It’s the Friday news roundup! A beloved South Side music venue is closing at the end of the year, so we’re remembering some of our favorite shows there. Plus, we have updates on the proposal to close 16 Pittsburgh public schools — including ways you can share your feedback — and a checklist to make sure you’re registered to vote this November. We always cite our sources: Club Cafe is closing in December. We interviewed PublicSource’s Lajja Mistry and WESA’s Jillian Forstadt about the proposal to close and consolidate Pittsburgh public schools, along with other sweeping changes. Lajja and Jillian crowdsourced questions and brought them to the consultants behind the proposal. The consultants will share their final recommendations with the school board on October 15. Want to provide feedback on the PPS proposal? You can fill out the Facilities Utilization Plan Let’s Talk Form and/or sign up to speak at the school board’s next public hearing on Monday, September 23. (Just make sure you sign up by noon on September 22!) Need to register to vote, update your registration, or just want to make sure you’re actually registered? We’ve got a handy voter registration checklist for you! Allegheny County is setting up 10 ballot return sites and five satellite voting centers ahead of the November election. Western PA school districts are considering cell phone bans. Learn more about the sponsor of this September 13th episode: Fulton Commons Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! As Pittsburgh gets ready to celebrate Labor Day — and host presidential hopefuls again — we’re digging into our history as the birthplace of the modern labor movement. Plus, we finally know why the Peregrine moon lander failed, but we don’t understand why Pennsylvanians aren’t claiming their Powerball money. We always cite our sources: President Biden’s been to four of our Labor Day Parades here over the past 15 years, and he’s set to come to the area this year with presidential nominee and current VP Kamala Harris on Monday. We’ll see if he makes another parade appearance! Republican presidential candidates have been in our area too. VP nominee JD Vance was in Erie this week, and former president Donald Trump will be in Johnstown today. Labor Day weekend is going to be another busy time for the airport, so if you’ve got a flight early in the morning, make sure you build in extra travel time. Want to take a vacation when the airport’s not as hectic? Check out our interview with Scott Keyes, the founder of Going, where he gives us the insider scoop on how to find cheap flights from Pittsburgh.  Astrobotic released a review of the Peregrine lunar lander’s mission, and Tech Crunch reports that one valve was the culprit in the $108M mission’s early end. Pittsburgh’s been on the frontier of space exploration since the Apollo missions in the 1960s. There are three unclaimed winning Powerball tickets in PA that are expiring soon – including one that’s worth $1 million.  One study shows that winning the lottery can improve your life! While you can’t win the lottery anonymously in PA, for a while, we had more Powerball winners than any other state.  Individuals aren’t the only ones getting cash from a winning lotto ticket. The store that sold the ticket also gets a bonus, which recently included an Allegheny County pizzeria. An Olympic gold medalist, aka pommel horse guy Stephen Nedorosick, is going to be on the next season of “Dancing with the Stars,” and he brought his cat to LA for filming. We spoke with local reporters Jillina Forstadt and Lajja Mistry about why 16 public schools might close, and they got answers for crowdsourced questions. Read more about what the consultants working on PPS’ closure plans have to say about their ideas for restructuring schools. September RAD Days have been announced! Check out the free events at Pittsburgh’s cultural institutions here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this August 30th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Starting a new independent community grocery is tough business, but Manchester’s own Lisa Freeman felt it was a calling. She’s been farming a little lot on Juniata Street since 2014, and is almost to her goal of opening up shop in June. We’re catching up on her vision for the neighborhood, plus getting a taste of what’s new and delicious in the East End, on the South Side, and even along our dreaded McKnightmare.  We want to know: Where is your favorite ice cream shop in Pittsburgh? Why do you love it? Email us or leave a voicemail at 412-212-8893 with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the podcast! Learn more about our sponsors:  City of Asylum is hosting International Jazz Poetry Month from May 2 – 23 at Alphabet City.  The Pittsburgh Opera is presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

If you want to go camping, where should you start? We’re back with Marcus Shoffner, founder of the Outdoor Inclusion Coalition, talking about favorite destinations in and around the city, his tips and tricks for a good experience, ways to borrow and learn how to use the right gear, and other low-stress ideas to get you started. Plus, an update on the overnight camping pilot he started in Riverview Park! Want to hear more about inclusivity in outdoor spaces? Check out our previous conversation with Marcus. Learn more about our sponsors:  City of Asylum is hosting International Jazz Poetry Month from May 2 – 23 at Alphabet City.  The Pittsburgh Opera is presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

