City Cast Pittsburgh

Nat King Cole singing “chestnuts roasting on an open fire” is a classic sound associated with the holidays, yet for many the tradition is no more than a line in the song. Newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco joins host Morgan Moody to share how the American chestnut tree was once rooted in the culture and landscape of Appalachia — and how, thanks to the hard work of regional researchers, it might be making a comeback. You can share your public comment on bringing back the American chestnut tree here: https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/APHIS-2020-0030-8291 Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Gun violence in Pittsburgh continues to overwhelm the loved ones of victims and our city's officials. Mayor Ed Gainey wants to get guns off the streets, and mental health professionals want to address the violence at its core. Julius Boatwright is trying to create solutions by addressing mental wellness within the Black community through his organization, Steel Smiling. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Santa may have his sleigh, but Pittsburgh has a spirited Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus. PRT driver Amy Jackson spends her own money and time decking the hall of her city bus every year. We hopped aboard the Collier Christmas Bus to learn a little bit more about the magic of spreading good tidings on public transit. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

It’s the Friday news roundup! We're talking about what the increase to the 2023 Pittsburgh Public Schools budget means when the district's already at a deficit, the fire in the Roosevelt building downtown, and the new historical markers coming to the city. As always, our Friday shows are powered by great local journalism. Public School Budgets: https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/pittsburgh-public-schools-2023-budget-stabilizes-district-for-another-year-future-funding-still-uncertain/Content?oid=22968580 https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/pittsburgh-public-schools-2023-budget-stabilizes-district-for-another-year-future-funding-still-uncertain/Content?oid=22968580 https://www.wesa.fm/show/the-confluence/2022-11-21/pittsburgh-public-schools-proposed-2023-budget-spends-more-with-one-time-federal-funding Roosevelt Building Fire: https://www.post-gazette.com/local/city/2022/12/12/downtown-pittsburgh-roosevelt-building-fire/stories/202212120048 https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/elderly-woman-dies-high-rise-fire-roosevelt-building-while-trying-escape/3XLBUPIXQNELVM7R22MJHXHZEQ/ https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/crews-responding-5-alarm-fire-downtown-pittsburgh-apartment-building/UTRG2ZDVMJDYZFNZ36QISWGLNQ/ https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/nearly-30-apartments-uninhabitable-after-high-rise-fire-roosevelt-building/YNPCTSZEM5G23GRQAIV7SRTR4Q/ Pittsburgh Pirates 1971 Lineup: https://triblive.com/sports/on-sept-1-1971-the-pirates-made-history-with-baseballs-first-all-black-starting-lineup/ PA Historical Markers: https://www.media.pa.gov/pages/phmc-details.aspx?newsid=422 https://paheritage.wpengine.com/article/century-marking-history-100-years-pennsylvania-historical-marker-program/ Teenie Harris: https://cmoa.org/art/teenie-harris-archive/ Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Winter is a time of hibernation, but if you spend the season bundled up in bed, you’ll be missing out. The City Cast team is here to soften the blow that the snowiest season can bring to our social lives by sharing some of our the favorite winter activities in the ‘Burrrgh. Activities we mentioned: The Holiday Magic! Winter Flower Show and Light Garden at Phipps Conservatory Dazzling Nights at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden Kennywood's Holiday Lights Show Skiing and snow tubing at Hidden Valley, Seven Springs, and Boyce Park Ice skating at the UPMC Rink at PPG Place and the Schenley Park Skating Rink Visiting Fallingwater Going on a guided winter hike with the Audubon Society or Allegheny County Parks Ordering a tea set at Ka-Fair Cafe Warming up with a wintery latte from Adda Coffee & Tea House, De Fer Coffee & Tea, or Commonplace Coffee The Miracle on 6th pop-up Christmas bar The Tipsy Elf Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

