May 29 Run: Meet in Lawrenceville at Barb's Corner Kitchen 4711 Butler Street; May 30 Memorial Day holiday run to meet at 61C Cafe

Next Sunday, let's start and end/eat at Barb's Corner Kitchen at 4711 Butler Street, so we can celebrate the beginning of Open Streets Pittsburgh, where Butler Street and Penn Avenues are closed to vehicular traffic between 9am and 1pm and various events take place (see below). Monday is a holiday (Memorial Day), so we will meet at 61C Cafe for a Runners' Choice run.

Info on Open Streets:

"What better way to celebrate the coming of summer than to close a street from Downtown to Lawrenceville and fill it with family fun? OpenStreetsPGH plans to bring the festivities once again this year and the first one of the summer is on Sunday, May 29. From Market Square to Sixth Street and Penn Avenue then down Penn to Lawrenceville, the roads will completely shut down to motorized vehicles but open up to an array of all different forms of foot/wheel traffic. From walking and yoga, to bicycling and skateboarding, the streets will fill with different activities and events. Be sure to check out the major hubs in Downtown:

Market Square:

• 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. - Zumba and Turbokick boxing
• 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. - Yoga in the Square Kick-Off
• 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - Pure Barre Class
• 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. - Hype-Spin Cycling

28th Street and Penn Ave:

• 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. - Morning Yoga with the Yoga Hive
• 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. - Chris Anthony Fitness: Bodyweight Cardio
• 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - YMCA Pittsburgh: Soul Line Dancing
• 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. - Shape Training
• All Day - Find Some Flow: Stonehenge and Kinetic Games

23rd Street and Penn Ave:

• All Day - Burgh MAN!
• All Day - Thick Bikes, Butler Wobble and the Wonders Uni-cycling
• All Day - Neville Roller Drome: Skate!

OpenStreetsPGH will also be host to small businesses along the route that will offer deals to all participants with specials available throughout the entire route.

Join in the fun and help to continue Pittsburgh’s streak as one of America’s most livable cities. Did we mention that it’s all free?"

This past Sunday, we ran Downtown, and discovered lesser-known streets like First Avenue, past the old printing presses at the old Post-Gazette building, then on to the Point.  We reached the Point just 10 minutes before they turned it on, and because we were running along the river, we missed the exact moment that it was turned on.  We will have to catch the magic another time!

Coffee in the lovely lobby of the Omni William Penn included the following topics:

Newton shoes purchased via Runners World include a 90 day guarantee, no matter how many times you have worn them!

Itsdeductibleonline.com, which is essential for tracking your donated items and estimating their value for tax purposes.  

Save the Date: Sunday, June 5th post-run coffee/snacks will be at Elaine's for Wendy's birthday.  Potluck!

May 22 Run: Meet at the Omni William Penn Hotel downtown - entrance on Wm. Penn Place

Downtown run next Sunday - starting at our coffee locale, the Omni William Penn hotel at the Wm. Penn Place entrance.  There's usually plenty of street parking on Sunday morning. So many route options - tour of new restaurants?  bridge hopping?  watch them turn on the fountain?  magical luck circle around the Buccos stadium?  What's new dahntahn?  Send in your idea!

Last week we made a new route from the Wendy Bennett Trailhead to take in Our Lady of the Parkway aka the Shrine of the Blessed Mother as well as some of the more eccentric homes and spectacular views from the top of South Oakland.  Chris gave us some impressive data on new ecological feats at Phipps - flower-power!
Over at 61C, a variety of endorsements:

• Adventures in Good Company Tours - Sarah will report
• Row House Cinema in Lawrenceville - themed movies and drink a beer while watching
• Giant Goodwill in Cheswick - apparently the largest of all?  How's the cashmere?
• All-Clad Factory Sale coming up - though Chris says the cookware at the restaurant supply store on Penn Ave. in the strip is superior - he's done some industrial testing on it.
• Fiestaware Tent Sale in WV - this is getting pretty far afield but may be worth it
• Adding one more post-run - The Lion at the City Theater - I just saw it tonight and it's marvelous.

May 15 Run: Meet at Wendy Bennett Trailhead for a Mary Statue Run

Next Sunday, let's do a run in honor of Mother's Day (belated, but without all the Race for the Cure crowds) starting in Schenley Park at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead (Panther Hollow Road/Blvd Allies and Bartlett Street/Greenfield Road is the technical intersection).  We'll run a bit through the park, then on to South Oakland where the constantly changing Mary statue is kept cliffside, overlooking the Parkway.

Last Sunday, a medium sized group of us ran through the beautiful trails of Frick Park, up and around the new Environmental Center (which is really coming along), then winding our way back up.  It was perfect running weather, and Lainy regaled us with the most suspenseful story about her daughter's Mother's Day surprise.

I can't find the link for it, but there will be a hardhat tour of the new Frick Environmental Center.  If I find it, I'll send it along to the group.

 

May 8 Run: Blue Slide Park, corner of Beechwood Blvd. and Nicholson

Next Sunday's run will start at the famous/infamous Blue Slide Park, corner of Beechwood Blvd. and Nicholson St. in Squirrel Hill, 7 a.m., not exactly sharp.  

Last week our hardy little group of non-marathoners skirted the drizzle and the street barriers and headed into Shadyside, past the burgeoning Google complex, and included a special RG first:  a detour through the labyrinthine corridors of Shadyside Hospital, which was very quiet and has exceptional bathroom facilities - good to know!  I envision more hospital detours.

Coffee venues were bursting with runners but we found a windowside table at Panera (also pretty good facilities, not to mention pastries) and had possibly the "longest coffee sit in the history of the running group" according to Lainy, who should know.  Considerable fun and wisdom, but I lost my note-taking napkin, so I only have the following endorsements:

Podcasts:  Israel Story - and Trumpcast - both terrific.

Hope the Marathon was a good one for everyone - looking forward to the reports!

May 1 Run: Mellon Park at Fifth and Beechwood

Thanks to Virginia for the run summary.  And good luck to all the marathoners on Sunday!

From Virginia:

On Sunday, May, 1, we are meeting at Mellon Park on Fifth Ave., in the parking lot next to the playground which is next to the tennis bubbles. Remember there is the marathon that day.

    Here is what we talked about this past Sunday:

 

    For jewelry repair, use Kenyon Jewelry in Wilkinsburg

    We talked about the history of how the Schenley Park trail got the name of the Wendy Bennett Trail -- which apparently is now retrievable in a Google search.

    Other recommendations:

    Ace Hotel for coffee, especially sitting at the bar

    Black pudding and white pudding (Dishes that Iain had when he was in Scotland recently) and vegetarian haggis.

April 24 Run: the famous Wendy Bennett Trailhead

Sunday's run starts as usual at 7 a.m. (with the 5-minute delay) at the now famous Wendy Bennett Trailhead in Schenley Park - at the foot of the Schenley Oval (map) - you'll see us standing there.

