The Slaw: Staying On Top of Pittsburgh

The Slaw is recording fresh episodes, but last year, we interviewed some members of the Groundhog Day Inner Circle and met Punxsutawney Phil. Listen to learn about the history of the event, how Phil has managed to continue predicting the weather for over 135 years, and meet some of his team — they keep the festivities going year after year. Plus, we highlight Quantum Theatre's NearBuy project and the opening of Sklep, a Polish market in Polish Hill. 

The Slaw is currently recording fresh interviews. In the meantime, please enjoy this interview from the archives with restaurateur Ben Wong of Banh Mi & Ti in Lawrenceville and Two Sisters in East Liberty. While the interview first aired approximately a year ago, we think it is as important as ever to support local restaurants right now. Press play for some cozy food content. Plus, what's one thing you shouldn't miss this week? It's actually two things: Piper's Pub now has online ordering. And for those of you looking to plan your MLK Day, check out Repair The World's schedule of events and service opportunities.

In this week's episode, we meet Tony Theil of Attic Records. Just how much does Theil love buying, selling and playing records? He quit multiple jobs and moved to Millvale from Ohio when owner Fred Bohn Jr. offered him a job at the store. Learn about the history of Attic Records (spoiler alert: it wasn't just records at the start) and about the “Pittsburgh sound.” Theil gives some advice for those just starting to collect vinyl and shouts out some local bands whose albums he thinks you should own. (It's a non-comprehensive list.) Since Theil lives right above the shop, we also ask him to share some of his favorite Millvale spots. Plus, a little year-end review and some highlights from this year on The Slaw.   Links in this episode:   Attic Records Website Attic Records Instagram What is the Pittsburgh sound?

It's the final week of Maker Month, and in this episode, we meet Jamal Etienne-Harrigan of Uncle Jammy's sauces and seasonings. Learn more about his early cooking experiences and what inspires him. Of his creative process, Etienne-Harrigan explains, “I'll come up with a name and then I will backtrack towards making the recipe fit the name. And for a lot of people, that's not the way it goes.” Not just for barbecued meats, he offers some alternate applications for Uncle Jammy's seasonings. He even has a non-dairy ranch rub. Etienne-Harrigan shares how a (non-romantic) meet-cute with his neighbor Dennis Guy of First Sip Brew Box led to some beer-related product expansion and his two Fresh Fest Beer Fest collaborations with Recon Brewing. When asked how COVID-19 affected his business, his narrative of the fear and uncertainty that surrounded the first shutdown weekend in March is sure to resonate, but his attitude is inspiring. He asked himself the question: “Am I going to come out of this pandemic better off than I was or worse?” During this time, his business has expanded to additional Giant Eagle and Whole Foods stores.    Links in this episode:   Uncle Jammy's Sauces and Seasonings

It's week three of Maker Month, our series on local folks who make things for a living. In homage to Pittsburgh's steelworking past, in this episode we chat with local artist Oreen Cohen, whose work includes large public sculptures. From listening to a community's stories to scouring the streets for materials, Cohen explains how she gets inspiration from a particular place. She shares her love of the Carrie Furnaces in Rankin and how it influenced her choice to come to Pittsburgh. She speaks in detail about her most recent installation at Wightman Park -- three sculptures designed in collaboration with her business partner Allison Zapata and the local Squirrel Hill community. Listen and learn how her family's history with stained glass has come full circle in her present pandemic projects.    Plus, what's the one thing you need to know this week? It's the dates of the last two Pittsburgh Sandwich Society food truck appearances for the year -- Holiday Hot Chicken Night on Dec. 11 and A Very Food Truck Christmas on Dec. 18.   Links in this episode:   Oreen Cohen Website Oreen Cohen Instagram Carrie Blast Furnaces Historic Landmark

It's week two of Maker Month, and this week's episode features local woodworker Darren Myers. A degree in art, followed by a home purchase that required a lot of work, led Myers to travel to Vermont to learn more about woodworking. He believes that the physical aspect of working with his hands is what makes him so passionate about the craft, and the fact that he is “able to harness an old-school skill set in the modern day, where it's not as not as prevalent as it used to be.” Learn about what influences him, his process, and his dream projects.    When asked if Pittsburgh helps or hinders his work as an artist, Myers explains:   “I've struggled with location in my life, where I'm supposed to be or what I'm drawn to. I'm not very far away from the woods. Even in my neighborhood, I can go and grab a trunk of a tree that's across the street.  You can't really do that in a lot of other cities. So the geological aspect of it is crucial. I think Pittsburgh is part of the reason why I'm able to do what I do.”    Similar to last week's guest, graphic designer Paul Haggerty, Myers also made some “pandemic projects,” including some dice cups that were a result of playing a baseball simulation game with his friends over Zoom earlier this year.    Links in this episode:   From These Woods Etsy From These Woods Instagram

Meet graphic designer Paul Haggerty. His moody aesthetic and vintage vibe can be seen locally on T-shirts, stickers and pins. “I try to imagine what that would be like if the 70s never ended,”  Haggerty explains. You might have recently seen his “we'll make it together” designs for sale at Workshop PGH. When asked what it is like seeing his work out in the world, Haggerty admits to being overly excited and even sometimes snapping a secret photo. “It's cool that it resonated with somebody enough to buy it. It's a big deal for somebody to spend money on your stuff.” Growing up, Haggerty watched his parents handle merch and posters for his dad's band. From there, a notable career day field trip to an ad agency helped him realize that he wanted to be a graphic designer -- even if no one around him quite understood what that meant. In this episode, Haggerty shares some of his many “pandemic projects,” what inspires him and his dream project. Plus, what's the one thing you should know this week? It's the much-anticipated opening of the Tal and Bert Mercantile in Dormont.    Links in this episode:   Paul Haggerty on Instagram Paul Haggerty on Threadless Paul Haggerty Designs   Tal & Bert housewares

Kimberly Refosco grew up loving the outdoors. Now, as the leader of Pittsburgh's Outdoor Afro community, she helps others explore nature by organizing group hikes, kayaking, camping, fishing outings around Western Pennsylvania. Each month, Outdoor Afro hosts several events that are focused on providing opportunities for participants to get outdoors. From hikes in Pittsburgh parks to camping, Outdoor Afro creates opportunities to help participants enjoy the great outdoors.    In this episode, we talk about how to get outdoors with Outdoor Afro Pittsburgh and some of the favorite spots to visit in the city and around Western Pennsylvania. Plus, a preview of some of the outings that Outdoor Afro has planned for this winter.    Links in this episode:   Outdoor Afro Pittsburgh MeetUp page Outdoor Afro Pittsburgh Facebook group

The Slaw is all about what makes Pittsburgh, well, Pittsburgh. For the past year, we have been profiling Pittsburgh places and Pittsburgh people. In honor of our one-year anniversary, we have a very special guest: documentary filmmaker Rick Sebak. In some ways, Sebak is as much a part of our city as bridges and Primanti sandwiches. While he makes both national and local programs for public television, he explains, “I know that no one can love the national programs as much as Pittsburghers love the Pittsburgh shows.” While this episode is a bit longer than a regular episode, according to Sebak, “if you look at something long enough, it becomes interesting.” From pro tips to surprising history to inherently Pittsburgh traits to rules for road tripping to favorite takeout spots and recipes, we think there's something here for everyone. And if that wasn't enough, we've got a bonus playlist from DJ Arie Cole and a best-of bridges segment.