How do you design a concert for people who are sensitive to light and sound? For years, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra has been a leader in making performances more inclusive and accessible for people with sensory sensitivities — including through its sensory-friendly Holiday Pops concerts. Suzanne Perrino, the Senior Vice President of Learning and Community Engagement at the PSO, joins us to talk about creating a safe space for everyone to experience art. You can still buy tickets for this year’s sensory-friendly Holiday Pops concert, which takes place at Heinz Hall this Saturday, December 17th at 2:30 p.m. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Across the Commonwealth, a rivalry has raged on. No, it's not the Eagles vs. the Steelers or the Flyers vs. the Penguins. It’s much deeper than sports: it's about our gas stations. With the help of your hot takes, we're hosting the ultimate Sheetz vs. Wawa battle with our sister podcast City Cast Philly. City Cast's Content Director (and gas station food connoisseur) Wil Fulton serves as an impartial judge as hosts Morgan Moody and Trenae Nuri attempt to settle the debate once and for all. You can read Wil's exhaustive reporting on the Sheetz vs. Wawa rivalry in Thrillist. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Our city has a complicated claim to gas station fame. Many believe the first ever drive-in gas station was on Baum Boulevard in East Liberty. There’s even a state historical marker at the site…which is now a parking lot. But the truth is a little more complex. Brian Butko, Director of Publications at the Heinz History Center, joins us to explain what’s fueling this local myth. Want to fill up on the full story? Check out Brian’s recent blog post: “Was the World’s First Gas Station in Pittsburgh? It’s Complicated.” Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

It’s the Friday news roundup! Host Morgan Moody is with producer Elizabeth Kauma and Pittsburgh City Paper’s Jordana Rosenfeld to talk about the challenges facing the city's unhoused community and conditions inside the Allegheny County Jail. Plus, we get the scoop on a local mugshot of the late comedian Richard Pryor. As always, our Friday shows are powered by great local journalism. Jordana Rosenfeld's reporting on the unhoused community in Pittsburgh City Paper: https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/short-and-long-term-barriers-impede-path-to-stable-housing-for-pittsburghs-growing-homeless-community/Content?oid=22922224 and https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/why-many-seeking-housing-spend-years-without-shelter/Content?oid=22922241 And her reporting on freezing conditions in the Allegheny County Jail https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/cp-jail-watch-freezing-on-pod-3b-medication-expanded-causes-of-death-unveiled/Content?oid=22887231 Rick Sebak in Pittsburgh Magazine on Richard Pryor's time in Allegheny County Jail https://www.pittsburghmagazine.com/pryor-conviction-a-famous-comics-pittsburgh-jail-stay/ Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Struggling to find the perfect holiday gifts for your loved ones? We’ve got you covered! From seasonal candles and holiday beer packs to pierogi bracelets and Titty Sphinx pins (trust us, they’re a crowd pleaser!), we’re breaking down the best gifts from local shops and artists. Pittsburgh City Paper’s Amanda Waltz joins City Cast’s Morgan Moody and Francesca Dabecco to share recommendations for the foodies, fashionistas, adventurers, and homebodies in your lives. You can find links to all our gift suggestions and more in today’s newsletter. For more great local gift ideas, check out City Paper’s holiday gift guide. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Whether served on a dish and stuffed with potato and cheese, or racing around between innings at a Pirate’s game, the pierogi is an iconic Pittsburgh treat. But how did it become such a local staple? Dr. Julia Hudson-Richards, a food historian and instructor in the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of History, joins us to trace to the pierogi’s path from Polish kitchens to Pittsburgh bellies. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Despite nationwide calls for police to be less involved in responding to mental health crises, new reporting shows Pittsburgh officers are actually filing more 302 petitions — for involuntary psychiatric commitment — than just a few years ago. The overall number of petitions increased by 21% from 2015 to 2021, but the number filed by police grew more than any other group. PublicSource health reporter Amelia Winger joins us to talk about her reporting digging into the data and why it’s difficult to pinpoint what’s behind the rise in 302s. You can read Amelia’s reporting on what could be causing the rise here: https://www.publicsource.org/allegheny-county-302-involuntary-outpatient-treatment-western-psych-mental-health-pa/ And you can find her story looking into police involvement here: https://www.publicsource.org/police-intervention-behavioral-health-crisis-response-pittsburgh-allegheny-302-involuntary/ Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Racist myths around the difficulty of tattooing melanated skin has created a toxic culture in the industry, and there are businesses in Pittsburgh where Black people are actually denied service or discouraged from getting inked. Rita Santana, a tattoo artist and co-owner of Three Fates Tattoo Studio in East Liberty, joins us to bust those myths and talk about what local artists are doing to create safe spaces for people of color. Want to give feedback on the future of the Allegheny Riverfront Park? You can register here for a community design session happening this Wednesday, December 7th. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