Sorry for the late message - one thing retirement does for you is alter time - who knows what day it is?  Last Sunday's run through Frick Park was almost cinematic - a misty sunshine outlining our forms through the branches, surrounded by pinpoints of green leaves. And the drama didn't end there:  our prescient decision to sit outside at the 61C meant that we were ON THE SCENE as an electrical line across the street popped, fizzled and fell down among the cars. In a flash Kristin was calling 911 and Joanne was directing traffic.  LIVES WERE SAVED undoubtedly.  This was so exciting that it precluded most endorsements, except for:

• assertion evidence slide design  (we are nerds)
• memories of safety patrol, especially the belts (we may always have been nerds)
• incredibly comfortable shoes (admittedly nerdy) that Sharon and I have been wearing for years: Clark's Un.loop 

April 17 Run: Colfax School for perhaps a Frick Park run

Next run will begin at the Colfax School at Beechwood and Douglas in Squirrel Hill, and we'll enjoy some early springtime in Frick Park if it's not too muddy, or snowing - which is almost exactly what this blog says last year at this time, proving yet again that April is the cruelest month.  (However, the forecast is for 70 and sunny!)

Last week we met in Highland Park, and Joanne took us in the other direction - to Stanton Heights - which are very high!  But we all made it and saw some excellent views, not to mention streets and houses rarely encountered in our usual travels.  The Tazza D'Oro was inviting as always, and as usual we covered a lot of bases:

• Kosher cakes
• Iontophoresis - new way to ingest pharmaceuticals electronically, next we will put USB ports in humans
• the origins of the phrase "jumped the shark"  - Happy Days? Really?
• something I can't remember but it included the question "Was it because they couldn't smell him under the dumpster?" 
• Thriftique Sale, April 14-17 - 51st St. in Lawrenceville
• Book:  Nathan Englander's For the relief of unbearable urges
• The blitz episode from How I met your mother
• the excellent apple dumplings at the cafe! And, I found the children's book that they reminded me of - also endorsed -

April 10 Run: Tazzo d'Oro for a Highland Park Run

Last Sunday, only two runners made it for the Allegheny Cemetery run.  I suppose the threat of icy roads kept many away (or fun Saturday night plans kept us in bed Sunday morning).

Thanks to Gretchen and Joanne, a run was chosen for next Sunday, back to Highland Park.  This is a great opportunity to still see the views out to the river before the trees are completely leafed out.  Meet at Tazzo d'Oro on Highland near the intersection with Bryant.  Maybe we can look for signs of our reluctant Spring.

April 3 Run: Starting at Caffe D'Amore on Butler at 54th, Lawrenceville: Allegheny Cemetery

Spring has sprung along with a multitude of gorgeous Magnolia trees, and Allegheny Cemetery is the perfect setting, so we'll explore.  Start and coffee will be at Caffe D'Amore at 5400 Butler St. in Lawrenceville.

On Sunday we had a first:  exploring Aspinwall!  It's adorable.  We started at the Aspinwall Riverfront Park - with a whimsical climbing sculpture by a famous artist - and more is planned, including free ice skating in the winter - could be great.  It is apparently so safe that one house had, among its inflatable-sized Easter decorations, an elaborate outdoor miniature train set just sitting out there.  It's also so small that within a short time we found ourselves in Fox Chapel, invading one of the private drives of the 1 percent.

Due to the Easter holiday, we had coffee at... the Waterworks Giant Eagle! Astoundingly, they have an entire comfy Starbucks tucked inside - along with a pretty impressive beer emporium - who knew?
Endorsed:

• New Barebones Theater production:  One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest - April 21-May 7 at the New Hazlett Theater 
• Podcast: The Hidden Brain
• Busgazer app for telling you when the next bus is coming
• Hotels that have fire pits with s'mores, like they do in Duluth
• in a period full of bad news, here's some great news: chocolate boosts your workout

Not exactly endorsed, she said scowling, but she's not really:

• RBF - Resting Bitch Face 

March 27 Run: Aspinwall - Meet at Beans 'n Cream, 16 Brilliant Avenue

So we're crossing a river!  On Sunday we're starting at Aspinwall Beans 'n Cream on 16 Brilliant Ave. (map) - checking out a whole new neighborhood.

This is not really a shlep, so don't kvetch - as we discussed along with various other yiddish words last week, including ufsalukhus (sp?), which Lainy uses to great effect but when I've tried to find it, all I come up with is koolasuchus, some kind of Australian dinosaur which may or may not be related.  All this occurred at the cozy Big Dog Coffee place at the end of a pretty great South Side run.  We visited the origination spot for the StepTrek, ran down many adorable residential streets, discovered the new part of the trail overlooking another marina, and climbed on various ancient steelworks relics.  We also witnessed the big development going on at the former Duquesne Brewery - the Brew House Lofts.  As we came in from the cold, Big Dog had a fire going in the fireplace - some of us just stayed and stayed.

As a result, many endorsements:

• Coats with up-zippers
• AmeriCorps
• Videos for yoga and training:
•   Bryan Jones
•   Sri Pattabhi Jois (original Ashtanga guru)
•   Sydney Leroux Gym Sculpt
• Dish restaurant on the S. Side
• Zenith restaurant for vegans/vegetarians
• Starbucks new Clover Brewing system
• Annual Mindfulness Fair (was last week,) the Center for Mindfulness, and mindfulness in general
• There are now so many podcasts that we like that we are recommending whole groups of podcasts:  Radiotopia Network, and Panoply (from Slate)
• Not really an endorsement but some really weird thing about whispering over the internet called ASMR
• The Running Group's ability to communally problem-solve - twice!

March 20 Run: Meet at Big Dog Coffee for a Southside Run

Next Sunday, meet at Big Dog Coffee (2717 Sarah Street) for a South Side run!

This past Sunday, we started and ended at 61C, running down Murray Avenue down to Greenfield, then coming back up the hill via Greenfield Avenue, Lilac, and Shady.  We saw many new and old businesses throughout Squirrel Hill and Greenfield.  We also saw the place where an SUV accidentally drove on top of the roof of the Greenfield Giant Eagle (from the rear, via Greenfield Avenue); thankfully the fence held the car back from hitting the brick wall!

I don't have any major endorsements to share with you from coffee since there were only three of us and we mainly discussed public vs. private schools since the whole school decision is nearing for me personally.  Well, I should say, the chocolate pastry and apple danish from 61C Cafe could be endorsed :-).

March 13 Run: Meet at 61C Cafe for a Runners' Choice Run- and SPRING FORWARD YOUR CLOCKS!

This upcoming Sunday, let's meet at 61C Cafe for a default run, to be determined.