When David Hood was younger, he stumbled across the 1931 version of “Frankenstein” on television, which led to a lifelong interest in horror films. In 2013, he started Hooptober, a horror movie viewing project that asks participants to watch 31 films in 31 days. The project is named for “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” director Tobe Hooper, because as Hood likes to joke, “You can't spell October without t-o-b-e.” While they change each year, this year's rules include watching “three disease-based films, a film with a movie theater in it, and two films with a Black director or a predominantly Black cast or lead,” Hooptober is about seeing the genre as something that is beyond just blood and gore. The project is meant to incite conversation and recommendations between participants and to use the guidelines as an opportunity to view some films you might not have otherwise heard of or seen. Hood believes that by expanding the idea of what is considered “horror,” that there really is a horror film for everyone. “You're not going to like every style of beer; you're not going to like every type of film. But just because you don't like a stout doesn't mean that there's not a stout out there that you would like, and just because you think you don't like horror films doesn't mean that there's not something out there that would speak to you.” The Hooptober online community continues to grow, with almost 1,000 participants from 19 different countries this year. Hood gives some movie recommendations for #spookyszn and highlights some of Pittsburgh's notable horror film history -- from George A. Romero and Tom Savini to the lesser-known “Blood Sucking Pharaohs in Pittsburgh” (shot in Lawrenceville in the ‘80s). Links in this episode:    Hooptober 2020 on Letterboxd   The George A. Romero Foundation

JaQuay Edward Carter's mother used to call him “old soul, young buck.” And now, years later, that passion for the past led to the founding of the Greater Hazelwood Historical Society of Pittsburgh. The organization's early stages were closely tied to his interest in learning his own family's history in Hazelwood; one interview with a grandparent would lead to another with a neighbor. “You would think that [the historical society] would just be about the past and protecting the history of the neighborhood,” he explains. “But it is also about the future and being able to plan in order to develop and design things in the community.” In this episode, Carter shares some surprising Hazelwood fun facts. Listen to learn more about Hazelwood's history and Carter's hopes for future preservation efforts.   Links in this episode:   Greater Hazelwood Historical Society of Pittsburgh

“When we moved here, I went around and introduced myself to everyone.” The body piercer at Three Rivers Tattoo, Jenny Mendak reflects on parallels between her own small town upbringing and what she loves about living and working in Millvale. A little over a year ago, she decided to throw a dance for the kids in town, which led to more dances, talent shows, a trip on the Gateway Clipper, and the title of Director of Family and Youth Development for the Millvale Community Development Corporation. In 2019, residents celebrated “Millvale Loves Jenny Day” to recognize her tireless commitment to the community. While COVID put a stop to larger gatherings, Mendak still figures out ways to help, including basketball competitions and hikes. She wants the kids in town to have positive experiences that will help guide them into adulthood. When asked for one word to describe Millvale, she responds, “charming. You can get a record, go get homemade candy or a milkshake, and still rent a movie all on the same block,” as such we ask her to share her favorite spots.    Links in this episode:   Millvale Youth Dance Three Rivers Tattoo

In this episode we chat with Mike Carney, who, along with his partner, Erin Andrzejewski, owns Pittsburgh Sandwich Society. Learn how he got his start in kitchens and why they started the business with a food truck instead of a restaurant. Who's a member of this sandwich society? We all are -- customers, social media followers, and the people who offer critiques and motivation to keep them going. As such, Carney explains how he is wrestling with the reality that “the core of [their] industry is bringing people together and their purpose is to have a line at the truck,” so he questions if it is “right or socially responsible to serve people at this time,” while noting their social distance sandwich slide invention and modified order and payment systems. Listen to learn his cooking motto and some tips for your own kitchen adventures. At our request, he designs the most Pittsburgh of Pittsburgh sandwiches (spoiler alert, Rick Sebak is an integral part of the process). For folks who recall our Sunny Side Up Brunch series, we learn who and what was the inspiration for the unique sandwiches on the menu each month, and Carney reveals the one brunch sandwich he promises to make in the future when it is safe to gather again.    Links in this episode: PSS website Instagram Facebook

Pittsburgh's Reel Q film festival celebrates 35 years this October. In this episode, executive director TJ Murphy highlights some of the organization's history. Reel Q is the longest running LGBTQ+ film festival in the region (and the sixth longest running in the world), and Murphy shares some memorable moments. For him, the festival is about community, coming together, and the conversations that take place with each film. He explains how he stumbled across a flyer at (now-defunct) Pittsburgh Filmmakers and began his tenure with the organization as a volunteer. Learn about what changes are in store for this year's virtual programming, including Murphy's can't-miss suggestions and details on their drive-in movie event on Oct. 17.

A city planner with a passion for environmental justice, Ariam Ford-Graver is the executive director of Grounded Strategies, a local nonprofit that uses land as a medium for community change. In this episode, she talks about the work that Grounded does to help people reclaim and revitalize vacant lots and abandoned spaces in neighborhoods throughout Allegheny County. Learn why equitable access to high quality green space is important and how city planning decisions can have an effect on a neighborhood's value (or consequent devaluing over time). “Land is the one thing you can't make more of,” she explains. Ford-Graver believes that “you cannot achieve racial equity without addressing spatial inequity.” While we address this idea in this episode, Grounded's “Black Neighborhoods Matter” website post digs deeper into what this means in the city of Pittsburgh.    Links in this episode:   Grounded  Black Neighborhoods Matter

Karla Lamb is a poet, the senior programming director at City of Asylum, and the founder of Latinx & Proud! -- a literary series whose mission is to “incite conversation, empower, and amplify the Latinx community in Pittsburgh. In this episode, Lamb speaks about identity and she shares the story of her own experiences as a self-labeled Chicana and Latinx poet. She explains the “All Pittsburghers are Poets” initiative recently launched by City of Asylum and Aadam learns what a poet laureate is. October 27 celebrates one year of the Latinx & Proud! reading series; in anticipation of that anniversary event, Lamb shares what has made her most proud so far and what she hopes to accomplish. Plus: a new socially distant, pop-up beer garden opens in the South Side. Lagerlands is a four-way collaboration between Hop Culture magazine, Cinderlands Beer Co., Burgh'ers Brewing, and De Fer Coffee & Tea.    Links in this episode:   City of Asylum Latinx & Proud! Lagerlands

This is back-to-school week at Very Local PGH. Each day's content is themed around a familiar subject. And since this episode goes live for home ec. day, we made sure our guest fits the theme: Meet Julie Zaichuk-Ryan, owner of South Atlantic Stitching Company. She is a sewist whose work is a modern take on traditional needlecraft. In addition to selling her work via her Etsy store, taking custom orders and repairs, and doing pattern editing for other quilters and crafters, Zaichuk-Ryan teaches classes at Cut & Sew Studio in Morningside. In this episode we talk about the importance of hand stitching as a means of slowing down, about “women's work” and what that means to her, and what inspires her. Her advice for beginning sewists is similar to that of some previous guests: Just do it and do not be afraid of making mistakes. “There's no fear in sewing.” Zaichuk-Ryan encourages folks to tackle a project they are interested in, even if it is above their current skill level, in order to stay excited throughout the project.     Links in this episode:    South Atlantic Stitching Company South Atlantic Stitching Company on Etsy Cut & Sew Studio Virtual Classes

