Oct 21 Run: Tom's House

Next Sunday's run will start at Tom's House at 5434 Aylesboro (near Forbes Ave) - who knows what creative run he has in mind...

It was too dark to run in the park this morning so Virginia took us on the Edgewood 5K route. Many of us were impressed by how pretty this neighborhood was. With its big mansions, cozy brick cottages, and big trees gave it a slightly European feel. There were definitely times when I did not know where I was. It was a delightful run for a fall morning.

I will not be here for the next three Sundays but if someone sends me the location for the run I will be happy to send it to the group.

Oct 14 Run: Tennis Courts on Braddock Ave

This coming Sunday Virginia will lead a Regent Square Run. We will meet at the Frick Park Tennis Courts on Braddock Ave at 7AM.

Run to the run will start at Beechwood and Wilkins at 6:35 AM.

Once again Joanne turned up to lead us on a devilishly hilly but satisfying run through Highland Park. It was very warm and humid for a Sunday in October but the leaves are starting to change and a few of us cooled off in style while riding back to Squirrel Hill in Karen's convertible with the top down. On the run Karen told us about her visit with Sandra Day O'Connor and solved the question of what she wore (it did involve that long black jacket). Congratulations to Pam Murray who was the third woman to cross the finish line at the Hazelwood 5K - sure there were not a lot of runners but the group celebrates all accomplishments!

The walking group seems to really have taken off this time thanks to the support of several people who are serious about walking and view it as a long term endeavor. If you are interested in joining please send mail to Paula Leslie, pleslie@pitt.edu.

Oct 7 Run: Tazza D'Oro, Highland Park

The first run of October will begin at Tazza D'Oro (http://www.tazzadoro.net/) on Highland Ave. I am really hoping Joanne is reading this and will magically appear as she did last May, or else we may be seeing parts of Highland Park that we did not anticipate.

Meet at Shady and Wilkins at 6:30 AM for a run to the run.

A few of who either could not or did not want to run the Great Race had a pre-fall run in Homewood Cemetery this beautiful morning. Adding to the bucolic feel were 5 adolescent deer browsing peacefully among the graves. This was a perfect day for the Great Race and I am sure those runners who participated, relished it.

Sep 30 Run: Great Race/Coffee Tree

Next Sunday is the Great Race which begins at 9:30 AM this year. For those of you who would like to join up with the group to run, Pam Murray welcomes all those running to convene at her house around 9AM (earlier if you want coffee). She lives at 2200 Beechwood - about 1/2 between the start line and Colfax school on the big bend.

For those not running, meet at the Coffee Tree at the usual time, 7:00 AM. Those who turn up can choose their own run.

Yet another lovely sunny morning run up and down the hills in Schenley Park - the weather has been quite amazing these past few months - perfect for park running. We started a conversation about the upcoming Jewish Holiday, Sukkot, on the run for which Pam provided "just-in-time" information from her Blackberry once we were at the Coffee Tree. Although all of us were certainly aware of this kind of ubiquitous connectivity it was still a bit wondrous.

Sep 23 Run: Wendy Bennett Trailhead

Continuing our effort to get all those park runs in before it is too dark to negotiate the tree roots and rocks, we will meet at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead at the corner of the Boulevard of the Allies and Bartlett this coming Sunday.

Al and Julie brought along their lovely dog Chloe for a romp through a misty Frick Park this morning (she romped the rest of us just tried to get up the hills with dignity). It was the first really cool morning - a precursor of that most lovely season, Fall. Several of us were glad we found our gloves.
At coffee we missed Wendy - Karen needed fashion advice and very few of us at the table were qualified to give an informed opinion about whether her suit was appropriate for an upcoming meeting with Sandra Day O'Connor. Lest you thought we only talked about surface concerns we did discuss the role of the judiciary branch in Pennsylvania and at the federal level.

Sep16 Run: Colfax School

In order to get in some of those park runs before it gets too dark (boo), let's meet at Colfax school this coming Sunday and hope someone turns up who knows their way around Frick Park!

The run to the runners enjoyed surveying the wooded valley and speculating about Duck Hollow as we ran across the Somerset development on our way to the Waterfront. We joined up with a small but enthusiastic group and ran along the lovely river front trail. Tom read the plaques - that area is full of interesting history and worth a return visit. All of us delighted in a train passing overhead, the red sun breaking through the clouds behind the hulking mass of the old Carrie Furnace steel works and the sighting of two crew boats slicing through the serene waters of the Mon. But, it sure was hot and muggy!

September 9 Run: Waterfront - meet in the parking lot near the 3 tall chimneys

All
Next week will enjoy a flat run on the river front trail by the Waterfront development. Meet in the parking lot near the three tall chimney stacks and the Longhorn Steakhouse.

There will be a run to the run, through the Somerset development, starting from Wilkins and Beechwood at 6:15 AM sharp. Those of us planning to do this sincerely hope some of you will drive to the Waterfront!

Perhaps because we started and ended at a different Coffee Tree or because it is a holiday weekend or because the weather was just so darn beautiful, the run had a slightly alternative feel even though we ran through the familiar streets of Shadyside and around the Cathedral of Learning. A group of us extended our enjoyment of the exquisite morning by walking back to Squirrel Hill, permitting us to take a closer look at those mansions on Woodland Lane. We figured that the Mormer Bat Mitzvah Party must have been a big success since neither Elaine or her brother joined us :-)

Sep 2nd Run: Shadyside Coffee Tree, Labor Day Run: Squirrel Hill Coffee Tree

Next Sunday we will meet at the Shadyside Coffee Tree, on Walnut Street across from Prantls and Max and Erma's, for an improvised Shadyside Run or if you have a plan for Shadyside run, you are welcome to lead us.

Monday is Labor Day and tradition says those in town meet at the Squirrel Hill Coffee Tree at 7PM for a run.

