January 2018 Events

Need to get out of the house???!!! This is my list of events for the greater Pittsburgh area for January 2018. Please doublecheck anything you plan to attend in case of mistakes, typos and cancellations.

“First Day Hikes”, Monday, January 1, at nearly every state park in the region: http://events.dcnr.pa.gov Free. Check them out! 

Venture Outdoors has a rather impressive lineup of 29 events in January, including hikes, cross country skiing, showshoeing, winter camping, and indoor classes in kayaking safety. Some are free and some have a modest fee (with discounts for members). Don’t miss them! https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/activities-calendar/

Allegheny County Parks have hundreds of winter sport activities throughout January with opportunities to try tubing, ice skating, showshoeing, skiing and playing hockey: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Home

“Full Moon Hike”, Monday, January 1, 8PM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. All ages. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events “What better way to start off 2018 than with a moonlit stroll through Frick Park under this year's biggest and brightest moon? Join Naturalist Educator Stephen Bucklin in learning about January's first of two ‘supermoons’ and the night life of Frick Park under this rare New Year's Full Moon. This is an all-ages event. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This hike is rain or shine. Weather-appropriate clothes and footwear with good tread are encouraged. Hike will meet at the Frick Environmental Center. We'll be relying on moonlight for this hike, so please leave your flashlights at home.” 

“Stampmaking”, Tuesday, January 2, 6PM, Carnegie Main Library, Oakland; and Saturday, January 13, 2:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, Downtown and Business Branch. “At its simplest, printmaking can be a fun and satisfying activity for anybody, even if you have no experience. Join us to learn the whole process of creating a block print. We will draw a simple image, transfer it to a piece of rubber, cut out the relief of the image, and make a print. No registration is necessary for these sessions. Seating for all workshops is available to 20 participants on a first-come, first-served basis. You’ll want to come early to be sure you MAKE it on time!”

“Favorite Local Winter Sports Destinations”, Tuesday, January 2, 7:30PM, LL Bean, 100 Ross Park Mall Dr., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “Learn the best local areas to enjoy cross country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding and winter hiking from our experts. You won't want to miss this exciting opportunity to discover hidden gems for outdoor adventure that might be just up the street.”

“Starlight Stroll”, Tuesday, January 2, 6PM, Dead Man’s Hollow Conservation Area, Catfish Pond Parking Area near Scene Ridge Rd. and River Ridge Rd., McKeesport. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/event/starlight-stroll-6/ “Ever wonder what our greenspaces are like after dark? Join our trained education staff as we stroll under the light of the full moon each month. Topics vary depending on the evening’s leader and can include nocturnal and crepuscular creatures, astronomy, lore and much more! Hikes run rain or shine for an hour each full moon. Great for families and community groups or as an extra credit activity for science classes.”

“Pittsburgh Police Chess Club”, Tuesdays, 5PM at Hazelwood Library; Wednesdays, 4PM at Beechview Library; and Thursdays, 3PM at Sheraden Library. “Children and teens are invited to join an officer for weekly community chess classes. Develop your mind and practice problem-solving skills that apply off the chessboard, too.”

“3Rs Book Club”, Wednesday, January 3, 7PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. “Attention teachers and educators! Are you looking for exciting titles to share with your students? Then this is the book group for you! Teachers of all grade levels and homeschool educators are invited to join Dr. Nancy Hobbs and Myra Oleynik to discuss and recommend new or favorite Children’s and Young Adult books that you are reading. No time to read? You can use this group as your guide to finding great books for your students.”

“Light Literary Lunch Club: A Short Story Discussion Group”, Wednesday, January 3, 12PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Downtown and Business Branch. “Love literature, but don’t have much time? Bring a lunch and join us at noon on the first Wednesday of each month to discuss a short story. Light refreshments are provided. This month’s story is Kurt Vonnegut’s 'Harrison Bergeron.' Stop by the library to request a copy or find it online here!”

"What's Cooking? For Teens", Wednesday, January 3, 3PM, Carnegie Library Squirrel Hill; Monday, January 22, 11:30AM, Carnegie Library Hazelwood; and Wednesday, January 24, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. "Learn to feed yourself and your friends! Chop, dice and mince your way to culinary mastery — then eat what you cook! For teens grades 6-12.”

“Otaku Lebo”, Thursday, January 4, 3:15PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh. For middle and high school students. “Share your love of all things manga and anime and explore Asian popular culture. This month: Enjoy New Years' traditions like mochi, fukuwarai, and Beethoven's 9th symphony!

“Club Otaku -Teen Anime Club”, Thursdays in January, Whitehall Library, Pittsburgh. “Club Otaku is a meeting place for anime and manga fans to watch, read, and discuss anime and manga. As well as share your favorite fanfiction and fanart with your fellow otaku!”

“Winter Adventures with Kids”, Thursday, January 4, 7:30PM, LL Bean, 100 Ross Park Mall Dr., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “Just because the temperature drops, doesn't mean that it's time to come inside! We'll share tips and tricks to help keep your kids warm and comfortable, as well as give you some fun new ideas for your next winter adventure.”

Preview, “The Long Walk Opera”, Friday, January 5, 7PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh. “You're invited to a special evening celebrating the upcoming Pittsburgh premiere of The Long Walk. Join us for a musical preview and lively discussion about the opera's story and what it takes to bring it to life on stage. Speakers will include representatives from Pittsburgh Opera's cast, music staff, and artistic team. Pittsburgh Opera brings a gripping, contemporary American opera to the CAPA Theater with The Long Walk, which is based on the book The Long Walk: A Story of War and the Life that Follows by Brian Castner. The opera is a deeply personal exploration of a soldier’s return from Iraq where he served as an officer in an Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit. ‘The Long Walk’ is the term for when a bomb disposal expert puts on their bomb suit and walks, alone, towards an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) which they must disarm. As Castner explains, “It is an extremely lonely experience; no one can help you.” However, ‘the long walk’ also refers to the struggle to re-integrate back into your own life upon returning to the United States, a struggle which Castner shares with brutal honesty. This library after hours event is free and open to the public. It will take place on the main floor of the library.”

"Free FLOW - Fab Lab Open Workshop", Friday, January 5, 6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ "Fab Lab is open for makers ages 8 and up to work on projects using our rapid prototyping technologies. Completion of level 101 equipment classes are required for use of certain equipment: 3D printer, laser cutter, vinyl cutter, CNC router, milling machine. FLOW is free, but materials fees are an additional cost. Materials will be available to purchase on the evening of the workshop inside the Fab Lab with a credit card. Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop."