I was out of pocket this past Sunday, but I heard that the great weather and Schenley Park run attracted a big group.  So, sorry to say that I don't have any coffee notes to share.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO SET YOUR CLOCKS FORWARD ON SATURDAY NIGHT!  (Or else you will be an hour late for the run!)

March 6 Run: Wendy Bennett Trailhead for a Schenley Park run

Next Sunday we'll start at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead, at the start of Overlook Drive, foot of the Schenley Oval.  You know where it is, and if not, just follow Bartlett or Hobart to Schenley Park until you see the group standing around until 7:05 when they will take off in an unknown direction.  

Last Sunday we had a great run up to the top of the Pittsburgh world - the Robert Williams Memorial Park in Herron Hill.  To get there we passed Laurie's house and (sigh) Schenley High School that was, and went up and up and up until we arrived at the path around the reservoir, from which - especially now that the trees are bare - you can see vistas in all directions.  We then came back via the monumental Pitt sports complexes, which somehow also managed to be up and up - defying the laws of physics, but no matter.  We were very glad to finally stop climbing, and initiate the newest local Starbucks (does one open every day on the planet?) and take over a group-friendly table and schmooze for quite a while.  The multitude of topics simply overcame me so I have just a few endorsements to note:

• Charming photography of Belle Epoque Paris at the Frick

• Super low prices for trips to Montreal and other Canada destinations - experience a civilized country for a change

• The Full Monty - latest musical at CMU theater - sadly it's over now but don't miss their next production

February 28 Run: Fifth Ave. in Oakland across from Soldiers & Sailors - a new Starbucks

On Sunday we'll meet at a new Starbucks in Oakland that is so new it's not on Google Maps, so I don't have an exact address, except that it's on Fifth Avenue across from Soldiers & Sailors Memorial, probably next to the Pitt Student Union.  We'll have an Oakland run that will take us up to the Water Tower, with a view of the whole city in all directions, especially now before the leaves come out.

Last Sunday we headed out toward Schenley Park and CMU - where students were taking some unusual vehicles for a spin - first a real drone (they promised it had no weapons) and then a slew of buggies all around Flagstaff Hill.  Weren't the first driverless cars seen right here, years ago, scaring the pants off of onlookers?  Running seemed positively medieval.

Coffee was lively and totally fun as usual.  After we expressed our outrage over the idiocy of retractable leashes in the parks, and puzzled over a weird set of buzzing wired-up pots on the windowsill (HTG evidently stands for High Tech Gardening - who knew?), we endorsed:

• Terrific line dancing taught at the Homewood YMCA by master instructor, Roland Ford, though I can't remember the day/time so better call.
• TV: Vinyl, Making a Murderer, Nurse Jackie, Master of None, and Louie (Louis CK)  
• Movie: The Witch (scary but brilliant)
• Podcast:  Serial is back!!
• Web series:  Margot vs Lily (please forgive shameless promotion - but running is involved!)

February 21 Run: Meet at 61C Cafe for a Runner's Choice Run

This Sunday, we default to our standby 61C Cafe location for a run TBD.

Last Sunday, Virginia and her sister-in-law were the only ones who braved the frigid temperatures and winter weather advisory.  That has got to be a record for smallest group of people on a Sunday run, I think!

Virginia asked me to pass along this great running article:

Running is best for the brain!

Note by Wendy 2/18/2016

Lainy and Sarah and David and I must have set out just before Virginia and her sister-in-law arrived, but they still beat us as the smallest group. It was c-o-l-d and we had fun.

.

February 14 Run: Meet at 61C Cafe for a Valentines' Schenley Park Run

Next Sunday, let's meet at 61C Cafe and run over to Schenley Park in the spirit of Valentine's Day.  Bundle up and wear those hotties!  If it's too cold to run, at least come to coffee afterward.

This past Sunday, Roye led us on a very nice run through Lawrenceville, traversing train tracks several times, passing a dog run/park, admiring the city view from the river trail, and passing many businesses, both new and old.  Endorsements abound, all along the run, including:

Roundabout Brewery
Lester Yon garage
Triftique, Goodwill, Sears Scratch n' Dent
Barb's Country Kitchen
Kaleidoscope Cafe

At coffee, endorsements included:

More hand sewn cashmere mittens!
The Outsiders- show filmed at the JCC Family Park in Monroeville
Books: Crude Look at the Whole, How Starbucks Saved My Life

February 7 Run: Lawrenceville: Espresso a Mano cafe at Butler and 36th Street

There was some enthusiasm about a Lawrenceville run, so we'll start at 36th and Butler and go from there.  That's at the Espresso a Mano cafe, which is a favorite, but interest was also expressed in having breakfast at Barb's Country Kitchen (nearer to 47th St.)   However, people may not have time, so we can decide on the run.  We can see what's new on the river trail (apparently a dog park?), and what hip new storefronts have opened.  Also the Allegheny Cemetery awaits.  Many possibilities!

Last week we explored the South Side flats - basically we ran from the Goodwill to the Salvation Army and back (checking out the potential cashmere haul) and visited the Thinnest Building in Pittsburgh, the Terminal Shops (kind of an unfortunate name), the Heritage Trail, and then settled down into the coziness of Big Dog Coffee, which did have the promised fireplace, plus an actual large dog upstairs.  You can tell what most of us are doing evenings by the fact that endorsements fell heavily into the Watched on TV category:

• The Great British Baking Show (many thumbs up)
• Mozart in the Jungle
• The Americans
• Fargo
• Black Mirror - esp. episode with John Hamm
• Master of None
• The Bachelor?  
• Movies: Inescapable and Meet the Patels

Also (not sure what this indicates)

• The Aviary
• Bell bottoms, culottes and gauchos
• Locksmiths - Ace Locksmith, and also the Squirrel Hill Locksmith which also repairs appliances.

Finally the great suggestion that, after we learned that PCTV has many slots available, our running group could have a show of our own, modeled on The View.  We could call it The Schmooze.

January 31 Run: from Big Dog Coffee Shop on 2717 Sarah Street, South Side

By popular request, since we haven't done this in a while, we'll run through the South Side, starting and ending at the charming Big Dog Coffee Shop, first introduced years ago by Pam.  I think they have fireplaces!  We don't have a route yet but one will magically appear.

We got a bit confused last week, since I missed Lainy's message about the run starting at her house and offering not only coffee and goodies but mitten-making lessons.  Well, actually I was the only one confused, so I missed the start and ran on my solitary way, also managing to get locked out of my car (damn those electronic keys!)  But it all came together when I saw the runners returning and gathering in Lainy's kitchen for freshly baked bread and other delicious things AND a table set up with sewing paraphernalia and piles of cashmere - yes, cashmere! We cut and sewed like mad; like
the Zika Virus, the contagion of cashmere mitten-making is spreading fast.  If you want to get involved, just ask at the next run - but be aware it may take over your life.  In a nice warm soft way.