Artist Camerin “Camo” Nesbit got his start painting sneakers, but nowadays, he's working on much larger canvases. Nesbit was instrumental in the revisioning of the Black Lives Matter mural downtown this past June, spearheading the effort to organize (and pay) 25 Black artists to make the finished piece more inclusive. He also managed this year's mural project at Spirit in Lawrenceville, choosing local artists to create a unified piece that utilized all of their personal styles in a cohesive image. In this episode we ask him about his experiences as a Black artist in Pittsburgh and what changes he would like to see. He shouts out some of his mural locations so you can take a socially distant mural tour and check them out, and he talks about his new project -- the Homewood Experience Artwalk.    Links in this episode:   Camo Customz Website Camo Customz on Instagram

Danielle Spinola has been serving her specialty tea blends to Pittsburghers since 2007. In 2016, she expanded Tupelo Honey Teas and opened a plant-based cafe in Millvale, returning to her hometown and working to build community with an emphasis on sustainability and collaboration. In this episode, she gives an excellent tea explainer and discusses the health benefits of the beverage. We learn her views about plants as medicine and the level of care she and her team take when blending and selling tea to customers. Is tea, well, not your cup of tea? Spinola takes a “thinking outside the box” approach to tea and her business, which means that her blends are often used in collaborations with local breweries and distilleries for some harder-edged drinks. The episode concludes with her latest collaboration project: She is foraging in Girty's Woods each week to create a tea used to raise money for the Allegheny Land Trust's purchase of the 155 acres that span Millvale, Shaler, and Reserve in order to preserve it as green space. Plus: What goes great with tea? Cookies. This week, we dug through our archives to find a previously unreleased clip. Very Local freelancer/cookie enthusiast Boaz Frankel recommends his favorite chocolate chip cookies around town.   Links in this episode: Tupelo Honey Teas Allegheny Land Trust Girty's Woods Initiative

Veda Sankaran combines her Indian heritage and her Western Pennsylvanian upbringing to tell her personal story via her cooking. Jalsa by Veda is one part recipe website, one part cooking classes and popup dinners, and one part specialty spice blend. In this episode, we learn how Sankaran came to love cooking, the recipe that started her eponymous spice blend, and where she loves to shop for ingredients. She shares her takes on some very Pittsburgh foods and we talk about why she thinks cooking is important to so many people right now. Plus, we shoutout Synthesis, a plant shop that specializes in cacti, succulents, and other sculptural plants.   Links in this episode:   Jalsa By Veda Synthesis

Named for African American cyclist Marshall “Major” Taylor, the Pittsburgh Major Taylor Cycling Club is a nonprofit dedicated to “bringing the joy and health benefits of cycling to Pittsburgh's inner city urban neighborhoods.” In this episode, we talk with club president Shequaya Bailey about their history and their current slow roll rides that are open to anyone -- even someone without a bicycle  -- thanks to an arrangement with Healthy Ride. Bailey also shares her thoughts on biking in the city and lists some of her favorite places to go post-ride. Additionally, she explains how being a member of the Black Foxes, an “international collective of unapologetically Black cyclists and outdoors people” focused on representation and reclaiming their narratives, brings her joy, energy and feelings of empowerment, “almost like a battery pack...revving each other up” especially now in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.    Pittsburgh Major Taylor Cycling Club

Meet Brooke Barker, the author and illustrator behind “Sad Animal Facts,” as well as a new memoir titled “So Help Me Gosh.” What are sad animal facts? Well, exactly that -- animal illustrations paired with “did you know” style, bite-sized information about animals. As Barker explains, “We're all familiar with the concept of animals, and everyone assumes animals have these really easy and carefree lives. They're frolicking in the woods; they're just relaxing. They're sleeping in cute little dens. But we don't know how terrible animal lives are because they can't tell us about them.”   While the project started with Barker sharing the content on the internet, she has subsequently written and illustrated two sad animal books, “Sad Animal Facts” and “Sad Animal Babies,” as well as a book about animal couples that is co-authored with her husband. In this episode, we discuss some of her favorite facts as well as her new series ‘Meet This Scientist.'    We talk about her new audiobook, “So Help Me Gosh,” which is a series of essays about growing up Mormon, and she even gives us a sneak peek by reading an excerpt.      Links in this episode:   Sad Animal Fact website Sad Animal Facts on Instagram So Help Me Gosh on Audible Order Brooke's books locally from White Whale Bookstore

In honor of National Ice Cream Sandwich Day on Aug. 2, we chat with Katie Heldstab, co-owner of Leona's Ice Cream. Learn how the local company got its name, how they develop those flavors we love, and which very Pittsburgh flavor has folks making actual phone calls in order to buy it. Plus, Very Local freelancer Boaz Frankel shares a sweet bit of Pittsburgh's ice cream history.    Links in this episode:    Leona's Ice Cream

Meet Charles Succop, a local historian who features lots of Pittsburgh history on his three Instagram accounts: @pghthenandnow, @pittsburghistory (the H is deliberately missing) and @hiddenhousespgh. An intern at the city archives, Succop shares what document is the oldest in the collection and he reveals some parallels between the arguments presented in city council today and the council's records from our past. Our curiosity was piqued by the idea of a hidden house, which Succop explains is a house that has been modified to a commercial space (see: the Daily Bread on Roup Ave. and Penn Ave. in Garfield) Plus, we shoutout Adda Coffee and Tea's new location in Garfield and Olive and Marlowe's flavored vinegars.   Links in this episode:    Charles Succop's Instagram accounts @hiddenhousespgh @pghthenandnow @pittsburghistory   Adda Coffee & Tea Olive & Marlowe

Meet Simon Huntley, the founder of Harvie -- a local company that uses technology to improve the community-supported agriculture (CSA) experience. He believes that eating local food grown on local farms should be as easy as ordering from Amazon. In this episode we discuss how Harvie sows relationships with multiple local farms to build a farm share box that is similar to a trip to the farmers market, with multiple vendors including Who Cooks For You Farm, Clarion River Organics, and Jubilee Hilltop Ranch. You have the opportunity to swap out produce you don't like just by clicking some buttons and then the box is delivered to your door. Due to COVID-19, the business is rapidly expanding; they currently serve 500 families in the Pittsburgh area. We also highlight Venture Outdoors' TriAnglers Wednesday lunchtime fishing program if you want to play hooky from work. For our coffee folks, we shout out the new Pittsburgh Brewing Co. collaboration with Press House roasters: Iron City Bean Nine to Five Blend. It's supposed to taste like “the best damn diner coffee” you've ever had.   Links in this episode:   Harvie Farms Pittsburgh   TriAnglers Fishing Calendar