“Adulting 101: Etiquette”, Friday, January 5, 4PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End. Ages 16-22. “Join us to brush up on your etiquette! Using pizza, we’ll help you avoid the mistakes you may not even know you’re making when introducing yourself and functioning at professional dinner. Adulting 101 is a program for young adults, ages 16-22. Each month a different presenter will help attendees brush up on the important life skills they don’t teach in school.”

“Hot Jam”, Friday, January 5, 6PM-9PM, Pittsburgh Glass Center, 5472 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Hot Jam is a free open house featuring heat defying acts of art including live glassblowing demonstrations and a contemporary glass art exhibition. Fun for the entire family. An American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter will be onsite to welcome visitors and narrate the glassblowing demonstration.” https://www.pittsburghglasscenter.org/calendar/2018/1/5/hot-jam

“35th Annual Ohio Valley Lines Open House”, Saturday, January 6 and Sunday, January 7, 12PM-5PM, 1225 Merchant St., Ambridge, PA. $6 requested donation. “ALL ABOARD!! Welcome to Ohio Valley Lines, a Model Railroad, Museum, and Library located in Ambridge, PA, just north of Pittsburgh. We invite you to visit us during our Open House on Saturdays and Sundays between Thanksgiving and the first weekend in January.” HO and N scale layouts. http://www.ohiovalleylines.org

“Classes at the Citizen Science Lab”, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, 1PM-3PM, Citizen Science Lab, Energy Innovation Center, 1435 Bedford Ave., Ste 132A, Pittsburgh. $25. Preregister online: http://www.thecitizensciencelab.org/events/ Terrific classes where students can work with research grade equipment to do unusual experiments you could never duplicate at home. We have found them thoroughly worthwhile. Each class is repeated over a 3 day series beginning on Saturday, with a new topic each week. January 6, 8 and 10: Predator Prey; January 13, 22 and 24: Owl Pellets with PCR; January 20, 29 and 31: Daphnia and Heart Rate; and January 27: Senses and Skeletal Model. 

“Steel City Reptile Expo”, Saturday, January 6, 9AM-3PM, Printscape Arena, 114 Southpointe Blvd, Canonsburg. $6 adults, $3 ages 3-11, and free for ages 2 and under. Free parking. “At every Expo we present seminars on the natural history and care and feeding of reptiles and amphibians. Every Expo features different animals. We also have special events like photo opportunities with huge snakes and Bearded Dragon Races!” http://steelcityreptileexpo.com

“Teen Anime Club”, Saturday, January 6, 3PM, Carnegie Library Beechview; Saturday, January 6, 3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland; Wednesday, January 10, 4PM, Carnegie Library Lawrenceville; Saturday, January 13, Carnegie Library East Liberty; and Saturday, January 27, Carnegie Library Woods Run. “Join fellow anime enthusiasts around Pittsburgh, where otaku and noobs alike come to hang out, explore Japanese culture, enjoy Anime, showcase cosplay and munch on Pocky.”

“Manhood 2.0”, series of 6 Saturdays, January 6- February 10, 1PM, Baldwin Township Library, Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; contact Justin Macak at 412-580-7449 or Justin.Macak@chp.edu “The focus of this program will be to help male youths, ages 13-19, learn about healthy relationships, consent, communication, respect, responsibility, sexual health, and their role in stopping violence in their communities and among their peers. This program is funded by the Allegheny County Department of Human Services and facilitated by the Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine from Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, UPMC. All meetings will be held at the library, and food will be provided.”

“World’s Greatest Hobby Model Railroading Show”, Saturday, January 6, 10AM-6PM, and Sunday, January 7, 10AM-5PM, Monroeville Convention Center. 209 Mall Plaza Blvd., Monroeville. $14.95 for Saturday admission, $12.95 for Sunday admission or $16.95 for two day admission. “The World's Greatest Hobby on Tour showcases the hobby of model railroading. Sponsored by the Hobby Manufacturer's Association - Model Railroad Division and by the World's Greatest Hobby Program, the show is intended to introduce the general public to model railroading in an entertaining, lively and family-friendly atmosphere. The hobby of model railroading has a unique ability to bring the family together in activities that teach many skills. Model railroad skills span from carpentry to artistry, from electrical engineering to historical research. Model railroading is truly the World's Greatest Hobby.” http://wghshow.com

Screening, “Big Sonia”, Sunday, January 7, 4PM, Row House Cimema, 4115 Butler St., Pittsburgh. $7. “Sonia Warshawski is a 91-year-old Holocaust survivor, and her tenacious drive has kept her tailor shop open for over 30 years. But an eviction notice causes difficult decisions and a deep reflection on her past. Don’t miss this incredible documentary about a tenacious woman and her story of trauma, survival, and healing. Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh will be partnering with Row House Cinema to host this special screening, sharing our mission to educate, provide resources, and counter intolerance in the world.” http://rowhousecinema.com/tickets/sun-4:00pm-1718-big-sonia/dp/11759 Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xe1Mq_en-XY

“Skippyjon Jones Snow What”, Sunday, January 7 through Sunday, January 14, various venues. $10.50 advance tickets. “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the bravest Chihuahua of them all? Skippjon Jones, the Siamese cat who thinks he is a Chihuahua, of course! While his sisters listen to Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Skippy heads off for the REAL adventure awaiting him in his closet. There, his alter ego Skippito Friskito must rescue the beautiful Princess Nieve Qué (Snow What), battle the evil dragon, and defeat the Bruja with the help of his friends, the Seven Chimichangos. A brand new musical based on the book by Judy Schachner, Skippyjon Jones Snow What is a twist on the classic fairytale Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/53546/skippyjon-jones-snow-what

“Jr. Students Active for Environment Club (SAFE)”, Monday, January 8, and Monday, January 22, 3:15PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. “Grades 4 through 8. Second and fourth Mondays of the month. Right after school. Interested in learning more about the beautiful planet we call home? Join our Junior SAFE Club. Assisted by members of the PTHS SAFE Club, every session will explore a different environmental theme or issue. We’ll have lots of fun hands-on activities while learning about our world.”

