May 2018 Events

This is my list of events for May 2018 in the greater Pittsburgh area and beyond. At the bottom of the list under "Road Trips" you will find some events further afield.
Please be sure to doublecheck the details of anything you'd like to attend in case of mistakes, typos or cancellations. And please, if you enjoy using this list, spread the word! The more useful it is to others, the more worthwhile it is for me to compile.

Many of our local farmer’s markets are opening in May! Here’s an article with a list of area markets conveniently listed by day of the week, and with a map for finding them by location: https://www.goodfoodpittsburgh.com/guide-to-pittsburgh-farmers-markets-2018/

Memorial Day is Monday, May 28. Pennsylvania Dept. of Veteran’s Affairs has a nice list of Memorial Day weekend events throughout the state on their calendar: http://www.dmva.pa.gov/Pages/Events-Calendar.aspx

Venture Outdoors has inviting activities throughout the Pittsburgh region almost every single day in May, including outdoor sports, watersports and some fabulous walking tours. Plus their Kayak Pittsburgh http://www.ventureoutdoors.org/kayakpittsburgh/ river kayak rentals will open for the season on Saturday, May 5. See their calendar here: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/activities-calendar/?wppb=program&month=5&calyear=2018&layout=

The Botanical Society of Western PA has free wildflower field trips planned throughout May: http://www.botsocwpa.org/calendar.php “Registration for Botanical Society field trips is not required. Everyone is welcome, including non-members. Trips last 3 to 4 hours but one can leave at any time.” If you can’t make it to a field trip, their calendar will still tip you off to excellent places to see wildflowers in May in our area.

Crate Kitchenware and Cooking School http://www.cratecook.com and Gaynors School of Cooking https://www.gaynorsschoolofcooking.com offer so many great single session classes in May, I can’t list them all here. Many are suitable for adults and teens, and many are specifically for families and/or kids. Yum!

“Hamlet”, now through Sunday, May 20, O’Reilly Theater, 621 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh. Tickets here: https://www.ppt.org/production/51431/hamlet “A young man encounters the ghost of his slain father in this epic drama. Prince Hamlet feels his life spiraling out of control. His uncle, Claudius, has murdered the king, usurped the crown, and married Gertrude, Hamlet’s mother. Revenge has been ordered by the spirit of the dead monarch, but Hamlet is in turmoil. Fiercely intelligent and wildly passionate, this exploration of love, lust, and grief has enthralled theatergoers for centuries. The greatest play in the English language lives again in a new production on The Public’s stage.”

“The Afro Yaqui Music Collective”, Tuesday, May 1, 8PM-10PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free RSVP: http://www.alphabetcity.org/events/afro-yaqui-music-collective-2/ “Join us for an evening of world music with The Afro Yaqui Music Collective! The program will also include a reading with Sri Lankan writer Kanya D’Almeida. Kanya will read excerpts from her novel-in-progress, A Place for Incurables and from a collection of short stories entitled Mad Bloody Woman. Both pieces engage with the contemporary and historical politics and social dynamics of Sri Lanka.”

“The Dresser”, now through Saturday, May 5, Little Lake Theatre, 500 Lakeside Dr., South, Canonsburg. Ages 13 and up. “Backstage at a London theatre during a WWII air raid, Sir, the last of the great breed of English actor, is in a bad way tonight and refuses to perform. Sir’s dresser, Norman, tries valiantly to prepare him to go on stage as King Lear. With Herculean effort on the part of Norman, Sir finally makes it on stage for the performance of his lifetime in this classic love letter to the theatre.” https://www.littlelake.org/the-dresser

“Eggshell Etching with Francoise”, Tuesday, May 1, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Main Library, Classroom A, Oakland. “Participants will write on eggshells with hot beeswax and then etch brown or colored eggs to get a white background. 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!”

Meet the Author: Rich Gazarik”, Tuesday, May 1, 6PM, Vandergrift Library (preregistration required; call 724-568-2212); Saturday, May 5, 1PM, Monessen Library (preregistration required; call 724-684-4750); Monday, May 7, 7PM, Manor Library (preregistration required; call 724-864-6850); Wednesday, May 9, 6PM, Adams Library, Latrobe (preregistration required; call 724-539-1972); Monday, May 14, 6:30PM, Norwin Library, Irwin (preregistration required; call 724-863-4700); and Tuesday, May 22, 6:30PM, Sewickley Library (preregistration required; call 724-446-9940). “Rich Gazarik’s latest book, Prohibition Pittsburgh, explores the impact prohibition had on the city. Pittsburgh is a hardworking city. And hard workers sometimes enjoy the occasional spirit. So, when Prohibition hit the Steel City, it created a level of violence and corruption residents had never witnessed. Join author Richard Gazarik as he details the shady side of the Steel City during a tumultuous era. Gazarik is a former reporter for the Tribune-Review and has written several books about historical events in the Pittsburgh area.” This book would tie in well with “American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition” through June 10 at the Heinz History Center, which is a terrific exhibit. http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/exhibits/american-spirits

Meet the Author: Lynda Schuster”, Tuesday, May 1, 6:30PM-8:30PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. Lynda Schuster discusses her book, “Dirty Wars and Polished Silver: The Life And Times Of A War Correspondent Turned Ambassatrix”. “Come meet author and former staff reporter for the Wall Street Journal and the Christian Science Monitor, Lynda Schuster. From Central America to Mexico, the Middle East to Africa, Ms. Schuster has reported from war-torn countries, covered apartheid, and later accompanied her second husband to his ambassadorial postings in Mozambique (1993) and Peru (1996). Ms. Schuster’s books have been reviewed by The New York Times Book Review and the Times of London. A not-to-be-missed journey of self-discovery, both funny and moving. lyndaschuster.com Books will be for sale at the event by Riverstone Books.”

Pittsburgh Police Chess Club”, Tuesdays, 5PM at Hazelwood Library; Wednesdays, 3PM, Brookline Library; Wednesdays, 4PM at Beechview Library; Thursdays, 3PM at Sheraden Library; and Thursdays, 4PM at West End 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.”

Drop Dead Book Club”, Wednesday, May 2, 7PM-8PM, CC Mellor Memorial Library. “The Drop Dead Book Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the Edgewood Library Board Room. This month's book can be checked out at the upstairs circulation desk. May’s book: “Magpie Murders” by Anthony Horowitz. https://dropdeadmysterybookclub.wordpress.com

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. May 2: Energy and Chemical Bonding; May 5, 14 and 16: Dissolving Solids; May 7 and 9: Polarity and Surface Tension; May 12, 21 and 23: Dissolving- Liquids, Gasses, and Temperature.

Light Literary Lunch Club: A Short Story Discussion Group”, Wednesday, May 2, 12PM-1PM, 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 Nina Kiriki Hoffmann’s ‘Ghost Hedgehog.’ Stop by the library to request a copy or find it online here: https://www.tor.com/2011/11/16/ghost-hedgehog/."

History of Rug Braiding for National Lumpy Rug Day”, Thursday, May 3, 10AM-11:30AM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room B, Pittsburgh. ”According to nationalcalendar.com, National Lumpy Rug Day is observed each year on May 3. Some people view National Lumpy Rug day as a day to appreciate a good, clean rug and incorporate that into spring cleaning (but who wants to clean?). Others enjoy old lumpy rugs and the simple comfort they bring to our homes. And still others want to learn their history and how they are made! Nationally recognized author and rug braider Christine Manges (‘Combining Rug Hooking and Braiding: Basics, Borders, and Beyond’) will introduce you to this uniquely American art form with a lecture on the history of rug braiding followed by a demonstration of her craft.”

Local YA Author Joshua David Bellin”, Thursday, May 3, 6:30PM, Riverstone Books, 8850 Covenant Ave., Pittsburgh. “Come meet local author Joshua David Bellin and hear him talk about his new book, Ecosystem. Seventeen-year-old Sarah is a Sensor, gifted with the ability to survive within the sentient Ecosystem that swept away human civilization centuries ago. While the remnants of humankind huddle in small villages of stone, Sarah uses her psychic connection to the Ecosystem to travel freely in the wild in search of food, water, and fuel. Sarah doesn’t fear the Ecosystem—but she hates it for killing her mother when Sarah was a child. When she hunts, she hunts not only for her people’s sustenance but for revenge. Then Miriam, an apprentice Sensor, is lost in the Ecosystem, and Sarah sets out to rescue her. Joining Sarah is Miriam’s beloved, Isaac, a boy who claims to possess knowledge of the Ecosystem that will help their people survive. The harrowing journey to find the missing apprentice takes Sarah and Isaac into the Ecosystem’s deadliest places. And it takes Sarah into the unexplored territory of her own heart, where she discovers feelings that threaten to tear her—and her society—apart. A thrilling fantasy adventure from the author of Freefall and the Survival Colony series, Ecosystem is the first book in a YA trilogy that includes The Devouring Land (2019) and House of Earth, House of Stone (2020).” http://www.riverstonebookstore.com/event/local-author-joshua-david-bellin-ecosystem/  http://joshuadavidbellin.com

Club Otaku- Teen Anime Club”, Thursdays in May, 6PM-7PM, 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!”

Inkspotters Teen Writing Group”, Thursdays in May, 4:30PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Yates Room, Glenshaw. “Do you write stories, fanfiction, poetry, or blog posts? Need help picking the perfect character names? Join our weekly writing group and meet other writers! Talk, work on an existing project, or try a writing prompt. No registration required.”

From Connie Mack to Danny Murtaugh: Irish-Americans In Pittsburgh Baseball”, Thursday, May 3, 7PM-8:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh. “Colleen Hroncich will join Richard ‘Pete’ Peterson for a discussion of Irish-Americans in Pittsburgh baseball. She is the granddaughter of legendary Pirates manager, Danny Murtaugh, and the author of ‘The Whistling Irishman: Danny Murtaugh Remembered.’ The discussion will begin with the early days of baseball when Irish-American ballplayers fought to overcome the ethnic stereotype of the drunken hooligan and went on to dominate baseball by the beginning of the twentieth century. The discussion of Irish-Americans in Pittsburgh baseball will range from Hall-of-Famer Connie Mack, who began career as a manager In Pittsburgh, to Danny Murataugh, who led the Pirates to World Series championships in 1960 and 1971. Pete Peterson is the co-author, with his son, Stephen, of ‘The Slide: Leyland, Bonds and the Star-Crossed Pittsburgh Pirates’ and the editor of ‘The Pirates Reader.’

Abandoned America”, Thursday, May 3, 6PM-7:30PM, Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, Landmarks Preservation Resource Center, 744 Rebecca Ave., Wilkinsburg. $10. “Join author and photographer Matthew Christopher, creator of the Abandoned America website and book series, on a journey through some of the country’s most fascinating and hauntingly beautiful ruins. Matthew will relate his inspirations and how he came to explore such unusual spots, and share some of his favorites from across the state, focusing on the Pittsburgh region. A fascinating tour of forgotten schools, churches, prisons, factories, and homes that have not been included in his previous presentations, his work is at once a cry for the preservation of our vanishing architectural heritage and a eulogy for the ruins in our midst.” http://phlf.org/event/abandoned-america-an-autopsy-of-the-american-dream/ https://www.abandonedamerica.us/about.html

Otaku Lebo”, Thursday, May 3, 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.”

Film Premiere, “Site-Specific: A History of the Mattress Factory”, Thursday, May 3, 6PM-8PM, The Mattress Factory, 500 Sampsonia Way, Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.showclix.com/event/site-specific Pittsburgh filmmaker David Bernabo will premiere a feature-length documentary about the Mattress Factory museum of contemporary art with a free screening on May 3. The feature-length film parallels the installation of the museum’s 40thanniversary exhibition in 2017 with an in-depth, story-driven journey through the museum’s history of exhibiting boundary-pushing art. Interviews with artists like Ann Hamilton, Sarah Oppenheimer, Vanessa German, Dennis Maher, and others provide an intimate, sometimes humorous look at the indirect path a museum takes as it creates its identity. Bernabo also mined the museum’s extensive tape and video archive to unearth rare archival installation footage of James Turrell, Yayoi Kusama, Meg Webster and David Ellis. This event is FREE to attend; please RSVP. Beer and wine will be available. Accessible parking is available in the museum lot at 505 Jacksonia Street.”

Wildflower Walk with Urban EcoStewards”, Thursday, May 3, 6PM-8PM, Frick Park, Falls Ravine Trail entrance, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://embed.showclix.com/event/ues-wildflower-walk-2018 “This annual family-friendly hike through Frick Park is the perfect way to celebrate spring! Take a hike through the park with Parks Conservancy staff and the Urban EcoStewards to identify our region’s spring wildflowers. Families are welcome! Event will meet at the entrance to Falls Ravine Trail on Beechwood Boulevard, a short walk from the new Frick Environmental Center. Car and bike parking is available at the Frick Environmental Center.”

"What's Cooking?” Friday, May 4, 3PM, Carnegie Library Sheraden (ages 8-18); Wednesday, May 16, 3PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Squirrel Hill (grades 6-12); Monday, May 21, 3:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Allegheny (grades 6-12); and Thursday, May 31, 5PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Beechview (teens. "Learn to feed yourself and your friends! Chop, dice and mince your way to culinary mastery — then eat what you cook!”

Free Friday Walking Tours”, Fridays in May, 10AM-11AM (Grant Street from 6th to 4th Avenues), and 12PM-1PM (Grant Street area from 6th Ave to Liberty and back to the US Steel Plaza). Reservations appreciated: marylu@phlf.org; 412-471-5808, ext. 527. “With its concentration of major historic buildings and modern skyscrapers, Grant Street is downtown Pittsburgh’s grand civic boulevard. Explore incredible spaces with PHLF’s guides––building lobbies, courtyards, and green spaces––and find out why the American Planning Association named Grant Street one of America’s ten Great Streets in 2012.” More details here: http://phlf.org/events/

Hot Jam”, Friday, May 4, 6PM-9PM, Pittsburgh Glass Center, 5472 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Jaime Guerrero is an artist and craftsman from Los Angeles who recently relocated to Pittsburgh. He is one of the few and first artists in the world to sculpt life-size figures in glass. He’ll be sculpting a life-size crocodile in the hot shop. See it come to life on Friday from 6-9pm! 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

Blue Hole Stroll”, Friday, May 4, 6PM-8PM, Forbes State Forest. Free. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201. “Explore one of Forbes State Forest’s hidden gems during the moderate 3 mile hike at Blue Hole. We will discuss the history of this area, as well as view some unique natural features.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/blue_hole_stroll 

The Diary of Anne Frank”, Friday, May 4 through Sunday, May 13, New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square East, Pittsburgh. Tickets: http://newhazletttheater.org “The production of this timeless classic brings to life the spirit of a young girl, Anne Frank, as she voices her belief in a world caught up in conflict, prejudice, and confinement. “In spite of everything, that people are truly good at heart.” Prime Stage honors Holocaust survivors, Righteous Gentiles, Rescuers and their families.”

Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery”, Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5, 8PM, and Sunday, May 6, 2PM, Greensburg Garden and Civic Center, 951 Old Salem Rd., Greensburg. Tickets $16, Seniors $14 and students $11. “Sherlock Holmes is on the case! The male heirs of the Baskerville line are being dispatched one by one. To find their ingenious killer, Holmes and Watson must brave the desolate moors before a family curse dooms its newest heir.” https://www.thepalacetheatre.org/concerts-events/

"Pittsburgh Food Truck Park", Fridays in May, 4PM-10PM, and Saturdays, 11AM-10PM, Millvale Riverfront Park, 70 River Front Dr, Pittsburgh. Check the schedule and which trucks will be there here: https://www.pittsburghfoodpark.com "The Pittsburgh Food Truck Park is a Riverfront party and yinz are all invited! Bring your friends, the kids, or even the out of towner you are showing around this awesome city. This riverfront hangout is in the works along the Allegheny and will be there for all of us to enjoy together. Located in the Millvale Riverfront Park and on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, we are bringing together some of Pittsburgh’s favorite things. The Pittsburgh Food Truck Park will feature a daily rotation of the area’s favorite mobile food vendors, a beer garden rotating more than 30 local drafts, a performance venue, an event space, and game yard—all at the river's edge. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail allows easy bike commuting to the park from many Pittsburgh neighborhoods, as it’s only an easy two mile bike ride up the Allegheny River from Heinz Field. The Pittsburgh Food Truck Park is coming soon, and we hope we will see yinz there!" 

Spring Backpacking”, Friday, May 4, 6PM, Raccoon Creek State Park, 3000 State Route 18, Hookstown. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/spring_backpacking “Attention Backpackers! Up for a little spring adventure? If you are, well spend 2-3 hours Friday evening backpacking to a camping site, set up camp, and return in the morning. You'll need camping/hiking gear, food, and water. For questions, contact Patrick Adams at paadams@pa.gov or call 724-899-3611. Details and starting location will be sent out the week before the hike. Program will starts 6PM on Friday and concludes 9AM on Saturday.”

Of Dice and Men- Roleplay Club”, Saturdays, 1PM-4PM, Frank Sarris Library, Canonsburg. “Heroes wanted! We are in dire need for heroic adventurers to save the land from evil! Bolster your strength and come together with new friends to take on the villains that threaten our realm! We are currently playing Dungeons and Dragons and eagerly welcome newcomers all the time, so feel free to stop in and ask! Newcomers are encouraged to come to sessions an hour early to create their characters for play.”

Pittonkatonk”, Saturday, May 5, 1PM-11PM, Vietnam Veteran’s Pavilion, Schenley Park, Pittsburgh. “Now in its fifth year, Pittonkatonk is a free, outdoor, family friendly community celebration of brass music that features both local and touring musicians. Held at the Schenley Park Vietnam Veterans Pavilion, Pittonkatonk blurs the lines between music festival and family reunion. There’s no formal stage, no ticket prices, and no barrier for entry. Instead, bands play in the crowd with little to no amplification. The community creates a potluck table of food donations for refreshment, and folks of all ages can be seen dancing together. This day-long event features all styles of brass music including Balkan, New Orleans Jazz, Symphonic, and street/protest/punk bands. Its success is due to a large outpouring of support at all levels, from individual donations to community partnerships." http://pittonkatonk.org/event-info/

Spring Migration on Presque Isle”, Saturday, May 5 and Saturday, May 13, departing 7AM and returning 5PM at the National Aviary, 700 Arch St., Pittsburgh. $95, member discount. Preregistration required. Details here: https://www.aviary.org/special-events/spring-migration “In 2018, the Year of the Bird, the National Aviary invites everyone to #NoticeBirds! And one place that you can't help but notice birds is at Presque Isle State Park in May! National Aviary Ornithologist, Bob Mulvihill, will lead this popular spring bus tour to one of the most important migration hotspots in the world! Countless migratory birds pause on the Presque Isle peninsula to rest and refuel before crossing over the Great Lakes to distant nesting grounds as far away as northern Canada and Alaska. This trip coincides with the Global Big Day, an international birding occasion. Bob will report every bird you and he see to the global eBird.org database! Presque Isle is a world renowned location for seeing wild birds in the springtime. Join us for an adventure through nature and learn about migratory birds!”

2018 Korean Food Bazaar”, Saturday, May 5, 10:30AM-4PM, Korean Central Church of Pittsburgh, 821 S. Aiken Ave., Shadyside. “The highly-anticipated annual Korean food festival is in its 23rd year. Featuring authentic Korean food including BBQ Beef Bulgogi, BBQ Chicken, Bipimbap, Spicy Beef Soup, japchae, Mul Naengmyeon (cold noodles in chili broth), fried dumplings, gimbap, kimchi, seafood pancake, mung bean pancake, rice cake and many more!” http://kccp.org

Cyrus Chestnut’s African Reflections”, Saturday, May 5, 8PM, August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Tickets $31.75: https://www.trustarts.org/production/56036/cyrus-chestnuts-african-reflections “A trip to Senegal inspired soulful jazz pianist Cyrus Chestnut to create a new collection of material-- jazz filtered through African rhythms and pieces influenced by Cyrus’ own experiences on his journey. The African Reflections quintet features: Cyrus Chestnut on piano; Steve Carrington, saxophone, Eric Wheeler, bass; Neal Smith, drums; and Kweku Sumbry, percussions.”

Opening Weekend: Celebrate Meadowcroft’s 50th Season”, Saturday, May 5, 12PM-5PM, and Sunday, May 6, 1PM-5PM, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, 401 Meadowcroft Rd., Avella. Free with regular admission. “Kick off Meadowcroft’s milestone 50th season and discover 16,000 years of history all in one day. Discover archaeological wonders in the Meadowcroft Rockshelter, a National Historic Landmark used by some of North America’s earliest people. Then step inside a wigwam, use a prehistoric atlatl to throw a spear, and watch a blacksmith forge red-hot iron in three recreated villages that explore the daily lives of Americans through the centuries. On Saturday only, visitors can watch a special laundry demonstration at the Miller House.” http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/opening-weekend-meadowcroft-2018

Hands-On History Days”, Saturday, May 5, 10AM-5PM, and Sunday, May 6, 12PM-5PM, Old Economy Village, 270 16th St., Ambridge. $10 ages 12 and up, $9 seniors, $6 ages 3-11. “This event brings history to life for visitors of all ages. Come try your hand at a variety of nineteenth century crafts, trades and games.” http://oldeconomyvillage.org

Mexican War Streets Walking Tour”, Saturday, May 5, 1PM-3PM. $10 for members of the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, or $35 for nonmembers which includes a 1-year membership. Preregistration required; contact marylu@phlf.org or 412-471-5808, ext. 527. “Explore one of the most colorful sections of the Mexican War Streets on Pittsburgh’s North Side with PHLF docents. You’ll learn about the history of the area, including the creation of Allegheny Commons and the Mexican War Streets, and become familiar with Victorian styles and terminology. You’ll hear how two organizations––the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation and Mexican War Streets Society––used preservation strategies to reverse neighborhood decline and disinvestment. You’ll also hear how imaginative individuals have creatively repurposed historic structures to create the Mattress Factory and City of Asylum/Alphabet City––both nationally recognized centers for the arts––and the artful world of Randyland.” Details here: http://phlf.org/event/mexican-war-streets-walking-tour/

Guided Tours: American Spirits”, Saturdays in May, 11AM and 1PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free with regular admission. No preregistration required. “Join a History Center Docent for a roarin’ good tour through the American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition exhibition. In this guided tour, visitors will hear stories about Prohibition, check out hands-on items from our collection, and discover more about the exhibit’s Pittsburgh connections. Tours begin at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and will last approximately 45 minutes.” http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/guided-tour-american-spirits-may-5

Harrison Hills Bird Hike”, Saturday, May 5, 8AM-12PM, Harrison Hills Park, 5200 Freeport Rd, Natrona Heights. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8029 “Harrison Hills Park offers one of the regions more popular places to bird. We will meet in the parking lot at the Environmental Learning Center and bird some of the surrounding trails.”

Free Comic Book Day”, Saturday, May 5. Some participating comic book shops are listed on the official website, but be sure to check with your favorite if you don’t see it listed: https://www.freecomicbookday.com Many will be holding special events. “Free Comic Book Day is an annual event founded on the belief that for every person out there, there’s a comic book that they’ll love. Every year, on the first Saturday in May, the industry comes together to give away free comics and encourage fans, both old and new, to flock to the best place in the comic book community: local comic shops. These are the hubs of our community, where fans can come together and discover new comics, make lifelong friends, and find a sense of commonality. Major publishers such as DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Dark Horse Comics, IDW Publishing, BOOM! Studios, Dynamite Entertainment, and Image Comics put out free comics for fans to enjoy at the more than 2,300 local comic shops participating in Free Comic Book Day. There’s truly a book for everyone: from superheroes, to popular film and television shows, to beloved video games, and all-ages stories. Popular series available this year include Pokemon, Doctor Who, SpongeBob, and Star Wars.”

Wonderful World of Woodpeckers”, Saturday, May 5, 10:30AM-12PM, Latodami Nature Center, North Park. Free. Ages 8 and up. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/np-wonderful-world-of-woodpeckers/2431 “Learn about the fascinating world of Pennsylvania’s 7 species of woodpeckers. We will identify these amazing birds by sight and sound for this outdoor exploration. Bring binoculars if you have them. All individuals attending the program must be registered. Dress well for outdoor activity.”

Annual Beaver County History Celebration Weekend”, Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6.Complete list of participating locations here: http://visitbeavercounty.com/images/pdf/history_webpage_2018.pdf “2018 marks the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War or WWI. Beaver County residents showed their support through parades, flag raising, demonstrations and enlistment drives. Sending food to troops created shortages that our citizens counteracted by observing meatless and wheatless days. The “Garden Movement” encouraged all to grow their own food. Our industries made important contributions: our steel industries produced steel plating for ships, excavators made by Keystone Drillers were sent overseas, Phoenix Glass made lenses for signal lights and lamps. Junction Park became a training ground (later moved to Brady’s Run). Purse strings were opened and funds were collected to provide for the soldiers. Thirty-six Beaver County men were killed in battle, while fourteen died later of their wounds. Influenza brought back from Europe by the soldiers ravished both military and citizenry who died by the hundreds. Beaver County presented a united front, but we can never underestimate the sacrifices of our native sons and daughters who fought, died and altered their lives to ensure peace and prosperity. All historical locations are free with the exception of Old Economy Village where regular admission fees apply.”

Wildflower Walk”, Saturday, May 5, 2PM-4PM, Settlers Cabin Park, Panhandle Connector Trail Parking Lot on Greer Rd. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/sc-wildflower-walk/2182 “Bloodroot, Spring Beauty, Trout Lilly and Trillium are starting to emerge. Join our Park Rangers in a search for blooming wildflowers, learn how to identify them using field guides, and explore the flower's role in its ecosystem. Many flowers only bloom for a short time, so you never know what we will discover!”

Volunteer Tree Planting”, Saturday, May 5, 9AM-12PM, Zeloyle Sanctuary, 148 Thompson Rd., Sarver. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8165 “Join us to improve wildlife habitat! Volunteers are needed to plant native trees and shrubs at Zeloyle Sanctuary. No experience is necessary, all ages are welcome, and all materials will be provided.”

Happy Saturday Hike”, Saturday, May 5, 1PM, Yellow Creek State Park, meeting beside the Lakeview Pavilion, 170 Route 259 Highway, Penn Run. Free. “This hike will provide nice views of the lake, forest valley, and fields. Come join us for a 2-3 mile moderately challenging hike. We will be going out on the RidgeTop Trail in the Day Use Area. Please wear hiking shoes, long pants, and bring water. Meet next to Lakeview Pavilion. Weather-dependent. If it is storming or heavy rain, this event will be cancelled.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/happy_saturday_hike_4621

Grove Run Ramble”, Saturday, May 5, 10AM-2PM, Forbes State Forest. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201. “Discover springtime’s spectacular flower display during this challenging 4 mile hike on Laurel Mountain. We will be hiking over some steep and uneven terrain, and discussing PA’s native wildflowers!” Rachael Mahoney of DCNR is a wildflower expert. http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/grove_run_ramble

Wildflower Wanderings”, Saturday, May 5, 10AM-12PM, Moraine State Park, McDaniels Area, North Shore, 118 North Shore Dr., Portersville. Free. “North Shore McDanel’s is a popular area, but many people may be overlooking delicate gems of spring in the nearby woods. Join members of the Botanical Society of Western Pennsylvania, and park staff, as we explore the woods along a portion of the North Country National Scenic Trail, hunting for these beautiful flowers of spring. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, and bring a snack or water if you wish. Park in the McDanel’s area, and meet by the trail near the purple martin houses along the entrance road.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/wildflower_wanderings

Night Sky Tours”, Saturday, May 5 and Saturday, May 12, 9PM-10:30PM, Cherry Springs State Park, Night Sky Viewing Area. Preregistration required; register online: http://events.dcnr.pa.gov “Experience the splendor of the night sky at Cherry Springs State Park. Observe the constellations through a laser-guided tour conducted by park staff. Listen as we recount the legends and myths surrounding these mysterious patterns in the sky. Following the program, the park will have telescopes available for an up close look at celestial objects. Telescope availability is subject to time and crowd-size limitations.” Cherry Springs is a hot spot for amateur astronomers because the area has outstandingly low levels of light pollution.

Teen Dungeons and Dragons”, Sundays in May, 1PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. “Pros and new players are welcome to join us for this on-going game. The game will be led by a Teen 'Dungeon Master' from our Youth Advisory Council. Register at the Youth Services Desk.”