Bonus from the Jan. 17 run - photo by Laurie - our view of the Allegheny at dawn.

January 24 run: default at 61C Cafe, Murray Ave., Squirrel Hill

Neither Aimee nor I were at coffee discussions of the running plan last week, so we'll just meet at our usual spot - 61C Cafe in Squirrel Hill - and figure it out from there ☕️

January 17 Run: 21st St and Liberty Avenue parking lot- Strip District/La Prima Run/Coffee

This coming Sunday, let's get back to our old friend, the Strip, for an oldie but goodie, followed by the local favorite, La Prima coffee.  It's been too long since we've enjoyed those warm almond meles!

This past Sunday, we had quite a large group of intrepid souls willing to run in the soggy weather.  Unfortunately, it rained for almost the entire run, but it was delightful nonetheless.  Michelle led us through Edgewood, Swissvale, and Wilkinsburg sections of Regent Square as well as a loop through Frick Park.  We saw wildlife!  An opossum crossed our paths after giving us quite the dirty look!  We saw history!  Old Pittsburgh trolley tracks!  We saw commerce!  Active train tracks!  I would say this run met Elaine's definition of a "designer run" given all these attributes.

Unfortunately, we were all so waterlogged and damp that we didn't stay long enough to record endorsements at the sleepy but beautiful City Cafe (former shoe repair shop turned into a beautiful cafe with a pressed tin ceiling).  It's so hard to believe that only a few days ago for the run, it was warm enough to comfortably run in the rain-- oh how quickly things change.  Hopefully the weather will cooperate for Sunday's run.  If not, grab those buffs and cashmere mittens!

January 10 Run: Meet at City Cafe, 106 E Swissvale Ave, Edgewood

Next Sunday, meet at City Cafe (106 E. Swissvale Avenue) for a Stairs/Tunnel Run in Edgewood.  Park on the street near the School for the Deaf.

Last Sunday, we met at the newly opened historic Ace Hotel (former YMCA) in the burgeoning East Liberty, so we could stylishly sip coffee in the hip lobby.  Even though we're a hardy group normally accustomed to the cold, since we had been spoiled by the warm-ish weather, the 20 degree morning was a bit of a shock to our systems.  Good thing there was plenty to distract us from the wind (as well as new homemade Running Group mittens)!  We headed toward Allegheny Cemetery, but turned around after hearing there was a brand-new restaurant about to open across the street, Apteka!  And we were delighted to see one of the owners there with a couple of contractors constructing the most important part, the bar.  After a bit of a chitchat, we continued along, heading back to Ace along the sidestreets toward the gorgeous sunrise.

Now with such a large group, I only caught the side toward the right of the photo.  Endorsements and topics of discussion from my side of the couch included:
Political canvassing, some love it, some hate it
Hillary Headbands, a throwback to the 1990s!
Hot Flash Designs
Rasicka restaurant in DC
Midwives and some harrowing birth stories!

New Year's Day Holiday Run: Starbucks in Sq. Hill - and Jan. 3 Sunday Run: the Ace Hotel, 120 S. Whitfield St., East Liberty

Once more, an embarassment of running riches this week:  2 runs - holiday New Year's Day default run at 7:30 from Starbucks (on Forbes) in Squirrel Hill, followed by the Sunday run at 7:00 starting at the new Ace Hotel on 120 S. Whitfield St., East Liberty.  We're not sure about coffee availability there but Zeke's is around the corner, also great and open at 8.  If nobody else wants to lead, I'll take it up to the Allegheny Cemetery and back.

Last week I not too hopefully asked for ideas for the Squirrel Hill runs, assuming there is nothing new under the Forbes@Murray sun, but how wrong I was. PtB and Iain took us out some unaccustomed streets over to Fernwald and its romantic view of a misty sunrise all the way down to the Carrie Furnace, not to mention a surfeit of stunning mid-century modern homes, all expertly described by Wendy.  Our sadly unfulfilled search for holiday decorations last week was totally redeemed in many yards this time, especially one on Marlborough that absolutely ruled them all and included tiny dancing and singing snowmen (photo thanks to Pam.) Then on Sunday Pam took us into every hidden cul-de-sac off of Beechwood and Shady (good interval training as every one goes straight uphill.)  More architectural gazing at secret mansions we never even knew were there (how many Pittsburghers are in the 1%?) including the Scaife estate on Braeburn Place, which as you can see below is creepily blocked out on Google Maps street view.  Now that's power. 


Had to race back with bagels for visiting rambunctious nephews, so no endorsements recorded - though feel free to write in with anything essential.

Dec. 25 (Xmas Holiday Run at 7:30) at Starbucks on Forbes and Shady AND Dec. 27 (Normal Sunday Run at 7) - at 61C Cafe on Murray at Bartlett

Wow, that was a long subject line. But it had to include the default 7:30 a.m. holiday run on the 25th (Starbucks on Forbes and Shady), as well as our usual 7 a.m. run on Sunday (61C Cafe on Murray at Bartlett.)  And I might as well add the New Year's holiday run at 7:30 a.m. on Jan. 1 - also at Starbucks - but will send a reminder next week.  A lot of running time coming up!  No special routes planned yet - bring your ideas. 

Last week we had a rather deflated tour of holiday inflatables - a few sad puddles of plastic, and not much else to look at.  Even the glowing Moravian stars on Hastings are gone.  Maybe it's hard for homeowners to get in the seasonal spirit when it's so damn warm.  Sorry, but winter should come with icicles, snowdrifts, frigid air blasts, drippy noses, numb toes, etc.  Call me Scrooge, but I love that nice warm feeling you get after a good run in the freezing cold, especially when a group coffee is involved.  Also, we need it so that we can wear buffs.

Speaking of which, many endorsements!

• For families that are combining Chanukah and Christmas:  special glasses that turn Christmas lights into little Stars of David
• Christmas Music events - Pittsburgh Camerata , Heinz Chapel, and madrigals at the East Liberty Presbyterian Church (note for next year) 
•  Leaf and Plate on Ellsworth - teas to cure whatever ails you - seriously
• smitten kitchen cooking blog - and we were just asking about gingerbread!
• the new Ace Hotel in East Liberty - great lunch, and how did we get so trendy?
• the story of Kaufmann's Department Store and the family behind it - a real saga from the PG - so many things we didn't know!
• Kenyon Jewelers in Wilkinsburg - provides jewelry therapy as well as repairs
• Another don't miss series:  The Man in the High Castle - not the heart-warming kind though
• Future runs:  Troy Hill and its Shrine, and Aspinwall/Sharpsburg

Stay tuned for more...