“Slovak Heritage”, Monday, January 8, 7PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh. “Discover your Slovak heritage at the library! Open to everyone interested in learning more about Slovak culture. History of Slovak Hockey with speaker Rich Kocur.”

“Racial Justice Town Hall”, Tuesday, January 9, 5:30PM, Union Project, 801 N. Negley Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/racial-justice-town-hall-tickets-41180180027 “Engage more deeply with political representatives and community leaders at our second annual Racial Justice Town Hall. The Town Hall is an intimate forum providing space for dialogue with elected officials about how their offices are addressing racism in our city and county. It is also an opportunity for those unable to attend the Summit on Saturday to participate and, for those who can, to continue the dialogue on Saturday, January 20 at the Summit.” 

“Meet YA Author Gretchen McNeil”, Tuesday, January 9, 7PM, Seton Hill University Performing Arts Center, 100 Harrison Ave, Greensburg. Tickets are free but must be reserved: http://www.wlnonline.org/event/meet-gretchen-mcneil/ “Seton Hill University and the Westmoreland Library Network are pleased to sponsor a FREE talk, signing, and reception featuring the young adult writer, Gretchen McNeil. Gretchen is the author of several young adult horror/suspense novels, including Possess, 3:59, Relic, Get Even, Get Dirty, and the award-winning Ten. In 2016, Gretchen published her first YA comedy, I’m Not Your Manic Pixie Dream Girl, and her next novel will be the horror-comedy #MurderTrending for Disney/Freeform. The film adaptation of Ten premiered on Lifetime in September.” https://www.gretchenmcneil.com

“Anime Club”, Tuesday, January 9, and Tuesday, January 23, 3:30PM, Sewickley Library. “Love Anime? Join your fellow fans for your favorite anime movies and series. Plus snacks, crafts, games, and more! Newbies welcome! Open to all students in grades 6-12. No registration required.”

“Winter Outdoor Survival”, Tuesday, January 9, 7:30PM, LL Bean, 100 Ross Park Mall Dr., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “Ever wonder what to do if you find yourself stuck in the outdoors on a cold winter night? Our experts will teach you the basics of wilderness fire building, identifying or creating shelter, signaling for help and other techniques to help you survive the night.”

“Dish!”, Wednesday, January 10, 6:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Squirrel Hill. “Join us for Dish!, a cookbook club at the Library. We’ll look at cooking as a way to get creative, learn new skills and engage with family and community, opening doors to sharing stories and cultures. Come ready to discuss the recipes you tried and sample a dish prepared by staff. Dish! meets on second Wednesdays at select Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh locations. This month Dish! will meet at CLP – Squirrel Hill to discuss Mamushka by Olia Hercules.”

“Martin Luther King Interfaith Service”, Wednesday, January 10, 7:30PM, Heinz Memorial Chapel, 4200 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh. Free and open to the public. “The University of Pittsburgh Association of Chaplaincies, Student Affairs and the Office of Cross Cultural and Leadership Development come together to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through the arts - music, singing, dancing and Spoken Word.” http://www.heinzchapel.pitt.edu/events/mlk-interfaith-service-1

“Bridges…Pittsburgh at the Point…A Journey Through History”, Thursday, January 11, 7PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh. "The book ‘Bridges…Pittsburgh at the Point…A Journey Through History’ tells the stories of the 34 bridges that crossed the Monongahela, Allegheny, and Ohio rivers in Pittsburgh from 1818 to today. Told through the words of engineers, architects, planners, and historians this is a story of the development of technology, the rise of a city and the progress of transportation. Author Thomas Leech and Linda Kaplan will talk about Pittsburgh's bridges. Tomas is the retired Chief Bridge Engineer of Gannett Fleming, Inc., Adjunct Professor of Civil Engineering of Carnegie Mellon University and a part of the continuing education faculty of the Pennsylvania State University. Linda is a bridge engineer in the Pittsburgh region. She has experience designing highway, rail, and pedestrian bridges, retaining walls, and tunnels.”

“Wildlife Tracking 101”, Thursday, January 11, 7:30PM, LL Bean, 100 Ross Park Mall Dr., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “Ever wonder about the story behind that footprint you’ve seen while hiking? From identifying tracks and track patterns, to looking for chews and rubs, our experts will share tips and techniques to help uncover who’s responsible.”

“Beyond: Microtonal Music Festival and Symposium”, Thursday, January 11 through Saturday, January 13. “Beyond: Microtonal Music Festival and Symposium will feature three days of concerts and symposia by leading performers, composers, and theorists of microtonal music. Take your ears to the cutting edge at this first-of-its-kind Pittsburgh festival. Exploring music that uses pitch and tuning systems other than the standard 12-note equal temperament, Beyond features concerts, premieres, symposia and panel discussions. Renowned microtonal musicians and composers representing diverse backgrounds will come together to celebrate cultural roots and connections found in global music today. Featured artists include Iraqi oud player Rahim AlHaj, NYC-based ensemble Loadbang and famed clarinetist David Krakauer. Also showcased will be Palestinian-American percussionist Issa Mallu, and composers Julia Werntz, Taylor Brook and Zhong Juncheng. Local ensembles like Alia Musica, Nat 28 and Kamraton are also performing. A kickoff concert by the Beyond Festival Orchestra takes place January 11 at Carnegie Music Hall. On January 12 at 7:30 p.m., head to The Warhol Museum for performances of music by pioneering composer, theorist and instrument inventor, Harry Partch. The festival culminates that night with a finale at The Warhol. The concert will start with contemporary and traditional Iraqi music, and then David Krakauer’s legendary Ancestral Groove klezmer band will lead a lively dance party.” All details here: http://www.music.pitt.edu/events/beyond-microtonal-music-festival-sy170817

Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Presents “The New Year Begins: The Firebird”, Friday, January 12 through Sunday, January 14, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Tickets here: https://www.trustarts.org/production/52569/the-new-year-begins-the-firebird “2018 begins with a splash of orchestral color and breathtaking virtuosity as Spaniard Juanjo Mena returns to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra to kick off the New Year. Debussy's early creative spark shines brightly in a work dedicated to the hues and optimism of springtime, Printemps, played for the first time in the PSO's history. Principal Flutist Lorna McGhee steps forward to perform Ibert's dazzling Flute Concerto. The program builds to a spectacular conclusion, contrasting dance music of two twentieth century masters. Maurice Ravel evokes the grand Viennese tradition of the waltz in Valses Nobles et Sentimentales, though with a distinctly evocative French flair, while a young Igor Stravinsky's imaginative orchestral wizardry takes flight in his first major ballet, The Firebird, bringing to life the enchanting magic of an old Russian fairytale.”