It’s the Friday news roundup! Today the team’s discussing the controversy around funds for Pittsburgh parks, why Republicans will have a (temporary) majority in the state House even though Democrats won control, and where to get local holiday gifts. As always, our Friday shows are powered by great local journalism. Ladimir Garcia, Terryaun Bell, and Jack Troy with PublicSource on the city’s park tax: https://www.publicsource.org/pittsburgh-budget-city-parks-tax-conservancy-mayor-ed-gainey-equity/ Kiley Koscinski with WESA discussing park funding on The Confluence: https://www.wesa.fm/show/the-confluence/2022-11-30/pittsburgh-parks-conservancy-questions-citys-spending-of-parks-tax-funding-on-equipment Stephen Caruso with Spotlight PA on why PA Dems will lose their majority in the state house, at least temporarily: https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2022/11/pa-election-2022-results-democrat-house-control-speaker-election/ and https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2022/11/pa-election-2022-democrats-majority-summer-lee-austin-davis/ Stephen Caruso’s interview on The Confluence: https://www.wesa.fm/show/the-confluence/2022-11-23/airport-travel-is-up-but-not-yet-rivaling-pre-pandemic-passenger-volume Chris Potter with WESA on the debate over setting a special election date to replace late state rep. Tony DeLuca: https://www.wesa.fm/politics-government/2022-12-01/special-election-scheduled-for-late-pa-rep-tony-delucas-seat Our own Francesca Dabecco’s list of local holiday markets: https://us14.campaign-archive.com/?u=47857f2c492a1dda05a4762b9&id=1fd734c75a Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Between eggnog, spiked cider, and mulled wine, the holiday season is a time for cheers and indulgence. But for those of you who prefer to take part in the happiest season sober - or just want the occasional break from booze - the City Cast team is rounding up our favorite Pittsburgh mocktails. Plus, we answer the question: what's the fuss about a fussfungle and why should more Pittsburghers know about this drink? In today's episode we mentioned these restaurants, bars and bottle shops: Open Road Onion Maiden The Foundry Hidden Harbor Yuzu Adda Kaya Bar Botanico Pusadee’s Garden Apteka Spork Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Tereneh Idia has been a voice for local Black women through her art and writing, but she is taking a break from the city. In her last column for the Pittsburgh City Paper, she decided to answer a question she's been posed before: “What would I tell a Black woman about moving to Pittsburgh?" Idia opens up to us about the challenges of being a Black woman in our city and where she's headed next. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

The Pittsburgh Glass Center may be the hottest recurring character on reality shows this year. The local institution has been renowned in the glass art community for years, but the average Pittsburgher might not have realized what a gem we had in our city. That changed with shows like Netflix’s “Blown Away” and the Disney+ Christmas Special “Best in Snow,” which feature glass artists from the center. Heather McElwee, the executive director of Pittsburgh Glass Center, joins us to talk about what the exposure has meant for the art studio, what it was like to be a guest judge on "Blown Away," and how Pittsburghers can try their hands at glassmaking this holiday season. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Getting a tattoo requires trust and vulnerability, and some tattoo artists have taken advantage of that. The #TattooMeToo movement started several years ago, when women and queer folks began speaking up about the sexual abuse they’ve faced in tattoo shops. Around that time, local tattoo artist Susie Humphrey opened Sanctuary in Lawrenceville with the goal of providing a safe space for people to get inked. Susie joins us to talk about what it takes to build an inclusive tattoo studio. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Let’s face it, the holiday season can be stressful. Whether you’re visiting family or spending it alone, we’ve got tips on how to find peace this winter from former Pittsburgh ballerina Eva Trapp, who left the competitive dance world to found the new Sneha Yoga and Wellness Collective in Lawrenceville. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

In the 1960s, sick or injured people would get taken to the hospital in the backseat of a cop car or hearse — if they were picked up at all. It wasn’t until a trailblazing group of Black men from the Hill District started saving lives in their own community that the country began to develop a system for emergency medicine. Known as the Freedom House Ambulance Service, this team of Pittsburghers became the nation’s very first paramedics. Kevin Hazzard, author of “American Sirens: The Incredible Story of the Black Men Who Became America’s First Paramedics,” joins us to talk about the group’s lasting legacy in our city and beyond. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Have you ever gotten a tattoo that you regret? It's the risk that comes with permanently inking your skin, and local tattoo artist Jess Scutella wants to help cover up harmful imagery. They join us to talk about designing beautiful coverup tattoos, free of charge, for people who've had a change of heart and want to erase symbols of hate or violence on their body. You can find Jess on Instagram and at Kyklops Tattoo on the South Side. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