One hundred years ago, the women of Pittsburgh (finally) received the right to vote, thanks to the 19th Amendment. The Pittsburgh Suffrage Centennial Committee is a nonpartisan initiative that highlights the history of the suffrage movement in Western Pennsylvania, while simultaneously working for present day voter registration and election participation. In this episode, we chat with the committee's chairwoman, Eliza Smith Brown, about some of the ways that Pittsburgh's suffragists influenced the larger, national suffrage movement, and we draw distinct parallels to current affairs. Plus, we highlight a new Thursday evening mountain bike trail ride through Frick Park, organized by 3 Rivers Outdoor Co. and Golden Triangle Bike Rental. And for the final segment of the episode, we shout out Blanket & Board for all your socially distant picnicking needs.    Links in this episode:   Pittsburgh Suffrage Centennial   Weekly Mountain Biking in Frick Park    Blanket & Board

Fresh Fest, the first Black beer festival in the country, is moving online due to COVID-19. In this episode, we chat with co-founder Day Bracey about how the pivot to digital will allow more accessibility and how he believes that digital components will permanently change the events landscape long after coronavirus. But what about a key aspect of this festival -- the beer collaborations? Bracey has organized some special four-packs that will be available for purchase, so you can drink along from the comfort of your couch. For $10, Fresh Fest Digi Fest promises 54 total hours of available programming, including cooking demos, panel discussions, and live music. By going digital, both presenters and attendees are not constrained by geography, and as such Bracey is excited about some international voices entering the mix. Plus, we highlight the Bike Match network, a nationwide program that is overseen locally by BikePGH, and we shoutout some diversity in the art community with the Spirit mural walls Black AF edition project slated for unveiling in Lawrenceville this summer.    Links in this episode:   Fresh Fest Digi Fest Bike Match Network Pittsburgh Spirit Walls Black AF Edition

In this episode, we chat plants with Natasha Brittain, one of the owners of Shadyside Nursery. From a very young age, this self-proclaimed #plantlady would ask her mom for spending money that she would use to buy plants (coleus, specifically). Brittain shares some of the benefits of caring for plants and we discuss why she thinks folks are flexing their green thumbs now more than ever. Do you kill every plant you bring home? She believes that there is a perfect plant match for everyone, you just might not have found yours yet. Plus, get some inspiration from the customer who took his vacation money to recreate a Florida poolside experience in his Western Pennsylvania backyard. We also spotlight the W.P. Wampler mansion restoration project in McKeesport. Need a picnic? Don't snooze on Farmer x Baker serving up some socially distant eats at the Aspinall Riverfront Park.    Links in this episode:   Shadyside Nursery W.P. Wampler Mansion Restoration Farmer x Baker

Meet Ian Smith, a Pittsburgher with a passion for stand-up paddleboarding. For the past 10 years, SurfSUP Adventures has helped folks to explore our local waterways via tours and classes. First Waves, their accompanying nonprofit organization, “uses stand-up paddleboarding, the art of filmmaking, and digital media as a catalyst to inspire conservation of local waterways and mentorship for at-risk youth.” Smith explains how stand-up paddleboarding is a perfect summer social distancing activity. If you are nervous, it's important to highlight that he has a perfect track record of getting folks to stand and balance on their boards. Plus, potentially win your next bout of online trivia with this fun fact: The game of bingo (as we know it) was invented by Hazelwood resident Hugh J. Ward, and was given a copyright in 1933. Also in this episode:  We highlight the Local Roots Landscaping x Commonplace Coffee collaboration. The coffee blend is now available for purchase, with 100% of the proceeds going to support 412 Food Rescue and the Pittsburgh branch of the NAACP. Just another way you can drink up and do good.    Links in this episode:   SurfSUP Adventures First Waves The Greater Hazelwood Historical Society Local Roots Morning Blend Coffee  

Founded in 2017, Hello Neighbor is a local non-profit organization that supports recently resettled refugees via mentorship and a range of programming designed to help them settle in Pittsburgh. In this episode, we chat with founder and CEO Sloane Davidson about how the organization got its start and how they changed some of their offerings after the onset of COVID-19. Davidson calls out our city's confusing signs and wayfinding. It can be difficult to navigate in Pittsburgh as a local -- you have to cross multiple lanes to exit in 300 ft. and what the heck is the belt system? Imagine if you also had to navigate with a language barrier? After listening, if you are inspired to help your newest neighbors, you can get involved here. Plus, Stephanie shouts out the takeout she has been ordering the most and officially on the record, gives her vote for the best burger in Pittsburgh.    Links in this episode:   Hello Neighbor Thai Gourmet Badamo's Pizza Salem's Market & Grill

Doug Derda knows barbecue, so we asked him to share some of his secrets. His website, Yinz Love BBQ, is a compendium of all things rubbed, smoked, and sauce-slathered in Western Pennsylvania. There's a directory so you can source some good barbecue, a blog where he shares industry news and his competition experiences, and an events listing (although the latter might be less important at the moment). In this episode, Derda gives some current take-out recommendations and explains some of his at-home barbecue setup. If you plan on upping your grill game during this stay-home summer, we highlight some places to consider for meat shopping, and Derda shouts out Williams Ace Hardware in West Newton as one of his favorite one-stop shops for barbecue accessories and seasonings. Plus, Steel City Salt Co. in Millvale recently released an everything bagel blend, so you can shop local to spice up your homemade breads and biscuits. And don't snooze on ShuBrew's half-off growler fill Tuesdays.    Links in this episode:   Yinz Love BBQ Steel City Salt Co. ShuBrew

Q: What do the Garbage Olympics, Help or High Water, and the Share Fair all have in common? A: Pittsburgh resident Alicia Carberry. To put it simply, Carberry is a helper -- someone who spends her spare time making her city a better place. And she's been doing it for years. In this episode, we chat about her projects and learn how, thanks to a friend with a car who gave her rides, she started to volunteer her time and spend her social capital on getting her friends to help her “redd up” the city on her birthday (don't worry, they still had a traditional celebration afterward). Currently on the board of Pittsburgh's Shade Tree Commission, she reminds us that we can still safely hug a tree even though we cannot currently hug our friends. We highlight The Bird + The Beard, a local greeting card company that is including stamps with every card purchase, so send some snail mail! Plus, we outline mobile pizza-maker turned brick-and-mortar restaurant Driftwood Oven's Neighbor Loaves program. You purchase a loaf (made with at least 50% local flour) and it is donated to someone in need via neighborhood organization Lawrenceville United.   Links in this episode:    The Garbage Olympics & the Clean Pittsburgh Commission Pittsburgh Shade Tree Commission's Instagram account the Bird+the Beard Driftwood Oven Neighbor Loaves   Sponsored by: JD Law

While not as much fun as an in-real-life performance, we sat down with the co-directors of the Pittsburgh Circus Arts Collaborative. Jason Kirin (aka Zero) and Joseph Kerr (aka Joker) discuss how COVID-19 has impacted their performances, the history of the group, and oh yeah, setting a world record for a vapor spin. We highlight local soapmakers Pip & Lola's Everything Homemade, who not only lowered prices during this pandemic by offering 25% off all orders, they are also donating soap to folks in need. Plus, don't miss out on Pittsburgh Sandwich Society's take-aht dinners available for preorder twice a week. You receive your order safely via a social distancing slide.   Links from this episode:   Pittsburgh Circus Arts Collaborative Pip & Lola's  Pittsburgh Sandwich Society