“Poetry Unplugged: MLK Jr. Tribute”, Friday, January 12, 8PM, August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Tickets $18.25: https://www.trustarts.org/production/55461/poetry-unplugged-mlk-jr-tribute “The second annual Poetry Unplugged is a spoken word, poetic tribute to the legacy and teachings of Martin Luther King, Jr. featuring host Mahogany Browne of the Nuyoricans Poets Café in NYC. Screens make the poetry visible in lobby and cafe. Featured poets are award-winning spoken word artists known for their fierce delivery and ability to move the crowd. Featuring DJ Selecta before and after the show.”

“Brilliant Corners: A Jazz Learning Series”, Saturday, January 13 2PM, Heidi House, 201 Center Ave., Pittsburgh. “Are you interested in jazz music and want to learn more? Join us for three lively informal gatherings where we will explore a variety of topics in jazz that will help you gain more listening enjoyment. No experience required! In this third session, we will take a look at how jazz musicians utilize the ‘Great American Songbook’ as both a musical form and a springboard for enormous creativity.”

“Winter Camping”, Saturday, January 13, 2PM, and Tuesday, January 23, 7:30PM, LL Bean, 100 Ross Park Mall Dr., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “It may be cold, but there's no reason you can't still enjoy a night under the stars. Whether it's your first time out or you're a seasoned winter camping veteran, our experts will share tips, techniques and advice on the latest gear to keep you safe and warm on your next winter overnight.”

“Raccoon Creek State Park Winter Mushroom Walk”, Saturday, January 13, 10AM, 3000 State Route 18, Hookstown. “Join Western PA Mushroom Club identifier Jared White for a winter walk, meet at the Raccoon Creek Park Office. Look for crusts, parchments and polypores. You may even find a few mushrooms hiding out in a hollow stump or under some bark.” http://wpamushroomclub.org/events/raccoon-creek-state-park-winter-walk/

“Winter Tree ID”, Saturday, January 13, 1PM, McConnells Mill State Park, Kildoo Picnic Area, 2716 McConnells Mill Rd., Portersville. Free. “Enrich your enjoyment of nature by learning the basics of tree identification in the winter. Join DCNR staff for a guided walk through the grassy areas adjoining the Kildoo picnic grounds, visiting a variety of trees and using forestry techniques and tools. Dress for the weather, snow or shine (severe weather cancels event) and bring a drink or snack and a desire to learn. All ages welcome, family friendly. Meet at the Kildoo Pavilion.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/winter_tree_id

“Twelfth Night at the Kennedy Log House”, Saturday, January 13, 3PM-8PM, Washington Park Log House, 283 Dunn Ave., Washington. Donations requested. “Join the Washington County Historical Society during our annual 12th Night Celebration. Enjoy period tavern drinks and food, music, weapons and accouterment display, and more. Enjoy this traditional holiday with us!” https://www.wchspa.org/events

“Pittsburgh Reptile Show and Sale”, Sunday, January 14, 9AM-3PM, Harmar House, 1321 Freeport Rd., Cheswick. $5 per person, free for kids 3 and under. “Thousands of animals and supplies all under one roof! Bring the family and don’t forget the camera! Buy direct and save, wholesale pricing!” http://pghreptileshow.com

“Dog Day Hike”, Sunday, January 14, 11AM, North Park, Tie Traynor Field, S. Ridge Dr., Allison Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “Treat your four-legged friend to an adventure, make new friends, get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. All dogs must be on leash for this short hike around the grounds. Activity level: Easy/moderate. Where to meet: Main Parking lot. What to bring: Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, no cotton), waterproof footwear, small daypack with extra clothes, snacks, lunch, water (for you and your dog), dog waste bags, personal medications. Optional recommended items: Sunglasses, binoculars, camera.”

“Let Freedom Sing: The 11th Annual Concert Celebration of the Martin Luther King Holiday”, Monday, January 15, 7PM, Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Pittsburgh. Tickets starting at $1: https://www.trustarts.org/production/55032/let-freedom-sing “Featuring: Lynn Hayes-Freeland and The Heritage Gospel Chorale of Pittsburgh and joined by choirs from Pittsburgh’s High School for the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA), Ebenezer Baptist Church, Franklin Regional High School, The Lemington Chorale, Taylor-Alderdice High School, Temple Sinai, Woodland Hills High School and the Greater Pittsburgh Unitarian Universalist Churches.”

Gay for Good Pittsburgh Presents, “Don’t Stand By, Stand Up!”, Monday, January 15, 2PM, Ace Hotel, 120 S. Whitfield St., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://gayforgood.org/events/g4g-pittsburgh-dont-stand-stand/ “We’re thrilled to announce that, on Monday, January 15th, G4G Pittsburgh will be partnering with SETpoint, an organization which provides self-defense and empowerment training to vulnerable populations, for this unique event. There will be two sessions, both featuring self-defense lessons by SETpoint. Session 1, which will be geared toward kids and families, will also include a musical-comedy performance by Gab Bonesso of the Gab and Josh Show. Session 2 is designed for adults only and also includes a happy hour. Both sessions are free, but we will be collecting donations to help SETpoint continue their important work in our community.”