Dec. 20 Run: 61C cafe on Murray Ave. in Squirrel Hill

It's Inflatables Time!  We're starting and ending at the 61C Cafe in Squirrel Hill and will try to make an efficient circuit of the most unusual and outrageous holiday inflatables in a 2-mile radius.  This will be a group effort, so try to keep the address of your favorite one in mind.  My own favorite was the Virgin Mary on the North Side (pictured here) which we saw last year on that terrific run led by Cheryl - but I guess that's too far.  Hopefully we'll come up with some challengers this time.

Last Sunday was the running equivalent of comfort food: Downtown revisited in its holiday best in the early morning, no traffic, great turnout (more than in the photo!) and led once again by Tom. We then had the antique and homey elegance of the William Penn lobby practically to ourselves, after viewing the new and improved ice rink, the hundred gingerbread houses (from afar this time), the Vatican-sized creche, towering lit-up Christmas trees, some totally charming store windows (a surprise now that Macy's/Kaufmann's is defunct) especially the one below from the Children's Museum, and 2 unexpectedly decent menorahs.
The Shrine to Famous Lawyers at Tom's place of work was magnificently, um, lawyer-like.  We gazed up at the sparkling new Tower at PNC Plaza and are trying to figure out how to get inside one day.
This may sound like we didn't run at all, but we did - honest - more than 4 miles according to Aimee's watch! But with stops.
I have no notes from coffee and so endorsements will have to wait, but storytelling was definitely a theme - and we are still trying to get a group to go to a Moth StorySLAM - next one apparently is Jan. 5 at the Rex - let's try!

Dec. 13 Run: Annual Downtown Holiday Run, to start at the William Penn Hotel lobby

'Tis the season to be running dahntahn!  On Sunday we'll make our annual visit to the heart of the Burgh in all its holiday glory - starting and ending at the venerable and magnifique Omni William Penn Hotel lobby (entrance on Wm. Penn Place between 6th Ave. and Oliver Ave.)  Rumor has it that Kaufmann's/Macy's that is not there anymore NEVERTHELESS has festive Christmas windows.  Many old and new decorative landmarks (including the horrible PVC-pipe menorah) will be visited - and the run may, just may, be led once again by...  Tom!  Please write in if you need a ride.

On Sunday we thought we should try to locate Lainy's keys, which somehow fell out of her pocket on the route last week, so the reverse Bird Run it was again, this time with all of us staring at the ground.  All we found was a spoon, unfortunately, but we did stop and see the 6 million aluminum tabs encased in hundreds of glass blocks, all in the shape of a Jewish star as seen from above, forming the eloquent Holocaust Memorial on the corner of Beechwood and Forward.  Perfect Hanukah run.

Coffee time gave us surprise visits by Cheryl and Tom, and so many endorsements!

• Annual Hanukah Parade of Cars and Bikes later in the day - some of the group biked it, so we hope to hear a report on Sunday, HOPING there were no PVC-pipe menorahs this time. (I'm a little obsessed with this.)
• Wisdom of Tom on Twitter
• Making your opinion count on gun control - tweet to local politicians - or write - or call.  Even to Sen. Pat Toomey, who actually sponsored gun control legislation and deserves credit.  Or contact our runner Chris Horwitz at elgrip@gmail.com, who is organizing about it.  
• Twote as the past tense of tweet 
• Newest runner Rachel!
• Star Wars inflatables in Marlborough St.
• Another delectable Israeli cookbook by Pittsburgh native Mike Solomonov:  Zahav.  
• Pam's awesome Pittsburgh running pants, pictured.  Get them at the Great Race Expo!
• Overheard about a young man stretching outside: "He's got great hips!"  (He did.)

December 6 Run: 61C Cafe (again) on Murray in Squirrel Hill

Next week:  back to our current default:  61C Cafe on Murray Ave. in Squirrel Hill.  It's the call of the familiar, and we can certainly go in a number of directions from there, TBD.

Last week, being both a holiday and a calorie-crammed one, we had a good group on each of 2 runs.  On Thanksgiving, Virginia led - through Schenley Park I think? Once again, I was talking too much to notice.  But it was definitely a needed invigorating start to a day of roasting, sauteing, whisking, chopping, slicing, etc.  In my case, as usual, bandaids were required.  Lainy and her neighbors, however, got to stand around, wine glasses in hand, watching successive turkeys being lowered into a barrel of boiling oil.  So naturally, on Sunday, what could be more fitting than going on our legendary Bird Run - and visiting the bird-frying spot itself - which gave it some meaning since the original birds are so long gone that nobody remembered exactly where they were.  (If you do, write in!)  We did spot an amazing antique doll collection in a window on lower Murray, though.

Coffee time was full of endorsements:

• Exhibit at the Carnegie Museum - Silver to Steel: modern designs of Peter Muller-Munk - gorgeous appliances of the Mad Men era, many created in our fair city
• Love the Coopers - let's hear it for yet another movie filmed in Pittsburgh!  (But are there RG members in it?)
• St. Philomena's, aka Community Day School - local monument to ecumenicism (someone needs to update that entry)
• RG appearances in the PG SEEN column - they do happen - please tell! 
• Handmade Arcade on Saturday Dec. 5 - local creations, great for gifts and also inspiration.  (This is where I got the cashmere mitten idea that took over my entire winter)
• Possible new ice rink in Shadyside's Hunt Armory (location of a previous Handmade Arcade in fact) - fingers crossed
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Cinnamon Butternut Squash, Pecans, and Cranberries- this was served alongside that fried turkey and was a huge hit
• Medical consultations provided at coffee - it was a Norovirus - luckily we have our own infectious disease expert.
• Musical offspring!
• Margot and her group Hourglass at the Smiling Moose, Dec. 10 and 11
• Jules and his group SacréFunk at the Club Café, Dec. 5 - not to mention the Jewish Soul Stew of Chillent at the Squirrel Hill Sports Bar on Sunday night
• Overheard:  "The Running Group Has Spoken"

November 29 Run: Meet at 61C Cafe for a Neighborhood Run; Thanksgiving Morning Run: meet at Starbucks SqHill

On Thanksgiving morning, sleep in a little to meet at 7:30 at the Squirrel Hill Starbucks on Forbes.  Virginia will lead a run through Schenley Park, possibly extending to Oakland and Shadyside for those looking for a longer run.

Next Sunday 11/29, meet at 61C Cafe at the regular time for a regular neighborhood run.  After traveling to other neighborhoods lately, let's stay close to home base this time.

Last Sunday, Pam toured us through Homestead, starting in the Waterfront, crossing the train tracks, and up into Homestead, up the hills into Munhall.  We got off to a slow start, waiting at the railway crossing, where we counted 114 cars (excluding the double stacked ones), all covered in snow, coming from the west.  Perhaps a harbinger of weather to come, but glad not yet!  It was hard to run very far without passing a church.  At the pinnacle of Munhall, we found the historic Munhall Fire Hall, established in 1894.  We also wandered around the gorgeous Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall, and pondered a bite at gastropub Dorothy 6.