Pete Spynda is a local events producer known for events including Pittonkatonk, Weather Permitting and the Pandemic dance parties at Brillobox. Not one to sit at home doing nothing while social distancing, he quickly developed Alone Together Pittsburgh, a virtual variety show that has been streaming since March 18. With a rotating lineup of guests, Alone Together Pittsburgh seeks to strike a balance between educational and entertaining segments, all shot remotely. We discuss the details of the show and building a virtual community. He gives us his thoughts on what the future holds for events (spoiler alert: it's too soon to tell). Plus: inexpensive online wine classes from Burghundy allow you to learn while staying home in your sweatpants, and local Lawrenceville shop Make + Matter unveils their new online store.   Links from this episode:   Alone Together Pittsburgh Burghundy online wine classes Shop Make + Matter online

Lou Kroeck is the president of the Pittsburgh Fine Drinking Society. They've been convening for Thursday night happy hour since 2011. Lou and his designated administrators choose spots, come up with themes, and uncover some of the best happy hour specials all over the city. There's no rules for membership, just show up and drink if you can; if not, they'll see you next week. It was just that simple until the bars closed due to COVID-19. But, that didn't stop the group. They quickly pivoted online, and with the help of some unemployed bartenders, they now meet virtually every Thursday. Plus, if you've exhausted your Netflix queue, remember that local theaters are screening movies via their websites and we shoutout a new puzzle with a portion of the proceeds going to a good cause.  Visit VeryLocalPGH.com for more info on this episode.

Local plant-based food blogger Alexa Peduzzi shares some of her favorite dining spots and suggests some social media accounts to follow. We chat bread, coffee, and beer. Plus, we highlight the open-source map PGH Open for Business and shout out some Pittsburgh breweries who are now serving All Together, a beer intended to help the service industry. Crack one open to drink and do good at the same time.

Willy James describes himself as “a friendly neighborhood filmmaker.” In this episode we catch up with Willy about his new project, the Pittsburgh Sleep Podcast. We also chat about his recent coronavirus collaboration with Rick Sebak, the furries' favorite pizza shop and Katz Deli in NYC.    We also share some of the things that local businesses, Flower City Printmakers and The Warren, are doing to give back.

Kristofer Collins is a poet, a small press publisher, former bookseller, owner of the record shop Desolation Row and he writes a monthly book review column for Pittsburgh Magazine. Kris knows local books, and in this episode, he gives us some recommendations. It's National Poetry Month, and while in-person readings are canceled, there's tons of opportunity to find your new favorites online from your living room. We are highlighting a couple of small business “helpers." Operation Face Mask Pittsburgh is sewing face masks for those most in need. Plus, buy a T-shirt from Revival Print Co. and support some of your favorite local businesses.

East End Brewing has been a part of Pittsburgh's craft beer scene for over 15 years. Owner Scott Smith shares how the brewery is adapting to the current COVID-19 crisis. In true Pittsburgh fashion, we talk about what some local brewery buildings used to be before they housed fermentation tanks full of your favorite beer. . Plus, a pro tip for using the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh's services while the library is closed to the public. Spoiler alert: You can still ask a librarian for help!

Scott Kowalski cycles through all the things you need to know about Pittsburgh's Underwear Bike Ride, including the number one rule: Don't be a jag. We also highlight Bicycle Heaven - a museum that is home to 6,000 bicycles, and give a shoutout to the location of Pittsburgh's first telephone pole.   Visit Very Local Pittsburgh for show notes for this episode.  Join the Facebook group for The Slaw: Staying on Top of Pittsburgh.

Justin Greenawalt talks with us about historic houses, the Pittsburgh potty, a buried bridge and the best spots in Bellevue.  We also share some fun facts about wooden streets and a knit-from-home kit that supports Millvale.

Christine Iksic is the co-owner of Three Rivers Outdoor Company, a Pittsburgh small business that sells and rents outdoor gear. Christine shares some of the best places for camping and explains why Western PA is a great spot for white water kayaking.     :::::::::::::::   NOW OPEN: KLVN Coffee Lab Located in Larimer, KLVN Coffee Lab has opened a coffee shop on Hamilton Avenue.    :::::::::::::::   EVENTS   Very Local Pittsburgh has two great events coming up this weekend SAT 3.14 - Pi Day Celebration with PieBird and Roundabout Brewing SUN 3.15 - Sunny-Side Up Brunch with Pittsburgh Sandwich Society @ Eleventh Hour Brewing

Dean Bog is making videos about Pittsburgh neighborhoods. In this episode we talk with Dean about his process and some of the neighbors he has met along the way.     :::::::::::::::   COLLABORATIONS   Pink Boots, the organization that supports women in the brewing industry gives us a preview of the upcoming collaboration beers   :::::::::::::::   EVENTS This week, we take a look at the upcoming FueledFest412, a new beer festival that is bringing several out-of-state breweries to Pittsburgh.    Subscribe to The Slaw: Staying on Top of Pittsburgh podcast   The Slaw Podcast is available on: iTunes Spotify   Follow Very Local for more Pittsburgh updates: Very Local Pittsburgh Website Twitter @VeryLocalPGH Facebook Instagram  YouTube   Give Us a Call Have an event we should know about? Know of a partnership we should highlight on the podcast? How about a collaboration? We'd love to hear from you!   We're always looking for new Pittsburgh stories to share. If you leave a message we just might feature your pick in our newsletter or on our podcast.   Give us a call and leave a message. We want to hear from you!   412-368-6595

Have you tried puppet karaoke? Did you know that the Puppetry Guild created a finger puppet version of Pittsburgh City Council? In this episode, we talk with artist Dave English about leaving and returning to Pittsburgh, and some of the unique Pittsburgh puppet events.    Dave English is an artist, educator and puppeteer. Visit DavesPuppets.com for more info about his work.    * EVENTS   Check out “The Goonies” on the big screen at The Oaks Theater   * COLLABORATIONS   Check out the braised beef tacos at Baby Loves Tacos in Millvale. The beef is prepared with the Gristly Bear Brown Ale from Grist House Craft Brewery.  Subscribe to The Slaw: Staying on Top of Pittsburgh podcast   The Slaw Podcast is available on: iTunes Spotify   Follow Very Local for more Pittsburgh updates: Very Local Pittsburgh Website Twitter @VeryLocalPGH Facebook Instagram  YouTube   Give Us a Call Have an event we should know about? Know of a partnership we should highlight on the podcast? How about a collaboration? We'd love to hear from you!   We're always looking for new Pittsburgh stories to share. If you leave a message we just might feature your pick in our newsletter or on our podcast.   Give us a call and leave a message. We want to hear from you!   412-368-6595 