“16th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day Celebration”, Monday, January 15, 2PM-7PM, Union Project, 801 N. Negley Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. All ages. “We don't know what's next for our country amidst the current political climate. In the face of uncertainty, how can we come together productively? We believe the answer is collaboration. This year’s event is informative and interactive, using artistic collaboration to build interpersonal skills, creatively solve problems together, and build stronger communities who are accepting of everyone. Through discussion, creative group activities, and a communal meal, we will explore how to come together productively with unarmed truth and unconditional love in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. By striving to be authentically who we are while staying strong in our belief in diversity, we continue the pursuit of Dr. King’s dream. Since 2001, Union Project has been using the arts to bridge gaps between communities. Join us and continue the work Dr. King started decades ago - creating communities that come together to celebrate diversity and acceptance.” Complete schedule here: https://unionproject.org/collaboration

“Understanding DNA Ethnicity Estimates”, Tuesday, January 16, 6:45PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland (preregistration required; register online: https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/understanding-dna-ethnicity-estimates/); and at the same time at Northland Library, Pittsburgh. “A special live webinar by DNA Expert Blaine Bettinger, sponsored by North Hills Genealogists, will be broadcast by Western Pennsylvania Genealogical Society and the Pennsylvania Department. Learn how testing companies create ethnicity estimates, the accuracy of the estimates, and ways to use them in your research. Together, we will compare and contrast ethnicity estimates at the big five testing companies (23andMe, AncestryDNA, Family Tree DNA, LivingDNA, and MyHeritage) and discuss their limitations and uses. In 2007 Bettinger started The Genetic Genealogist blog, one of the most respected and easiest to understand of the blogs about DNA. He is the author of two books, The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testingand Genetic Genealogy, as well as Genetic Genealogy in Practicewith Debbie Parker Wayne. He is the course coordinator for “Practical Genetic Genealogy” at the Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (GRIP) each July and teaches in the Advanced Genetic Genealogy and the Chromosome Mapping courses. This webinar is free and open to the public, but registration is requested at the Carnegie Library showing due to limited space. Please register via EventBrite or call the Pennsylvania Department at 412-622-3154 to reserve a seat.”

“Cross Country Skiing Essentials”, Tuesday, January 16, 7:30PM, LL Bean, 100 Ross Park Mall Dr., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “New to cross-country skiing and want to get better? Join us in our store for an informative introduction to cross-country skiing where our experts will teach you some basic nomenclature and show you techniques that will enhance your enjoyment of the sport.”

“Meet Local Author Albert Nemchek”, Wednesday, January 17, 1PM, Kittanning Library. “Local author Albert Nemchek discusses his historical fiction book, ‘The Forgotten Rebel Treasure’. This captivating story is about Caleb Johnson, a young private in the American Civil War. His life was forever changed when the war broke out. Albert has studied the history of the American Civil War, has met with authors, experts, and participated in onsite explorations of numerous battlefields to create realistic portrayals of the real Civil War in his writing. Albert will be here spending time with others whose curiosity leads them to b roaden their understanding of events that took place in the town of Gettysburg.”

“Moshe Baran and Avi Baran Munro Talk”, Wednesday, January 17, 7PM, Community Day School, 6424 Forward Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://hcofpgh.org/generations-speaker-series/ “In-person and livestreamed talk from local Holocaust survivor, Moshe Baran, and his daughter Avi Baran Munro. Event is free and open to the public. Moshe Baran will share his harrowing story of survival as a member of a Partisan unit, speaking along with his daughter, Avi Baran Munro, the Head of School at Community Day School, who will share her experience as a child of two survivors. This event will be hosted by The Greater Pittsburgh Church of Christ that meets at Community Day School.”

“The Making of Moraine - Creating a New State Park”, Wednesday, January 17, 1PM, Moraine State Park, Region 2 Conference Room, 225 Pleasant Valley Rd., Portersville. Free. “Discover how local land use transitioned from the 1940s to the opening of Moraine State Park in 1970. The land reclamation is an outstanding example of an environmental engineering achievement. Polly Shaw, author of the book “Images of Modern America Moraine State Park”, will share images and insights of life in the Muddy Creek Basin as the oil and coal industries closed, and construction was undertaken for the new park.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/the_making_of_moraine_-_creating_a_new_state_park

“Grupo Corpo”, Wednesday, January 17, 8PM, Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Pittsburgh. Tickets starting at $10: https://www.trustarts.org/production/53461/grupo-corpo “Brazilian dance company Grupo Corpo is among the most renowned companies in the world. Twenty-one sensational dancers fuse Afro-Brazilian forms like samba, bossa nova, and capoeira with classical technique and modern dance. Costumed in white while seamlessly moving across a stunning white landscape with a glacier-like backdrop panel, Grupo Corpo is on a blank slate. Featuring their first collaboration with famed Brazilian rock artist Samuel Rosa, the company begins writing a new story in Suíte Branca. Looking back, Dança Sinfônica celebrates the company’s rich history of more than 40 years by celebrating the best works from their repertoire. The score is a masterpiece symphony created especially for the company by Marco Antônio Guimarães and recorded by the 90-member Philharmonic Orchestra of Minas Gerais, Brazil.”

“Workshop for Teens: Music and Recording”, Wednesday, January 17, 3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Whether it’s focused on song structure, auto-tune or mixing and mastering, this workshop is for all aspiring or experienced teen musicians. Come learn something new about the world of music and recording, or perfect your craft and collaborate with friends!”

“Nature at Night”, Wednesday, January 17, 7PM, Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA. Free. “Some kinds of nature are best observed at dusk. Join us on the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. for this family friendly program that features a short talk in the nature center followed by an outdoor exploration. Popcorn will be served! Soft drinks will be available for purchase.” https://carnegiemnh.org/visitor/powdermill-nature-reserve/

“Cookbook Club”, Wednesday, January 17, 1PM, Whitehall Library, 2nd Chapter Café, Pittsburgh. “This club celebrates cookbooks and cooking! Club members will discuss and sample foods using recipes from selected cookbooks. Interested? Call the library to find out how to be a part of the next meeting. We're always cooking up something good!”

“Steve Mihaly visits the West Pittsburgh History Club”, Thursday, January 18, 11AM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End. “This month the History Club will be visited by Steve Mihaly, collector of presidential memorabilia, who will give his presentation ‘Marketing The Presidency.’ Steve will show us items from his personal collection that visually demonstrate the often unusual ways presidential candidates have marketed themselves to the public in their quest for election. He will provide the group with some background as to the key issues of different campaigns, with a particular focus on showing items distributed in the Western Pennsylvania region. The audience will have a chance to view part of his collection after the presentation.”

“Clinic: Winter Stargazing”, Thursday, January 18, 7:30PM, LL Bean, 100 Ross Park Mall Dr., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “Join us for a spectacular night of gazing into the stars and learning about them from our experts. Since the night sky is at its clearest during the colder months, there is a great opportunity to see the stars at their most brilliant. Our experienced guides will teach you how to recognize the stars, planets and other celestial objects visible from your own backyard this winter.”

