendar.

Click on any of the links below to see what shows will be in Pittsburgh this summer:

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
*Cultural Trust events include Pittsburgh CLO, as well as other organization's events on their calendar

Pittsburgh Public Theater

Attack Theatre

PICT

Bricolage Theater

I highly recommend you see at least one show a month. The theatre arts is such an important part of what makes a city "Most Livable," and helps sustain and progress into a vibrant and involved community.

That's just skimming the surface of why it is so vital to support the arts. May 11th is the Pittsburgh is Art Day of Giving, a day when we have a 24-hour opportunity to support our thriving arts and culture sector. Initiated by the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council (GPAC) and the Heinz Endowments, it's sponsored by The Pittsburgh Foundation.

With the help of funding partners such as The Benedum Foundation, the Buhl Foundation, The Grable Foundation and the Hillman Foundation, a $400K+ matching pool will be available to over 130 local arts and culture organizations!