A proposed TikTok ban just cleared the House, and Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering their own statewide restrictions on the video app. We’re wondering what a ban could mean for Governor Josh Shapiro, a “prolific poster” with a few viral TikToks under his belt. Producer Sophia Lo joins host Megan Harris to break down the latest legislation and scroll through the governor’s posts. Plus, a professional TikToker analyzes Shapiro’s account for us. Thanks to Chris Vazquez, audience engagement producer at The Marshall Project, for sharing his insights on Shapiro’s social media. Plus, it’s primary Election Day in Pennsylvania. The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check your polling place here, or listen to our voting guide on your way to vote! Here are a few of the stories we talked about in today’s episode: Over the weekend, the House passed a bill that would ban TikTok if the parent company, ByteDance, doesn’t sell the app.  Now that the bill has passed the House, here’s what might happen next in the Senate – and how TikTok could respond. PA billionaire Jeff Yass has a connection to the national ban; he has a big stake in ByteDance.  Friend of the pod Stephen Caruso reported on why Pennsylvania’s attempts to regulate social media haven’t been successful. Watch with us! We reviewed Shapiro’s lottery and Béyonce TikToks, and you can find more from the governor on his account. Learn more about our sponsors:  City of Asylum is hosting International Jazz Poetry Month from May 2 – 23 at Alphabet City.  The Pittsburgh Opera is presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato just marked one hundred days in office – and released a massive, 91-point plan for the county in the coming years. She joins us to talk about her main priorities, from affordable housing to a green economy. We also discuss the school district’s lawsuit against her office seeking a countywide property reassessment, and what she’s watching for in tomorrow’s primary election. You can read Innamorato’s plan and the results of her countywide survey here. Learn more about our sponsors:  The Pittsburgh Opera is presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater. City of Asylum is hosting International Jazz Poetry Month from May 2 through 23 at Alphabet City.  Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! We’re sharing a bunch of fun ways to beautify our natural spaces for Earth Day this weekend. After successfully deflecting Amazon, the former home of Westinghouse Electric is up for auction in Churchill, and the U.S. Coast Guard says we found the missing barge! Plus, host Megan Harris is sharing her joy for President Biden's Sheetz order and the soon-to-be-built, new and improved Davis Avenue Bridge.  We always cite our sources: Over the weekend, 26 barges got loose on the Ohio River. One went missing, but the Coast Guard located it earlier this week. The Pittsburgh Business Times predicted the old Westinghouse campus could be used for retail. The 150-acre campus is considered an important example of postwar corporate architecture – and looks like a locomotive. The Davis Bridge was demolished in 2006, but reconstruction recently kicked off! The city says the bridge should be fully open in the fall. Pittsburgh was selected as one of the Bloomberg American Sustainable Cities. Find a few ways to celebrate Earth Day around Pittsburgh, including lots of neighborhood cleanups. Pittsburgh’s getting a new music festival! Sudden Little Thrills takes place in September at Hazelwood Green. President Joe Biden made a quick stop at Sheetz during his visit to Pittsburgh. Former president Donald Trump was also in PA, and he’s currently facing four criminal cases. Heinz has a new bright pink limited-edition condiment, but the catch is that it’s only available in the U.K., Ireland, and Spain. Learn more about our sponsor, the Pittsburgh Opera, presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pennsylvania is the No. 1 cultivator of mushrooms in the country, but you can also find all sorts of fungi foraging in the woods. Spring and summer are a great time to look for mushrooms, and Esperanzo Wilcox, founder of the PA Mushroom Company, is here to share his tips for finding and identifying a few more coveted edible delicacies. Check out our website to see pictures of Espo’s favorite mushrooms, plus more resources for beginners. Learn more about our sponsor, the Pittsburgh Opera, presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

With the weather warming, crossing a bridge doesn’t feel quite so impossible. So if you want to go out and party this weekend, where should you go? Pittsburgh has options — Spirit, Belvedere’s, Cavo, and Club VIP — but the ‘Burgh used to have way more nightclubs that catered to a wider diversity of party-goers. We’re with City Paper’s Colin Williams about what happened to Pittsburgh’s nightlife scene.  **This episode originally published on January 10, 2024. Keep up with the pop-up parties by following Jellyfish, Hot Mass, and Slappers N Bangers on Instagram. Learn more about our sponsor, the Pittsburgh Opera, presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

It’s a Presidential election year, and there are a bunch of state and local elections to watch for, too. But before November, we need to get through the primary on April 23! City Cast’s Megan Harris & Mallory Falk are talking through a few key races, plus what’s at stake next week.  Check your polling place here, and learn more about the candidates via our Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. Take Spotlight PA’s candidate quiz, and watch WPXI’s debate between Summer Lee and Bhavini Patel for more on their stances on what’s happening in Gaza. A special shout out to WESA’s Chris Potter for his coverage of all these races, too. Learn more about our sponsor, the Pittsburgh Opera, presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