:: Meet Tara Matthews ::   Tara Matthews is an Application Specialist at the Allegheny County Department of Human Services. Prior to this role, she worked for the City of Pittsburgh as a Digital Services Analyst. During her time working for the City of Pittsburgh, Tara worked on the city's open data initiative. Tara was named one of Pittsburgh Magazine's 40 Under 40 in 2019.    Tara's favorite bridges:   Liberty Bridge Smithfield Street Bridge Homestead Grays Bridge   :: What is open data? :: Definition of open data from the Open Data Handbook: Open data is data that can be freely used, re-used and redistributed by anyone - subject only, at most, to the requirement to attribute and sharealike.   Interested in learning more about open data and local government? Check out some of the Code for Pittsburgh meetups.   :: Burgh's Eye View - an easy way to look at Pittsburgh data ::   Burgh's Eye View is a website where you can see several different data sets on a map of Pittsburgh.   Burgh's Eye View allows you to see the following data on a map of Pittsburgh:  311 Requests Police Blotter Arrests Non-traffic Citations Fire Incidents Code Violations Capital Projects  Right of Way Permits Traffic Collisions   :: The Western Pennsylvania Regional Data Center (WPRDC) :: The Western Pennsylvania Regional Data Center is a partnership between the City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County and the University of Pittsburgh. The WPRDC website has over 100 open data sets from the city and county.   You can follow the WPRDC on Twitter @WPRDC.   Using open data to research your neighborhood In this episode, Aadam and Tara discuss how to use open data in the homebuying process.    Start with the Property Dashboard on the WPRDC website. The Property Dashboard will tell you about... The past owners of the property If there are any tax liens  If there are blighted properties in the neighborhood Recent accidents Recent crime History of the police blotter Then go to Burgh's Eye View    :: Pittsburgh Data Fun Fact :: There are over 450 different breeds of trees in the City of Pittsburgh. Check out the Pittsburgh tree data here.   :: The Best of Bloomfield :: Some of Tara's favorite places in Bloomfield include:  First Fridays on Penn Ave Irma Freeman Center for Imagination Boom Concepts True T Pittsburgh Workshop PGH Green Market Azorean Cafe Bitter Ends Luncheonette  Thai Gourmet Pho Minh   :: COLLABORATION: Thunderbird Bluegrass Sessions :: Thunderbird Bluegrass Sessions Every Tuesday night, free to attend 8 pm - 11 pm  Thunderbird Cafe & Music Hall, Lawrenceville Beer specials (at the time of recording): $4 pounders of Founders All Day IPA or Founders Gold Lager    It's a rotating cast of some of the most talented bluegrass musicians in Pittsburgh area, who come together to jam including   Sweaty Already String Band Shelf Life String Band Danny Rectenwald from the Bastard Bearded Irishmen Steve Ludwig from The Casual Hobos :: EVENT: Sunny Side Up Brunch on Saturday, February 22 ::   Very Local Pittsburgh hosts a monthly brunch with Pittsburgh Sandwich Society.   For our February Brunch, we'll be at the Hitchhiker Brewing Pop-up in the Allentown neighborhood.  Facebook event Tickets   Subscribe to The Slaw: Staying on Top of Pittsburgh podcast   The Slaw Podcast is available on: iTunes Spotify   Follow Very Local for more Pittsburgh updates: Very Local Pittsburgh Website Twitter @VeryLocalPGH Facebook Instagram  YouTube

After discovering the book "Pittsburgh Steps: The Story of the City's Public Stairways" at Wildcard in Lawrenceville, artist Laura Zurowski is climbing and documenting all of the steps in the City of Pittsburgh.    :: FOLLOW Mis.Steps ::   Instagram @Mis.Steps Mis.Steps Website  Mis.Steps Shop - purchase zines or trading cards of the steps of Pittsburgh Mis.Steps on Flickr - all of Laura's photos are on Flickr for others to use and enjoy :: BOOK "Pittsburgh Steps: The Story of the City's Public Stairways" by Bob Regan :: Bob Regan is a lecturer at the University of Pittsburgh who would ride his bike around town and see the staircases leading up different hillsides. Regan documented all of the steps in Pittsburgh, as even the city didn't have a listing of all of these public staircases.    Regan's first book was published in black and white in 2004 and sells for more than $100 on Amazon. The book was updated in 2015 and is available at local book stores and Amazon.    :: INSPIRATION Steps and Craigslist Missed Connections :: Her project is named Mis.Steps because it initially had a component where she posted the photographs on the Missed Connections section of Craigslist. Laura started documenting the steps and posting to Missed Connections in July 2017. In March 2018, Craigslist changed the Missed Connections format and photos were no longer allowed. You can read more about Craigslist's changes and Mis.Steps here.    Learn more about Laura's photography and printing process Laura uses a Polaroid Spectra camera from the 1980s; you can read more about Laura's Polaroid here.  The Mis.Steps prints and trading cards are printed on a Risograph; you can learn more about this retro printing process here.   -------------------------------------------------------   :: COLLABORATION Walk the Burgh & Wigle Whiskey :: Whiskey Walk: Walk the Burgh Tours and Wigle Whiskey team up to share some whiskey history. Take a walking tour of Downtown Pittsburgh, learn about the Whiskey Rebellion and sample some Wigle Whiskey. $25/person   Interested in some other Prohibition stories… Learn more about the Fussfungle cocktail Listen to Episode 14 of our podcast and find out if the word “speakeasy” is from McKeesport.    -------------------------------------------------------   :: EVENTS Northside Mardi Gras // Feb. 15-25 :: The Northside Leadership Conference has organized a 10-day, neighborhood-wide celebration for Mardi Gras. You can see the entire schedule of events here. Follow the Northside Mardi Gras Facebook page for updates.    The celebration ends with a Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday Party at the Allegheny Elks Lodge #339. Tickets are $10, available here.    ------------------------------------------------------- Give Us a Call Have an event we should know about? Know of a partnership we should highlight on the podcast? How about a collaboration? We'd love to hear from you!   We're always looking for new Pittsburgh stories to share. If you leave a message we just might feature your pick in our newsletter or on our podcast.   Give us a call and leave a message. We want to hear from you!   412-368-6595    ------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to The Slaw: Staying on Top of Pittsburgh podcast   The Slaw Podcast is available on: iTunes Spotify   Follow Very Local for more Pittsburgh updates: Very Local Pittsburgh Website Twitter @VeryLocalPGH Facebook Instagram  YouTube