It’s the Friday news roundup! The team's getting you prepped for Light Up Night this weekend, sharing some fun funicular history as we wait for the Monongahela Incline to reopen, teasing a cool new walking tour on Downtown’s Fourth Avenue, and tackling how to have a holiday with less food waste. As always, our Friday shows are powered by great local journalism. Our own Francesca Dabecco on how to help your hungry neighbors: https://us14.campaign-archive.com/?u=47857f2c492a1dda05a4762b9&id=eae0a4d5da And Thanksgiving takeout options: https://us14.campaign-archive.com/?u=47857f2c492a1dda05a4762b9&id=bda7890da8 & https://us14.campaign-archive.com/?u=47857f2c492a1dda05a4762b9&id=dd44dff26c Katie Blackley in WESA on the rise and fall of Pittsburgh’s inclines: https://www.wesa.fm/arts-sports-culture/2018-08-07/the-rise-and-fall-of-pittsburghs-inclines Ed Blazina in the Pittsburgh Union Progress on upgrades to the Mon incline: https://www.unionprogress.com/2022/11/14/mon-incline-may-open-for-light-up-night-but-work-remains-to-be-done/ Julia Felton in the Tribune-Review on Light Up Night plans: https://triblive.com/local/pittsburgh-unveils-plans-for-light-up-night-saturday/ Richard Cook in Pittsburgh Magazine on weekend road closures: https://www.pittsburghmagazine.com/want-to-know-which-roads-will-be-closed-this-weekend-for-light-up-night/ Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

We just had our first snow day in Pittsburgh! While some local ski bums might be ready to hit the slopes, both Seven Springs and Hidden Valley are set to open later than in previous years. Why? You can probably guess: climate change. Vail Resorts, which bought both hills, announced that they wouldn’t open Seven Springs until after Thanksgiving and Hidden Valley until December 23rd. Charles Donnellan, the head coach of Western Pennsylvania Racing Club, is here to talk about what change looks like on the hill. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Dietary restrictions and food allergies can be a real damper on all of the delicious holiday dishes, but they don’t have to be. Pittsburgh food blogger Liz Fetchin is with us to dish on all of the allergy-friendly recipes in her new e-cookbook, An Octofree Thanksgiving. With a grocery list, timeline, and alternatives to comforting classics, Fetchin will have you ready to serve everyone at your table this season. Follow Fetchin on Instagram at @octofree and buy her e-book at https://octofree.com/shop/. You can find our episode on the Ethane Cracker in Beaver County here: https://pod.link/citycastpittsburgh/episode/15bef512652791d0755c2c9feaf1b475 Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Pittsburgh’s immigration court closed six months ago, forcing people to either travel across the state to make their case in Philadelphia or attend their hearings virtually, which can be a challenge for immigrants without a computer or stable internet connection. Laura Perkins from the Latino advocacy group Casa San Jose joins us to discuss where things stand six months since the closure and how her team has stepped up to fill in the gaps. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

From sandwiches to salads, Pittsburgh has a long history of putting fries on just about everything. City Cast Pittsburgh host Morgan Moody speaks with Sarah Grey, a development editor for O'Reilly Media, about the city’s obsession with fries. You can read her fantastic article about Pittsburgh’s unique culinary tastes and history here. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

It’s the Friday news roundup! A blue wave swept through Pennsylvania on Election Day. Democrats won both the races for governor and U.S. Senate, and they even seem poised to take back control of the State House. City Cast Pittsburgh host Morgan Moody and City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri speak with Spotlight PA’s Capitol Reporter Stephen Caruso about what the blue wave means for the future of politics in Pennsylvania. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Funeral director Sarah McAlee is a soup-lebrity on the North Side. She goes by brothmonger, and you’ll have to sign up for her newsletter if you want to where to snag her hearty creations. Hear about her journey from the morbid kid to comfort-maker-in-chief, plus all her best-kept, soup-making secrets. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Ahead of the election, all eyes were on the Keystone State thanks to competitive races for US Senate, governor, and more. So, what happened yesterday? From the gubernatorial race to local contests, the City Cast Pittsburgh team is breaking down which way the swing state swung. If you want to read up a bit more on our elections, WESA has been covering them in detail. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