There’s a difference between spaces that allow our best pals and the ones that are truly dog friendly. Pet expert Tori Mistick of WearWagRepeat is with us to share her favorite local spots for a paw-fect Pittsburgh day — plus how to pack ahead, what to consider about temperament and environment, and the quick rules for her newly christened four-paw rating system. **This episode originally published on August 1, 2023. Learn more about our sponsor, the Pittsburgh Opera, presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5 at the Byham Theater. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! Pittsburgh Public Schools is suing Allegheny County to try and force a countywide property reassessment, and we’re breaking down why. The city’s expanding its deer management program, so look out for a call for more archers. Plus, the team’s talking about all the effort that goes into flood clean-up and sharing a couple ways to celebrate 412 Day. Have any questions about property reassessments? Let us know, and your question might get answered in an upcoming episode. Call or text us at 412-212-8893. We always cite our sources:  Friends of the Riverfront has a map on their website where you can check on alerts and detours for riverfront trails – and look for bathrooms! Pittsburgh Public Schools is suing Allegheny County and seeking a countywide property reassessment The move comes as the district stands to lose tax revenue from some of the city’s most iconic skyscrapers The City of Pittsburgh released their results for the deer management pilot program, and they’re planning to expand the program into more parks. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s pawpaw season in Pittsburgh, and we’re sharing everything you need to know about this tropical-tasting fruit, its native habitat, and how to forage its flavors for yourself. Plus, friend-of-the-pod Sarah McAlee (aka Brothmonger) is sharing big news for October, the beloved ice cream shop Dave & Andy’s has found new life thanks to a “sweet tooth family,” and there’s more pizza and coffee shops to check out in Pittsburgh. We hope you came hungry! Is there a new bar or restaurant you’re loving in Pittsburgh? Call or text us at 412-212-8893. If you enjoyed today's interview with Pittsburgh Recovery Walk's Representative, Rachel Shuster, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 29th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Recreational cannabis is still illegal in Pennsylvania, but you gotta eat, right? To mark 420, the City Cast Pittsburgh team has recommendations for places someone under the influence might get a tasty sip, snack, or full-blown comfort meal with their good vibes still intact.  Need even more recommendations for munchies? Check out last year’s 420 episode, and if you need help navigating The Open Road, listen to our interview with owner Mel Babitz. Catch up on the push for recreational marijuana legalization in this episode with Ed Mahon from SpotlightPA, plus his more recent reporting here. If we missed your favorite local munchie, let us know what else we should be adding to our list! Call or text us at 412-212-8893. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Will construction ruin your commute? PennDOT recently announced new projects in the Pittsburgh area, and the City Cast Pittsburgh team is breaking down what improvements are coming to our roads and bridges. Plus, we’ve got updates on how to get around now that the Mon Incline is closed – again.  We always cite our sources: PennDOT listed what construction projects are coming up and what projects are wrapping up in the Pittsburgh region. The Pittsburgh Union Progress reporter Ed Blazina wrote about PennDOT’s projects and what to expect from the Commercial Street Bridge replacement. Check out what the Commercial Street Bridge will look like once it’s completed and painted in Greenfield Green! Improvements are also coming to other parts of the Parkway East and McKnight Road.  Sidewalk repairs are coming to the Hill District and Larimer. The Monongahela Incline’s closed again, and this time, PRT is planning for an independent review of the system. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Kennywood opens for the season on April 20th. To celebrate, we’re revisiting highlights from our conversation with local historian Mark Houser ahead of the amusement park’s 125th birthday last year. Hear how Kenny’s Grove became our beloved Kennywood, how its stewards tow the line between preservation and modernization, and which rides helped usher in a new wave in amusement park shenanigans. Special thanks Pittsburgh Magazine for sharing their work, and to our guest Mark Houser for bringing Pittsburgh’s past back to life. His next antique skyscraper rooftop tour is June 8. Tickets are available here. And check out the Kennywood episode of Defunctland here. It’s super fun and weird. **This episode originally published April 19, 2023. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

We’re heading into peak real estate season at a time when interest rates are really high – so what does that mean for homebuyers in Pittsburgh? Local real estate broker Jessica Baker joins us to share tips for buyers and sellers and talk about which pockets of the city are still somewhat affordable. Plus, host Megan Harris puts Jessica to the test and sees how she would describe some zanier home features…as seen on Zillow. Check out our previous conversation with Jessica to learn whether Pittsburgh potties count as half-baths. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