Joe Coohill is a historian, author, and Pittsburgher who hosts the Professor Buzzkill podcast, where he busts history myths on each episode.    Is there a 4th river in Pittsburgh?  There is not a 4th river in Pittsburgh. But Downtown Pittsburgh does sit on an aquifer that was used to help cool buildings.  Are there bodies in the Westinghouse Bridge? A popular myth than workmen fell into the wet cement. Read more about why this is not the case in Professor Buzzkill's article on the Westinghouse bridge for Steel This Magazine.  The misconceptions about the immaculate reception The game where Franco Harris made this famous catch, was blacked out in Pittsburgh. The only people who saw the immaculate reception on television were folks who were watching the game outside of the Pittsburgh television market.  Read more about this misconception in Professor Buzzkill's article on the immaculate reception for Steel This Magazine.  Doc Ellis was NOT high on LSD when he pitched the no-hitter   Even Snopes says it is true. So it must be true?  It is a common belief that Doc Ellis, a pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, pitched a no-hitter against the San Diego Padres on June 12, 1970.    While Doc Ellis claims this is true and there is a documentary about this no-hitter, “No No: A Documentary” is an entire film about Doc Ellis pitching a no-hitter while high on LSD.     This story has captivated Pirates and baseball fans for years. This animated short by James Blagden about the no-hitter has over 5 million views on YouTube.  The missing B-25 bomber in the Monongahela river   On January 31, 1956, a B-25 bomber crashed into the Monongahela River. Only some of the crew survived. The plane was never recovered and many conspiracy theories have formed about what happened to the plane.  More on the missing B-25 Bomber Article from the Heinz History Center Facebook page: Pittsburgh B-25 Monongahela River Mystery   FALSE: The word speakeasy was coined in Pittsburgh The word ‘speakeasy' was not coined in Pittsburgh or McKeesport. The origins of the word ‘speakeasy' can be traced back to London in the early 1800s. Berlin Wall at Fallingwater There is a segment of the Berlin Wall outside of Kentuck Knob, a second home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright that is located near Fallingwater.    Related: Episode #332 of the Professor Buzzkill Podcast is all about the Berlin Wall.  Ask Professor Buzzkill a Question Professor Buzzkill website Follow @BuzzkillProf on Twitter   Have a Pittsburgh or history question? Send an email to: info@professorbuzzkill.com.    You can listen to the Professor Buzzkill podcast here or subscribe to Professor Buzzkil on iTunes.   Pittsburgh is for Podcasters   Some of Professor Buzzkill's favorite Pittsburgh podcasts:  Drinking Partners Marta on the Move Pitchwerks :: A very Pittsburgh Collaboration: Spent Grain :: Lincoln Ave Brewery in Bellvue gives the spent grain from the brewing process to local chicken owners to use as feed.    :: Events: Valentine's Day Pizza and Pierogi Making @ Community Kitchen :: Head to Community Kitchen's Hazelwood location. Eat pizza and learn to make pierogi. Tickets are $10 online and $15 at the door.    Date: Thursday, February 13, 2020 Time: 5pm- 7pm Facebook Event   Community Kitchen is a Pittsburgh nonprofit that provides culinary job training and job opportunities. Community Kitchen provides catering and also grab-and-go foods that are sold throughout the city.    Give Us a Call Have an event we should know about? Know of a partnership we should highlight on the podcast? How about a collaboration? We'd love to hear from you!   We're always looking for new Pittsburgh stories to share. If you leave a message we just might feature your pick in our newsletter or on our podcast.   Give us a call and leave a message. We want to hear from you!   412-368-6595  Subscribe to The Slaw: Staying on Top of Pittsburgh podcast   The Slaw Podcast is available on: iTunes Spotify   Follow Very Local for more Pittsburgh updates: Very Local Pittsburgh Website Twitter @VeryLocalPGH Facebook Instagram  YouTube

Intro music: “Talkin to a Groundhog” by The Beagle Brothers  What is Groundhog Day? The Groundhog Day celebration takes place on February 2, every year. The celebration takes place in Punxsutawney Pennsylvania, located about two hours from Pittsburgh. Each year, the groundhog emerges from his lair and predicts how long winter will last. Punxsutawney Phil has been making weather predictions since 1886.  Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania & Gobblers Knob Punxsutawney is small borough located about two hours northeast of Pittsburgh. Punxsutawney has a population of about 5,000 people, but for Groundhog Day, depending on the weather, the town welcomes anywhere from 10,000+ guests.  The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club & The Inner Circle The Inner Circle is a group of 15 men who are responsible for Punxsutawney Phil year-round and the celebrations on Groundhog Day. The Inner Circle hosts other events throughout the year including the Groundhog Ball & Groundhog Banquet.  The Groundhog Club has chapters across the country including Key West, Florida and Mountain View, California.  Join the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club Anyone can join the Groundhog Club. Membership is $15 a year and gives you access to the reception the night before Groundhog Day.   Know before you go: Pro-tips for visiting Punxsutawney for Groundhog Day Go early Dress warmly There are events all day on February 1 and through the night to February 2. You can see the entire schedule of events here.  Elixir of Life Ceremony and Groundhog Summer Picnic If standing outside in February isn't your thing, there are plenty of other opportunities to celebrate with Punxsutawney Phil. Every September, the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club hosts the “Elixir of Life Ceremony” and a summer picnic.  Check the Groundhog Club website for details on the Elixir of Life Ceremony and the Groundhog Summer Picnic. The care (and travel) of Punxsutawney Phil Like the Pope, Punxsutawney Phil and The Inner Circle have special vehicles for transport to events.  The Phil Carrier is a clear tube that allows a 360-degree view of Phil. Punxsutawney Phil and the Inner Circle travel to events in the Phil Mobile. (You can purchase a matchbox size replica of the Phil Mobile from GroundHogStuff.com for $19.95.)   Visiting Punxsutawney A few of the places to eat and drink mentioned in this episode:  Eat: Punxy Phil's Family Restaurant (aka Phil's Cakes & Steaks) Pizza: Laska's Pizza Bar: The Burrow Give Us a Call Have an event we should know about? Know of a partnership we should highlight on the podcast? How about a collaboration? We'd love to hear from you!   We're always looking for new Pittsburgh stories to share. If you leave a message we just might feature your pick in our newsletter or on our podcast.   Give us a call and leave a message. We want to hear from you!   412-368-6595  Subscribe to The Slaw: Staying on Top of Pittsburgh podcast   The Slaw Podcast is available on: iTunes Spotify   Follow Very Local for more Pittsburgh updates: Very Local Pittsburgh Website Twitter @VeryLocalPGH Facebook Instagram  YouTube

Jenna McGuiggan // Writing   Jenna McGuiggan is a freelance writer who lives in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. She is one of the co-authors of the book “Mister Rogers' Neighborhood: A Visual History.” In addition to freelance writing, Jenna offers writing workshops through her website The Word Cellar.     Follow Jenna McGuiggan online:  Twitter: @TheWordCellar Instagram: @TheWordCellar  Facebook Page   The Book - ‘Mister Rogers' Neighborhood: A Visual History'   Jenna is one of three authors who collaborated on this book about the life and work of Fred Rogers.    Authors : Jenna McGuiggan Melissa Wagner Tim Lybarger – founder of the Neighborhood Archive - All things Mister Rogers website (We included The Neighborhood Archive on our list of Mister Rogers inspiration on Twitter.)   Fred Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College Fred Rogers' archives as part of the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children's Media at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.    The center works with educators on how to use media to enrich the lives of small children.    The Fred Rogers Center has an exhibit of material from the Fred Rogers archive that is open to the public. The public exhibit is free and is open Monday - Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.     Researchers can make an appointment to access the archives   Jenna's favorite Mr. Rogers Moments & some fun facts about Fred   In this episode, Jenna and Stephanie talk about several of the things that Jenna learned about Fred Rogers while researching the book.    Rick Sebak's Nebby - My Interview with Fred Rogers. Rick Sebak has released a new episode of his show “Nebby,”  which includes footage from his 1987 interview with Fred Rogers.  Fred Rogers was color blind. You can see a photo of Mr. Rogers learning to roller skate at the old Romp N' Roll in Glenshaw here.  Fred Rogers was a music composer in college Jenna talks about the song “You've got to do it” -- you can read the lyrics to the song here.    Fresh Fest tickets go on sale on February 1 Fresh Fest is the nation's first craft beer festival that celebrates people of color and their accomplishments in the beer industry.  You can watch our video to learn more about the history of Fresh Fest here.    The 3rd annual Fresh Fest Ber Fest will be held on August 8, 2020, in the Allentown neighborhood of Pittsburgh. Tickets will go on sale on February 1.    You can read about some of the collaboration beers from the 2019 Fresh Fest Beer Fest here. Give Us a Call Have an event we should know about? Know of a partnership we should highlight on the podcast? How about a collaboration? We'd love to hear from you!   We're always looking for new Pittsburgh stories to share. If you leave a message we just might feature your pick in our newsletter or on our podcast.   Give us a call and leave a message. We want to hear from you!   412-368-6595    * Please note, By leaving a message on this service, you consent to your voice being recorded and used by Very Local Pittsburgh in The Slaw podcast and elsewhere. Subscribe to The Slaw: Staying on Top of Pittsburgh podcast   The Slaw Podcast is available on: iTunes Spotify