Tom broke out his Case Western shirt (which still fits!) for the back to college run this morning. He took us by CMU, Pitt and Carlow, seeing the buildings where a few of the group work as a side benefit. The very hot, humid weather finally passed and although still not quite cool, running was definitely more pleasant as we thought about returning students and the end of summer.
Paula the Brit brought along her husband, Ian and yet another new colleague of her and Elaine's to coffee after their walk in the park. This is good reminder that we usually end up at the Coffee Tree in Squirrel Hill around 7:45 - please feel free to join us even of you haven't run. Of course this coming Sunday we will be meeting in Shadyside but you can meet us there too.

August 26 Run: Tom's House at 5434 Aylesboro

Tom has offered to lead a "back to college" run from his house at 5434 Aylesboro (near Forbes Ave) this coming Sunday. Wear your school colors :-)

This morning we saw the storm damage in Schenley Park first-hand as we climbed over and under trees that had fallen on the Steve Faloon Trail and, although the skies were cloudy it never rained. It was dogs all around at coffee! Julie brought her dog Chloe on the run so of course she accompanied us to the Coffee Tree. Murray occupied his usual place under our table. Elena came along to get coffee for her house and had Blue with her. But, the piece de resistance was a visit from an 8 week old puppy who was passed around baby-like to get pets and snuggles.

August 19 Run: Wendy Bennett Trailhead

This coming Sunday's run is an "old favorite" through Schenley Park. Meet at the entrance to the park at the corner of the Boulevard of the Allies and Bartlett aka The Wendy Bennett Trailhead.

It was one magical view of the city rising out of the mist after another on yesterday's Three Rivers Run. Although there were only a few of us running, including Chaton (welcome back!) who now is one of the Urban cool living on the North side, we all agreed it was definitely a Premier event. We discovered an interesting sculpture near PNC Park that thanks to Roye's observant eye, made some dubious social statements (why were those women crouching?). We watched workers pull a tree to standing that had been toppled by last week's storm. And we ended the run listening to the spiritual tones coming from the sound sculpture. Perhaps it is the lovely weather but it seems like all the runs this summer have been special.

August 12 Run: Three Rivers Run - meet at the Benedum

Next week Elaine is providing a break from interminable Coffee Tree runs by leading one downtown that crosses over all three three rivers and on which the only up-hills are the slopes up to the bridges. This is one of the running group's "premium" runs so join us, if you can. Meet in front of the Benedum Theater on Seventh street between Penn and Liberty.

A run to the run will start from Phipps Conservatory at 6:15 AM. Those of us choosing this option will be sure to bring bus fare just in case.

Today we had a make-it-up-as-you-go run through the atmospheric Chatham College campus which as usual, did not dissapoint us. Although there was a lot of hill climbing we were charmed by the New England-like architecture as we pondered questions such as: Is it graffiti or is it art?, Are those sculptures or inventive ball dispensers for summer camp?, Was there really a set of steps to Shady Ave? Back at the Coffee Tree we entertained the morning crowd by doing a few Yoga poses, lead by Roye.

August 5 Run: Coffee Tree Yet Again

We have not exhausted the possible runs from the Coffee Tree and since this easy choice matches the vacation-like atmosphere we will meet there again this coming Sunday.

What could be better than a run through Frick Park with friends new and old on a mid-summer's morning (assuming you forget about those up-hill bits)? Not much! The meadows are in full-bloom and the trails shady.
Tom, a.k.a. HWRWW*, had the company of two other men this week: Paula the Brit's husband, Ian and Elaine's new recruit, Alvin. I brought along a visiting ballet Mom. Plus we ran into Elaine's husband Carl in lower Frick. All contributed to lively run with many of the usual elements: discussions about real-estate, a recipe shared and a leisurely visit over coffee afterwards. Murray has now been officially adopted as the group coffee dog.

*He Who Runs With Women

July 29: Coffee Tree Redux

A request to run in Frick Park, leads us back to the Coffee Tree this coming Sunday which has the added attraction of making coffee easy on these balmy summer mornings. Can you believe July is almost over?


We were on our way to a traditional Homewood Cemetery Run, complete with a stop to read Robert Wood's self-effacing gravestone note, when there was a suggestion to investigate the community garden plots. So we dropped down from the cemetery and thoughts on mortality to view the gardens teaming with flowers, vegetables and life. We followed this with a pleasant visit over coffee where Murray the dog once again charmed his way under our table.

July 22 Run: Coffee Tree Again

Because this past Sunday's run was certainly not a regular run (see below) plus the summer is such a delightful time to sit outside and drink coffee, let's meet at the Coffee Tree again.

Our run got off to an auspicious start when a police cruiser trumpeted "Have a nice run ladies" as we ran down Murray Ave. We then made our genteel way around Prospect Drive looking at the fancy race cars that were being prepared for the Vintage Grand Prix. Those two events alone would have made for a memorable run, but we continued on the Wendy Bennet Trailhead trail and Elaine led us up steps by the Vietnam Vets Pavilion, which were new to some, to the Schenley Oval. There we discovered that the new soft track had been completed which of course we had to run around as we admired the very fine soccer field. Heading back to the Coffee Tree we were stopped from crossing to Bartlett Street by a race official (Emergency Vehicles on the Grand Prix course?) and had to make our long run even longer by skirting around various barriers. By that time we got back to the Coffee Tree we were more than ready for coffee and visit from Murray, a calming kind of dog.

July 15 Run: The Coffee Tree

It was beginning to look like there would only be a small crowd for this coming Sunday's run so we decided on something simple - we will meet at the Coffee Tree on Forbes, Ave. and go where we feel like. Homewood Cemetery is always an option but if someone has other creative ideas please bring them.

Today we re-affirmed our love for Frick Park as Julie led us down-hill and up-dale on those cool leafy paths. Afterwards we enjoyed Julie's hospitality as we drank coffee and traded stories on her gracious front porch.

July 8: Corner of Dallas and Willard

Next Sunday's run will be led by Julie from the corner at Dallas and Willard (St. Bede school; triangle flower bed where Wilkins meets Dallas).