It’s the Friday news roundup! City Cast contributor Meg St-Esprit joins the team to talk about how AI is changing the local real estate market – and what it was like to take a virtual reality tour of an iconic Pittsburgh mansion. We also discuss shifting norms around funerals and burials as the Pittsburgh region becomes less religious, and the city’s latest push to hire enough lifeguards to open our pools this summer. We always cite our sources: Read Meg’s reporting about the rise in non-religious funerals in PublicSource. Check out her story about how technology is changing the homebuying process in Pittsburgh Magazine. The City of Pittsburgh is officially recruiting lifeguards for the summer. You can learn more about becoming a lifeguard and start an application here. Lifeguard shortages are a national problem – and in some communities, seniors are stepping up to fill the gap. Vote for us for best podcast in Pittsburgh Magazine’s Best of the ‘Burgh contest! Learn more about our sponsor, Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh-Oakland, and their upcoming Comedy Showcase in the Jones & Laughlin Ballroom. Tickets for Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. are on sale now on Facebook at Facebook.com/HotelindigoPTC. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It is Producer Sophia Lo’s birthday! To celebrate, we’re rounding up some of the best birthday freebies and discounts in Pittsburgh, from sweet treats to full meals. Have a favorite local freebie that we didn’t mention? Let us know, and your answer might be featured on the show! Call or text us at 412-212-8893. Learn more about our sponsor, Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh-Oakland, and their upcoming Comedy Showcase in the Jones & Laughlin Ballroom. Tickets for Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. are on sale now on Facebook at Facebook.com/HotelindigoPTC. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the case of the missing bobbleheads: thousands of miniature Jaromir Jagrs were stolen last month! How does that even happen? With the help of our friend Rob Rossi, senior writer at The Athletic, we’re breaking down the heist that got the attention of Pittsburgh Penguins fans…and even the FBI!  Check out Rossi’s play-by-play in the Athletic and find out how you can claim your bobblehead if you received a voucher. Learn more about our sponsor, Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh-Oakland, and their upcoming Comedy Showcase in the Jones & Laughlin Ballroom. Tickets for Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. are on sale now on Facebook at Facebook.com/HotelindigoPTC. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Have businesses actually stopped giving out plastic bags since a citywide ban went into effect? A new report from PennEnvironment provides a first look at compliance rates. Plus, a new documentary looks at the Black birthing experience in Pittsburgh – at the same time the state is expanding access to doulas. And it turns out our city has a high percentage of pranksters (at least according to one study). We always cite our sources: Pittsburgh was rated the top Prankster City in the U.S. by casino.org PennEnvironment studied whether businesses are complying with Pittsburgh’s plastic bag ban TribLive looked into the ban’s rollout and enforcement We discussed the plastic bag ban – and the effectiveness of similar measures – on City Cast Pittsburgh WESA reported on state efforts to expand doula access Learn more about PA’s Momnibus Package Get tickets to Her Dreams: A Story of the Future of Black Birth this Friday at 5:30 p.m. at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater. Learn more about our sponsor, Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh-Oakland, and their upcoming Comedy Showcase in the Jones & Laughlin Ballroom. Tickets for Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. are on sale now on Facebook at Facebook.com/HotelindigoPTC. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

From eclipse parties to plant sales to a “dessert beer extravaganza,” there’s plenty to keep you busy in Pittsburgh this month. The City Cast team is here to share the festivals, markets, and cookoffs that caught our eyes – and help you plan your perfect April. Here are a few of the City Casty things we mentioned in today’s show: Solar eclipse viewing at the Allegheny Observatory and Kimpton Hotel Monaco What The Muck?! at Lake Elizabeth in Allegheny Commons Dirt Day! at East End Food Co-op Plant Sale and Indie Mart at WorkshopPGH Vintage Pittsburgh at Heinz History Market Square Spring Market Three Rivers Beer Week Le Tour de Donut along the River Trail Mt. Washington Soup & Chili Cookoff Dessert Wars at the Convention Center Pittsburgh Humanities Festival in the Cultural District Holi Carnival at Carrie Blast Furnaces Steel City Grand Slam at City of Asylum Yinzerfest at the Convention Center For more events, check out Hey Pittsburgh’s guide to April and food festival roundup. Learn more about our sponsor, Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh-Oakland, and their upcoming Comedy Showcase in the Jones & Laughlin Ballroom. Tickets for Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. are on sale now on Facebook at Facebook.com/HotelindigoPTC. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

It’s the Friday news roundup! A bridge collapsed in Baltimore — could something similar play out here? Mayor Ed Gainey’s trying, once again, to generate taxes from UPMC and other tax-exempt properties. And a new Pittsburgh-based medical drama called “The Pitt” is in the works. Plus, we’ve got some fun Easter news, a comprehensive plan update, and a very happy groundhog arrival.  What very Pittsburgh storyline would you love to see from Max’s new show? Call or text us at 412-212-8893. We always cite our sources: Pittsburgh was named one of the best places to celebrate Easter. Mayor Ed Gainey is challenging the tax exempt status of more than 100 more city properties. The Trib wrote about the bridge collapse in Baltimore and how the circumstances compare to what happens along Pittsburgh waterways. Learn more about our river traffic from City Paper’s “Where the Heck are Pittsburgh’s River Barges Going?” PublicSource has a great story about how the city basically ignored warnings about Fern Hollow for years. Max (new HBO) is launching a new medical drama called “The Pitt,” which will be set in Pittsburgh. Check out Reddit’s ideas for some very Steel City storylines. The executive producer, John Wells, graduated from CMU. The Pittsburgh Film Office says it’s not expected to be filmed here. Punxsutawney Phil and his groundhog wife Phyllis welcomed two healthy pups this week. Did you know Phil lives forever? Here are four fun “Phil phacts” from the Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. Here’s how you can get involved with the city’s first ever Comprehensive Plan process. Learn more about our sponsor, the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh and their Racial Justice Challenge, at ywcapgh.org. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