This time of year stinks in Pittsburgh, and not just because it’s election season. City Cast Pittsburgh producer Elizabeth Kauma is with Ana Hoffman, Director of Air Quality Engagement at CMU’s CREATE Lab, to talk about the other source of stench in our city: pollution. The CREATE Lab worked on an app that lets Pittsburghers report and track smells across the county. Here is the link to check whether you mail-in ballot was undated or had the wrong date: https://www.alleghenycounty.us/elections/incorrect,-no-date-ballots.aspx And here's more information on what to do if you need to fix your ballot: https://www.wesa.fm/politics-government/2022-11-06/allegheny-county-posts-lists-of-voters-whose-mail-in-ballots-are-at-risk-offers-remedy Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Mid-term elections are tomorrow! While our statewide races are getting a lot of national attention, we wanted to help you make sense of some of the local contests and ballot questions that matter. The City Cast Pittsburgh team is breaking down everything you need to know ahead of November 8th. Here are a few great resources for getting up to speed on the election: Pittsburgh City Paper’s Election Guide: https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/election-guide/Category?oid=14973309 WESA’s Voter Guide: https://www.wesa.fm/pa-election-guide-2022 PublicSource on the Wilkinsburg ballot question: https://www.publicsource.org/wilkinsburg-home-rule-ballot-question-referendum-november-annexation-pittsburgh/ You can check your voter registration status, polling locations, and districts here: https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/pages/voterregistrationstatus.aspx And you can find our episode about Wilkinsburg and annexation here: https://pod.link/citycastpittsburgh/episode/3e2d20781f0bd725cdf199515fd314b5 Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

It’s the Friday news roundup! Election Day is around the corner, so our own Morgan Moody is breaking down some of the biggest statewide races with the help of City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri. Looking to move past the ridiculous campaign ads, cut through the misinformation, and get down to where the candidates actual stand on important issues? We’ve got you covered. As always, our Friday shows are powered by great journalism. Steven Lee Meyers in the New York Times on disinformation in PA elections: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/31/technology/midterm-disinformation-pennsylvania.html Katie Meyer in WHYY on Shapiro and Mastriano’s stances on crime: https://whyy.org/articles/pa-governor-midterm-election-shapiro-mastriano-on-gun-trafficking-crime-public-safety/ Charles Thompson in PennLive on Mastriano’s approach to the opioid epidemic: https://www.pennlive.com/news/2022/06/doug-mastriano-touts-three-part-plan-to-fight-opioid-abuse-in-capitol-appearance.html Caroline Vakil for The Hill on Oz closing gap with Fetterman in new Pennsylvania poll https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/3694903-oz-closes-gap-with-fetterman-in-new-pennsylvania-poll/ Bo Koltnow with WFMZ on Dr. Oz ads criticizing opponent John Fetterman's stance on criminal justice reform https://www.wfmz.com/news/area/pennsylvania/behind-the-ballot-dr-oz-ads-criticize-opponent-john-fettermans-stance-on-criminal-reform/article_8b80ed34-2e2d-11ed-9996-d34781b33cab.html Matt Enright in the York Dispatch on more women registering to vote in Pa. since Roe reversal https://www.yorkdispatch.com/story/news/local/2022/09/12/more-women-registering-vote-pa-since-roe-reversal-changing-political-dynamic/8021956001/ Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

A new Pittsburgh-shot film is premiering this weekend! “Dear Zoe” follows Tess, a teenage girl played by “StrangerThings” star Sadie Sink, who grapples with the tragic death of her younger sister, Zoe. It’s based on the book by Pittsburgh author Philip Beard, who joins us to talk about what inspired the story and how it got to the big screen. Plus, our very own Morgan Moody talks about her experience working on set. The Oaks Theater in Oakmont is holding a special screening of “Dear Zoe” tonight at 7:30 p.m., followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers. You can also catch the film at The Manor Theatre, Waterworks, Cranberry, and Century Square Luxury cinemas. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

While Philly sports teams are killing it on the other side of the state, Pittsburgh’s on the struggle bus. And we’re wondering: would things be different if we had a professional basketball team? So we’re revisiting our conversation with Steel City transplant Tyler Batiste about the ‘Burgh’s on-court legacy and whether — someday — we just might get a team of our own. Tyler is the managing editor of the Athletic's NBA vertical. You can check out all his basketball coverage here: https://theathletic.com/author/tyler-batiste/ Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