Coffee was at Panera at the Waterfront, where Roye sparked a lively discussion on the origins of the bidet, which quite seriously lasted most of the coffee time!  Things that make you go hmmmm.....

Happy Thanksgiving!

November 22 Run: Meet at Waterfront Smokestacks for a Homestead Run

Next Sunday, let's meet at the Waterfront smokestacks (between Costco and Movie Theater) so we can have a Homestead run.

Last Sunday, we took one of the usual Highland Park runs in reverse.  It's funny how different things can look when in reverse.  At coffee, various topics were discussed, including a "single serving friendship" made at Target, and my favorite quote: "I needed 3 potatoes and 2 green peppers, and I spent $197."

Across the street from Target, Eastside, is coming along, and the conversation veered toward the concept of microunits in apartments.  This is actually one of the trends I'm following at work for my coverage of the multifamily market, so I was quite happy to share my nerdiness with the group.  Basically, in Pittsburgh, a "microunit" is around 500 square feet, but in New York and Seattle, it's around 350 square feet, about the size of a hotel room.  There are some great concepts out there, bringing back Murphy beds, built in furniture, etc.  These compact units are embraced by Millennials, but quite frankly, tend toward male Millennials.  But they only work in dynamic mixed use neighborhoods in apartment communities with lots of common areas/amenities.

Endorsements:
The ultralight down vests and coats from Costco
Marshall's in Greentree-- best selection
Weighted vest from Dick's-- helps with preventing osteoporosis

November 15 Run: Meet at Tazzo d'Oro in Highland Park

This Sunday, let's meet at Tazzo d'Oro (Highland and Bryant) so we can catch the tail end of the fall foliage in beautiful Highland Park.

This past Sunday, Michele led us through the high and low points of Braddock, with no worries about missing out on hills.  We started out with the Edgar Thomson Works  and wound our way up to a bridge connecting to North Braddock.  We saw the Free Store and the community garden, but a couple of new things were going on.  For example, the Brew Gentlemen Beer Company, which has been flourishing along with its accompanying food trucks that appear on Friday and Saturday nights.  Then, Mayor John and his wife Gisele hosted coffee for us in their home.  Again, what an amazing experience to be able to ask questions of a PA candidate for US Senate!

November 8 Run: Braddock Run and Coffee at the Fettermans'

This past Sunday, Sharon led the group through Squirrel Hill in search of festive and scary Halloween decorations. Coffee was a bit abbreviated (got to be productive with that extra hour), so I didn't catch any endorsements.

This Sunday, Michele offered to lead a very special run in Braddock.  Park on Braddock Avenue near the intersection with 11th Street.  Braddock Mayor John Fetterman and his wife Gisele will host coffee at their home afterward.  This is a great opportunity to learn about this evolving borough and ask questions of a 2016 Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate.  Below is a note from Michele. She added that we can donate anything to the Free Store in addition to the specific items listed:

"Since Gisele and John have so graciously offered to host coffee, I am hoping that our running group can again help support the FreeStore.  While shopping over the next two weeks, and remember the upcoming run, can you please make a feminine hygiene product, diaper of any size or formula purchase to donate.  Gisele will be so happy and grateful.

"Furthermore!  please know that when Gisele offered to host coffee, she made NO MENTION of asking for a FreeStore contribution!  This is my idea completely and no one should in any way feel obligated to donate.  We are a fortunate group of means.  A this is a small donation to us but can be a "lifesaver" to someone in need.

"Hopefully the weather will cooperate and we will have a lovely morning.  For those who do not remember, it is necessary to drive all of the way through Braddock and park around Edgar Thompson."

November 1 Run: 61C Cafe for a Neighborhood Halloween Run- REMEMBER TO CHANGE YOUR CLOCKS!

This Sunday, let's meet at 61C Cafe so that we can run around our 'hood to check out the various Halloween decorations.  And remember to change your clocks to fall back to reflect the end (or is it the beginning?) of Daylight Savings.

This past Sunday, Roye led us on a jaunt through Allegheny Cemetery. While we didn't find the Halloween decorated tombstones, we thought the whole place, being a cemetery, was quite "Halloweeny."  The colors of the trees seemed to be at peak-- so beautiful.  And the crows flying overhead signaled the change of seasons.  I didn't catch any endorsements at coffee because there were just so many conversations happening simultaneously.  Always a delight.

Nov. 8 (the following Sunday), we will be in Braddock for a run led by Michele. Roye already sent the "save the date."  I'll send the details next week.

October 25 Run: Commonplace at Voluto (5467 Penn Ave) for an Allegheny Cemetery Run

Sunday we decided to enjoy some more of the beautiful fall foliage, but this time from Allegheny Cemetery.  We will start and end at Commonplace at Voluto, a few blocks away on Penn Ave.

Last week, Karen led the group through Point Breeze, Homewood Cemetery and Frick Park.  Until Daylight Savings happens next weekend (Nov. 1), it's still quite dark until about 7:30, so the neighborhood streets and community gardens were welcoming until it was light enough to enter the park.

At coffee, numerous conversations were overheard, so I will try to summarize what I caught:

First, the serious stuff:

Chris wants to announce a gun violence forum taking place on Thursday, 10/29, at 6:30pm at 2200 Beechwood Blvd.  Please spread the word.  Any questions or to RSVP, email him at elgrip@gmail.com.

On that same topic, Audrey has crafted a beautifully and succinctly written letter that you can use to write your politicians.  For the letter, contact her at: aekane@gmail.com.  Or, write your own and send along to the following:

Websites for politicians:
http://doyle.house.gov/
http://murphy.house.gov/
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm?State=PA

Under "Contact Me" you can fill out an email and write a letter or copy and paste what Audrey has written.

Other info:
http://billmoyers.com/2014/06/13/say-no-to-the-new-normal-five-things-you-can-do-about-gun-violence/

Now, the fun stuff:

Endorsements for food:
Convenient and tasty BBQ beef brisket at Costco snack bar
Almond croissants from Five Points Bakery
Peace Love Donuts (but only the Oakland location)

Endorsements for movies:
Robin Williams tribute
Me and Earl now on demand- HBO and Showtime.

 

October 18 Run: entrance to Frick Park at Reynolds and S. Homewood

The woods are turning ever more beautiful so we are taking advantage with a Frick Park Run, and will meet at the stone gatehouse in Point Breeze, at Reynolds and S. Homewood.  Karen will make sure we don't get lost.  Coffee most likely to follow at 61C Cafe.

Our autumn excursion through Schenley Park last Sunday was a little early in the month to be radiant, but it was still lovely as always.  Actually as a native New Englander, I think its leafy pride is a bit much - the colors there are almost day-glo - it's kind of a juvenile taste.  Here fall is more subtle, like a nice burgundy compared to Kool-Aid.  And, speaking of subtle, it's Stillers season!  