Origami Club of Pittsburgh Presents Advanced Folding”, Sunday, May 6, and Saturday, May 19, 1PM-4PM, 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. Participants must have a basic understanding of origami forms. This program meets first Sundays and third Saturdays of the month from 1 – 4 pm. Children age 7 and up are invited to join but must have adult supervision. Adults and teens welcome!”

Free Museum Day”, Sunday, May 6, 10AM-4PM. “Explore FOUR Ligonier Valley Museums for FREE! See new exhibits, meet special guests, enjoy fun activities at Fort Ligonier, Compass Inn, Ligonier Valley Rail Road Museum  and the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art.  Qualify to win a $250.00 gift certificate to spend in the Ligonier Valley by visiting all four Museums!”

Greek Food Festival”, Sunday, May 6, 12PM-8PM; Monday, May 7 through Thursday, May 10, 11AM-9PM; and Friday, May 11 and Saturday, May 12, 11AM-10PM with music until midnight; St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 419 S. Dithridge St., Pittsburgh. Come enjoy delicious homemade food, traditional Greek dances, and wonderful hospitality! Food, music and fun….you’ll leave saying OPA!” http://stnickspgh.org/food-festival/greek-food-festival/

Wildflower Walk”, Sunday, May 6, 2PM-4PM, Harrison Hills Park, Environmental Learning Center. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/hh-wildflower-walk/2073 “Approximately 1.5 miles with slight elevation changes. Bloodroot, Spring Beauty, Trout Lilly and Trillium are starting to emerge. Join our Park Rangers in a search for blooming wildflowers, learn how to identify them using field guides, and explore the flower's role in its ecosystem. Many flowers only bloom for a short time, so you never know what we will discover!”

Coyote- Friend or Foe?”, Sunday, May 6, 2PM-4PM, Jennings Environmental Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. Free. “Coyotes are one of the most misunderstood predators in the area. They live all around us - in cities, suburbs and rural areas. Learn about the history of the coyote, how to distinguish a coyote from a wolf, where they den, what they eat, and how to avoid encounters with them.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/coyote_-_friend_or_foe

Salena Zito Book Launch”, Sunday, May 6, 1PM, Barnes and Noble, 301 South Hills Village, Pittsburgh. “Join us on May 6th for the book launch of Salena Zito. She will be discussing and signing her new book, ‘The Great Revolt: Inside the Populist Coalition Reshaping American Politics’. Standout syndicated columnist and CNN contributor Salena Zito, with veteran Republican strategist Brad Todd, reports across five swing states and over 27,000 miles to answer the pressing question: Was Donald Trump's election a fluke or did it represent a fundamental shift in the electorate that will have repercussions--for Republicans and Democrats--for years to come. The history of the American electorate is not a litany of flukes; instead it is a pattern of tectonic plate-grinding, punctuated by a landscape-altering earthquake every generation or so. Donald Trump's electoral coalition is smashing both American political parties and its previously impenetrable political news media. The political experts called the 2016 election wrong and in the wake of the 2016 election surprise, the experts have continued to blow it - looking to predict the coming demise of the President without pausing to consider the durability of the trends and winds that swept him into office. The Great Revolt delves deep into the minds and hearts of the voters the make up this coalition. What emerges is a group of citizens who cannot be described by terms like "angry," "male," "rural," or the often-used "racist." They span job descriptions, income brackets, education levels, and party allegiances. What unites them is their desire to be part of a movement larger than themselves that puts pragmatism before ideology, localism before globalism, and demands the respect it deserve from Washington. Zito and Todd have traveled on over 27,000 miles of country roads to interview more than 300 Trump voters in 10 swing counties. What they have discovered is that these voters were hiding in plain sight--ignored by both parties, the media, and the political experts all at once, ready to unite into the movement that spawned the greatest upset in recent electoral history. Deeply rooted in the culture of these Midwestern swing states, Zito and Brad Todd reframe the discussion of the "Trump voter" to answer the question: What next?” https://salenazito.com

Teen Anime Club”, Sunday, May 6 and Sunday, May 20. 1PM, Carnegie Library Allegheny; Monday, May 7, 3:30PM, Carnegie Library Beechview; Wednesday, May 9, 4PM, Carnegie Library Lawrenceville; and Saturday, May 12, and Saturday, May 26, 2PM, Carnegie Library Woods Run. “Explore new anime and express your fandom at Teen Anime Club! We’ll watch anime, explore Japanese culture, and enjoy a fun Japanese-inspired snack.”

Pittsburgh Reptile Show and Sale”, Sunday, May 6, 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

Weddings in Slovakia”, Monday, May 7, 7PM-9PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A, Pittsburgh. “Discover your Slovak heritage at the library! Open to everyone interested in learning more about Slovak culture. Slovak Heritage Group presents: Weddings in Slovakia with speaker Otilia Golis.”

Black Sheep Family Event”, Monday, May 7, 5:30PM-9PM, Federal Gally, 200 Children’s Way, Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-sheep-family-event-tickets-45161960640 “This is an open invite to the black sheep of Pittsburgh. All ages passionate about art, design, music, poetry, science, math, and engineering, are welcome. Meet with others who share your interests, who want to collaborate, who want to have fun! Our friends at SQUONK will perform their Pneumatica show at 6PM. Following the performance, members of the SQUONK group will give a behind the scenes STEAM learning tour for kids interested in how the magic is made.”

Walks in Wakanda: The Black Panther in Comics and Culture”, Monday, May 7, 8PM-9:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free RSVP: http://www.alphabetcity.org/events/evan-narcisse/ “Join us for a reading and Q/A with cultural critic and writer Evan Narcisse. This program, co-presented with Toonseum, will include a fireside chat style talk with Yona Harvey about the history of the Black Panther in Marvel Comics, and the reasons behind the success of the blockbuster film. Evan will also discuss what it’s like working in comics after being a cultural critic for so long.”

The Secret Lives of Mole Salamanders”, Monday, May 7, 7PM-9PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/adult-programs-cafe-sci/?utm_source=suggestions&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=Programs%20Overview “Explore the ecology of the aquatic and terrestrial life stages of mole salamanders! These amphibians commonly are found living in underground burrows and tunnels. During early spring, however, the species simultaneously emerges aboveground to undergo an annual migration to nearby breeding ponds. Join Dr. Kurt Regester, Associate Biology Professor at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, as he explores the history of the most secretive salamanders and talks about their roles in ecosystem energy flow. During his presentation, Regester will talk about the array of adaptations associated with mole salamanders’ reproduction and survival, as well as the decline of amphibian diversity around the world.”

New and Noted: Arundhati Roy”, Monday, May 7, 7PM-8PM, Carnegie Main Library, Lecture Hall, Oakland. “Tickets are required to attend this event. Tickets are $22 each and include a paperback copy of The Ministry of Utmost Happiness. Student tickets (that do not include a copy of the book) are available, with valid ID, for $10. Tickets can be purchased over the phone at 412.622.8866, online, or at the door starting at 6 pm on the evening of the event.” https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/new-noted-arundhati-roy/ “Arundhati Roy’s debut novel The God of Small Things became a modern classic and international best seller after winning the Man Booker Prize in 1997. She returns to fiction with The Ministry of Utmost Happiness, taking us on an intimate journey of many years across the Indian subcontinent—from the cramped neighborhoods of Old Delhi and the roads of the new city to the mountains and valleys of Kashmir and beyond, where war is peace and peace is war. 20 years after her debut, the novel was longlisted for the Man Booker Prize and named a Best Book of 2017 by NPR, Amazon, Kirkus, and The Washington Post.”

Life After High School”, Mondays through June 4, 4PM-5PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Woods Run. “Thinking about where you will be and what you want to do after graduation? Stop in to CLP — Woods Run on Mondays to prepare for Life After High School. Workshops will range from scholarship applications to quick and easy cooking tips to financial literary and more. CLP is here to get you ready for whatever the future has in store.”

Spring Local Author Forum”, Tuesday, May 8, 7PM-8:45PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A, Pittsburgh. “Please join us for a panel discussion with some of our region's authors to learn about their writing process and work. Authors will be selling and signing their books. Light Refreshments. Kathy Bashaar: ‘Saint's Mistress’, a novelized account of the true story of Saint Augustine's long-time mistress. Anne Curran: ‘Irish Ayes’ (poetry). Wendy Weaver Graham, PhD and Carole Kunkle-Miller, PhD: ‘Emotional Balancing with Essential Oils: A Self-Guided Journey’. Bob Konig: ‘Of Good and Evil: Prelude to the Holocaust’. Steve Maiolo, Dannie Maiolo and Mickey Eves (Illustrator): ‘Where is Opie?’ Sydelle Pearl: ‘ Wordwings’. Donald C. Thompson: ‘Brain Cramps from My Balcony’. Noretta Willig: ‘Carl's Story’.”

Author Talk, “Baz Dreisinger”, Tuesday, May 8, 8PM-9:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free RSVP: http://www.alphabetcity.org/events/baz-dreisinger/ “Beginning in Africa and ending in Europe, Incarceration Nations is a first-person odyssey through the prison systems of the world. Professor, journalist, and founder of the Prison-to-College-Pipeline, Dreisinger looks into the human stories of incarcerated men and women and those who imprison them, creating a jarring, poignant view of a world to which most are denied access, and a rethinking of one of America’s most far-reaching global exports: the modern prison complex. From serving as a restorative justice facilitator in a notorious South African prison and working with genocide survivors in Rwanda, to launching a creative writing class in an overcrowded Ugandan prison and coordinating a drama workshop for women prisoners in Thailand, Dreisinger examines the world behind bars with equal parts empathy and intellect. She journeys to Jamaica to visit a prison music program, to Singapore to learn about approaches to prisoner reentry, to Australia to grapple with the bottom line of private prisons, to a federal supermax in Brazil to confront the horrors of solitary confinement, and finally to the so-called model prisons of Norway. Incarceration Nations concludes with climactic lessons about the past, present, and future of justice.”

V-E Day Celebration”, Tuesday, May 8, 12PM-4PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. “Mr. Robert Buckler donated an amazing WW2 plaque commemorating the Glenshaw/Shaler Area Home front. Join us as we honor what this plaque means to our community and remember those who served on the Home front during the war. The Glass City Swing Band will perform classic hits from the 40's and members of the VFW 9199 will be here, too. Enjoy snacks, book displays, share memories and bring your WW2 items to share with others! More importantly, what do you remember about the Glenshaw/Shaler Area war bond drive that raised funds for an aircraft rescue boat? Let us know! No registration required.”

Anime Club”, Tuesday, May 8 and Tuesday, May 22, 3:30PM-5PM, 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.”

Meet Author Peter Stark”, Tuesday, May 8, 6:30PM, Riverstone Books, 8850 Covenant Ave., Pittsburgh; and Wednesday, May 9, 7PM-8:30PM, Oakmont Library. “Please join us in welcome author Peter Stark for a book signing and discussion of his new book, Young Washington. George Washington is lionized as wise and virtuous, the indispensable Founding Father. Yet, as New York Times bestselling author Peter Stark explores in his incisive new book, ‘Young Washington: How Wilderness and War Forged America’s Founding Father’. Washington in his youth was immature, arrogant and prone to disastrous mistakes. His impulsive actions as a flailing commander serving the British Crown in the Pennsylvania wilderness ignited the French and Indian War, which in turn helped spark the American Revolution. Stark tells a gripping adventure story about Washington’s struggling early years so at odds with his popular image, while showing how Washington’s passage through the wilderness laid the groundwork for the great leader he would become. George Washington at twenty-one was a very different Washington from the one we know and hold sacred,” Stark writes. Contrary to the Washington of the cherry-tree bedtime story, the real young Washington was “ambitious, temperamental, vain, thin-skinned, petulant, awkward, demanding, stubborn, annoying, hasty and passionate. This Washington has not yet learned to cultivate his image or contain his emotions. Here, instead, is a raw young man struggling toward maturity and in love with a close friend’s wife. This is the Washington of emotional neediness, personal ambition, and mistakes—many mistakes.” In ‘Young Washington’, Stark takes us into Washington’s head and helps us understand what drove Washington: how he fumbled into and found his way out of multiple crises and how these experiences helped forge the wise, empathetic leader he became.”

Mystery Book Group”, Tuesday, May 8, 7PM-9PM, Sewickley Library. “The Mystery Book Group meets informally on the second Tuesday of the month for an open discussion of each selected title and author. New members are always welcome. You are invited to attend one particular evening or to join us for the series. Please see a Reference Librarian to request a copy of this month's book, ‘Never Buried’ by Edie Claire.”

Slovak Cooking Demonstration”, Tuesday, May 8, 6:30PM-8PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/S/SHALER/ekp.cfm “Otilia Golis a native from Kosice, eastern Slovakia, shares her heritage through cooking with the Pittsburgh community! Join Otilia this fall as she demonstrates scrumptious recipes. Due to food costs, we are requesting a $2 donation per class. Registration is required. Visit Otilia’s Facebook page, Slovak Homemade Cakes, where she shares various authentic Slovak masterpieces from her kitchen with anyone interested in treating their taste buds to authentic Slovak cuisine.”

Backyard Composting”, May 9, 17, 19, 22 and 30, various locations. $70 per person or $75 per couple, which includes an 82-gallon bin. Preregistration required; register online: http://prc.org/programs/conservation-workshops/backyard/ The May 17th workshop also covers keeping your garden safe from native wild animals. “Not sure what to do with your kitchen, garden and yard scraps? Would you like natural, home-made compost for your lawns and gardens in the spring? Then expand your recycling efforts to include kitchen scraps and yard debris by signing up for a Backyard Composting Workshop and turn your yard waste and food scraps into a valuable resource for your garden. This PA Resources Council workshop thoroughly covers the importance and benefits of composting, the process, setting up a compost pile, proper maintenance, and ways of using finished compost. Participants will receive a FreeGarden EARTH compost bin with attendance. This bin is an ideal bin for urban and suburban areas and has an 82-gallon capacity.”