“World War 1 and America”, Thursday, January 18, 7PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ptlibrary.org/event/america-war-peace/ “Michael Neiberg returns to the library to present a program as part of Peters Township Public Library Great War commemorative programs. Dr. Neiberg’s presentation is the concluding event hosted by our library as part of the World War I and America project presented by Library of America in partnership with the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, and the National World War I Museum and Memorial, with generous support from the National Endowment for the Humanities. This talk examines the role of the United States in winning the war and shaping the postwar peace. Military strategy and postwar diplomacy were intimately linked, as President Woodrow Wilson sought a distinct, independent American contribution to victory in order to ensure him a guiding role in the peace conference. Wilson’s views on the postwar peace met with tremendous resistance, both from his European allies and from his fellow Americans. Echoes of that debate still resonate with us today as America again debates its place in the world. Michael Neiberg has a Ph.D. in History from Carnegie Mellon University and is the inaugural Chair of War Studies in the Department of National Security and Strategy at the United States Army War College. His published work specializes on the First and Second World Wars, notably the American and French experiences.”

“Carnegie Science Center Fab Lab Family Workshop: Vinyl Cutting 101”, Friday, January 19, 5PM, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to use the computer controlled vinyl cutter in Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center. This introductory class is required in order to use the vinyl cutter during Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.”

“Origami Club of Pittsburgh Presents Fantastic Folding”, Saturday, January 20, 12PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Squirrel Hill. “Explore the art of paper folding!  Accomplished paper folders will demonstrate various techniques and help participants create origami forms.  This program is for all ages.”

“Summit Against Racism”, Saturday, January 20, 8AM-5PM, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, 616 N Highland Ave. Preregistration required; register online: https://summitagainstracism.org/the-summit/ “Since its inception in 1996, the Summit has a played a crucial role in forming the relationships and abilities needed to create a movement for justice. In the face of the Trump administrations unrelenting assault on the lives of people of color, LGBTQ+, immigrants, women, our environment, and even elephants, and our city’s penchant for gentrification, police-violence, and shady courtship of tech companies, now is the time to commit to the aims highlighted in this year’s conference theme: healing trauma, building community, and inspiring action, the struggle continues! Over the course of the day, our program presents over 40 workshop and presentation sessions, a community resource room with opportunities to network and learn more about ways to plug in with local organizing work, an opening and closing ceremony as well as breakfast and lunch included with your registration fee. The day is designed with the aim of assessing the current needs of our community while developing strategies to combat racism.”

Exhibit, “Faith Wilding: Fearful Symmetries”, Saturday, January 20, through February 25, Miller Gallery, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Campus map here: https://www.cmu.edu/assets/pdfs/cmu_map_8.5x11.pdf “Faith Wilding: Fearful Symmetries the first retrospective exhibition of the influential feminist artist who played a key role in the formation of the Feminist Art Program at California State University in Fresno in 1970 and at California Institute of the Arts in Valencia in 1971. Wilding was a major contributor to the historically significant month-long collaborative installation Womanhouse, sited in an abandoned mansion in Los Angeles in 1972, where she performed her highly celebrated work Waiting. Faith Wilding: Fearful Symmetries includes a selection of works from Wilding’s studio practice spanning the past forty years, highlighting a range of works on paper – drawings, watercolors, collage and paintings – exhibited together here for the first time. Taking up key, allegorical imagery in Wilding’s work, the exhibition focuses on themes of 'becoming,' both the transformative event itself, and the threshold to transfiguration. This state of in-between-ness is articulated through imagery of leaves, the chrysalis, hybrid beings, and liminal circumstances themselves, such as 'waiting,' the subject of Wilding’s two prominent performances Waiting and Wait-With.” http://millergallery.cfa.cmu.edu/exhibitions/fearfulsymmetries/ http://faithwilding.refugia.net/

“Lift Every Voice: Resonating Music, Words, and Legacy”, Saturday, January 20, 8PM, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Tickets here: https://www.trustarts.org/production/55009/lift-every-voice-resonating-music-words-and-legacy “Join the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra at Heinz Hall on Saturday, January 20, 2018 for Lift Every Voice: Resonating music, words, and legacy. Tony-award winning actress Phylicia Rashad will be our special guest host and narrator in the world premiere of the August Wilson Symphony. Composer Kathryn Bostic was inspired to create this work to honor Pittsburgh’s iconic playwright’s 'earthiness and majesty of the African American experience within his plays'. A special performance of 14 year-old Sphinx artist Ifetayo Ali will be a highlight of the program along with a tribute to Hill District photographer Teenie Harris in the jazzy Teenie Time. Pittsburgh’s own extraordinary vocalist Anqwenique Wingfield will open the program with Take My Hand, Precious Lord and an interfaith choir of local members from the Hill will close the concert with Richard Smallwood’s An Anthem of Praise. The August Wilson Symphony is supported by a grant from the Sundance Institute Film Music Program with additional support from the Sundance Institute Time Warner Fellowship Program.”

Lamp Theater Presents, “My Uncle John is a Zombie!”, Saturday, January 20, 8PM, The Lamp Theater, 222 Main St., Irwin. Tickets $10: http://lamptheatre.org/event/614-2-2-3-2-2-3-3/. “MY UNCLE JOHN IS A ZOMBIE! is a screenplay written by NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD co-creator John A. Russo and centers around a zombie whose family took him in and rehabilitated him (to a degree), and he has been living in hiding all of these years. Now in a post-zombie, modern world, Uncle John is about to be discovered. As word gets out about Uncle John and the fact that, although he is a zombie, he still has considerable communication skills and a witty sense of humor, his popularity starts to spread faster than the zombie apocalypse itself.”

“YA Author Talk: Nicola Yoon”, Sunday, January 21, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Nicola Yoon was propelled into the spotlight with her debut young adult novels known for their unconventional storytelling, highly romantic meet-cute scenarios, and tear-jerker endings. Everything, Everything is a New York Times #1 bestseller and a major motion picture and her latest The Sun Is Also a Star was named a National Book Award finalist, Michael L. Printz Honor Book, and Coretta Scott King New Talent Award winner. To understand the characters in The Sun Is Also a Star and their love story, we must know everything around them and everything that came before them that has affected who they are and what they experience. Readers meet two teens—Daniel, the son of Korean shopkeepers, and Natasha, whose family is here illegally from Jamaica—and their story as they cross paths in New York City on one very eventful day. Daniel is on his way to an interview with a Yale alum, and Natasha is meeting with a lawyer to try to prevent her family’s deportation to Jamaica—and eventually…fall in love. The book signing will follow the program in the Children’s Department of Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. Books will be available for sale before and after the lecture from Mystery Lovers Bookshop.” http://www.nicolayoon.com/

“Yoga Hike at North Park”, Sunday, January 21, 1PM, North Park, Pie Traynor Field, S. Ridge Drive, Allison Park. Free. Ages 8 and up. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “Join L.L.Bean for a hike on the beautiful trails of North Park. We will stop along the way to practice some of the most popular yoga poses and connect to our surroundings. Activity level: Moderate. Where to meet: Pie Traynor Field. What to bring: Weather-appropriate clothing (layers; no cotton), waterproof footwear, small day pack with extra clothes, snacks, water, personal medications. Optional related items: Sunglasses, binoculars, camera.”