Yours truly is running on the flat plains and under the open sky of Illinois so I have no report from this past Sunday's run.

July 1 Run: Colfax School

This coming Sunday meet at Colfax School for a run in Frick Park.

Today was yet another in the amazing (for Pittsburgh) series of clear, cool, and sunny Sunday morning runs. We followed a herd of deer and flock of turkeys as we wound our way through the historic graves of Allegheny Cemetery. I can not adequately convey how the beauty of the early morning sun on the trees coupled with the echos of past combined to create a kind of other-worldly feel. Of course there was also lighter talk of ballet and tutus as we pondered an alternative to Swan Lake: Deer Park.

Note for the record book: It took us about 35 minutes to run from Wilkins and Shady to the gates of the Cemetery. We ran through Chatham , over to Negley to Friendship Ave then headed up to Penn Ave right by West Penn Hospital.
Once in the cemetery we followed the Green Line almost to the Butler Street Entrance where we picked up the double Green Line which took us back to Penn Ave. From there we took the lavender line to the "Garden of Peace" and then returned.
We last ran in the Cemetery on August 13, 2006

June 22 Run: Allegheny Cemetery

All
This coming Sunday run will start at the Penn Avenue gates of Allegheny Cemetery: http://www.alleghenycemetery.com/
The entrance is close to the intersection of Pearl and Penn Avenues. If you are driving toward town on Penn, the entrance is on the right several blocks before you see St Francis/Children's Hospital.
The map on the website says that the green line through the cemetery is a historical run so perhaps we can try that.

A run to the run will start at 6:30 AM from the corner of Shady and Wilkins.

We had another glorious morning run through Schenley Park as we sent Wendy on her way with discussions about moving, graduation (the running group has 3 children graduating from Schenley High School today), conferences and more. Unfortunately Wendy had no time for coffee but we are already anticipating a running group outing to Designer Days when she returns in November.

June 17 Run: Wendy Benett Trailhead

Run with Wendy on her last Sunday as a resident Pittsburger: meet at the Wendy Benett Trailhead at 7:00 AM. We will take a little detour, weather permitting, to peek at the Chihuly Exhibit at Phipps. Of course there will be coffee afterwards.

Frick Park took on a slightly foreign air this morning, which had to be one of the 10 most glorious mornings of 2007. The clear blue sky, golden light and sparkling air coupled with the new wooden walkways and bridges once again transformed Frick (on an earlier run it was the mist). The feeling continued as we sat outside for coffee and conversation - this time we were at the beach.

June 10 Run: Colfax School

All
Meet at Colfax School on Beechwood blvd for a run through Frick Park and if you feel like leading (as opposed to us blindly following our whims) please come with a plan. There will definitely be time for coffee afterwards so come with money and a little time to spend.

I unfortunately could not make what I am sure was a great downtown run this past Sunday so I can not provide any highlights.

Anne Jane

Hi everyone,
Here's the strata recipe from the brunch:
http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/recipe_views/views/107754
and to this morning's fellow runners - the advice about what to wear to the interview was, as always, perfect!

EE Runners Recommendation List

This is a list of people/places/whatever that have been gathered from the EE Runners. For now it is in no particular order since we only have a few recommendations.

Jewelers: (various, 2013)      

• Doug Dufus from Kenyon Jewelers (412-731-6063/kenyonjewelers.com) in Wilkinsburg is excellent and reasonable.
• I second the Kenyon recommendation. Gentilcore in Fox Chapel is also reasonable and reliable, but I don't know about their experience with antique pieces.
• Try Orr's-- they do excellent work and good turn-around
• William Penn on Murray and in Regents Square. They can take a long time, but they have fixed things for me that other jewelers said couldn’t be done.
• That's been my experience with William Penn, too.  But I have had some things there for repair since August!
• Henne in Shadyside
• Creative Silver & Restoration - 2125 Murray Ave  (412) 421-8330 - Creativesilveronline.com
• Fred Miller1301 Denniston St. - 412-281-8498 fredric.miller@verizon.net

Chiropractor: (From Joanne Foerster, 2013)

I have had chronic plantar faciitis for two years, tried everything, including podiatrist. Upon the recommendation of my triathlon trainer, I am currently seeing Dr. John Coco, a chiropractor with offices in Murrysville and Greensburg. According to my trainer, he has helped many athletes with p.f.  I am in my 4th week of treatment, and I think he is working wonders. I'm not back to normal yet, but have seen improvement after each visit. Treatment includes dedication to stretching, strenghtening and icing between visits, but I think that's true for any successful p.f. treatment. I don't know if there are comparable chiropractors in the city, but Dr. Coco's success makes the drive worthwhile to me. Plus, he's a nice guy! His phone number is 724-327-1333.

Electrician: (from Sarah Ross, 2013)

I know of a really, really great one that I recommend without reservation: Bill White (Livewire). 

Bill redid all the wiring in our house for a great price. He is very smart, highly skilled, completely trustworthy and works for an unbeatable price. (on several occasions, i tried to convince him that he should charge more money for his work).   His number is 412-452-0638.

Plastering:  (from Sarah Ross, 2013)

I have a great plasterer— Mark Steele. He gutted all of the plaster on the third floor of our house and put up new board that looks fantastic. 

724-787-3158 of Steele Plastering - http://www.steeleplastering.com/

http://www.homeadvisor.com/tloc/Smithton-PA/Plaster-Install/
 
Painting/Wallpaper:
From Susan Hunt, May 2007: Peter Alexandratos, 412-561-2688
From Paula Leslie, March 2008: Luke McChesney, 412-242-4152

Carpet Cleaning
From Elaine Mormer, December 2007: Perfect Carpet Cleaning Inc, 5709 Forward Ave, 412-421-644

Tree Services
These recommendations were gathered in March 2008:

• Ackerman Tree Service: 412-521-1938 (2 recommendations)
• Carl's Tree Service and Landscaping (www.carlstreesevice.com) 412-466-3539 (3 recommendations)
• Three Rivers Tree Removal - 412-422-6201 or 412-464-1298 (1 recommendation but they are new in town)

Pet Sitting 

From Elaine Mormer in January 2012:

This young woman has a really wonderful business taking care of pets and her rates are very reasonable. I am trying to help her grow her business a bit. Thanks!

http://www.pittsburghpetservices.webs.com/

June 3 Run: Benedum Theater, Downtown

Next Sunday, Elaine will lead a three river's run but because Point State Park is closed we will start the run a little uptown at the Benedum Theater which is on 7th Avenue, between Penn and Liberty.