On January 4, 2020, Very Local was part of hosting New Year/ New Galaxy, a performance from the jazz/funk/pop/hip-hop band Starship Mantis at Black Forge Coffee Shop II in McKees Rocks. Prior to the show, the band collaborated with Dancing Gnome Beer to create a special beer for the event; a cream ale that they named Intergalactic Love. The event came together with the help of Buzzy Torek from Epicast. Epicast is a podcast production shop that works on many Pittsburgh podcasts including The Slaw: Staying on Top of Pittsburgh.   In this episode, Aadam & Stephanie talk to Starship Mantis, and the owners of Black Forge, Dancing Gnome and Epicast about how they collaborate and what collaborations mean to local businesses and artists.   Beni Rossman - Bass, Starship Mantis Langston Kelly - vocals/horn, Starship Mantis Buzzy Torey - Epicast Andrew Witchey - Owner, Dancing Gnome Ashley Corts - Owner, Black Forge Coffee Shop Black Forge II, McKees Rocks The New Year/New Galaxy show was held at Black Forge II in McKees Rocks. The venue itself is a collaboration between the Black Forge Coffee Shop and McKees Rocks. The original Black Forge Coffee House is in Allentown. In addition to serving the neighborhood as a coffee shop, Black Forge in Allentown is also a performance venue. The owners of Black Forge worked with the McKees Rocks Community Development Corporation to purchase the building, which used to be a bank. Black Forge II is also a coffee shop and a much larger performance venue.    https://www.facebook.com/nextpittsburgh/posts/1813902362058122 The High Priestess Market @ Black Forge  Aadam talks with Ashley from Black Forge about The High Priestess Market. The next High Priestess Market will be held on Saturday, February 9, 2020, at the Black Forge Coffee House II in McKees Rocks.    Give Us a Call Have an event we should know about? Know of a partnership we should highlight on the podcast? How about a collaboration? We'd love to hear from you! We're always looking for new Pittsburgh stories to share. If you leave a message we just might feature your pick in our newsletter or on our podcast. Give us a call and leave a message. We want to hear from you! 412-368-6595  * Please note, By leaving a message on this service, you consent to your voice being recorded and used by Very Local Pittsburgh in The Slaw podcast and elsewhere.   Follow Very Local for more Pittsburgh updates: Very Local Pittsburgh Website Twitter @VeryLocalPGH Facebook Instagram  YouTube

Meet Melissa Larrick, Taproom Manager @ Hitchhiker Brewing Melissa is the taproom manager at Hitchhiker Brewing and involved with the Pink Boots Society in Pittsburgh.    Follow Melissa on Instagram @srslysue   Hitchhiker Brewing Locations   Hitchhiker Brewing first opened in Mt. Lebanon in 2014 and has since expanded to a larger space in Sharpsburg.   Sharpsburg - beer is produced here  Mt. Lebanon - taproom Allentown Popup featuring the NOMAD Truck   Hitchhiker expands into the old  Fort Pitt Brewing Building in Sharpsburg In 2017, Hitchhiker Brewing expanded from Mt Lebanon to Sharpsburg and now occupies the same building where Fort Pitt Brewing was located.  Hitchhiker's Nomad Truck Pittsburgh's very own beer truck. The Hitchhiker team purchased a 1977 Citroen Van that was imported from France (through the Netherlands) and found its way to Pittsburgh. The truck contains a draft system with four taplines to pour fresh beer; the mobile unit also has the capability to haul and sell four-packs of Hitchhiker cans at pop-up events around the city.   Hitchhiker Brewing's Oatmilk IPA  Aadam and Melissa talk about Hitchhiker's unique beer made using an alternative to dairy (oat milk). The Alternate Script was presented to guests at the Hitchhiker taproom as an Oatmilk IPA. The Hitchhiker website has their most recent beer availability updated daily.    Pink Boots Society Pittsburgh Pink Boots Society is an organization that assists, inspires and encourages women beer professionals to advance their careers through education, providing scholarships for continuing education and professional development opportunities.   Follow Pink Boots Society Pittsburgh on Instagram @pgh.pinkboots   Pink Boots Society Scholarships In addition to local events and education, Pink Boots Society offers scholarships to help women grow their knowledge in the beer industry. Learn more about the Pink Boots Society scholarships here.    [Check out Episode 06 of The Slaw for our interview with Lauren Hugues who is the assistant head brewer at Penn Brewery and a member of Pink Boots Society Pittsburgh.]   Melissa's Favorite Places in Pittsburgh Squirrel Hill Manor Theater - independent movie theater (check out our guide to independent movie theaters in Pittsburgh) Squirrel Hill Cafe aka The Cage - affordable dive bar  Independent Brewing Company - bar & restaurant that features local beers  A very Pittsburgh Collaboration: Staghorn Cafe & Zekes Coffee Located in Greenfield, Staghorn is a neighborhood coffee shop, cafe & gift shop. Staghorn partners with local coffee roaster Zeke's for the coffee.   Staghorn also showcases the work of local poets. Follow the Staghorn Poetry Series Facebook Page for more information.    Staghorn Cafe   Website | Instagram @StaghornGardenCafe | Facebook Events: Pittsburgh Bloody Mary Festival Pittsburgh Bloody Mary festival takes place on the weekend of February 15 & 16, 2020. The Bloody Mary Festival takes place at the Pennsylvanian.    Restaurants and bars from around the city will be bringing their best Bloody Mary beverages for you to sample and vote for the best one.   Tickets: $35/General Admission, $45/Early Admission, $59/2 day pass   Website | Facebook Event Page   Give Us a Call Have an event we should know about? Know of a partnership we should highlight on the podcast? How about a collaboration? We'd love to hear from you!   We're always looking for new Pittsburgh stories to share. If you leave a message we just might feature your pick in our newsletter or on our podcast.   Give us a call and leave a message. We want to hear from you!   412-368-6595