As students return to school, Pennsylvania is still facing a dire teacher shortage, and experts say there aren’t enough qualified candidates to replace everyone who’s quit or moved away. We teamed up with City Cast Philly to unpack the problem, causes, and consequences — plus, share our take on a few potential solutions. **This episode originally published August 28, 2023. We always cite our sources: Check out PA’s teacher retention data for yourself, courtesy of Penn State’s Center for Education Evaluation and Policy Analysis. Chalkbeat did a great two-part breakdown on the problems and potential solutions. The Learning Policy Institute shared suggestions for how to improve teachers’ first years. The Hechinger Report wrote about a couple PR campaigns trying to change public opinion about teaching. The Center for Black Educator Development is based in Philly and does a lot of great work around recruiting teachers of color. Ten years ago, it wasn’t uncommon to see 3,000 to 4,000 applicants pop up for a single job listing on PA-educator.net, the PA’s main jobs board. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 28th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

In 2023, chef Nik Forsberg was a James Beard semi-finalist for his pop-up concept Fet-Fisk, aka greasy fish, which prioritizes sustainably sourced seafood, local meats, and veggies from Nik’s own garden. So what does it take to turn a popular pop-up into a thriving brick-and-mortar business? Hear what he grows, how he approaches his menus, and all the plans behind Bloomfield’s newest restaurant. **This episode originally aired Thursday, March 30th, 2023. Learn more about our sponsor, the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh and their Racial Justice Challenge, at ywcapgh.org Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Have you ever been frustrated by a PRT bus or train showing up late – or not showing up at all? Could new state funding lead to a stronger local transit system? We’re sitting down with Katharine Kelleman, CEO of Pittsburgh Regional Transit, to talk about plans for a bus line redesign, her goal to get more drivers behind the wheel, and what’s really going on that local buses are late one-third of the time. Learn more about our sponsor, the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh and their Racial Justice Challenge, at ywcapgh.org Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

The Buccos are almost back! So while you’re settling in for Opening Day this week, we’re looking to yesteryear and our beloved Pirate Parrot. The shaggy, round, lime green goofball feels ubiquitous to us now, but he actually has a birthday and a backstory, plus a bunch of wild stories behind the men who’ve worn the suit. We’re with author and former Mr. Met AJ Mass to talk about the sordid history of our Buccos’ best luck charm and biggest curse. Check out AJ’s book, “Yes, It’s Hot in Here: Adventures in the Weird, Woolly World of Sports Mascots,” in print or ebook.  **This episode originally aired Wednesday, April 26th, 2023. Learn more about our sponsor, the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh and their Racial Justice Challenge, at ywcapgh.org Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Late last year, the Japanese company Nippon Steel announced plans to acquire an iconic Pittsburgh brand, U.S. Steel, for a staggering amount of money: nearly $15 billion. But since then, there’s been a lot of criticism – from the local steelworkers union all the way up to the White House. So what’s behind the pushback, and what’s next for U.S. Steel?  Thanks to our guest, Chris Briem. Chris is a regional economist with the Urban & Regional Analysis program at the University of Pittsburgh’s University Center for Social and Urban Research. Check out some of his recent work: Medium, on his hopes for a former steel town: Clairton is dead, long live Clairton Medium (this is the one Megan mentions at the end!): When Pittsburgh said no PublicSource: U.S. Steel’s acquisition will end a difficult marriage that forged — and constrained — Pittsburgh’s identity And read more about the latest on the deal and the federal review process via Bloomberg, plus the position of Pennsvlania’s two U.S. Senators and commonwealth-native President Joe Biden in the Pittsburgh Business Times. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

It’s the Friday news roundup! A familiar Pittsburgh voice — former host of 90.5 WESA’s The Confluence, Kevin Gavin — joins the team to talk about where you can see local cherry blossoms, Duquesne basketball, and new West End Bridge designs that hope to “complete the loop” of Pittsburgh trails. Plus, newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco quizzes Kevin and host Megan Harris on their Mister Rogers knowledge in honor of Fred’s birthday week. We always cite our sources: Hosting NCAA Tournament games means millions of dollars for hotels, restaurants, and bars with thousands of college sports fans flooding into town. Check out this Duquesne basketball player’s athletic clothing line! Kevin talked to Riverlife executive director Matthew Galluzzo for WESA two years ago. At the time, he said the West End Bridge connection is the largest remaining gap in Pittsburgh's Downtown network and a major missing link for some regional trail systems” — all part of their Completing the Loop plan. The West End Bridge project comes via a $2 million grant from the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County’s Trail Development Fund. Did you know the Mister Rogers trivia? Here’s 4 fun facts about the sweaters he wore in Mister Rogers Neighborhood. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