For those who want to "run to the run", meet at Phipps Conservatory at 6:10 (run starts promptly at 6:15).

I missed the run due to an excess of Bulgarian dancing but was able to attend the convivial and informative Wendy Bennett Celebration Brunch at Roye's house. Particularly memorable was Susan Hunt's dramatic re-telling of the apocryphal Naked Biker story - complete with dark undertones, complimented by the many product and contractor recommendations. From this rich exchange was born the new EERunners motto: "So many decisions could have been bad" Thank-you to Roye for that pithy statement and for graciously hosting this gathering.

Memorial Day Run: 7AM Coffee Tree

All
For those around on Memorial Day, May 28, there will be a run starting at 7AM from the Coffee Tree in Squirrel Hill. Route and leader will be decided spontaneously.

May 27 Run: Frick Park at Reynolds and Homewood

The Memorial Weekend Sunday run will start at the entrance to Frick Park at the traffic circle where Reynold and Homewood meet.

After the run, Roye Werner is hosting a good-bye brunch at her house for Wendy. She lives nearby the start of the run at 305 S. Lang Ave. I think Roye is out of town until early this week. Once she is back we can confer with her about logistics. In the meantime why don't you send me mail about what you would like to bring. One suggestion might be to have two or three people combine forces to bring bagels and cream cheese. And finally remember that if you don't feel like running, you can still come!

We had another memorable Highland Park run this morning complete with a stunning view of the recently renovated entrance to the park which evoked memories of Paris, a new trail which lead to a romp/run across a little meadow - a running group first, topped off by delicious cappuccino and cinnamon rolls at Tazzo D'Orro.

May 20 Run: Tazza D'Oro, Highland Park

On Sunday, May 20 the run will begin at Tazza D'Oro (http://www.tazzadoro.net/) on Highland Ave. Always a group favorite, don't miss this run!

Meet at Shady and Wilkins at 6:30 AM for a run to the run.

May 13 Run: Race for the Cure and Coffee Tree

Next weekend is Race for the Cure. For those running the race and want to run with some friends, meet in front of Tom's house on Ayelsboro (thanks for volunteering when you were not there, Tom!) at 7:30 AM. The Race begins at 8:35 AM.
You can still Register on-line and get your t-shirt mailed to you if you register by May 6 at: www.komenpittsburgh.org
The default run for those not running is the Coffee Tree.

We had a beautiful fresh spring run through Chatham College today. The Azaleas were spectacular, the light was clear and the air was brisk - perfect! There was a large crowd that enjoyed a boisterous post-run chat at the Coffee Tree.

It looks like there will be a Sunday Good-bye Wendy Brunch at Roye's house on Sunday, May 27 (Memorial Day Weekend). Please send her mail if you plan to attend.

May 6 Run: Coffee Tree

I spoke with Wendy last night who said that she could not recall that any place was picked for this coming Sunday's run so we settled on the Coffee Tree as the default run. I would be happy to lead it through the cemetery which will be beautiful this time of year. Or.. if someone else has a better suggestion let us know.

Apr 29 Run: Swisshelm Park

Next Sunday's run commences chez Bennett/Coulson with coffee after.~Wendy-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Directions to Bennett/Coulson house1107 Goodman St.243.7064Going thru Regent SquareTake Braddock Avenue towards Edgewood Towne Centre. After Regent Sq. business district stay in right lane. Go under parkway overpass and turn right (as if you're going to Monroeville entrance of parkway. You'll pass BP station on left). Go past stop sign to first street (Whipple St.) and make a right. Go up hill, straight and past Commercial to the next stop sign, whereupon you continue straight at the "Watch Children" sign. Take this street (Goodman St) as curves around to the right all the way to the end of the cul-de-sac. We're the last house on the right.Going thru Sq HillAt the corner of Beechwood and Forward, go down Forward as it turns into Commercial Rd. Continue on Commercial, past the Irish Center until you get to the stop sign (Whipple St.) At Whipple go right to the next stop sign, whereupon you continue straight at the "Watch children" sign. Take this street (Goodman St) as curves around to the right all the way to the end of the cul-de-sac. We're the last house on the right.

Apr 22 Run: Dallas and Wilkins

I heard from my sources who were on last Sunday's run that Julie will lead the April 22 run and it will start at the intersection of Dallas and Wilkins.

I will be back to do "live" reports in two more Sundays.

Apr 15 Run: Coffee Tree

Tax Day - get your caffeine early - the runs starts at the Coffee Tree on Forbes in Squirrel Hill.

Apr 8 Run: Wendy Bennett Trailhead

The run next Sunday, April 8th, will begin at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead, where Overlook Drive enters Schenley park near where Bartlett, Hobart, Blvd of the Allies and Greenfield Rd. come together.

Since the weather is predicted to be warm through Tuesday, and then turn cold, we decided to add in another mid-week run on Tues. this week leaving from the Forbes and Murray 'library' corner at 5:45am. Wed. run will also take place as usual.

Today's run through Frick Park was very pleasant, despite a light rain that started just when Tom predicted it would!

Mar 31 Run: Colfax School

The run on the last day of March 2007 will start at Colfax School.

Karen lead us on a serene run through a fog shrouded Frick Park this past Sunday which at times looked like a forest in some far away land. Wendy, fresh in from Hawaii, missed the run but joined Karen, Julie, Pam and I for a very enjoyable coffee hour.