“Homeschool Nature Adventures: Wilderness Survival”, Monday, January 22, 10AM, Fern Hollow Nature Center, 1901 Glen Mitchell Rd., Sewickley. Ages 8-14. $15 (discount for members). Preregistration required; register online: http://fhnc.org/homeschool_programs.aspx “Science is the name of the game in our Nature Adventure program for homeschooled kids ages 8-14. Students will have the opportunity to learn real life field techniques while having fun in a variety of team-building games and activities.”

“Introduction to Compassionate Communication Workshop”, Tuesday, January 23, 7PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A, Pittsburgh. “This mostly experiential workshop will introduce participants the the key concepts of compassionate communication, which provides a framework for establishing empathetic connections between people that can support deep conversations. The seminal book on Compassionate Communication is Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life by Marshall Rosenberg.”

“Cooking Club: Pasta e Fagioli”, Wednesday, January 24, 5:30PM, Scott Township Library, Carnegie. “Come join us for Cooking Club, every second Wednesday of the month. We will swap recipes, talk favorite foods, and taste and make a dish together. January is National Soup Month! We'll be making Pasta e Fagioli, the classic Italian soup, to celebrate.”

Carnegie Mellon School of Music Presents, “Il Matrimonio Segreto”, Thursday, January 25 through Sunday, January 28, Chosky Theater, Purnell Center for the Arts, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Campus map here: https://www.cmu.edu/assets/pdfs/cmu_map_8.5x11.pdf Tickets $10. This opera was first performed in 1792, and is a romantic comedy set in Vienna. http://www.music.cmu.edu/events/814

“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum”, Thursday, January 25 through Sunday, February 25, O’Reilly Theater, 621 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Tickets here: https://www.trustarts.org/production/51427/a-funny-thing-happened-on-the-way-to-the-forum “There will be ‘Comedy Tonight’ and every night during Ted Pappas’ hilarious revival of this laugh-filled juggernaut. Set in ancient Rome and overflowing with delicious songs and gorgeous dancing girls, Forum is considered by many to be the funniest musical ever created. Winner of the 1962 Tony Award for Best Musical, this sly mix of Broadway and Burlesque is guaranteed to bring down the house. Fasten your togas!”

“Teen Canvas and Color Paint Night”, Friday, January 26, 6:30PM, Baldwin Borough Library, Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/b/baldwin/ek.cfm “Teens in Grades 6-12 can join local artist Michelle and learn how to paint your own canvas 9x12 piece of artwork! Learn techniques using acrylic paint to create a take-home masterpiece ready to hang!”

Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Presents “Gallery Crawl”, Friday, January 26, 5:30PM- 10PM, downtown. Free. Details and schedule TBA here: https://crawl.trustarts.org “Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District, produced by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, is a free, quarterly, multi-venue showcase of downtown’s dynamic art and entertainment scene. Dozens of galleries, stages, storefronts, and unique public spaces dot each installment’s 14-block map of destinations, hosting US premieres of international multimedia artists, regional visual art exhibitions, live music, theater and dance performances, film screenings, hands-on creative activities, and special crawl after dark attractions. The Gallery Crawl is what it looks, feels, tastes, and sounds like to experience a true Cultural District, with diverse artistic offerings for a multitude of interests. Nearly 30,000 annual visitors experience this 'open house' for Pittsburgh’s renowned Cultural District, free and open to the public since 2004.”

“Daniel Beaty in Emergency”, Friday, January 26, 8PM, August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Tickets starting at $25: https://www.trustarts.org/production/55136/daniel-beaty-in-emergency “A slave ship emerges in front of the Statue of Liberty, sending NY into a whirlwind of emotion and exploration in this explosive solo tour de force featuring slam poetry, multi-character transformation, and song. Daniel Beaty portrays a cast of 40 characters, including a homeless man, a scientist, a Republican business executive, a street vendor, and an 11-year old boy from the projects who all respond to the unexpected phenomenon. Through the characters' individual responses to this surreal happening and their varied testimonies on identity and personal freedom, Emergency weaves a stirring commentary on what it is to be human and the longing to be free.”

“Carnegie Science Center Fab Lab Family Workshop: Laser Cutting 101”, Friday, January 26, 5PM, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to use the 40W laser at Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center to safely cut and etch your own designs! This introductory class is required in order to use the laser cutter during any Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.” 

“Grow Your Own Sprouts”, Saturday, January 27, 12PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Allegheny. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/hands-workshop-grow-sprouts/ “Learn about the health benefits of seed sprouting. Make a sprouting jar to take home. Materials provided.”

“Sterne Screening in Honor of International Holocaust Remembrance Day”, Saturday, January 27, 7PM, Rodef Shalom, 4905 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. Tickets $10 here: http://hcofpgh.org/sterne/ “The Holocaust Center is proud to partner with Carnegie Mellon Department of Modern Languages and Rodef Shalom to host a screening and discussion of the film Sterne (Stars) to mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day. This will be the first time the award-winning film has been shown in Pittsburgh. Sterne takes place in a secluded Bulgarian village in 1943. Walter, an artist and sergeant in the Wehrmacht, lives a quiet life far away from the war. Then one day a transit camp is set up for Jews arriving from Greece. Ruth, one of the Greek Jews, asks Walter to help a pregnant woman in the camp. At first he refuses, but soon his life is changed forever. This East German Film, which won the 1959 Special Grand Jury Prize at the Cannes International Film Festival, broke with conventions during the Cold War in its depiction of Wehrmacht soldiers and Jewish suffering and resistance. The film is also significant linguistically, speaking to the diversity of Jewish victims of the Holocaust, with dialog in Bulgarian, German, Greek, and Ladino, the language of Sephardic Jews. English subtitles for all languages were completed in 1999, giving it new life for Americans in the 21st century. After the film, we will engage in a discussion about the film over light refreshments, as well as share more historical information about Sephardic Jews, a largely undiscussed minority within the Jewish population.”