Concert, “Roger Humphries and RH Factor”, Wednesday, May 9, 8PM-10PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free RSVP: http://www.alphabetcity.org/events/roger-humphries-rh-factor-2/ “Join us for an evening of jazz with local legend Roger Humphries and his band! Roger Humphries is rated by music critics as one of the most exciting percussionists in the business. He has provided the rhythmic beat for such greats as Ray Charles, Horace Silver, Richard “Groove” Holmes, Stanley Turrentine, James Moody, Lee Morgan, Dr. Billy Taylor, Benny Green, Lionel Hampton, Coleman Hawkins, Clark Terry, J.J. Johnson, Dizzy Gillespie, George Benson, Jon Faddis, Slide Hampton, Randy Brecker, Joe Williams, Milton Jackson, Jimmy Smith, Jimmy Witherspoon, Nathan Davis, Pete Henderson, Don Patterson, Gene Harris, Grant Green, George Harris, Freddie Hubbard, Bill Dogget, Jack McDuff, and a list of great musicians that goes on and on and on. With various groups, Roger Humphries has performed at Carnegie Music Hall, the Village Gate and the Apollo Theatre in New York. He has also played at the Bohemian Caverns and Shelly Manne’s Manhole in Los Angeles; the Penthouse in Seattle, Wash.; Pep’s Lounge and Showboat, Philadelphia; the Jazz Workshop, Boston; Ronny Scott’s in London, and many other places.”

Workshop – Music and Recording for Teens”, Wednesday, May 9, 3PM-5:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Teenspace, 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! Make something cool! Learn to use digital technology and traditional tools. Materials and equipment will be provided, but you may also bring your own. The Labs is open to teens ages 11-19 or students in grades 6 to 12.”

Mystery Book Club”, Wednesday, May 9, and Wednesday, May 16, 10AM, Bethel Park Library. http://bethelparklibrarybookclubs.blogspot.com

Cooking Club: Banana Pudding”, Wednesday, May 9, 5:30PM-6:30PM, Scott Township Library Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/S/SCOTTTWP/ekp.cfm?curOrg=SCOTTTWP#5473802 “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. his month we'll be trying out Magnolia Bakery's famous Banana Pudding recipe. This indulgent dessert is guaranteed to please!”

Tea and Mysteries Book Club”, Wednesday, May 9, 1PM-2PM, South Park Township Library. May’s book is “Where the Dead Lie” by C.S. Harris.

Creek Critters”, Wednesday, May 9, 4:30PM-6:30PM, Irwin Run, Jackson and Irwin Rd., Gibsonia. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/event/creek-critters/ “Join our trained education team as we wade into the waters that flow through our greenspaces in search of the macroinvertebrates or “creek critters” that call these waters home. Great for families and community groups. We will be getting wet to varying degrees and closed-toe shoes are required. All programs run for two hours and are held rain or shine.”

“Meet, Play, Learn: Dungeons and Dragons”, Wednesday, May 9, 5PM- 8PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Come play Dungeons and Dragons at the library! Bring a character and some dice or just your imagination. All experience levels are welcome. Please register beforehand by emailing Wren at mcgalliardw@carnegielibrary.org. Indicate your experience as a player, so that we can assign you to an appropriate table. If you are interested in learning how to be a Dungeon Master, let us know and we can help you run a game at this event.”

Painting in the Park”, Wednesday, May 9, 6PM-8PM, Butler County Parks and Recreation, 184 Alameda Park Rd., Butler. Ages 12 and up. $30 per canvas. Preregistration required; call 724-284-5383. “Join Butler County Parks and Recreation as we bring back a fan favorite of Painting in the Park! Don't know how to paint? Don't worry about that, our instructor Sandra will be with you every step of the way as we break it down to make a masterpiece something anyone can paint. Ages 12 years of age or older permitted. Must have 8 painters registered for this class to run.” http://www.co.butler.pa.us/Parks-and-Rec-programs

Mother’s Day Wildflower Walk”, Thursday, May 10, 6PM-8PM, Forbes State Forest. Free. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201.” Treat mom to a night out on the trail, featuring spring’s colorful blooms. This easy to moderate, 2 mile hike will showcase spring’s beautiful wildflowers and discuss the folklore surrounding many of these unique plants.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/mothers_day_wildflower_walk_8082

Screening, “Mother of George”, Thursday, May 10, 7PM-9PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free RSVP: http://www.alphabetcity.org/events/sembene-film-festival-mother-of-george/ Movie is R rated. “A stunningly imagined account of African immigrant life in present-day Brooklyn, Mother of George is a film with a visual manner so unusual it and forcefully elaborated. Style and story unite to create a singularly mesmerizing look at a culture within a culture. Adenike and Ayodele (played by the Black Panther star Danai Gurira, and veteran actor Isaach De Bankolé) are a Nigerian couple living in Brooklyn. Following the joyous celebration of their wedding, complications arise out of their inability to conceive a child -­‐ a problem that devastates their family and defies cultural expectations, leading Adenike to make a shocking decision that could either save her family or destroy it. Acclaimed director Andrew Dosumnu (Restless City) captures the nuances of this unique and fascinating culture by creating a beautiful, vibrant, and moving portrait of a couple whose joys and struggles are at once intimate and universal.” Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EF7IPYNElKA

The Rapido River Crossing of January 1944”, Thursday, May 10, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall, 4141 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. “Spotlight On…the Rapido River Crossing of January 1944 in the Anzio/Monte Cassino Campaign (Italy) of World War II. Meet our special guest Albert DeFazio from Verona, a veteran of the 36th Infantry Division who was part of the assault crossing. Learn why this battle was the focus of a Congressional investigation after the war. Mr. DeFazio’s 143rd Regiment assault will be on display as a 1/72 scale (1″ tall) miniature game; guests can watch or even participate in this historic battle.” https://soldiersandsailorshall.org/event/spotlight-rapido-river-crossing-january-1944/ http://www.post-gazette.com/local/region/2017/08/27/Soldier-penn-hills-pittsburgh-italy-albert-defazio-remember-WWII-battle-of-Monte-Cassino/stories/201708270063

Pennsylvania Association of Numismatists Spring Coin Show”, Thursday, May 10, 12PM-6PM; Friday, May 11, 10AM-6PM; and Saturday, May 12, 10AM-5PM, Monroeville Convention Center, 209 Mall Blvd., Monroeville. Free admission and parking. “Largest in PA- 120 dealers.” Details here: https://pancoins.org

Teen Anime Club”, Thursday, May 10, 4PM-5:30PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. Grades 7-12. “Snacks, anime, and discussion!”

Teen Gender and Sexuality Alliance”, Thursday, May 10, and Thursday, May 24, 5PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland; and Tuesday, May 15, 6PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Beechview. “The Teen Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) is a place where you can be yourself! We’re a group of LGBTQIA teens and allies who are having fun, being supportive, learning about local resources, and striving to make our community stronger.”

Carl’s Story”, Thursday, May 10, 7PM-8:30PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ptlibrary.org/event/carls-story/ “Carl Willig died at the Battle of St. Mihiel on September 16, 1918, the last day of America’s first solo victory on European soil. Fifty-six days before the Great War ended and thirty minutes before his replacement arrived, a high impact shell struck and instantly killed Carl. In what we now call the ‘fog of war,’ Carl was lost, listed among the 284 ‘missing.’ As years went by, he was almost forgotten. But, on November 10, 2008, Noretta’s phone rang and a genealogist working for the Army identified her as Carl’s next of kin. Ninety years after his death, Carl’s story begins again. Noretta reveals the mystery of Carl’s identification. She traces his eventual journey home to be met at Pittsburgh International Airport by the 316th Sustainment Command and finally laid to rest with full military honors at Versailles Cemetery on June 19, 2009. Noretta then takes us back to the place where Carl fell in a woods in France. A graduate of Ohio University with a Master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh, Noretta began her career in journalism as an editor with PPG Industries. Later she taught American and European literature in a local high school. She has traveled throughout the 50 states and to many foreign countries, including the battlefields of France. Signed copies of the book will be available at special event pricing. The soft cover will be sold for $15, and the hardback version will be sold for $20. All profits from the sales will go to an injured US Army veteran in need.”

Spring Night Paddle and Campout”, Friday, May 11, 7PM, Raccoon Creek State Park, 3000 State Route 18, Hookstown. Free. BYO kayak or canoe + camping gear. Preregistration required; register online: http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/spring_night_paddle_and_campout_2479 “How does a night paddle and campout on the beach sound? We'll also throw in a campfire and some star gazing to finish out the evening. This program is limited to 20 participants, and you must have your own kayak or canoe and necessary tent camping equipment. Registration is required for this free program. For questions, contact Patrick Adams at paadams@pa.gov or call 724-899-3611. This program starts at 7PM on Friday and concludes on 9AM Saturday.”

New Local Author Night”, Friday, May 11, 7PM, Barnes and Noble Waterfront, 100 W. Bridge St., Homestead. “Please join local authors Yasmin Brown, Mark Craven, Linda Hoffman, Sharise Johnson-Moore, and Pastor Randy Pitts as they promote and sign their books.”

Basic Circuitry and Soldering 101”, Friday, May 11, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to solder a basic LED circuit at Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center. This introductory class is required in order to use the electronics equipment and soldering irons during and 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.”

Strange Aspects of the Elusive Bigfoot”, Sunday, May 12, 1PM, Greensburg-Hempfield Area Library, Greensburg. Preregistration required; register online online. “Since the 1960’s sightings of Bigfoot have been spotted yearly in Pennsylvania and across the country. Join Stan Gordon (presenter, author, and investigator of strange events) to hear about the latest Bigfoot encounters, mysterious cases and other creature sightings.”

Dr. Barry Kerzin - No Fear, No Death: The Transformative Power of Compassion”, Saturday, May 12, 10:15AM, Barnes and Noble Waterfront, 100 W. Bridge St., Homestead. “Dr. Barry Kerzin will be here as part of his UPMC tour. Please join Dr. Kerzin, PCP of the Dali Lama, for a special book signing. No Fear – No Death brings modern medical science and secular ethics together providing essential teachings for living a life of happiness, compassion, and service. This small book contains rich ideas and simple suggestions on living and dying well.” https://humanvaluesinstitute.org/about/dr-barry-kerzin/

World Migratory Bird Day”, Saturday, May 12, 6AM-12PM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events “On May 12th, come to the Frick Environmental Center to engage your larger-than-bird brain and celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy and Carnegie Museum of Natural History. We will have a variety of activities for learners of all ages, from fledgling to adult, that teach ways to appreciate and help birds in our backyards including: bird banding with researchers; guided walks with local bird experts at 6:30am, 8:30am, and 9:30am (9:30 walk geared towards families with children and teenage youth); information about ways you can contribute to citizen science and bird conservation; build-your-own window treatments to reduce collisions at your home or workplace; and a variety of arts, crafts, and other fun bird activities TBA (check back for updates as we approach May!)”

Scones: Origins, Science and Styles”, Saturday, May 12, 12PM-2PM, Chatham University, Eden Hall Campus, Lodge Kitchen, 6035 Ridge Rd., Gibsonia. $50. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.chatham.edu/events/details.cfm?eventID=22171 “In this class, we will discuss the origins, science and different styles of scones. We will make a variety of scones using different techniques and recipes, and taste the finished products side by side to compare and enjoy the variations! We’ll also discuss how to use ingredients you have on hand to create a variety of unique flavor combinations to make these recipes your own.”

Musical Migrants and Citizen Science”, Saturday, May 12, 9AM-11AM, Ryerson Station State Park, 361 Bristoria Rd., Wind Ridge, meeting at Pavilion 2 in the Day Use Area. Free. “Ryerson Station SP is alive with birdsong this time of year! Join the park naturalist on a walk and learn how to identify different species by sight and sound. Then learn how to create a free account and contribute your data to a scientific database. Beginners and experienced birders are welcome. Bring a pair of binoculars or borrow one of ours. Meet at Pavilion 2 in the Day Use Area.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/musical_migrants_citizen_science

Mother’s Day Weekend at Vessel Glass Studio”, Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13, Vessel Glass Studio, 117 South 16th St., Pittsburgh. “Bring your mom to Vessel Studio to make your very own glass heart paperweight! You choose the colors and work side by side with an instructor to make the perfect Mother's Day gift! $45 per person, approx. 25 minutes per person.” https://vesselstudio.net/classes/

“Play by the Fire”, Saturday, May 12. 6PM-9PM, Pittsburgh Glass Center, 5472 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Ages 13-18. $5; pay at door or preregister online: https://www.pittsburghglasscenter.org/calendar/2018/5/12/play-by-the-fire “Annual teen art night. Eat furnace-fired pizza and s’mores. Make art with many local organizations. Dance and have some fun!”

Twitter in the Trees”, Sunday, May 12, 8AM-10AM, Wingfield Pines Conservation Area, 1560 Mayview Rd, Pittsburgh. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/event/twitter-in-the-trees-2/ “Listen to the sounds of the meadows and wetlands as we venture into Wingfield Pines to count the wide variety of birds that call these unique habitats home. Become a citizen scientist; no experience or equipment needed. Stay afterwards and continue to bird with us as part of the Pittsburgh South Hills Bird Circle and the Migratory Bird Count! Bring a pair of binoculars and your favorite bird guide. We will have binoculars and guides available as well.”

Fungus Among Us”, Saturday, May 12, 10AM-12PM, Devil’s Hollow, 193 Sevin Rd., Sewickley. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/event/fungus-among-us/ “Ever wonder what that mushroom is growing in your yard? Join our education team and the Western PA Mushroom Club experts as we hike Devil's Hollow in search of the myriad of fungus species that can be found. Wear good hiking shoes and bring a camera and your favorite field guide if you have them. Please keep in mind that although we will be collecting specimens for educational purposes we will not be harvesting for food. Programs run for 2 hours, rain or shine, and are held twice a year.”

Carnegie Walking Tour”, Saturday, May 12, 2PM-3:30PM, $10 for members of the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, or $35 for nonmembers which includes a 1-year membership. Preregistration required; contact marylu@phlf.org or 412-471-5808, ext. 527. “Carnegie is located approximately seven miles west of Pittsburgh and ten miles east of the Pittsburgh International Airport. Now considered a suburb of Pittsburgh, the Allegheny County borough often makes news headlines because of the special events at the recently restored Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall and the impressive selection of restaurants and shops along Main Street. Historically, though, from 1890 to 1960, Carnegie was a commercial center for the surrounding farming villages and coal-mining camp towns such as Moon Run, Imperial, Oakdale, Kirwan Heights, Sygan, Cecil, and Muse. Explore the Main Street area with docents from PHLF and hear about the community’s resurgence, as well as the early settlers, the notable residents (including baseball hero Honus Wagner), the mills, railroads, commerce, floods, and library––the only one of several thousand permitted to use Andrew’s first and last name.” Details here: http://phlf.org/event/carnegie-walking-tour/

International Migratory Bird Day Celebration”, Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13, 8AM-10AM, Succop Nature Park, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve and Todd Nature Reserve. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events “International Migratory Bird Day is celebrated each spring across the United States and Canada. This special event recognizes the movement of nearly 350 species of birds from their wintering grounds in South America, Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean to nesting habitats in North America. Come learn about the importance of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act that has helped conserve birds as well as their life cycles that span borders.”