It’s officially raccoon hunting season in Pennsylvania. While these garbage-loving creatures make some of us uneasy, wildlife advocates want us to think twice before laying traps. Rebecca Reid, cofounder of Scrap the Trap, is here to talk about dealing with our furry frenemies more humanely. Here are Rebecca’s top tips for responsible wildlife management: Think preventatively. Just because you don’t have wildlife issues now doesn’t mean you won’t later, so inspect your house for any holes in or around your basement and keep your doors closed. If you have urban agriculture, protect it. Try putting a wobbly fence around your vegetable garden; if a fence is too structurally sound, creatures can easily climb it and munch on your future lunch. Another fun fact: hardware cloth will keep your poultry protected better than chicken wire. If you don’t want a raccoons biting into your old banana bread, wait to put your garbage out until collection day or keep your trash secured. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

George Romero’s 1968 movie “Night of The Living Dead” is a cult classic. The horror flick is considered the godfather of the flesh-eating zombie genre and it was filmed in Pittsburgh with local talent. Judith O’Dea, better known as Barbara in the movie, may have been turned into a ghoul in the end, but she’s joining us to talk about what it was like making the iconic film. Consider this your Halloween treat! You can catch a Halloween screening of "Night of the Living Dead" tonight at 7:05 p.m. at Row House Cinema. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

It’s the Friday news roundup! Prepping for Election Day is stressful but not to worry, the City Cast team is clearing up some candidate confusion and talking about important voting deadlines. Plus, we’re learning why Pittsburgh pigeonsshould be revered and discussing the the Pens’ 90s throwback jerseys. As always, our Friday shows are powered by great local journalism. Pigeons at Acrisure Stadium: https://triblive.com/sports/faster-than-a-steeler-or-buccaneer-a-flock-of-pigeons-stayed-in-the-game-sunday/ Rob Rossi’s article for the Athletic about the Robo Penguins logo: https://theathletic.com/3709886/2022/10/20/penguins-reverse-retro-jersey/ Where to see your sample ballot on the Allegheny County website: https://apps.alleghenycounty.us/website/ElectPollPlace.aspx The City and State PA explainer on the Keystone Party: https://www.cityandstatepa.com/politics/2022/08/what-keystone-party-city-state-explainer/376294/ More Information about the saga of the two Mike Doyles: https://www.wesa.fm/politics-government/2022-10-13/mike-doyle-pa-congress-2022-election Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Four years ago today, a gunman killed 11 worshippers at the Tree of Life synagogue in Squirrel Hill. The city of Pittsburgh, and especially the Jewish community, is still grappling with grief from that tragic day. City Cast’s Mallory Falk grew up attending services there. She spoke with Maggie Feinstein, director of the 10.27 Healing Partnership, about how to process heavy emotions and honor the memory of those we lost. The 10.27 Healing Partnership is hosting a Commemoration Ceremony at 4 p.m. this afternoon on Prospect Drive at Schenley Park. You can find more information here: https://1027healingpartnership.org/event/commemoration-ceremony/ Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

After years of teaching abstinence as the “expected norm,” Pittsburgh Public Schools recently updated its sex ed curriculum to be more comprehensive and inclusive. But some of our listeners are still scarred by what they learned — or didn’t! — in schools throughout the region. Mary Jo Podgurski, director of the Washington Health System Teen Outreach Program, is the sex ed teacher we wish we had. With the help of listeners’ stories, she breaks down some of the most harmful lessons young people can receive in sex ed, how schools should be approaching the subject, and why it all got so complicated in the first place. In today’s newscast, we mention our June episode on how the pandemic widened learning gaps in Pittsburgh. You can listen here: https://pod.link/citycastpittsburgh/episode/6022e188d65db755d5562e0910d78aa6 Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Does it seem like election ads are getting worse and more unavoidable every election...and like candidates get away with stretching the truth or outright lying? Stephen Caruso, Capitol Reporter for Spotlight PA, is here to talk about the wild claims ads make, who they're intended for, and what the memeification of campaigns could mean for future elections. You can find all of Stephen's election coverage here: https//www.spotlightpa.org/authors/stephen-caruso/ Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Both state officials and Bigfoot believers have a bone to pick with a batch of fraudulent flyers posted across Pennsylvania state parks and forests since August. Trib reporter Mary Ann Thomas explains the dangers and what both sides see as an affront to wildlife management. Check out Mary Ann’s reporting here: https://triblive.com/news/pennsylvania/state-officials-bigfoot-isnt-lurking-in-pennsylvania-parks-and-forests-fake-flyers-reported/ And a website run by Bigfoot researcher Stan Gordon here: https://www.stangordon.info/wp/ Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