National Cocktail Day is this Sunday, so we’re pulling up our bar stools to bask in Pittsburgh’s boozy legacy, from the Whiskey Rebellion and Prohibition to modern makers and mixers. City Cast Pittsburgh host Megan Harris and newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco share some reader and listener favorites and introduce you to Jackworth Ginger Beer, a new brewery in Larimer that’s creating cocktails steeped in the spirits of Pennsylvania. A few previous episodes we mentioned today: Fet-Fisk chef and owner Nik Forsberg on his vision for the new brick and mortar One of our favorites, Clarisa Espinoza-Delgado, on how to be a good coffee customer Dan Tallarico’s roundup of the best pizzas in Pittsburgh And Sarah McAlee (aka the Brothmonger) shares her pro tips for soup season Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

For a little over a year now, an informal group of Republican activists has been challenging our local voter rolls. They’ve filed thousands of challenges — all alleging that because someone moved, that means that they should be wiped from the Allegheny County voter logs. But the thing is, the county already takes care of that. So today, we’re talking about how all this got started, what officials are saying about it, and what you can do as a voter to protect your vote if one of these letters comes your way. Thanks to our guests, reporters Julia Zenkevich and Charlie Wolfson. Read their full piece in PublicSource, and listen to the story via WESA. Check your voter registration status here on the state’s website.  Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

If you polled a bunch of Pittsburghers and asked who’s the most beloved person in our city, it’s safe to say today’s guest would show up on that list. Rick Sebak is known for his TV documentaries on WQED. And now, he’s dipping his toes into audio. Rick joins us to talk about his podcast, Gumbands, the one Pittsburgh story he’s still dying to tell, and the local rites of passage that make someone a true Pittsburgher. **This conversation originally published October 11, 2023. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Return or ripoff? Costsaver or scam? Pittsburghers love a deal, so when the discount stores housed under Mac.bid came to town, plenty of yinz spent your money without getting redd up on how it actually works. City Cast’s Elizabeth Kauma and Megan Harris are exploring how it got here, what to do so you don’t buy a dud, and whether these liquidation emporiums are worth the risk at all. We love to cite our sources: The National Retail Federations 2022 report on returns. Mac.Bid’s Better Business Bureau page.  Marketplace’s dive into the wild world of liquidation. The Atlantic’s journey into the warehouses that process returns. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! Can you believe it’s been four years since the pandemic started? Local journalist and host of KDKA Radio’s Saturday show Natalie Bencivenga joins host Megan Harris and newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco to take stock of our recovery and the state of family leave in Pittsburgh. Plus, are you going to a show at Star Lake this summer? We’re sharing pavilion parking woes and a wacky new way to get to Burgettstown! Help us with an upcoming show! What’s your favorite cocktail? Is it on the menu somewhere or do you ask for something special? Or maybe you have a favorite cocktail bar? What do you love about it? Call or text us with your love letters to 412-212-8893. If you include your name and neighborhood, you might just hear it on the show! We always cite our sources: Check out photos from 1993’s “storm of the century” in Pittsburgh Magazine. It’s the anniversary of the shutdown in Pittsburgh, but the pandemic isn’t really over. The Allegheny County Health Department shows about 1,600 current coronavirus cases, and the New York Times is tracking about 100 area hospitalizations.  Paid family leave is money you receive from your employer, an insurer, or the government while you are away from work for an extended period of time so you can take care of a seriously ill family member or bond with your newborn or newly adopted child. It’s different from paid time off like sick pay. There’s legislation in PA called the “Family Care Act,” which aims to provide essential support for families caring for loved ones and alleviates financial burdens. You can sign a support letter at FamilyCareAct.com. The Burgh Bus wants to take the hassle and headache out of your summer concert going experience. Catch a ride with them over to Star Lake for $45 per person.  Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburgh is known for a lot of things — steel and shale, eds and meds, bridges and ball games — but did you know that our city once had its very own “Wall Street” Downtown? Author and historian Mark Houser is here to talk about our region’s first financial district and the iconic buildings that followed, all because someone struck oil (on purpose) 165 years ago today! Want to learn more Downtown history? Sign up for one of Mark’s antique skyscrapers tours. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 27th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Vote on your favorite strawberry pretzel jello salad at an upcoming festival, get a craft beer in Butler County at a reimagined farm-to-table restaurant, and check out vegan donuts at our favorite bagel place. Plus, we’ve got the tastiest treats to help you celebrate Pi Day in Pittsburgh! City Cast’s Francesca Dabecco and Owen Gabbey are sharing their faves. Help us with an upcoming show! What’s your favorite cocktail? Is it on the menu somewhere or do you ask for something special? Or maybe you have a favorite cocktail bar? What do you love about it? Call or text us with your love letters to 412-212-8893. If you include your name and neighborhood, you might just hear it on the show! We always cite our sources: Check out this roundup from the Hey Pittsburgh newsletter for 14 places to get pie in Pittsburgh for Pi Day! Pizza is pie, too. Listen back to our guide to The Best Pizzas in Pittsburgh episode. We also listed the best New Food Festivals Coming to Pittsburgh. Make sure you’re subscribed to the newsletter to get the best food news delivered every day at 6 a.m. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