Bridgeville Area Historical Society visits CLP-West End”, Saturday, May 12, 2PM-3PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End. “A representative from the group will discuss the operations of the historical society, their collections and exhibits. The Bridgeville Area Historical Society was started in 1999 by a local group of Bridgeville residents interested in preserving the history of the town of Bridgeville and some of the surrounding areas. Today, the organization is still volunteer run by 18 or 20 great people who take care of all the tasks of running the society in its new location in the former Penn Central Railroad Station/Bridgeville Public Library building. The mission of the Bridgeville Area Historical Society is to acquire and preserve historical items, maps, pictures, family and business histories and any items of relevant historical value. This includes all kinds of items and memorabilia pertaining to Bridgeville and its surrounding communities.”

Butter Making with Kristina”, Saturday, May 12, 2:30PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Downtown and Business Branch. “Join us for an afternoon of butter making! All are welcome. 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.”

Bird Hike (International Migratory Bird Day)”, Sunday, May 13, 8AM-10AM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Contact Station. Free. “These amazing creatures have adapted to life in the air. Learn about their Natural History and why Ohiopyle State Park has been designated as an Important Migratory Birding Area. The varied habitats of the Sproul Fields and the Beech Loop provide great birding opportunities. These hikes are roughly two hours over rolling terrain.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/bird_hike_international_migratory_bird_day_212

An In-depth Introduction to Honey Bees”, Sunday, May 13, 2PM, Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector. Free. “Honey bees are an important part of our lives. They pollinate many flowers, help with fruit production, and of course make honey! So much more than a stinging insect, honey bees should be loved by all. Join local beekeeper Brian Grindle for an exploration into the lives of these beneficial creatures. After the lecture, we will head outside to look for some honey bees in the gardens of Powdermill.” https://carnegiemnh.org/visitor/powdermill-nature-reserve/

Mother’s Day at the History Center”, Sunday, May 13, 10AM-5PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. “50% off regular admission for all moms and a special discount in the Museum Shop! Plus, take advantage of a series of exclusive Mother’s Day tours throughout the day, including family-friendly experiences in ‘Pittsburgh’s Attic’ and the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum.” http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/mothers-day-history-center

DNA Successes with Lara Diamond”, Sunday, May 13, 11AM-1PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free with admission (see Mother’s Day special). Preregistration required; register online: http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/jewish-geneaology-with-lara-diamond “The Jewish Genealogy Society of Pittsburgh and the Rauh Jewish History Program and Archives welcome noted genealogist Lara Diamond, who will discuss the complications of genetic genealogy within endogamous populations. Diamond is president of the Jewish Genealogy Society of Maryland, leads JewishGen’s Subcarpathian SIG and sits on JewishGen’s Ukraine SIG’s board of directors. She also runs multiple district-and town-focused projects to collect documentation to assist all those researching ancestors from common towns. The program will begin at 11 a.m. with a brief Q/A session with the Jewish Genealogy Society about general research questions. Lara Diamond’s presentation will begin at 11:30 a.m.”

Jr. Students Active for Environment Club (SAFE)”, Monday, May 14, 3:15PM-5PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Grades 4-8. “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.”

Geologic History Stroll”, Monday, May 14, 1PM, Keystone State Park, Kell Visitor Center, 1150 Keystone Park Rd., Derry. Free. “Pennsylvania has seen major changes over the course of billions of years. Looking at a geologic time scale often doesn't give us a true understanding of how much time it took for many of those changes to occur. The Geologic History Stroll will allow us to spatially see how much time passed between major changes in geologic history by walking a certain distance for each eon, era, and epoch. Meet the park naturalist at the Kell Visitor Center at 1PM. The walk will take place on an as yet to be determined distance of Lakeside Trail.”

Why Declaring Jerusalem as Capital of Israel Is Controversial”, Tuesday, May 15, 7PM-8:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A, Pittsburgh. “Join Samuel Kayam for a historical review of the city of Jerusalem and its importance to the three monotheistic religions. He’ll also discuss Jerusalem in modern times as well as international milestones concerning sovereignty on the city and its holy places. Samuel Kayam was born in Israel and raised in the northern city of Haifa. He completed his Bachelor of Science degree in engineering in Haifa, Israel and served in the Israeli army for six years. He continued his science and engineering education in The City University of New York and Columbia University. He worked as an engineering manager in the steel industry. Currently retired, he works as an adjunct faculty professor at CCAC teaching physics.”

Pine Box Trail Hike”, Tuesday, May 15, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Ryerson Station State Park, meeting at the parking lot at the intersection of Bristoria and Riggs Roads, Wind Ridge. Free. “Go for a hike on Pine Box Trail with park naturalist Andy Lariviere. Along the way stop at Chess Cemetery to talk about this historic landmark. We will cover about 1.5 miles with moderate hills.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/pine_box_trail_hike

Mystery Readers Book Club”, Tuesday, May 15, 7PM-9PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh. “This group reads selections from a wide variety of mystery genres. May’s book is ‘Lost Girls’ by Heather Young. A stunning debut novel that examines the price of loyalty, the burden of regret, the meaning of salvation, and the sacrifices we make for those we love, told in the voices of two unforgettable women linked by a decades-old family mystery at a picturesque lake house.”

Genre Book Club”, Wednesday, May 16, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Squirrel Hill. “Step out of your reading comfort zone! Each month Genre Book Club reads a book in a different genre and meets for a lively discussion. In May, the group will explore the genre of historical fiction by discussing ’The Buddha in the Attic’ by Julie Otsuka.” http://www.julieotsuka.com/the-buddha-in-the-attic/

Introduction to Disc Golf”, Wednesday, May 16, 7PM-8:30PM, Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. Free and open to the public. “Did you know that Moraine is home to a world class championship level disc golf course? Or that in 2015, Slippery Rock and Moraine hosted the disc golf world championship games? Professional disc golf player and Vice-Chairperson of Pittsburgh Flying Disc, Chris Lachendro, will present a program describing the history and basic rules of the sport. This program is perfect for both beginners and experienced players, as well as anyone who has ever wanted to learn more about this wildly popular and accessible sport.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/3mjc_meeting_-_introduction_to_disc_golf

Screening, “The Messenger”, Wednesday, May 16, 7PM, Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector. Free. “The Messenger is an artful investigation into the causes of songbird mass depletion and the compassionate people who are working to turn the tide. The film takes viewers on a visually stunning journey revealing how the problems facing birds also pose daunting implications for our planet and ourselves. Please note this is a documentary containing emotional footage that may not be suitable for some viewers.” https://carnegiemnh.org/visitor/powdermill-nature-reserve/ Trailer here: http://songbirdsos.com/portfolio/official-film-trailer/

Generations Speaker Series: Paul and James Guggenheimer”, Wednesday, May 16, 6:30PM, Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh, 826 Hazelwood Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://hcofpgh.org/events/ “The Generations Speaker Series continues with local actor and radio personality Paul Guggenheimer speaking alongside his father, Dr. James Guggenheimer. Dr. Guggenheimer, a Professor at the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Dental Medicine, will speak about his experience as a child refugee. This event is free and open to the public, and will also be livestreamed.”

An Ayurvedic View of Stress”, Thursday, May 17, 7PM-9PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A, Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “Did you know that everybody requires different ways to manage stress? What might work for one person could aggravate another. Learn practical tools for diffusing stress in your body type according to Ayurveda. Ayurveda provides specific lifestyle, dietary, herbal, and yogic strategies for individuals that can both diffuse tension and also help build a strong foundation to combat stress. This will be a GENTLE movement and practice-based class. Attendees can bring their own yoga mats or use a provided chair for this session. Attendees may also wish to bring a notepad to take notes during the class.”

Intel International Science and Engineering Fair 2018 Public Day”, Thursday, May 17, 9AM- 9PM, David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh. “The Intel International Science and Engineering Fair is an annual gathering of more the 1,800 brilliant high school students showcasing their inventions and independent research at a competition with prizes consisting of $4 million. Middle and high schools from Pennsylvania (grades 6-12) are invited to participate in the Intel ISEF Education Outreach Program during Public Day on Thursday, May 17, 2018 for a hands-on, interactive day celebrating science. School groups and the public are invited to visit the Intel ISEF Finalist Hall, where they will meet the finalists and learn more about their independent research in 22 STEM fields. Local students will have the opportunity to learn about groundbreaking research performed by their peers from around the world.” https://student.societyforscience.org/intel-isef-2018-public-day

From Pittsburgh to a U.S. Embassy: Employment Opportunities at the State Department”, Thursday, May 17, 10AM-1PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Downtown and Business Branch. “The U.S. Department of State is dedicated to protecting and strengthening America’s interests abroad and right here at home. So whether providing healthcare services to U.S. diplomats and their families abroad, explaining U.S. foreign policy to citizens of other countries, or helping U.S. farmers open up markets in emerging countries, you can make a difference with the U.S. Department of State. This open house is designed to raise awareness about the Department and its careers, and offers the opportunity for those interested (or who just want to learn more) to meet directly with Foreign Service Officers and Specialists and Civil Service professionals who work on the business of diplomacy each and every day, in the U.S. and abroad. Attendees will learn more about careers, the selection and hiring processes, and the issues on which our work impacts the American public.”

Elizabeth Williams visits the West Pittsburgh History Club”, Thursday, May 17, 11AM-12:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End. “When the whole of Europe went to war in 1914, Pittsburgh watched the storm clouds gather at home. Pittsburgh was a city of immigrants–the large Polish community urged leaders to join the side of the Allies, while German immigrants supported the Central powers. By the time the country entered World War I in 1917, Pittsburghers threw their support into the war effort united as Americans. With over 250 mills and factories, the Steel City and Allegheny County produced half of the steel and much of the munitions used by the Allies. Pittsburgh gave more than steel–sixty thousand men went to war, and women flocked to the front lines as nurses. One of the first gas masks on the western front was developed at the Mellon Institute, while the city’s large Red Cross provided tireless support on the homefront. Historian Elizabeth Williams traces the remarkable story of Pittsburgh during the Great War. Author of Pittsburgh in World War I: Arsenal of the Allies’, Elizabeth Williams, will visit the West Pittsburgh History Club to present her work and the research that went into it.”

New and Noted: Elizabeth Rosner”, Thursday, May 17, 7PM-8PM, Carnegie Main Library Lecture Hall, Oakland. “Tickets are required to attend this event. Tickets are $10 each. Tickets can be purchased over the phone at 412.622.8866, online, or at the door starting at 6 pm on the evening of the event.” https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/new-noted-elizabeth-rosner/ “Award-winning novelist, poet, and essayist Elizabeth Rosner explores intergenerational trauma and memory in her critically acclaimed new book Survivor Café: The Legacy of Trauma and the Labyrinth of Memory. As survivors of many of the twentieth century’s most monumental events—the Holocaust, Hiroshima, the Killing Fields—begin to pass away, Survivor Café addresses urgent questions: How do we carry those stories forward? How do we collectively ensure that the horrors of the past are not forgotten? The daughter of Holocaust survivors, Rosner explores the echoes of similar legacies among descendants of African American slaves, descendants of Cambodian survivors of the Killing Fields, descendants of survivors of the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and the effects of 9/11 on the general population. Examining current brain research, Rosner depicts the efforts to understand the inheritance of trauma, as well as the intricacies of remembrance in the aftermath of atrocity. A book signing will follow the lecture. A selection of Ms. Rosner’s books will be available for sale from Classic Lines.”

Remake Learning Days”, Thursday, May 17 through Friday, May 25. “What is Remake Learning Days? Remake Learning Days is about giving you the opportunity to experience the future of learning, right here in the Pittsburgh region. The members of the Remake Learning Network create future-ready, hands-on, relevant and engaging educational experiences for kids and their families, caregivers and educators in greater Pittsburgh, West Virginia, and beyond. Join us for Remake Learning Days, May 17-25, 2018. It’s a celebration of activities and events showcasing everything that makes the greater Pittsburgh and West Virginia region a recognized national leader in innovative teaching and learning. Check out the Schedule to explore events. Find learning events at schools, museums, libraries, afterschool centers, universities, media centers, tech startups, and more, which are free and open for you to explore. No matter where you live in southwest Pennsylvania or West Virginia, you’ll find an event near you.” https://remakelearningdays.org/

Mystery Lovers Book Group”, Thursday, May 17, 7PM-9PM, Northland Library, Pittsburgh. “This month our Mystery Lovers Group will be reading ‘The Lonely Silver Rain’ by John D. MacDonald. Searching for a wealthy friend's yacht, Travis McGee puts himself square in the center of the international cocaine trade and finds himself the target of some of the most ruthless villains he's ever met. For June, the group will be reading ‘The Bone Collector’ by Jeffrey Deaver. If you enjoy reading and discussing good mysteries, join us each month. No registration is required.”

Red Herring Book Club: Mystery Book Discussion Group”, Friday, May 18, 1PM-2PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Join us for lively discussions of your favorite mystery novels. Discussions are free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. We usually have copies of the current month’s book available for you to check out at the Ask a Librarian desk on the First Floor. Discussions are held in the Graphic Novels Room on the First Floor of the Main Library on the third Friday of the month at 1 p.m. This book group meets monthly from March through November. The theme for March through June 2018 is Female Sleuths. May’s book selection is Savannah Blues by Mary Kay Andrews — Eloise ‘Weezie’ Foley has started up her own antique business after bitterly divorcing her husband, blue -blooded Talmadge Evans III. Her new independence has one serious crimp–she’s living in the carriage house in his backyard, and he’s now living with his beautiful new girlfriend, Caroline DeSantos. Their hilarious if hostile feuding only ends when Weezie breaks into an abandoned plantation house to get an advance look at an estate sale. What she finds is Caroline, dead in the bathroom closet; soon Weezie has become the prime suspect in her death.”

A New Brain”, Friday, May 18 through Sunday, May 27, New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square East, Pittsburgh. Tickets: http://newhazletttheater.org “A New Brain is a joyful and touching musical about making the most out of life. When a neurotic, frustrated composer is confronted with a life-threatening medical challenge, he finds comfort and healing in his craft, friends, and strangers. This enthralling and eccentric musical is Tony Award-winning creator William Finn’s semi-autobiographical account of his battle for life and health and finding the healing power of music.”