I will not be in Pittsburgh for any of the Sundays in April (a combination of business and pleasure trips) so I will rely on someone (Elaine? Paula? Teri?) to either send me the location of the Sunday runs or just send out the information to the group. I can post the info to the Blog. I had not realized how much I would be away when I requested that some runs be postponed until I returned. Please ignore my whining and schedule wildly.

Mar 25 Run: Tennis Courts on Braddock Ave

All
Karen will lead the run next week from the Tennis Courts on Braddock Ave.

We had a cold but pleasant run through Homewood Cemetery. Next time I will try to oblige Tom and have us face the sun as it rises over Homestead ;-)

Anne Jane

Mar 18: Coffee Tree

I was out of town and so am posting this for recording purposes.

March 11 Run: Coffee Tree

REMINDER: Turn your clocks forward Saturday night (Spring forward!).
Because this may cause great drowsiness we chose an easy to remember meeting place: The Coffee Tree on Forbes in Sq. Hill. The route will be determined by consensus or whoever is alert enough to lead.

Tom lead us on a pleasant meat and potatoes run. Paula disappeared (really she just left early to get home and chauffeur kids). We all thought about Elaine returning home from her sojourn in Israel. And after a dry spell, we had a lovely visit over coffee in which we did learn something but of course, I forget what it was!

P.S. I will be on a plane headed for Austin, TX on Sunday. Could someone please send me the location of the post-St. Patrick Day's run?

Mar 4 Run: Tom's House - redo

Tom says:
"If a man awakes at 6:00a.m.and no one appears to run, does he still run? No. I'll take it again and we will try to do it sans ice."
Tom's house is at 5434 Aylesboro (near Forbes Ave).

Actually Paula did run to Tom's house although she was late getting there and when she saw no signs of life she ran home, only falling once (ouch!).

I don't know about you, but I was out of sorts all day without my Sunday fix of running group companionship!

Feb 25 Run: Tom's House

Tom will lead next Sunday's run. He is hoping that warmer temperatures this week will permit a run on the park trails. Start at his house: 5434 Aylesboro (near Forbes Ave).

For the fourth Sunday in a row a small group of us ran through yet another "winter wonderland" although it was not as bitterly cold. Today's run included a very snowy view from Schenley Oval, many more up-hills than down-hills, Tom's discourse on the correct definition of a blizzard and a brick house painted bright yellow which sparked some interesting conversation.
Sharon gets the running group consistency award for being the only one to turn up for Wednesday's morning run.
Wishes for safe travels and a good trip go to Elaine who leaves tomorrow for a 2 week trip to Israel to visit her daughter.

Feb 18 Run: Intersection of Woodmont, Murdoch, Plainfield & Inverness

Hello All
Paula will lead next Sunday's run.The meeting point is where Woodmont St., Murdoch Rd., Plainfield St. and Inverness St. converge. It sounds complicated but it really is not.

Here is a link from Google maps: http://maps.google.com/maps?near=1319+Murdoch+Rd,+Pittsburgh,+PA+15217&q=Murdock+Rd+and+Woodmont+St&f=l&hl=en&ie=UTF8&z=16&ll=40.444024,-79.930408&spn=0.007316,0.014291&om=1 <http://maps.google.com/maps?near=1319+Murdoch+Rd,+Pittsburgh,+PA+15217&q=Murdock+Rd+and+Woodmont+St&f=l&hl=en&ie=UTF8&z=16&ll=40.444024,-79.930408&spn=0.007316,0.014291&om=1>You may need to cut and paste this into your browser.
If you are traveling down Wightman from Forbes, turn left at Woodmont and go to the second stop sign.If you are traveling down Wilkins toward downtown, turn left on Wightman (at CVS), take the first right on Woodmont and go to the second stop sign.

It was another chilly but pleasant Sunday run. More members showed up as cabin fever pushed people to bundle up and give cold weather running a try. It also marked the return of a short but sweet Coffee Tree gathering - winter always seems to be busier meaning less time for this luxury.

Feb 11 Run: Reynolds and Murtland

Karen will take us on a run through Chatham this coming Sunday, Feb 11. Meet at the corner of Reynolds and Murtland in Point Breeze.

Four of us braved the cold this morning and were rewarded by a sparkling clear view of the city from Schenley Oval. Yes, Tom did wear tights and Elaine taught us how to warm up our hands.

Feb 4 Run: Wendy Benett Trailhead

In celebration of the slight increase in morning light as well as a return to a "regular" rather than "exotic" run, this coming Sunday's run will start at the Wendy Benett Trail Head at the corner of the Boulevard of the Allies and Bartlett Street.

Those hardy few who ran to the run (Elaine and this secretary) and who ran the run (Tom and Wendy) were rewarded by a marvelously quirky run through the South Side. We learned about the efficient and grubby Duke's Tires which sits across the park from the quaint Victorian Tea Room. We ran by the new WYEP building, past European flavored row houses, Kay's office and many tempting restaurants including the new Double Wide Grill (http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07011/752677-242.stm) - which surprisingly enough does not seem to be a chain AND serves vegan food! It was definitely one of the group's more memorable runs.

Jan 28 Run: UPMC South Side

This coming Sunday's run will start at parking lot at UPMC South Side - turn left just after you cross the Hot Metal Bridge. Tom promised to come so that there will transportation back for those that run to the run :-)

Run to the Run will start at the Coffee Tree in Squirrel Hill at 6:20AM. My notes say that it takes 40 minutes to run from the "J" corner and mapquest says it is 2.9 miles from the Coffee Tree to UPMC - I am going with the conservative estimate of 40 mins figuring we won't leave exactly at 6:20.

Thank-you to Teri for bringing the yummy homemade biscotti for the coffee gathering and to Susan for tempting us with stories of adult summer camp in Utah!

MLK Run AND Jan 21 Sunday Run: Coffee Tree

For all of you lucky enough to be off work tomorrow, Jan 15, there will be a run starting at 8:00 AM at the Coffee Tree.

Elaine will take us on the historical "Bird Run" this coming Sunday, Jan 21. It will also start at the Coffee Tree.