It’s the Friday news roundup! If you’re scrambling to come up with a last-minute Halloween costume and plans, we’ve got you covered. The team has everything you need for a scary weekend, from pumpkin carving tips to Pittsburgh-centric costume ideas to bone-chilling events and parties for all ages. Check out the Halloween activities we mentioned in the show: Brendan Conaway aka Pittsburgh Pumpkin Guy will be live carving pumpkins all around tahn. You can get the full rundown of events on his Facebook page. Buffalo Bill’s House is holding guided tours on Halloween weekend. Check out our episode all about the “cinematic destination” where some of the most iconic scenes from Silence of Lambs were shot: https://pod.link/citycastpittsburgh/episode/bbbec4bcf6f7f7c1fe50d6ad47c25a94 Southside Works and Fred Rogers Productions are hosting a full day of free family fun with pumpkin carving and painting, a Great Pumpkin Patch, and an outdoor screening of new Halloween programming on 10/22. The event will also celebrate the 10th anniversary of “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.” Check out our episode all about that: https://pod.link/citycastpittsburgh/episode/ed8fef927fb61a930d76a6745e00fc4f POGOH is hosting a Bike or Treat Halloween Scavenger Hunt on 10/29. Beers of the Burgh and Brew Gentleman are throwing a Scary Furnace Halloween Party at Carrie Blast Furnaces on 10/22. Arie Cole will be DJ-ing at Zombie Prom on 10/28 and Slappers N Bangers on 10/29. Cobra is hosting a Halloween party on 10/29. Pittsburgh’s ultimate haunted house, ScareHouse, is open Friday-Sunday through early November. And here's Lisa Cunningham's statement on her departure from Pittsburgh City Paper: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TZQI5gNB5l3bANdsTwBWIJwNll0wKXG7nTNyVmm11o8/edit Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Ten years ago, a new children’s show premiered on PBS starring 4-year-old Daniel Tiger, the animated son of the beloved puppet from “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” The series was the first TV show from Fred Rogers Productions since Rogers died in 2003, and the team behind it wanted to honor his legacy while reinventing the neighborhood for a new generation. Chris Loggins, supervising producer on “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” talks about his creative process, shares some Pittsburgh Easter eggs in the series, and invites the city to help celebrate 10 years of a fuzzy new friend. Stop by South Side Works on Saturday for a family-friendly celebration, including show trivia, art, a Great Pumpkin Patch, pumpkin carving, and more — plus a free outdoor screening of new Halloween programming at 5:30 p.m. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

What would it mean to lose a fixture in Pittsburgh news? It's a grim future we’re getting a glimpse of as portions of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette newsroom, represented by the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh, walked out in the city’s biggest newspaper strike since 1992. NEXTPittsburgh media columnist Andrew Conte joins us to talk about how this will affect the community — and working journalists — who depend on the outlet to “tell our stories from birth to death and everything in between.” City Paper did a great write-up about the labor strike, which more deeply considers the perspective of folks who are opting out of the strike: https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/post-gazette-reporters-leave-union-over-striking-disputes/Content?oid=22630472 Here's the PG's 30th anniversary story about the Pittsburgh Press strike in 1992: https://www.post-gazette.com/opinion/insight/2022/05/22/great-newspaper-strike-30-years-later-post-gazette-press/stories/202205220031 This is the fantastic Art Rooney investigation that explores how the Steelers founder made his initial fortune. We learned belatedly that it was written by journalist Sean Hamill: https://newsinteractive.post-gazette.com/investigation-art-rooney-steelers/ And if you're curious about all those references to Styx's "Renegade," check out our episode on the song's affect on the Steelers here: https://pod.link/citycastpittsburgh/episode/ce46373ef70afbba6a6d53a4755f75ee Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

We can’t stop talking about ghosts during spooky season, but we’re inviting City Cast contributor Rossilynne Skena Culgan on the pod to discuss a different kind of ghost…the faded old-timey advertisements on building across Pittsburgh known as ghost signs. A self-proclaimed ghost sign hunter, Rossilynne shares how these relics help us learn more about our history and what it could mean if we lose them. You can check out Rossilynne’s photos of these fading local treasures on Instagram @ghostsigngrrl Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