Evening With the Frogs”, Friday, May 18, 7PM, Succop Nature Park and Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. $6, or $4 for members. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events “Frogs and toads play an important role, serving as both prey and predator, in wetland ecosystems and are considered indicators of environmental health. Come learn about our fascinating local frog species and their sounds, then head down to the pond after sunset to listen.”

Signs of Spring Hikes”, Friday, May 18, and Monday, May 21, 11AM and 6PM, Latodami Nature Center, North Park. Free. Ages 5 and up. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search “Join Assistant Naturalist Matt Trudeau for a great signs of spring nature adventure. Dress well for outdoor activity.”

Laser Cutting 101”, Friday, May 18, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.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.”

Star Parties”, Friday, May 18 and Saturday, May 19, Nicholas E. Wagman Observatory, Deer Lakes Regional Park, Russellton; and Mingo Creek Park Observatory. Lots of details here: https://3ap.org/resources/star-parties/ “What is a star party? Take a whole bunch of friendly, intelligent, telescope-toting amateur astronomers; anxious to share their hobby, put them in a large open meadow at the top of a gentle hill with excellent views to all horizons, add two large permanent telescopes, and invite the public. Many visitors bring their own telescopes to get help with “setting up” or operation. Many bring binoculars, and many just use their own eyes. There is always a telescope with a wonderful view of some celestial treasure just waiting for a novice eye to enjoy. The AAAP members are happy to answer questions about astronomy, buying a telescope, or protecting our dark sky resource (actually you may have a hard time getting some of the members to quit talking once you get them started). Several times throughout the evening an AAAP member will give a “guided tour” of the sky – an introduction to the constellations and brighter stars. The two large permanent telescopes at each observatory are open as well with an AAAP member at each to answer questions, adjust the telescope, and keep people from toppling off the viewing ladders. There are also displays within the observatory’s “warm-up” room covering a wide variety of subjects of interest to amateur astronomers, and the science of astronomy in general. Star Parties are usually scheduled around the time of the first quarter moon; that way very nice high contrast views of the craters and mountains of the moon can be seen, but the moon still sets early enough that good views of deep sky objects such as nebulae, clusters, and galaxies become available. The positions of the planets vary from month to month, but there is always something interesting to observe.”

Life with a Shawnee Family”, Saturday, May 19, 10AM-5PM, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, 401 Meadowcroft Rd., Avella. Free with regular admission. “Learn about the Shawnee people who once inhabited Western Pennsylvania’s hills and forests. A visiting Shawnee family will demonstrate the daily life skills crucial to their 18th century ancestors.” http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/life-with-a-shawnee-family

4th Annual Pennsylvania Polka Festival”, Saturday, May 19, 12PM-8PM, and Sunday, May 20, 10AM-6PM, Monroeville Convention Center, 209 Mall Blvd., Monroeville. $10 ages 12 and up. Free parking. “Continuous music and dancing, ethnic foods and baked goods, beer, wine and cocktails, vendor marketplace, polka trivia and polka bingo, door prizes and more!” http://www.simoneventmanagement.com/content/exhibiting/page%202018%20polka%20festival.cfm

Pittsburgh Taco Festival”, Saturday, May 19, 12PM-3PM and 4PM-7PM, Highmark Stadium, 510 W. Station Square Dr., Pittsburgh, $10 admission. Live music and over 20 taco vendors. http://pghtacofest.com

Science Friday Live”, Saturday, May 19, 7:30PM, Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall, 510 E. 10th Ave., Homestead. $49. Tickets here: https://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/1652773?_ga=2.136811248.1990442691.1520020477-348925253.1520020476 “90.5 WESA presents Ira Flatow and the rest of the SciFri crew as they report on the amazing science news and stories happening right here in Pittsburgh. This is your chance to look behind the curtain of your favorite national radio show and participate in a special live event with the scientists and conversations you love. The event will be recorded for future broadcast on Science Friday.”

Spring Gas-Up”, Saturday, May 19 and Sunday, May 20, 9AM, Portersville Steam Show, 1512 Perry Hwy., Portersville, PA. $5 adults, free for kids 11 and under. “The Portersville Steam Show provides a large variety of activities for the whole family. A vintage village, saw mill, cider press, gas engines, oil field equipment, farm animals, train rides, steam engines, flea market, crafts, great food, kid's pedal tractor pulling, tractors, large traction engines, ice cream, tractor pulls, and steam building are some of the features you may enjoy. Antique cars, craft building, exhibit building, flea market, food, old tractors, train rides, vintage village, baker fan testing, equipment parades, gas engines, oil field engines, saw milling, steam building, steam engines, cross cut saw, working field, 1940s dragline display.” http://portersvillesteamshow.org/Spring_Gas-Up.php

Sheep and Fiber Fest”, Saturday, May 19 and Sunday, May 20, 10AM-5PM, Greene County Fairgrounds, 107 Fairgrounds Rd., Waynesburg. “Juried crafts and fiber vendors, spinning, weaving and shearing demos, fiber arts competitions, lamb cooking and sampling, dog shepherding, live breed pavilion, children’s activities and more!” http://www.waynesburgpa.org/Events/sheep.html

Shadyside Walking Tour”, Sunday, May 19, 2PM-3:30PM. $10 for members of the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, or $35 for nonmembers which includes a 1-year membership. Preregistration required; contact marylu@phlf.org or 412-471-5808, ext. 527. “Join PHLF docents on a walk through the western section of Shadyside, from the commercial heart along Walnut Street to grand residential streets––Westminster, Amberson, and Fifth––and rarely seen cul-de-sacs, including the County’s only known wooden street. You’ll hear about Walnut Street’s long and fascinating history, from a neighborhood shopping street in the late nineteenth century to a regional shopping-and-dining destination. And you’ll hear how Shadyside grew into an affluent suburb beginning in the 1860s with the arrival of the Pennsylvania railroad and later as a streetcar suburb. You’ll see a virtual museum of domestic architectural styles popular from the 1860s into the 1920s as you pass cottages, Queen Anne’s, and mansions.” Details here: http://phlf.org/event/shadyside-walking-tour-2/

Adulting 101: Beyond Ramen- Healthy, Easy Recipes”, Saturday, May 19, 11AM-12:15PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Ages 16-25. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ptlibrary.org/event/adulting-101-beyond-ramen-healthy-easy-recipes/ “Presenter: Jennifer Whirlow, Master Nutrition Therapist, Professional Chef, and Community Educator If you are tired of spending money eating out, want to feel better about the food you eat, or have no idea how to cook a meal, don’t miss this fun, hands-on cooking workshop created especially for young adults ages 16 to 25! Join Jen Whirlow for this practical workshop to help young people feel more comfortable in the kitchen. She’ll show us that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated using one pot, two burners and five ingredients. You will learn novice cooking skills, recommended basic kitchen equipment, meal planning and budgeting tips, and how to shop with a conscious. Refreshments provided.”

Hands-On Workshop: Bellydancing with Sourie Iskabah”, Saturday, May 19, 12PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Allegheny. “Learn a bit about the history of bellydancing, watch a dance demonstration, then get up and shimmy!”

Coolspring Power Museum Open Days”, Saturday, May 19 and Sunday, May 20, 10AM- 5PM, 179 Coolspring Rd., Coolspring. $7 adults, free for ages 11 and under. “Coolspring Power Museum presents an illuminating history of the evolution of internal combustion engine technology that put an end to the steam powered era. The museum's collection includes over 275 stationary engines housed in more than 35 buildings and outdoor displays. Stationary gas hit and miss engines, throttle governed engines, flame ignition engines, hot tube ignition engines, and hot air engines are all among the permanent exhibits at the Coolspring Power Museum in Coolspring, Pennsylvania. Engines in the museum's collection range in size from fractional horsepower up to 600 horsepower.” http://coolspringpowermuseum.org/index.htm

Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum Present: WWII Footlocker”, Saturday, May 19, 1PM-2PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh South Side. “Celebrate Armed Forces Day by experiencing what a WWII soldier kept in his footlocker. Learn what their daily life was like and what equipment they carried. Stories about the sacrifices of local veterans are also included in the presentation. This is an all ages event.”

Intro to Comedy Writing for Teens”, Saturday, May 19, 2PM-4PM, Sewickley Library. Preregistration required; library phone 412-741-6920. “Do you love COMEDY and IMPROV? Join Robin Hitchcock (Frankly Scarlet, Arcade Comedy Theater) for an introduction to comedy writing! Learn the basics of writing sketch comedy and what it takes to bring the funny on stage. FREE and open to all students in grades 6-12.”

Mushroom Walk at Mingo Creek”, Saturday, May 19, 10AM-1PM, Mingo Creek County Park, 1 Ebenezer Bridge Rd., Nottingham Township. “Meet Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club Identifier Jared White at Ebenezer Bridge in Mingo Creek County Park.” http://wpamushroomclub.org/events/mingo-creek-county-park-2/

Steel City Reptile Expo”, Saturday, May 19, 9AM-3PM, Printscape Arena, 114 Southpointe Blvd., Canonsburg. $6 ages 11 and up, $3 ages 3-10, free for ages 2 and under. “The Steel City Reptile Expo brings thousands of reptiles from dozens of top breeders to the IceoPlex at Southpointe six times a year. Join us to learn more about reptiles and amphibians through our live animal encounters, seminars, and free reptile petting zoo. Our Expo is the best place to buy reptiles, amphibians, and all the supplies you need direct from the experts at prices better than you will find anywhere else!” http://steelcityreptileexpo.com

Brilliant Corners: Brothers from Other Mothers”, Sunday, May 20, 2PM-4PM, The Heid House, 201 Center Ave., Aspinwall. “In this Sunday afternoon learning session led by jazz drummer Thomas Wendt from Lighthouse Arts, Inc., and music librarian Timothy Williams, we’ll explore how collaboration broke the color barrier in Jazz. Are you interested in jazz music and want to learn more? Join us for lively, informal gatherings where we will explore a variety of topics in jazz that will help you gain more listening enjoyment. No experience required!” https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/brilliant-corners-brothers-mothers/

Riverview Park Hike”, Sunday, May 20, 8:30AM-10AM, Riverview Park Visitor Center, 1 Riverview Ave., Pittsburgh. Free.” Join Park Ranger Schaefer and Naturalist Erica McGrath on a nature hike through Riverview Park. The hike begins at 8:30AM at the Riverview Park Visitor Center, (1 Riverview Avenue) and will return by 10AM. This hike is rain or shine. Weather-appropriate clothes and footwear with good tread are encouraged; bring your binoculars. No RSVP or registration is required.” https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events

Hike with a Naturalist: Wildflowers Spread in Wild Ways!”, Sunday, May 20, 1PM-3PM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events “Flowers are more than forest decorations - they are vital to a healthy and diverse ecosystem. Spring flowers provide food to a variety of animals, especially insects. Some flowers receive important services from the animals they feed - in exchange for food their seeds get carried to new places. Join Naturalist Educator Stephen Bucklin on a hike to identify some spring wildflowers and learn more about how they travel from place to place.”

Friendship Day”, Sunday, May 20, 1PM-4PM, Depreciation Lands Museum, 4743 S. Pioneer Rd, Allison Park. Free. Experience history in real life as you visit with costumed interpreters, musicians, and Colonial Craftsmen in our small pioneer village. Visit with craftsmen and sutlers (purveyors colonial goods) around the grounds, then stop in the school house to join the class and visit the village blacksmith. Don't forget to look into the Armstrong's cabin and stop by the Bee Hive Bake Oven to see what goodies Master Baker has made today. Experience the Music of the 18th and Early 19th centuries! Take time at 1:30pm to visit the Tavern for a free family friendly orchestra concert, presented by the Pittsburgh Historical Music Society Orchestra. These musicians are dedicated to performing historic music on period instruments. This year at 2:45pm and 3:30pm you will have the chance to hear the beautiful four-part singing performed by the Pittsburgh Shape Note singers, lead by Penny Anderson. Early 19th century Hymn books, such as the ‘Sacred Harp’ used notes in four different shapes to indicate the pitch to be sung for the hymn. Throughout the Museum grounds, you can visit the ‘locals’ and help with tasks as they carry on their daily activities. See you soon in the 18th Century!” http://www.depreciationlandsmuseum.org/upcoming.Friendship.shtml

Black Holes, Beakers, and Books: A Popular Science Book Discussion Group”, Sunday, May 20, 3:30PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Main Library, Director’s Conference Room, 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. May’s selection is ’The Hidden Life of Trees’ by Peter Wohlleben, a veteran German forester. Wohlleben believes trees have memories, talk to each other, and protect one another. He defends this anthropomorphizing of trees against what he considers soulless scientific language. Translated from the German, this book is the first in a trilogy by Wohlleben that also includes ‘The Inner Life of Animals’.”

Ultimate Play Day”, Sunday, May 20, 1PM-4PM, August Wilson Park, 1801 Cliff St., Pittsburgh. Free. “The Ultimate Play Day is a celebration of playfulness for people of all ages. Hosted by the Playful Pittsburgh Collaborative, the event is an opportunity for people from throughout the Pittsburgh region to play together and raise awareness of the benefits of play for everyone from birth to 199 years. This event is free to all! Registration for this event is not required.” Details here: http://www.playfulpittsburgh.org/ultimate-play-day

Fiber, Fabric and Fashion”, Sunday, May 20, 1:30PM-4:30PM, Oliver Miller Homestead, 1 Stone Manse Dr., South Park. $2. “18th century fabrics, the flax making process, cloth dying demonstrations, linen and wool spinning, weaving on an antique two heddle loom and an 18th century fashion show featuring men’s, women’s and children’s clothing.” http://olivermillerhomestead.org/special-events/

High School Anime Club”, Tuesday, May 22, 7PM-8PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. Grades 9-12. “NEW! A quieter, more laidback anime club for older fans.”

Cinderella”, Tuesday, May 22 through Sunday, May 27, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Tickets: https://trustarts.org/production/52345/cinderella “Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA is the Tony Award winning Broadway musical from the creators of The Sound of Music and South Pacific that’s delighting audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including ‘In My Own Little Corner,’ ‘Impossible/It’s Possible’ and ‘Ten Minutes Ago,’ in this hilarious and romantic Broadway experience for anyone who’s ever had a wish, a dream... or a really great pair of shoes.”