Today's run was rainy but surprisingly well-attended. We continued our progress toward continuing education credits over coffee where Susan Hunt and our newest member Paula Leslie (welcome!), provided us with some thought-provoking discussion.

JCC Knee Class in March 2007

From Elaine Mormer:
Here is the info re this class. It will cost $60.00 for non-members. Folks can register by calling the JCC (412) 521-8010) or by stopping in there.

Run to the Run Times - 2007 version

Downtown Runs
From Wilkins & Beechwood to the Hilton Downtown: 1 hour
From Phipps Conservatory to PPG Place: 45 mins

UPMC Sports Medicine, South Side
From Coffee Tree in Squirrel Hill to UPMC on the South Side via Bates St is about 2.9 miles and it took us 25 mins to run from the Coffee Tree to the beginning of the Hot Metal Bridge.
From Shady & Phillips to UPMC on the South Side via the Park: 45 mins (much nicer)
From Shady & Phillips to UPMC on the South Side via Bates St: 40 mins

Highland Park
From Wilkins & Shady to Tazzo D'Oro Cafe at 1125 Highland Ave: 25 mins

Allegheny Cemetery
From Wilkins & Shady to Allegheny Cemetery: 35 mins

Waterfront
From Wilkins & Beechwood to the Waterfront via Somerset and including the Darlington Road cut-through to Beechwood Blvd: 45 mins
Note that the riverfront trail begins behind the Fish Restaurant.

January 14 Run: Mellon Park Playground

Virginia will lead the January 14th Sunday run through Shadyside. It will start at the Playground on 5th Avenue where Beechwood meets 5th Avenue - near the tennis bubble.

I won't say anything about how beautiful this morning's run was through a misty Highland Park or how pleasant the extended coffee conversation was :-)

Schoolhouse Yoga 7AM Class in the Strip

From Roye Werner:

Happy New Year everyone! I know among you there are some yoga, as well as early morning, enthusiasts, and so I wanted to pass along this information about a new class at Schoolhouse Yoga. It’s on Friday morning from 7 – 8:15, is a beginner class, and your practice will have an inspiring view of dawn over Downtown Pittsburgh from the strip district location. Also, the instructor, Richard, is great. Here’s the info, with directions, etc.: http://www.schoolhouseyoga.com/

New Year's Day Run: 8AM Coffee Tree

Late breaking news - meet at the Coffee Tree in Squirrel Hill at 8:00 AM for a New Year's Day run

January 7 Run: Tazzo D'Oro, Highland Park

Next Sunday's run will start at Tazzo D'Oro at 1125 N. Highland Ave and wander through Highland Park (we will make it up as we go).

For those wanting to run to the run, meet at Shady and Wilkins at 6:25 AM.

Happy New Year to all of you!

December 31 Sunday Run - Tom's House

The subject line says it all - meet at Tom's house for a New Years Eve Run: 5434 Aylesboro (near Forbes Ave.).

NY Times Article: To Avoid ‘Boomeritis,’ Exercise, Exercise, Exercise

Thanks to Virginia for sending another interesting article from the NY Times:
To Avoid 'Boomeritis,' Exercise, Exercise, Exercise

If this link above does not work you can cut and paste this URL into your browser:
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/19/health/19brody.html?ei=5070&en=25f34fb97f894bea&ex=1167368400&adxnnl=1&emc=eta1&adxnnlx=1166733234-ztOOtZFoShMmS4iFNvpkpg

Christmas Day Run - Coffee Tree at 7AM

Just in case you
a) are in town
b) do not celebrate Christmas or
c) have children that no longer get up at 5:30 AM on Christmas and
d) think you would enjoy a run on Monday

Meet at the Coffee Tree in Squirrel Hill at 7AM on 12/25. If anyone turns up (including me) we will have a "runner's choice" run.

Anne Jane

December 24, 2006 Sunday Run

Next week's run will begin at the Coffee Tree in Squirrel Hill. No specific direction has been chosen yet so if you have an interesting idea bring it with you, if not we can run in Homewood Cemetery.

Thanks to Tom for a truly memorable downtown run this morning!

NYTimes Article: Is Marathoning Too Much of a Good Thing

Thought you might find this interesting:
Is Marathoning too Much of a Good Thing

Or if the link does not work you can paste this URL into your browser:
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/07/fashion/07Fitness.html?ei=5087%0A&em=&en=f7e430887d7518d0&ex=1165899600&adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1165768158-Ae19Gaao3/K0DS5meQW2TQ

December 17, 2006 Sunday Run

Next Sunday we will explore downtown's holiday offerings - meet in PPG Place at the ice skating rink/Christmas Tree, which during the summer months is known as the tomb of the unknown bowler.

For those wanting to run to the run, meet at Phipps at 6:15 AM.

December 10, 2006 Sunday Run

All,
Tom will take us through a merry run through Oakland this coming Sunday. Meet at Phipps Conservatory.

Anne Jane

December 3, 2006 Sunday Run

The Sunday run for December 3rd will begin at the Wendy Bennett trail head at the start of Overlook Drive in Schenley Park (corner of Bartlett St and Blvd of the Allies). We are trying to get in as many park runs as possible while we have light.

At coffee this morning it was suggested that we organize a one or two night runners group get away. One possible location is the Felicita Resort which is not far from Harrisburg. Think about it :-)

Friday, November 24 - Two runs

There will be two runs tomorrow, 11/24:

• 5:45 at Murray and Forbes - the regular Friday run
• 7:00 at Coffee Tree

Not sure who will show up at either but if today was any indication there could be quite a few folks.

And as a reminder the Sunday run will start at the entrance to Frick Park at Reynolds street, across from the Frick Art Museum.

Happy Thanksgiving - we all have so much to be thankful for, not the least of which is our great running group!