“Starting to Code: Online Resources”, Saturday, January 27, 2PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/starting-code-online-resources/ “Are you interested in learning to how code? There are many websites that present information about various programming languages. However, the number of available options can make it difficult to select an online learning experience. This program will take a look at four types of online learning environments for coding. We’ll outline similarities and differences. We’ll also briefly discuss languages that you might select as your first programming language.”

“The 13-Story Treehouse”, Saturday, January 27, 2PM and 7PM, and Sunday, January 28, 11AM, August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Tickets $10.50: https://www.trustarts.org/production/53582/the-13-story-treehouse “Who wouldn’t want to live in a tree house? Especially a 13-story Treehouse that has everything; a bowling alley, a secret underground laboratory, and self-making beds, for starters! Andy and Terry live there, make stories, and have a series of completely silly adventures together, and today's the day they're going to bring those stories to the stage - curtains up! There's just one problem: they forgot to write the play! And, where will they find flying cats, a mermaid, a sea monster, an invasion of monkeys, and a giant gorilla? CPD's production uses live action, puppetry, music, and animation to bring The 13-Story Treehouse to life with a seriously funny cast and magical moments of theatrical wizardry.”

“KazooFest”, Saturday, January 27, 2PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “​It’s time to pucker up and party! Join us on National Kazoo Day as we celebrate this most American of instruments. ANYONE can make music with a kazoo! Kazoos will be provided, but you may BYOK if you wish. This program is for all ages.”

Concert, “Ibeji Drum Ensemble”, Sunday, January 28, 2PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “In 1995, the Mitchell Family formed The Ibeji Drum Ensemble to 'edu-tain' (educate and entertain) audiences of all ages and ethnicities, and to preserve and cultivate an awareness of the rich musical traditions of West Africa. The Ibeji Drum Ensemble was founded by Dr. Anthony B. Mitchell (Baba Tony), Beatrice Y. Mitchell (Iya Bea), their twin sons, Anthony, Jr. and Dante. Ibeji means “twins” in the West African Yoruba tradition. As a family, the Mitchell’s embody the traditional musical heritage of Africa. Today, they are joined by Aminata Camara-Mitchell and Zenzile Pearson. The Mitchells have traveled to Senegal, Guinea and Ghana, West Africa to study traditional drum, dance and culture. They have also traveled to Cuba, Jamaica and Puerto Rico.” http://www.kuumbainc.com/performing-arts.html

“Black Holes, Beakers, and Books: A Popular Science Book Discussion Group”, Sunday, January 28, 3:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Are you interested in exploring the vast mysteries of the cosmos, understanding human evolutionary history, or talking about the long-term future of the planet earth? These topics and more will be discussed in Black Holes, Beakers, and Books, a popular science book club that reads and discusses popular science books published within the last five years. This group meets every other month on the fourth Sunday from 3:30 – 4:30 PM in the Director’s Conference Room on the First Floor of the Main Library. January’s selection is The Inevitable by Kevin Kelly, which presents a sunny view of technological trends, including artificial intelligence and virtual reality, and their impact on our future day-to-day lives. Kelly jumps ahead 30 years and sees a society that benefits from total surveillance, collaborates on a massive scale, and uses nearly any surface as a screen.”

“Family Friendly Hike at North Park”, Sunday, January 28, 11AM, North Park, Pie Traynor Field, S. Ridge Drive, Allison Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “Join us for this family friendly hike at North Park. We will stop along the way to explore nature. ACTIVITY LEVEL: Easy. Where to meet: North Park, parking lot. What to bring: Weather-appropriate clothing (layers; no cotton), waterproof footwear, small day pack with extra clothes, snacks, water, personal medications. Optional related items: Sunglasses, binoculars, camera.”

“Tu b'Shevat Celebration”, Sunday, January 28, 2PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh. “Join Temple Emanuel librarian Paula Altschul and PJ Library South Hills Ambassador Jen Cohen for this free, family friendly program.” “The 15th of Shevat on the Jewish calendar—celebrated this year on Wednesday, January 31, 2018—is the day that marks the beginning of a new year for trees. This is the season in which the earliest-blooming trees in the Land of Israel emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.”

“R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar”, Monday, January 29, 12PM, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Earth Theater. Free. Presented by Dr. Andy Turner, Clarion University. “Water pollution and infodisruption: Chemosensory perception of food and predators by aquatic invertebrates depends on water quality.” “Interested in learning about scientific discoveries directly from scientists? Carnegie Museum of Natural History scientific research staff and invited speakers discuss their latest findings on a wide variety of scientific topics at the free R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar Series. Seminars are free and no registration is required. Each seminar begins at noon in Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s Earth Theater and lasts about an hour long. Visitors attending solely for the seminar are asked to check in at the front desk.”

“Emergency Preparedness”, Tuesday, January 30, 7:30PM, LL Bean, 100 Ross Park Mall Dr., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] “Be ready the next time a storm approaches. Learn about the supplies you should have on hand and the steps you can take to handle unforeseen situations, wherever you are.”

“Jazz Workshop Inc. Presents an Evening of Jazz”, Wednesday, January 31, 5PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Homewood. “The entire family is invited out for an evening of Jazz music provided by local Jazz Greats. This family friendly event will take place in the Auditorium.”

“Once in a Blue Moon Hike”, Wednesday, January 31, 5PM, Dead Man’s Hollow Conservation Area, 3301 Liberty Way, McKeesport. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/event/blue-moon-hike/ “What makes this moon a ‘blue moon’? Explore the wonders of the second full moon in January! We’ll learn fun facts about the moon as we hike through the forest’s filtered moonlight. Listen to moon lore and find your moon shadow! Fun hands-on moon centered activities will keep us active and although the moon may not be made of cheese you’ll be able to enjoy a moon snack at the end of the hike. Great for families and community groups or as an extra credit activity for science classes.”

FYI the registration deadline for the Growing Girls Roots in STEM Science Fair is February 1: http://www.growinggirlsrootsinstem.org For girls in grades 4-8.