Science Fiction Book Discussion Group”, Wednesday, May 23, 7PM, Mt. Lebanon Library. “The science fiction book discussion group focuses on classic, ‘hard,’ and/or award winning science fiction books.” May 23 Novel: “Tinker” by Wen Spencer; Short Fiction: “The Last Defender of Camelot” by Roger Zelansky, “A Restoration of Faith” by Jim Butcher. See detailed book list for the year on their website calendar: http://www.mtlebanonlibrary.org

Black Bear Education”, Wednesday, May 23, 6PM-6:45PM, North Park Rose Barn. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/np-black-bear-education/2149 “Learn about the biology and life habits of the black bear, as well as what to do if you encounter one.”

Free Summer Lecture”, Wednesday, May 23, 6PM, Pittsburgh Glass Center, 5472 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Join us for our free summer lecture series. Each week from May 23 to August 8, internationally renowned artists will present images, videos and informal discussions about contemporary glass art. May 23- Janusz Pozniak + Ryan Tanner.” https://www.pittsburghglasscenter.org/calendar/2018/5/23/free-summer-lecture  https://www.cmog.org/bio/janusz-po-niak http://www.ryantanner.info

Native Plants and Backyard Habitats”, Wednesday, May 23, 7PM-10PM, The Oaks Theater, 310 Allegheny River Blvd., Oakmont. Tickets will be sold, details tba: https://www.facebook.com/events/201141690490129/ “Wishful Wednesday Productions and the Audubon Society of Western PA are teaming up again for the 4th in the Lecture Series: Native Plants and Backyard Habitats. On Wednesday May 23rd at 7:00 PM at the Oaks Theater, Roxanne Swan from the Audubon Society of Western PA will enlighten us to the importance of native plants and habitats to our area's birds and wildlife. Opening the show will be the outstanding acoustic guitars of John Maione and Rusty Liberatore from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM. During this Meet and Greet Hour, the ‘Eagles News Update’ will thrill you with the stunning photography of Annette Devinney highlighting our local area Bald Eagle nesting pairs.”

Teen Art Attack: Decorative Silhouettes”, Wednesday, May 23, 6PM-7PM, Moon Township Library. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MOON/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MOON “Teen Art Attack is making a return! We're coming back with a decorative silhouette craft that will showcase your ‘better side!’ Plus, we'll have pizza and pop to keep you well fed and the creative spark going! Grades 6-12 are welcome to attend with registration.”

In the Café: Make Your Own Ice Cream Social for Teens”, Wednesday, May 23 3:15PM-5PM, Mt. Lebanon Library. “Celebrate the last IN THE CAFE event of the year by learning to make your own ice cream! Then enjoy your ice cream creations with your friends. IN THE CAFE is a special themed Teen Cafe event which happens once a month during the school year!”

Seeing Eye to Eye with Microscopic Monsters”, Thursday, May 24, 4:30PM-5:30PM, Citizen Science Lab, Energy Innovation Center, 1435 Bedford Ave., Ste 132A, Pittsburgh. Free. “Join us for this FREE event which is a apart of Remake Learning Days where attendees will be shown all the parts of a microscope as well as how to properly use one. After learning how to properly use a microscope, they will examine different microscopic monsters (protists). Protists are a large group of unrelated, mostly single-celled or colony-based organism that are more complicated than bacteria. Attendees will get to see what these normally unseen organisms look like as well as talk about where they can be found!” https://www.thecitizensciencelab.org/event/seeing-eye-to-eye-with-microscopic-monsters-apart-of-remake-learning-days/

A Crisis of Criminality and Policing”, Thursday, May 24, 7PM-8:30PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. $10, or $8 for members. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/crisis-of-criminality-and-policing “Join Elaine Frantz, professor of history at Kent State University, and Wesley Oliver, associate dean and professor of law at Duquesne University School of Law, for an in-depth look at crime (organized and otherwise), law enforcement, corruption, and the rise of the Ku Klux Klan in Prohibition-era America. Through a discussion of their scholarly work on subjects ranging from violence to the establishment of longstanding police procedure, Frantz and Oliver will explore how decisions surrounding crime and law enforcement in 1920s America continue to have an impact today. Their discussion will be moderated by History Center senior curator and American Spirits content lead Leslie Przybylek. Prior to the program, attendees will receive after-hours access to the American Spirits exhibition from 6-7pm. Following the conclusion of the speaking program, Elaine Frantz will be available to sign copies of her books, ‘Manhood Lost: Fallen Drunkards and Redeeming Women in the Nineteenth-Century United States’ and ‘Ku Klux: The Birth of the Klan During Reconstruction.’ Wesley Oliver will sign copies of his book, ‘The Prohibition Era and Policing: A Legacy of Misregulation.’ All three books will be available for purchase.”

Screening, “Trembling before G-d”, Thursday, May 24, 7PM-9PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free RSVP: http://www.alphabetcity.org/events/reelq-trembling-before-g-d/ “Shot in six countries, this documentary shatters assumptions about faith, sexuality, and religious fundamentalism. Built around intimately-told personal stories of Hasidic and Orthodox Jews who are gay or lesbian, the film portrays a group of people who face a profound dilemma – how to reconcile their passionate love of Judaism and the Divine with the drastic Biblical prohibitions that forbid homosexuality. As the film unfolds, we meet a range of complex individuals – some hidden, some out – from the world’s first openly gay Orthodox rabbi to closeted, married Hasidic gays and lesbians to those abandoned by religious families to Orthodox lesbian high-school sweethearts. Many have been tragically rejected and their pain is raw, yet with irony, humor and resilience, they love, care, struggle, and debate with a thousands-year old tradition. Ultimately, they are forced to question how they can pursue truth and faith in their lives–and survive–while upholding the universal struggle to belong.”

Starlight Stroll”, Friday, May 25, 9PM-10PM, Wingfield Pines Conservation Area, 1560 Mayview Rd, Pittsburgh. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/event/starlight-stroll-11/ “Ever wonder what our greenspaces are like after dark? Join our trained education staff as we stroll under the light of the 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. Great for families and community groups or as an extra credit activity for science classes.”

History at the High Point”, Friday, May 25, 6:30PM-8:30PM, Forbes State Forest. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201. “Mt. Davis is the highest point in Pennsylvania and it just so happens to be located at Forbes State Forest. Learn about both the natural and cultural history of the unique community surrounding this national landmark during a 2 mile stroll through the woods.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/history_at_the_high_point

Cook Forest Living History Weekend”, Friday, May 25 through Sunday, May 27, Cook Forest State Park, 113 River Rd., Cooksburg, PA. “Please join us as we celebrate the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Park’s 125th Anniversary with a fun filled weekend of living history as we journey through various historical eras of the United States: French and Indian War, Lumber Era, Civil War, WWI, and the War on Terror. Join living historian and master story-teller, Paul Stillman from Historically Speaking!, and historical interpreters, Dave Clark, Dennis Knowles, and Van Wagner as they take us through these noteworthy periods in history through first person character portrayals, and hands-on demonstrations.” Details and schedule here: http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/cook_forest_living_history_weekend_6876

Whitewater”, Friday, May 25, 7PM-8:30PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Ampitheater. Free. “Ohiopyle State Park has long been known for it’s great white water boating opportunities. Join us to talk about what whitewater activities are available and how to do them safely. We will also have some great videos to watch.”

Laser Rotary Attachment 101”, Friday, May 25, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “The laser is a great tool for etching glass and painted metal surfaces. In this 101 course, learn how to use the rotary attachment for cups, bottles, and other round items you want to etch. Prerequisite: Previous completion of Laser Cutting 101. This introductory class is required in order to use the laser rotary attachment tool during Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Ages 8 and up. 12 and under are required to attend with a paying adult (1 adult per 2 children).”

Blak Rapp M.A.D.U.S.A :: Mary’s Daughter – Memoirs of an Artivist”, Friday, May 25, 7PM; Saturday, May 26, 5PM; and Sunday, May 27, 3PM; KST Alloy Studios, 5530 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Pay What Makes You Happy! Tickets for this event are available at any price. Simply choose the level that makes you happy—or name your own! All seats are general admission.” “Mary’s Daughter: Memoirs of an Artivist is a one woman play about the life and times of Melanie Carter, artistically known as the Hip Hop Artivist, Blak Rapp Madusa. An autobiographical satire filled drama that seeks to contextualize black women’s lives as a complex interaction of identities and illustrate the intersecting issues of race gender, religion, activism and mass incarceration with hip hop as a lens to view cultural climate in which they exist. This 75 minute play expounds on the definition of Black feminist artistic resistance, taking the audience on a journey through my world, as a formerly incarcerated, bi sexual Muslim ,activist, artist. I use Five monologues, original poetry, Rap songs and dance each scene reflective of a different part of my life journey.” https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/blak-rapp-m-d-u-s-marys-daughter-memoirs-artivist/

Opening Celebration, “Civil Rights and Civil Wrongs”, Friday, May 25, 6PM-8PM, The Mattress Factory Gallery, 1414 Monterey St., Pittsburgh. Exhibit runs May 25 through July 29. “"Civil Rights and Civil Wrongs: South Africa and US" opens at the Mattress Factory on Friday, May 25. This exhibition, the newest 'Sites of Passage' project by Tavia La Follette, brings together artists from Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Pittsburgh in a virtual - and actual - dialogue. The opening celebration is FREE and open to the public. Mattress Factory Members may preview the exhibition at 5pm.” https://www.facebook.com/events/944522845721596/

Marshmallow Talk: What’s in the Woods at Ryerson Station SP”, Friday, May 25, 8:30PM-9:30PM, Ryerston Station State Park, 361 Bristoria Rd., Wind Ridge, meeting at the amphitheater across from the campground on McNay Ridge Rd. “Join us for marshmallows over a campfire and a discussion of the rich biodiversity we have in the park. Meet at the amphitheater across from the campground on McNay Ridge Road. Parking is available adjacent to the campground.”

12th Annual National Button Accordion Festival”, Friday, May 25- Sunday, May 27, The Appolo Maennerchor German Club, 291 South Dock St., Sharon, PA. Details here: http://www.nationalbuttonaccordionfestival.com

Bagels and Owlbears”, Saturday, May 26, 10AM-12PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Sheraden. “Come and play Dungeons and Dragons at the library! Space is limited so please call 412.331.1135 to reserve your spot. We have the books and dice .You just need your imagination!”

Walk in the Wild Area”, Saturday, May 26, 11AM-2PM, Forbes State Forest. Free. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201.” The Quebec Run Wild Area is a unique place within Forbes State Forest, full of beautiful scenery, interesting wildlife, and a rich industrial history. We will explore these topics during a moderate, 2.5 mile hike.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/walk_in_the_wild_area

Organic Garden Solutions”, Saturday, May 26, 10AM-12PM, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. $4, or free for Audubon Society or Fox Chapel Garden Club members. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8071 “This workshop will focus on techniques that create functional, thriving garden spaces. We will explore native plants that work with nature to increase beneficial insects and birds. Attendees will also learn various techniques to reduce or eliminate the need for synthetic chemicals in the landscape. Participants will tour Beechwood’s eco-friendly garden features to see applications of the concepts presented in class. This event is free for ASWP members and Fox Chapel Garden Club members and $4 for non-members, thanks to the programs being underwritten by the Fox Chapel Garden Club (FCGC).”

Frankfort Mineral Springs Tour”, Saturday, May 26, 2PM-3:30PM, Raccoon Creek State Park, 3000 State Route 18, Hookstown, meeting at the Frankfort Mineral Springs parking lot along Route 18. Free. “The historic Frankfort Mineral Springs complex was constructed in the early 1800s and thrived for nearly a hundred years as a popular resort. It was best known for its mineral water once believed to have "healing qualities". This guided tour will look back at the people and events that shaped the history of this once famous area. Be prepared for rough uneven wet terrain. Free program.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/frankfort_mineral_springs_tour_7247

Owl Outlaws”, Saturday, May 26, 7PM-8:30PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Ampitheater. “The story of owls in Pennsylvania reads like a crime novel. Join us to find out what the owls were accused of and how they were acquitted of all charges.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/owl_outlaws_7630

129th Anniversary of the Johnstown Flood: Guided Tours of the Clubhouse of the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club House”, Saturday, May 26, 10:30AM-3:30PM, South Fork, PA. Free. Preregistration required; call (814) 886-6170. “As part of the 129th Anniversary of the 1889 Johnstown Flood, Park Rangers will once again be leading guided tours of the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Clubhouse Building. These tours will take visitors to all three floors of this building. Please be aware that there is no elevator and tours will require climbing stairs. These tours explain the history of the building and all of its uses through the years. These tours are 45-50 minutes in length and will begin every half hour beginning at 10:30 am. Reservations are required. Reservations will be taken beginning May 1, 2018.” https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-listing.htm?eventID=A39787FE-1DD8-B71B-0BF893941D10E24A

Our Paranormal Pennsylvania”, Saturday, May 26, 5:30PM-9:30PM, Aroma Italiano, 2220 Ligonier St., Latrobe. $25. For tickets contact BeyondRealitytours@gmail.com. Tickets will also be available for purchase at Aroma Italiano. “Tickets include A buffet dinner of Penne pasta in marinara, meatballs, chicken tenderloins, salad, bread, drinks and dessert, presentations by Paranormal Miners, Ronald Murphy and Stan Gordon and a Town Hall discussion w/ guest speakers. Come Join us for an evening of dinner and presentations, followed by a town hall discussion where you can ask questions or even share your own personal stories about Our Paranormal PA. With 3 very special guests; Stan Gordon, Ronald Murphy, and the Paranormal Miners who bring with them collectively many years of experience and a wealth of knowledge about all things mysterious and other worldly in Pennsylvania and across the world. Stan Gordon has been researching UFO sightings, Bigfoot encounters, and other mysterious events in Pennsylvania since 1959. Since then, he has been involved with the investigation of thousands of unusual incidents. He is the primary investigator of the 1965 UFO crash incident that occurred near Kecksburg, PA. Stan will cover a history of UFOs, Bigfoot, and other strange incidents that have occurred in Westmoreland County and the surrounding Pittsburgh area, as well as statewide. As a Fortean and Cryptozoologist, Ronald Murphy analyzes the world of the unexplained from a multidisciplinary perspective. Relying on folklore, history, linguistics, anthropology, and Jungian psychology Murphy delves deep into the archetypes of things that go bump in the night. He has investigated the entire East Coast and parts of Canada. He was also part of an expedition to Lock Ness and searched for the legendary Green Man throughout the British Isles. Ron will be covering Portals, Werewolves, and other shadowy figures of the mysterious Chestnut Ridge. You will be surprised by what may be lurking right in our very own backyard. Paranormal Miners are the husband and wife team of Kayla and Eric Miner, and along with their fellow investigator Amber Dominick they have investigated the paranormal for over a decade. They have explored a variety of suspected haunted locations including Prospect Place in Ohio and the famous Jennie Wade house in Gettysburg. They will be discussing some of their past investigations of the area, the difference between hauntings, and what it means to be a psychic medium.” https://www.facebook.com/events/1812004302199574/