Anne Jane

Recipe for Spinach Balls

From Teri Malstrom

SPINACH BALLS

2 boxes of frozen shopped spinach, defrosted and drained well
2 cups of Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing Mix
2 large onions chopped very fine
6 beaten eggs
3/4 cup melted butter
3/4 to 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1 Tablespoon black pepper

Mix all ingredients together and chill well. Form into small balls and freeze in a single layer on a cookie sheet. Once frozen, place them in a zip-loc freezer bag.

Bake, frozen at 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes. Make sure the bottoms are browned.

Thanksgiving 2006 Run

For those people who will be around on Thanksgiving morning the default holiday run starts at the Coffee Tree at 7AM. I might be there but I am not sure of my schedule yet - otherwise just show up and take your chances.

Anne Jane

November 26 Sunday Run and a few events of note

The post Thanksgiving Sunday run will start at the entrance to Frick Park on Reynolds Street - just across from the Frick Art Museum.

Below are some interesting upcoming events that have been discussed by the group:

Today, November 19 - Open House and Jewelry Sale at Teri's house
check your mail for the invite

November 29 Le Mystere Des Voix Bulgares - if you like ethnic music this will be a treat
http://www.pgharts.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=6046

December 1 & 2nd Pittsburgh Glass Center Annual Holiday Glass Sale
http://www.pittsburghglasscenter.org/


December 2 The Craft Factory - an alternative craft fair at the Mattress Factory http://www.mattress.org/index.cfm?event=Events

December 2 & 3rd The Riverside Design Group Holiday Sale
http://www.post-gazette.com/events/venueinfo.asp?id=1012

Pittsburgh Figure Skating Club Information

Runners-

Several of you have asked me for info re the Pittsburgh Figure Skating Club lessons offered Saturday mornings at Schenley Park. Here is the link to info re this winter’s session. An online application is at the bottom. Lessons are for kids and adults and are followed by club free skate time. There are usually a few of us who run in the park while our kids are in the lessons…then we skate with the kids a bit.

http://www.pittsburghfsc.com/Learn%20to%20Skate.htm

Elaine Mormer, M.A.

November 19, 2006 Sunday Run

Next Sunday's run will start at Tom's house: 5434 Aylesboro (near Forbes Ave.).

Welcome back to Julie who was the surprise leader on today's run!

November 12, 2006 Sunday Run

Next Sunday meet at Colfax School for an impromptu Frick Park run (still taking advantage of the morning light). There is no designated leader or planned route so there is lots of room for creativity.

November 5, 2006 Sunday Run

Sunday run for November 5th will begin at the Wendy Bennett trailhead at the start of Overlook Drive in Schenley Park (corner of Barlett St and Blvd of the Alies). We wanted to take advantage of the morning light to get in another park run.

October 29, 2006 Sunday Run

Next Sunday's run will begin at Susan Hunt's house. Meet where Selwyn runs into Reynolds Street - very close to where Reynolds joins Beechwood Blvd and just up from 5th Avenue.

The 3 Bridge/3 River Run was a great success - a definite keeper.

Good luck to Pam Murray running her first marathon (various aches and pains permitting) this coming Sunday!

Oct 22, 2006 Sunday Run

The 10/22 Sunday run will be a 'Bridges Run' co-led by Elaine Mormer and Paula Clemens. It will start from the Hilton Hotel downtown. The run crosses all 3 rivers downtown circling the confluence. Just a word to the wise--it is slightly longer than our usual run--about 5 miles. Elaine and Paula were not planning on doing a 'run to the run' given the added distance; however, there may be those more intrepid - please reply to this email if you are interested.

October 15 Sunday Run

This coming Sunday's run will start at the Wendy Benett Trailhead at the corner of the Boulevard and Bartlett Street. Wendy may or may not be able to be there so if she is not, the group can either do the regular run from that spot or create a new one.

Enjoy this lovely autumn weather!

October 8 Sunday Run

[Sorry I missed last week!]

Since there were only three of us at today's run the options were limited for next week - we will meet again at the Coffee Tree where Elaine will lead us on a run through Squirrel Hill.

See you then!
Anne Jane

The note below is from Paula:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Running Friends,

Some of you participated in the Walk for Racial Harmony at the inaugural event last fall which took place on a gorgeous fall day. The second annual Walk for Racial Harmony will take place October 21, 2006. I am part of the group that is organizing this community event. Please participate if you can, and spread the word to anyone or any groups who you feel would be interested. We are hoping for a really good turn-out. The Masters of Ceremony and musical entertainment that will be part of the walk are shaping up really well. The email announcement of the walk (pasted below) has a weblink for the registration form. People can certainly register on the day of the walk by just showing up and paying the registration fee then, but advance registration is encouraged, and for obvious reasons, is required in order to have a T-shirt. This event is meant for all races, all genders and all ages. Please come!

Thanks, Paula


Walk for Racial Harmony - October 21, 2006

Sponsored by Women of Pittsburgh 2000 & CCO

Where: Schenley Park - Pittsburgh, PA

When: Saturday, October 21, 2006

Cost: $10 for adults
$7 for students
Free for children under 10
Entrance fee waived for anyone who raises a minimum of $25 in
pledges ($15 for students) (must show up at Walk with cash/checks in
hand).

Groups of 10 or less can raise pledges (minimum $150) to
compete for prizes IPod shuffles, iTunes gift cards and movies passes
and Cheesecake Factory gift cards.

Weblink to the registration brochure: http://www.ccojubilee.org/walk/


Purpose of the Event: To bring together people from every sphere of
life in greater Pittsburgh in an effort to promote racial harmony, and
create a time of community which encourages the formation of
relationships between people of different races and backgrounds.

What is the format of the event?

* On Saturday, October 21, hundreds of people, from all ages,
races and walks of life will gather at Schenley Park for a 5K Walk/1
Mile Fun Walk. The goal of the event is to bring together people and
groups who care about racial harmony. Immediately following the walk,
participants will gather at the oval in Schenley Park to celebrate.
This brief gathering will include entertainment and food.