When Andrew Carnegie started opening libraries in southwest Pennsylvania in the 1890s, he wanted to bring books and knowledge to everyone — not just those who could afford to pay. Now libraries are taking that spirit beyond the printed word, offering everything from power tools to ukuleles to genealogy databases. We’re exploring the unique collections available for you to check out at local libraries.  **This conversation originally published May 30, 2023. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

If you live in parts of the South Hills or the East End, getting around by bus or on the T might be pretty easy for you. But that’s not true for big portions of our city and county. Today we’re with the grassroots advocacy group Pittsburghers for Public Transit to talk about our regional provider, Pittsburgh Regional Transit, including what PPT loves, what data shows isn’t working, and the group’s vision for what public transit could be here in the Burgh. Thanks to our guest, PPT’s executive director, Laura Chu Wiens, and check out their upcoming event, Transit Worker Appreciation Day on Monday, March 18. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The humble user review — taken alone, is just one person’s opinion. But put a bunch together, and that aggregated star rating can make or break a local business. So today, we’re going inside the minds of the people leaving one-star reviews for some of our favorite Pittsburgh places. Producer and quizmaster Elizabeth Kauma puts host Megan Harris and newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco to the test. Can they guess famous Pittsburgh landmarks based only on one-star reviews? Who knows Pittsburgh’s haters best?  Check your answers as you play along. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! The Monroeville Convention Center won’t be turned into a Hobby Lobby after all, Pittsburgh is partially resuming its spay and neuter program, and Allegheny County Council voted against a ceasefire resolution this week. Plus, we’re talking about Vision Zero and how you can participate in 311 Day in Pittsburgh. Thanks to our guest and national 311 Day founder, Armin Samii. Check out his work at dashcam.bike We always cite our sources: Latrobe is now in the Banana Hall of Fame! Hear Monroeville Mayor Nick Gresock joyously telling us the convention center had been saved. The city paused its spay and neuter program last month, and it’s back, but there’s a catch. For now, it’s only for feral cats. Officials paused because they say suburbanites were faking city addresses. The South Hills is finally getting snow removal help with a new public works facility. Allegheny County Council voted 9-3 against passing a ceasefire resolution. Back in October, they passed a resolution “condemning Hamas and supporting justice and safety for the Israeli and Palestinian people.” Here’s the viral moment from Councilman Bob Macey. BikePittsburgh has a great page up explaining the whole concept of Vision Zero. The city says it is prioritizing the most dangerous locations with a “High Injury Network” map. Here’s one of the city’s DOMI engineers, Panini Chowdhury, trying to explain near miss data City Council. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

It’s almost St. Patrick’s Day, which means it’s time for St. Practice Day! We’re sharing what that is, how to make the most of both weekends, and where to find some delicious Irish bites here in the Burgh. Plus, we’re mythbusting one long-held legend about Pittsburgh’s biggest parade. Learn more about volunteering with PAAR here. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower launched the sister cities program after World War II, and in the decades since, Pittsburgh has become an especially popular international partner. How do these diplomatic hook-ups happen, who greenlights the matches, and how did Pittsburgh end up with so many? Kathy Risko, former director of the Sister Cities Association of Pittsburgh, says some of it is personality, but a lot goes back to steel. Michelle King is the new contact for the organization, and if you want to suggest a new sister city, you can email her at michelle.king@pittsburghpa.gov. *Editor’s note: This episode originally published Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The Steelers brought home their report card, and let’s just say their grades would probably get you grounded. The total solar eclipse is just a month away, and we’re sharing tips on how to get the best view of this astronomical phenomenon. Plus, an update on the Monroeville Convention Center and how Pittsburgh's police staffing changes could affect you. We always cite our sources: A hotel closed in response to Monroeville’s convention center shutting down, but local and state officials have met to discuss the possibility of saving the convention center. The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police is making some changes to scheduling and their responses. The new Telephone Reporting Unit means police will respond to an estimated 50,000 calls a year instead of 200,000. This year’s Steelers Report Card came out, and we ranked 28th out of 32 teams.  Newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco has all the details for everyone viewing the solar eclipse in Pittsburgh. Erie is in the eclipse’s path of totality, and visitors have paid big bucks for a hotel room. Find eclipse events in Erie or check out the Science Center’s Eclipse Extravaganza here in Pittsburgh. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