Multiple endorsements of all kinds bubbled up:

• Off the Record - like the Capitol Steps but all about Pittsburgh, courtesy of our amazingly talented news/film/radio/TV workers and supporting the Food Bank - go see it next year!
• adorable town of Cambria, CA - where Judy is headed temporarily - she says come visit!
• the fact that Wendy knit sweaters for her bridesmaids
• Five Points Bakery - can't say it too many times - have you tried the Tahini Cookies?  
• our resident judicial expert says: David Wecht and Hugh McGough.  Also Eat That Read This (also endorsed) additionally supports Christine Donahue and Kevin Dougherty.  And apparently if you select individual names instead of a straight party vote it carries more weight and is known as a "power vote" but maybe I should make sure I have that straight...
• not exactly an endorsement but it's got to be said:  Trader Joe's has gone bonkers over pumpkin.  I think there's pumpkin pizza dough - maybe pumpkin brie - it's nuts.
• the Neapolitan Novels by Elena Ferrante, starting with My Brilliant Friend - PLEASE read them so we can discuss!  1500 pages goes by in a flash!
• And here we got totally psyched about TV series:
• Frankie and Grace
• Orange is the New Black
• The Good Wife
• The Affair
• Veep
• House of Cards
• The Newsroom

Now we're all set for winter.

October 11 Run: Meet at 61C Cafe for a Schenley Park Trail Run

This coming Sunday, let's meet at 61C Cafe for a Schenley Park trail run to see any first signs of leaves changing colors.  (Normally we meet at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead, but we decided to start and end at 61C for coffee drinking purposes:-).

This past Sunday, we enjoyed seeking out and finding as many Sukkahs (er, Sukkot, which is the plural, I believe) as possible on the last day of the holiday.  I believe PtB has the official count.  We even saw a Sukkah created by two of our own East End Runners, and a friendly neighbor of an EE Runner's Sukkah, complete with lights.  One thing I really enjoy about Running Group is that we learn so much from each others' faith traditions.  Keep it coming!

Endorsements from coffee include:

Duo Lingo free app for learning languages (but interactive, so using on the bus might not be recommended).

Sabbatical ideas for places, activities, etc.

Cities, cars that are conducive for short people!  (oh, the strange directions that conversations can take!).

That's all I got.  See you the following week, as I'm headed to West Virginia this weekend for the Apple Butter Festival.

October 4 Run: Meet at 61C Cafe for a neighborhood Sukkot run

This coming Sunday, we will meet at the 61C Cafe, then tour Squirrel Hill for any and every sukkah we can find.

Last Sunday, a smaller group due to the Great Race met up at Bakery Square for an East Liberty restaurant and real estate development tour.  The massive Eastside development (apartments, retail) dominates the area, but we looked beyond, for great new restaurants like Pizza Taglio, and ones that started a while back when East Liberty was first being branded as Eastside, like Paris 66.  We saw large scale housing development and a dilapidated church on the back side of Target, along with small scale redevelopment on the Highland Park side of East Liberty Boulevard.

Coffee endorsements:

Lux Artisan Chocolates, which can be found locally at Mon Aimee in the Strip District, Biddle's Escape, the Chocolate Moose, etc.

September 27 Run: Bakery Square Coffee Tree for an East Liberty Restaurant Tour

For those of us not running the Great Race on Sunday, meet at Bakery Square Coffee Tree Roasters so that we can avoid any road blockages.  We will tour the new construction and newly opened/promised restaurants in this area, although we'll have to save the feasting for later when the establishments are open.

For those participating in the Great Race, Pam has again offered runners to use her house as a starting line pit stop/place to drop sweatshirts, etc.  Pam, typing with her non-injured hand, writes:

"I will take it easy, but am still planning on hospitality before and running the Great Race. 2200 Beechwood Blvd, just before the start. 412-425-1118 if you have questions. No need to RSVP. "

Heal up quickly, Pam!  And have a great race, Great Racers.

Last Sunday, we started at Nancy's East End Diner in Wilkinsburg in hopes that we could feast on brunch items post-run, but sadly, it doesn't open until 9am, and the old grill takes 40 minutes to heat up!  Galit and her husband, pushing in the stroller their 10-month old--youngest runner!-- showcased the various points of interest in Wilkinsburg.  We saw the Singer Mansion, the high school, an old post office, etc.  Several parts of the neighborhood were even cuter than the last time we ran through.  And houses are not on the market for long, if they even hit the market.  Google effect?  Or is this just Pittsburgh's Renaissance?

September 20 Run: 616 South Ave. in Wilkinsburg

From: Mormer, Elaine A <emormer@pitt.edu>

Meet at Nancy's east end diner,  616 South Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15221.

September 13 Run: Market Square Starbucks for a Downtown and North Side Run

Next week, meet at our Downtown spot in Market Square at the Starbucks for what sounds like a fun run around Allegheny Center on the North Side.

Good thing Roye's run around Shadyside and East Liberty last Sunday was flat because it was huMID (!) and we were all feeling it!  We enjoyed our coffee outside at Bakery Square and the endorsements again returned to the best places to shop thrifty around town (South Side Goodwill, Red White Blue on 51) as well as out of town (Boston South End Goodwill described as "astounding"!).  I'm sure there were plenty of other endorsements/discussions after I left coffee...

The next morning for the special Labor Day holiday run, we had a large group start and end at 61C Cafe for a regular jaunt around Schenley Park, just the regular weekday running route because so many of us miss it.  I had to peel off early, so I missed out on coffee.  I will be out of town this Sunday so until next week, signing off, Aimee

September 6 Run: meet at Commonplace Coffee at Bakery Square

At least not late again, but another busy week, so just the announcement:
Start at Bakery Square parking lot in front of Commonplace Coffee (you have to actually put your car into the parking garage in back because I think they won't let people park in the lot - weird, I know.  But at least it's free.)
We could actually go in any direction from there - we'll see!

August 30 Run: meet in Regent Square at 61B Cafe on Braddock

Sorry it's late!  A busy week - so just the location this time:
We're meeting in Regent Square at the 61B Cafe on Braddock Ave.
See you there!

August 23 Run: Start at Costco parking lot in the Waterfront

Next week we thought it would be fun to return to the Waterfront and run on the path along the Mon - stop at the labyrinth, ponder the Carrie Blast Furnaces, and reach the rear end of Kennywood - maybe head back through Homestead.  Not sure about coffee - possibly at the Starbucks right in the Waterfront - or is there someplace in Homestead?  We'll see.