* Participants will either pay a modest fee or raise a small
amount of pledges to enter the walk. Participants will have the
opportunity to enter the walk as a "group," and raise pledges for that
group. The groups raising the highest amounts of money will win prizes
(restaurant gift certificates, movie passes, tickets to sporting events, etc.)

Contact for questions: Jessica Davis 412-363-3303

September 24 Sunday Run

Sunday, September 24 is the day of the Great Race which begins at 9AM this year. Pam Murray welcomes all those running to convene at her house anytime after 7:45 - 8:00AM. She lives at 2200 Beechwood - about 1/2 between the start line and Colfax school on the big bend.

For those not running the race, I would suggest meeting at the holiday run default gathering place, The Coffee Tree, at 7:00 AM.

For Susan Hunt and other interested recyclers, there is an open air recycling place at the foot of 30th st. in the Strip. The address is 30th and Water Street. You can recycle your magazines, corrugated cardboard, white office paper and phone books there (as well as all the items we can recycle at the curb). There is no gate, the dumpsters are outside and so you can recycle at any time.

September 17 Sunday Run

The run this coming Sunday will start at the parking lot of the UPMC Sports Medicine building just over the Hot Metal bridge on the South Side (first left as you cross from Second Ave). Tom - I hope you (and your van) are going to be there :-)

The run to the run will start at the corner of Forbes and Murray at 6:15AM. Hopefully someone will remember how to get to Greenfield via Schenley Park but if not we will just run down the Boulevard of the Allies to Bates Street to Second Avenue.

September 10 Sunday Run

The September 10th Sunday run will return to the Wendy Bennet Trailhead - the corner of Bartlett and the Blvd of the Allies.

Labor Day Run

Whoever would like to run on Labor Day show up at the Coffee Tree at 7AM.

September 3 Sunday Run

The Labor Day weekend Sunday run will begin at the Wendy Bennet Trail head - Schenely Park at the intersection of the Blvd of the Allies and Bartlett.

August 27 Sunday Run

Continuing on even longer with the cemetery theme, this coming Sunday (8/27) we will run through Calvary Cemetery which is in Greenfield/ Hazelwood. We will meet at the entrance on Greenfield Avenue, just up Greenfield Ave from the big intersection of Beechwood, Browns Hill Road and other roads, just a little bit beyond the mini-mall that has a Hollywood video in it.

The run-to-the-run will start at the corner of Forbes and Murray (the Wednesday/ Friday meeting place) at 6:30AM.

August 13, 2006 Sunday Run

Pam will lead a run in Allegheny Cemetery starting at the Penn Ave entrance, which near the interection of Penn and Frendship.

The run to the run will start at Shady and Wilkins at 6:30 AM.

August 6, 2006 Sunday Run

Next week's run will start at the Wendy Bennett trail head to Schenley park (junction of Bartlett and the start of the Blvd of the Allies). Sharon is leading.

July 30 Sunday Run

The run for the last Sunday in July will start at the same place as last Sunday: the parking lot by the tennis courts on Braddock Avenue. Michelle (welcome back!) will lead the run.

I will be away this coming Sunday. If someone will send the location of the following Sunday's run I can send it out to the group later in the week

Run to the Run Times

From Wilkins & Beechwood to the Hilton Downtown 1 hour
From Shady & Phillips to UPMC on the South Side via the Park 45 mins (much nicer)
From Shady & Phillips to UPMC on the South Side via Bates St 40 mins

July 23, 2006 Sunday Run

Next Sunday's run will begin at the tennis court parking lot on Braddock Avenue, in Regent Square. Virginia will lead.

I think this Sunday's run was one for the record books - 5 of us met and ran to the run but ... no one else showed up so we had to run home - uphill all the way! It was a good reminder to always carry bus fare :-)

Anne Jane

July 16, 2006 Sunday Run

Next Sunday's run will begin at the UPMC parking lot on the South Side - turn left as soon as you cross the Hot Metal Bridge and it is on your right.

There will be a run to the run starting at the "J" corner: the corner of Shady and Phillips. I did not hear a time but Mapquest says it is 3.12 miles using the Parkway and I think the last time we ran there it took longer than a 1/2 hour. So how about starting at 6:20AM?

July 9, 2006 Sunday Run - CORRECTION

Saw the fences going up this morning for the annual Vintage Gran Prix in Schenley Park.Let's meet instead, Sun @ 7 am, at the Fire Trail opposite the Irish Centre on Commercial Road.

Wendy

July 9, 2006 Sunday Run

The run will start at the Wendy Bennet Trail head (corner of the Boulevard and Bartlett) at 7AM.

July 2, 2006 Sunday Run

For those who are in town this weekend the Sunday run will begin as usual at 7:00 AM at the Coffee Tree in Squirrel Hill.

June 25, 2006 Sunday Run

Next Sunday's run will begin at Susan Hunt's house. Meet where Selwyn runs into Reynolds Street - very close to where Reynolds joins Beechwood Blvd.

I will not be around the next two Sundays. If Paula or Teri are not at those runs will someone please send mail to everyone?

June 18, 2006 Sunday Run

The Father's Day (just a gentle reminder) Sunday run will begin at Julie's house: 6693 Kinsman - it is the second one in from Dallas.

Running Routes Websites

You can map out a running route and it will tell you the distance - using Google maps. Apparently you can save and share runs as well.

http://www.usatf.org/routes/

Go to the link and on the search page, enter "Sq. Hill" for the location and "Pittsburgh" for the city. The regular Wednesday/ Friday run is called the "East End Runners Wed Fri Loop" - it should be the only one that comes up with those search terms.

Here are two more to try out:
http://www.mapmyrun.com/
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/

These sites should also be good for mapping out walking routes when you are visiting a new place. I get frustrated with the mapping sites geared to cars that will not let you go the wrong way on a 1-way street :-)

June 11, 2006 Sunday Run

Next Sunday's run will be downtown (an Arts Festival run!) - starting at the Hilton. The Run to the Run will start at Beechwood and Wilkins at 6 - we'll head straight down Wilkins to Fifth and take that all the way into town.