We love when Pittsburgh is first at something — but not this. A Redfin study says we have the highest percentage of large houses owned by Baby Boomers without children living at home, making it tough for Millennials to find homes to accommodate their growing families. But is it actually Boomers’ fault? We’re digging into the local market with journalist Matt Petras, who covered the trend for Pittsburgh City Paper. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

It’s the Friday news roundup! The proposed Esplanade development on the North Side has generated a lot of buzz, but what are its odds of actually Ferris wheeling above the Ohio? We’ve got good news and bad news about a bunch of Pittsburgh animals, and PPG Industries is considering a change. Plus, we have a winner on the PA River of the Year! We always cite our sources: The Allegheny River was declared PA’s 2024 River of the Year, which includes a $10,000 prize to its nominating agency, Three Rivers Waterkeeper. The Esplanade development was first proposed for Chateau in 2019, and it resurfaced recently with a few new features.  Lisa Freeman wants to build a local grocery store in Manchester.  PPG Industries announced an internal systemic review to consider whether their architectural coatings division still makes sense for their portfolio. The company has a wide collection of industrial grade products, in addition to their sometimes better known paints. PPG’s Tim Knavish told Yahoo! Finance that the homebuying and selling boom was really good for business. If you’re curious about his favorite PPG color, check their YouTube. About 70 animals died in a fire at Nate’s Reptile Rescue in South Park, but over 100 were saved. KDKA had a really informative report. Per our recent conversation about the Pittsburgh Zoo, an official review found nothing awry. WPXI got an AZA official on the phone this week, and he confirmed we have not reapplied for accreditation yet. The National Aviary in the North Side got a new Andean Condor, a little boy chick named Bud.  Today is National Pig Day. Celebrate tonight with the Pittsburgh Squealers at Voodoo Brewing in New Kensington. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

After Pittsburgh’s immigration court closed in 2022, Casa San Jose executive director Monica Ruiz transformed her space into a makeshift courtroom, but it’s not the most sustainable solution. City Cast’s Mallory Falk, who worked reported on immigration from the the U.S.-Mexico border before coming home to Pittsburgh, sits down with Ruiz to discuss the virtual court process and the enormous stakes for people making their case to receive asylum in the U.S. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 26th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

What’s new to eat and drink in the Burgh? Novo Asian Food Hall is finally opening in the Strip District Terminal; Girl Scout Cookies are inspiring drink pairings; Page’s will soon kick off ice cream season; and Pittsburgh is getting festivals for kosher eats, desserts, and vegan fare. Plus, why did Necromancer Brewing close in Ross Township? Get a taste of it all in today’s roundup. We always cite our sources: The owner of Necromancer Brewing spoke about why the brewery shut down. His quote was updated, and you can find the original quote through the Wayback Machine. A brewer from Hitchhiker Brewing shared his thoughts on dealing with the PLCB. East End Brewing drops its YOU ARE HERE Highland Park beer March 1 Want to drink beer and win prizes? Listen to our episode with Pittsburgh Brewers Guild. It’s Girl Scout Cookie season! Check out Wigle Whiskey’s pairings. Novo Asian Food Hall opens in the Strip District Terminal March 1 The DorStop in Dormont reopened under new ownership Sweet Alchemy’s Sweet Horror is at VooDoo Brewing in New Kensington on March 24 Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle’s Big Nosh festival is April 7-9 The national Dessert Wars stops at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center April 27 VegFest’s new VegFair takes place May 4 in Point Breeze’s Rockwell Park For more weekend events, visit our website and be sure to subscribe to the Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Looking for fun places to go? Interesting stuff to do? Yummy noms to eat? Yinz, we’ve got five weekends to celebrate this month, plus an extra hour of daylight to do it! The City Cast team is here to help you make the most of every second in Pgh.  Here are a few of the City Casty things we mentioned in today’s show: Find your perfect fish fry during Lent with this interactive map  Get your garden ready and select plants that will thrive in Pittsburgh. The exhibit “A Woman’s Place: How Women Shaped Pittsburgh” opens on March 23 at the Heinz History Center. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

On her first day in office, Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato raised wages and improved the benefits for thousands of county employees. But she still has another 1,000+ open positions to fill. We’re talking about what she can do to make those jobs more attractive, big open leadership roles, new ballot options for the upcoming primary, how property tax assessments may change, and how she’s feeling about signing her first couple pieces of county legislation. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

The USDA updated its plant hardiness map, and the Pittsburgh area is 2.5 degrees warmer than we were a decade ago. So what does that mean if you’re getting ready to plant for spring? Meg Graham, the owner of May Apple Gardening, has a few recommendations for plants to add to your garden and some tips for how to take care of what’s already in your yard. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.