Last week, a summery experience of Frick Park while it was still cool, taking us from the depths to the heights and then a lovely downhill back to the start, at the Five Points Bakery, which as a bakery is simply awesome, but for our largish group on Sunday, a little slow on the coffee and short on the chairs.  Not being good at writing while standing up, this is all I've got:

• We are just as good as The Ethicist when determining the rights and wrongs of baseball ticket distribution.
• Everything inside 5 Points Bakery is marvelous - particularly recommend the Tahini Cookies.
• Vermont Bike Tours are great, even outside of Vermont.
• So is Costco - stay tuned.

August 16 Run: Five Points Bakery at 6520 Wilkins Avenue

This Sunday, let's start and end at the yummy Five Points Bakery at 6520 Wilkins Avenue (near Wilkins and Beechwood intersection).  There was some talk about running to Frick Park-- we'll see!

Last Sunday, I brought the group around to a less traversed section of Garfield near the water tower that  boasted some new housing, several community gardens, an old closed school with lots of potential, and tons of city steps.  Despite my reputation for taking the group on hilly runs, there was only one steep uphill, and it was worth it for the views.  We could see the Downtown and Oakland skylines!  I told people it was only 3.75 miles, but they were "vertical miles" for the elevation.  Let's embrace this beautiful topography!

I didn't stay long at coffee, but there was a coffee cocktail of the day as well as talk of frozen cocktails to make at home.  Both refreshing.

August 9 Run: Start at The Commonplace at Voluto Cafe, 5467 Penn Ave., Garfield

For this coming Sunday, Aimee has a plan, starting and ending at the Commonplace at Voluto Cafe in Garfield, 5467 Penn Ave., sort of across from the Pittsburgh Glass Center.  New sights in store!

Last Sunday the air was cool, the sky was clear, the river was sparkling as we crossed the bridges to and from Washington's Landing, the coffee was strong, the meles were still warm - what more could we ask for?  Am including 3 photos so everyone is accounted for, including Sid and Cutch, vividly executed but never seen when the store is open.  Another reason to be up and about at 7.

Delightful coffee at La Prima, naturally, with various endorsements:

• Traveling without the family - what conferences were invented for -
• The Fort Pitt Museum
• Birdman the movie, and also the documentary about casting by the famous Marion Dougherty 
• a run in Troy Hill with a visit to the famous church with relics
• Lake Arthur and its 14-mile bike route as well as pontoon boats

And best of luck to Gretchen's daughter who made it to the WYEP Singer/Songwriter Competition finals on August 24!

August 2 Run: 21st and Liberty Ave. parking lot for a Strip District run

August already?? ! Might as well make that a bit sweeter with some almond meles, so we'll start at the parking lot overlooking the 21st and Liberty intersection, as we usually do, make our way over a few bridges, and return to La Prima in time for warm pastries (fingers crossed) and strong coffee.  No hills! (Almost.)

Last Sunday we ended up doing the Wendy Bennett Trailhead run backwards, which I sort of hoped would make time go in reverse, but no luck.  However, the park was lovely!

Coffee was chock full of endorsements:
(Does anyone remember Chock Full o'Nuts, the Heavenly Coffee?  What did that even mean?)

• Push mowers - hurray for no lawn machine noise! - 2 are available from David Coulson (412-421-1230)
• Support the urban forest and learn tree identification from Tree Pittsburgh
• A true Shabbat without all those impossible rules - like many Israelis do it
• Picklesburgh - I guess we missed it, but there's always next summer
• Upscale exotic popsicles, aka Mexican paletas, available from Popstop around town but if you want to make them, a Vitamix is recommended, and Wendy knows how to get one half-price.
• Moscow Mule cocktails
• Food for Thought caterer on South Craig
• The Independent bar in Squirrel Hill, Whiskey Wednesday and amazing brussels sprouts.
• Superfunk!  H.B. Bennett's hit song, Shoot the Pump, and the upcoming Bootsie Collins concert at Hartwood Acres on Sunday

July 26 Run: 61C Cafe for a Runners' Choice Run

Whoops!  Saturday morning and I realized I haven't sent out the email yet.  Apologies for my delinquency.

Tomorrow, meet at 61C Cafe for a Runners' Choice run-- "someone will think of something."  I'm out of town, so I'll miss out on the adventures.

Speaking of adventures, we had lots of them last Sunday for our Vintage Grand Prix run in Schenley Park.  I shall call the run "In Search of Janis Joplin's Psychedelic Porsche."  Wendy's friend, Harvey, was visiting from Berlin, he an actor and his wife the Martha Stewart of Germany who just published a new book!  Harvey was focused on finding Janis Joplin's Psychedelic Porsche, so to find the porsche, we had to get to the golf course.  There were a lot of police officers guarding barricades all throughout the park, presumably to keep people safe and off the race track.  That didn't stop us from taking a little shortcut to the golf course (where we thought the porsche would be)-- doing what we do best, trespassing, with our Blatant Disregard for Authority:

If it's not blocked off, it must not be worth visiting

 Caution tape?  What caution tape?

We made it safely to the other side, checking Flagstaff Hill, then venturing up to the golf course to ask in vain for where the porsche would be.  Every car aficionado had different answers, and we were getting tired, so many of us split off from there, deciding water/coffee would be good to seek out instead of a porsche.  Wendy stuck by her friend Harvey, but later returned to the cafe without having found the porsche.

Discussions at coffee were cut short because it people had places to be, people to see, life to live!  See you next Sunday!

July 19 Run: Hobart and Guarino Streets at the entrance to Schenley Park (Fruit Loop side) for a Vintage Grand Prix Run

Next up, meet at the Schenley Park entrance on Hobart Street and Guarino near the Fruit Loop for a Vintage Grand Prix run to look at the cars.

Last Sunday, we ran an old favorite, a loop of Schenley Park on the trails, and the weather cooperated for a beautiful experience.

Topics of conversation at the coffee:

The need for more secure bike panniers
The kindness of strangers
Potential bike ride or long run: "Bike heaven" on the north side river trail downstream from science center.  
The Moth- upcoming Adam Gropnik and a moth evening Wednesday 9/30 - tickets go on sale 7/31 - maybe we have enough for a 'group' rate.

A cool photo from coffee and one from last week's South Side run:

July 12 Run: Wendy Bennett Trailhead for a Schenley Park Run

Next up: Meet at the Wendy Bennett trailhead at Bartlett/Greenfield and Panther Hollow Road for a Schenley Park run.

Last Sunday was a bonafide vertical run.  Roye led us up, up, up the South Side Slopes' windy streets and city steps for some amazing views and glute-shaping.  Some of us remarked that we didn't feel like we were in the city anymore.  But, we made our way back down the hill without getting too lost.

Highlights:
Zenith
South Side Park
Big Dog Coffee
Cheryl's blueberry pie with homemade crust

Endorsements/Topics of Discussion:
VitaMix, InstantPot
Frick Art Museum, rolling hills exhibit, Fridays when they stay open late
Grandparent names-- so many to choose from