From having the most coffee shops per capita to being center stage for the coffee union movement, the Steel City has a lot to celebrate in its 8th annual Coffee Week. City Cast’s Francesca Dabecco and Morgan Moody share some fun history, plus lots of events all focused on community collaboration. Here's where they're getting a boo and a brew. Coffee & wine tasting at Adda in the North Side | Today | 7 p.m. Movie night at Redhawk in Sharpsburg | Today | 7 p.m. Aeropress competition at Colombino Coffee in the Strip District | Tomorrow | 5 p.m. Coffee release celebration at La Prima in Downtown | Wednesday | 5 p.m. Sustainability seminar at KLVN Coffee Lab in Larimer | Thursday | 5 p.m. Coffee & cocktails at De Fer in the Strip District | Friday | 6 p.m. Plant popup at Hilltop Coffee in Arlington | Saturday | 10 a.m. Closing party & latte art throwdown at Trace Brewing in Bloomfield | Saturday | 11 a.m. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

It’s the Friday news roundup! The team is talking about John Fetterman’s first on-air interview since his stroke — and the ableist response — plus the Penguins’ return to the ice. We also explain why Pennsylvania’s the best place in the world for fall foliage. (No, really!) If you want to read up on some of today’s topics, check ‘em aht! Buzzfeed on ableism in Fetterman rhetoric: https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/davidmack/fetterman-nbc-closed-captioning-ableism More on the history of how politicians’ medical records became a common part of campaigns: https://time.com/4472265/clinton-trump-health-reports-history/ Pennsylvania DCNR’s latest fall foliage report: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Conservation/ForestsAndTrees/FallFoliageReports/Pages/default.aspx And two great lists for spots around Pittsburgh to peep your heart out, HERE: https://www.pittsburghmagazine.com/a-leaf-peepers-paradise-your-ultimate-guide-to-fall-foliage-in-pittsburgh-and-beyond/ and HERE: https://www.post-gazette.com/life/outdoors/2022/10/15/best-fall-foliage-spots-pa/stories/202210140087 CORRECTION: An earlier version of this episode said Steelers coach Mike Tomlin was the longest tenured coach in the NFL. We fixed it, but thought you might wanna know — he’s actually the second longest. New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick has been with that team for 22 years. So Tomlin’s gotta log a few more in the hot seat before he catches up! Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Did you know Pittsburgh is the backdrop for one of the most thrilling horror movies ever made? The Silence of the Lambs was mostly filmed around Pittsburgh in the early 1990s. When the house of the film’s skin-conscious serial killer, Buffalo Bill, went up for sale a couple of years ago, a fan bought it. Filmmaker Chris Rowan recreated parts of the set — including the infamous basement well — and converted the house into a “boutique accommodation and cinematic destination.” City Cast’s Mallory Falk and Morgan Moody join him for a tour. Dying to learn more about Buffalo Bill’s? Chris is leading special guided house tours on Halloween weekend. You can book a tour here: https://buffalobillshouse.com/upcoming-tours/ He’s also hosting an event with paranormal investigator Brian J. Cano on Halloween eve. Snag a ticket here: https://buffalobillshouse.com/upcoming-events/ You can book an overnight stay at the Buffalo Bill House here: https://buffalobillshouse.com Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

There’s a locally developed app called Dashcam for your Bike and it works by recording your rides and reporting any hazards like cars parked in bike lanes, to 3-1-1. One of those reports showing a Pittsburgh police officer parked in the bike lane, and when the creator of the app—Armin Samii— approached him about moving it, the officer told him to “get a life.” We spoke with Samii about the incident, cyclist safety in Pittsburgh, and what we can all do to make the city more bike friendly. Here is a link to the full Video, and here is a link Dashcam for your Bike’s website. You can download the app here. Our newsletter is fresh daily at 6 a.m. Sign up here. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!

The Steel City loves to revel in its own history, but many of those stories are rooted in colonialism and the generations of immigration that followed. Why don’t we learn more about the Native peoples who preceded them? The Council of Three Rivers Indian American Center’s Miguel Sague is with City Cast’s Elizabeth Kauma to talk about whose land we’re actually on.