18th Century Military Encampment”, Saturday, May 26, 9:30AM-5PM, and Sunday, May 27, 11AM-5PM, Fort Ligonier, 200 S. Market St., Ligonier. “18th Century Military Encampment - Meet soldiers and officers encamped at Fort Ligonier! Don't miss reenactments, artillery firings and living history demonstrations throughout the holiday weekend. Regular admission fees.” http://fortligonier.org/news-events/events-calendar/

Keystone State Park’s Fish for Free Day”, Sunday, May 27, Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone Park Rd., Derry. “No license is required for Fish For Free Day. Bring the family, pack a picnic lunch or try the food concession stand and try your luck. See what a great sport fishing is.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/keystone_state_parks_fish_for_free_day

Open Streets Pittsburgh”, Sunday, May 27, 4 miles from Market Square downtown, to uptown through the Armstrong Tunnel to East Carson Street in the South Side. “Open Streets PGH series is back in 2018 with three free events, one newly extended route, and one brand new route on a brand new day! The event is organized by the bike and pedestrian advocacy organization, Bike Pittsburgh, who is inviting Pittsburghers to reimagine their streets as places for people, not just cars. OpenStreetsPGH is Pittsburgh’s fastest growing free event series that opens miles of streets to people of all ages and abilities. Last year, an estimated 90,000 people participated in three OpenStreetsPGH events and this year it’s estimated to draw over 100,000 participants. OpenStreetsPGH offers something for everyone, from fitness workshops, to kids activities, shopping, brunch, community arts, and special promotions presented by over 100 local businesses and organizations. Three event hub stages around the routes will feature free fitness classes by the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh providing dance, strength, and mind and body workshops.” Complete route here: https://openstreetspgh.org/route/

Opening Day for the Dormont Pool!”, Saturday, May 27, 1444 Hillsdale Ave., Pittsburgh. “The Dormont Pool dates back to 1920, when Andrew Philp used rocks to dam a creek to make a wading pool. In 1922, the borough spent $6,851 to create a larger dam for a swimming area and an ice skating rink. At the same time they also built a small wooden bath house. The pool was made to give people the feeling of being in the tropics. In 1923, Dormont Borough decided to turn it into a concrete pool with fine sand along the edges of the pool making it resemble a beach. This project took several years and had a budget of $14,867. On July 4, 1929, the pool and the new bathhouse were dedicated. The three-floor bathhouse serves several purposes. The lower level houses the pool's filtration system, the main floor is divided into two main areas for the men and women and the top floor is a community room which is rented to individuals and community groups. The pool itself is about 1.85 acres or 60,000 square feet. Dormont Pool has survived the Great Depression, World War II, and has opened every season. It was declared a Historic Landmark in 2002.” http://www.friendsofdormontpool.org/pool.html

Beech Hike”, Sunday, 27, 10AM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Amphitheater. “We will wind our way down to the bike trail from the Kentuck Campground amphitheater through an old stand of beech trees. This three mile loop will take us through moderately rough terrain. Along the way we will discover some hidden treasures such as a waterfall and interesting rock formations. Sturdy footwear is recommended.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/beech_hike_3515

Monarchs and Milkweed”, Sunday, May 27, 10AM-11:30AM, Ohiopyle State Park, Visitor Center, 124 Main St., Ohiopyle. “During this program we will explore our most well-known butterfly. Along the way we will learn about its amazing migratory lifestyle and all of the hardships it endures during its life. We will also discuss why milkweed is so important to its survival.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/monarchs_and_milkweed

Battle in a Box”, Sunday, May 27, 1PM-2:30PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Visitor Center, 124 Main St., Ohiopyle. “Do you know what world war was started 10 minutes from here? During this interactive program we will learn all about the ‘War for Empire’. Why was Southwestern Pennsylvania so valuable that it sparked a war that was fought on four continents? It all started here and we will get to the bottom of why.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/battle_in_a_box

Night Hike”, Sunday, May 27, 9PM-10:30PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Amphitheater. “Many animals travel through the night without flashlights. Tonight we’re going to give it a try. We will go on a one-mile hike through the woods and use our senses to find our way and explore the forest.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/night_hike_4472

Flag Ceremony”, Monday, May 28, 12PM-12:30PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free with regular admission. “Gather in the History Center’s Great Hall for a very moving and patriotic flag ceremony. Join local veterans and museum visitors to help to unfurl a giant 36-foot American Flag. During the ceremony, participate in the National Anthem and a moment of silence for those who served our country. Then help to ceremoniously fold the flag with the help of fellow visitors.” http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/flag-ceremony-may-2018

Full Moon Hike”, Tuesday, May 29, 9:30PM-10:30PM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events “Join a naturalist for a free evening hike through Frick Park during the 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.”

Let’s Not Repeat the Past: History Meets Disability Advocacy 2018”, Thursday, May 31, 9:30AM-12PM, Rodef Shalom Temple 4905 Fifth Ave. Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/history-meets-disability-advocacy “Join the Western Pennsylvania Disability History and Action Consortium and the Heinz History Center as we present “United States Disability Policy: A Rich History, An Unsure Future,” a talk by Michael Gamel-McCormick, Disability Policy Director for U.S. Senator Bob Casey of Pennsylvania. Following the talk, a vibrant panel of leading regional advocates will discuss how the disability rights movement of the 1960s and 1970s informs their own experiences and present-day advocacy.”

Escape Velocity”, Thursday, May 31, 8PM, New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square East, Pittsburgh. Tickets: http://newhazletttheater.org “Imagine a circus shaped entirely by the audience and one very unique deck of tarot cards. Escape Velocity tells the story of a soul trapped in limbo, revealed one draw at a time. What scripts have we been handed? What prisons do we construct for ourselves? What is our capacity for resistance, rebellion, and rebirth?”

Mystery Book Discussion”, Thursday, May 31, 10:30AM-11:30AM, Whitehall Library, Pittsburgh. “Do you enjoy a good mystery? If so, join the Mystery Lovers Book Group! We meet once per month to discuss the hottest whodunnits. This month, we will be discussing ‘Playing With Fire’ by Tess Gerritsen.”

Reduced Shakespeare Company in William Shakespeare’s Long Lost First Play (Abridged)”, Thursday, May 31 through Sunday, July 1, O’Reilly Theater, 621 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Tickets: https://www.trustarts.org/production/51433/reduced-shakespeare-company-in-william-shakespeares-long-lost-first-play-abridged “The Reduced Shakespeare Company returns to wrap up the 2017/2018 season with an all-new, laugh-a-minute ‘tale told by idiots.’ The Bard’s most famous characters, greatest lines, and magnificent speeches are lampooned in a comic smorgasbord that erupts when Puck and Ariel hijack the plot of ‘The Comedy of Errors’, creating such strange bedfellows as Kate and Beatrice, Hamlet and master motivator Lady Macbeth, and Dromio and Juliet.”

129th Anniversary of the Johnstown Flood: Flood Anniversary Commemoration”, Thursday, May 31, 9AM-10PM, Johnstown Flood National Memorial, 733 Lake Rd, South Fork, PA. Free. “Thursday, May 31, 2018, is the 129th Anniversary of the Great Johnstown Flood of Friday, May 31, 1889. The Visitor Center will be open from 9:00 am-10:00 pm. At 4:07 pm, Park Rangers will lay commemorative wreaths on both the North and South Abutments of the remnants of the South Fork Dam. Children's activities will be held in the evening. Beginning at 7:00 pm, 2,209 luminaries, lining the remains of the South Fork Dam and around the park Visitor Center, will be lit in honor of the victims of the Great Flood. Each luminary will have the name of a flood victim written on it and will remain lit until 10:00 pm.” https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-listing.htm?eventID=A4E1D6A0-1DD8-B71B-0B9ED3515A1816D4

*******Roadtrips*******

Erie, PA:

The Vernal Pools of Erie Bluffs State Park”, Saturday, May 5, 9AM-12PM, Erie Bluffs State Park, 11122 West Lake Rd., Lake City. Free. “Enjoy a morning of hiking throughout various parts of Erie Bluffs State Park. Learn about these habitats and the creatures that inhabit them. We will hike approximately 3 miles on moderate terrain. Bring along your field guides, cameras, and waterproof boots. No fee or registration.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/the_vernal_pools_of_erie_bluffs_state_park

Mother’s Day Pontoon Ride”, Sunday, May 13, 10AM-11AM, Presque Isle State Park, 301 Peninsula Dr., Erie, meeting at the Pontoon Boat Station. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/mothers_day_pontoon_ride “Looking for a nice, relaxing Mother’s Day activity this year? Join the Park Naturalists at the Pontoon Boat Station for a relaxing ride through Misery Bay and the lagoons. This is a free one-hour public program that accommodates 16 guests of all ages plus crew. Anyone 12 years of age and under must wear a life preserver during the entire ride. Registration required. Sign-up is limited to 4 seats per person.”

Presque Isle Festival of the Birds”, Friday, May 18 through Sunday, May 20. This is a really terrific event for birders! http://www.presqueisleaudubon.org/festival.html

Lagoon by Pontoon”, daily May 25 through June 4, with in person signups at 10AM and rides at 11AM, 1PM and 2PM. Presque Isle State Park, Lagoon Boat Launch. “The lagoon at Presque Isle is full of natural surprises such as sun basking turtles, wading great blue herons, beavers slapping their tails on the water, and many other natural wonders. Join the park staff and volunteers on a one-hour interpretive pontoon boat ride to discover the natural history and beauty of the interior. These daily rides depart at 11:00am, 1:00pm and 2:00pm. Sign-up for these three rides begins at 10:00 AM in person at the pontoon station and is a first-come, first serve basis. Sign-up is limited to 6 seats per person regardless of age on all rides. This is a free program that accommodates 16 guests plus crew.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/lagoon_by_pontoon_7119

Evening Lagoon by Pontoon”, Wednesdays and Fridays beginning May 25 through August 31, Presque Isle State Park , Lagoon Boat Launch. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/evening_lagoon_by_pontoon_5757 “The evening hours on Presque Isle can be the best time to enjoy wildlife activity. Evening pontoon rides will be offered every Wednesday and Friday through the summer. Online registration opens May 1 and closes September 1. Sign-up is limited to 6 seats per person regardless of age on all rides. This is a free program that accommodates 16 guests plus crew.”

Early Bird Lagoon by Pontoon”, Tuesdays and Saturdays through August, beginning Saturday, May 26, 10AM, Presque Isle State Park, Lagoon Boat Launch. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/early_bird_lagoon_by_pontoon_5768 “A 10:00 AM morning pontoon ride will be offered by online reservation only. Rides will be offered every Tuesday and Saturday through the summer. Online registration opens May 1 and closes September 1. Sign-up is limited to 6 seats per person regardless of age on all rides.”

Pioneer Falls and Wildflowers”, Saturday, May 26, 1PM-3:30PM, Oil Creek State Park, Pioneer Road Parking Lot, Oil City. Free. “Join us on Saturday May 26,2018 at 1 PM to 3:30 PM. Meet at the Pioneer Road Parking Lot. (follow signs) We will take a moderate one (1) mile hike to the falls and discover local wildflowers along the way. We will return over the same trail. Bring water, bug spray, proper shoes and a snack. Call (814) 676-5915 for additional information and directions. This is a very popular and fun program.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/pioneer_falls_wildflowers

Kayak 101”, Sunday, May 27, 10AM, Oil Creek State Park, meeting at the State Park Office, 305 State Park Rd., Oil City. Ages 15 and older. Free. Preregistration required; call (814) 676-5915. “Sunday May 27, 2018. Meet at the Oil Creek State Park Office at 10 AM and we will need to car pool to the put in near Drake Well. We will float 10 miles and take out at Petroleum Center about 2:30 PM. We can provide all necessary equipment including kayak and training. Please bring appropriate clothing, lunch, sun - screen, bug spray, Fishing pole (if you wish) and your spirit of adventure. No prior experience needed. Must be 15 or older. Limited to 15 persons. Call (814) 676-5915 to register and for questions. This is a free program.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/kayak_101_2683


Buffalo:

“Public Fossil Collecting”, Saturdays, 9AM-5PM, Sundays, 10AM-5PM, and Memorial Day, 10AM-4PM, Penn Dixie Fossil Park and Nature Reserve, 4050 North St., Blasdell, NY. “Unearth the Unexpected! Join us for guided fossil collecting tours at our regular admission prices. All ages welcome.” https://penndixie.org/calendar/

Nickel City Con”, Friday, May 18 through Sunday, May 20, Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, Buffalo, NY. “What is Nickel City Con? Imagine a room filled with the world’s greatest Super Heroes, movie and television characters, and yes, even the Villains. A giant space where this world and the world of fantasy collide – that’s Nickel City Con. NCC is Upstate NY’s Largest Pop Culture and Comic Book Convention. We bring the biggest names in the entertainment industry right here so you can meet and see them up close. From photo opportunities to fan panels, leading stars open up and answer your questions about what it’s really like to make all the fantastic movies, tv shows and comics you love. NCC is an amazing fan experience.” http://www.nickelcitycon.com

All Day All Wright Tour”, Friday, May 25, 8:15AM, meeting at Forest Lawn’s Margaret L. Wendt Archive and Resource Center, 1990 Main St., Buffalo, NY. $150. Preregistration required; register online: http://martinhouse.org/tour_descriptions.cfm “Western New York affords visitors the rare opportunity to experience a variety of Wright's residential, functional, recreational, and monumental designs – both historic and newly constructed. Leave the driving and planning to us! Join us for this all-inclusive package which begins at Forest Lawn's Margaret L. Wendt Archive and Resource Center* and proceeds on the fully-enclosed, climate-controlled Forest Lawn trolley to the Martin House (1903-05) for an extended tour. The next stop is the Filling Station designed by Wright for Buffalo in 1927 and built in 2013 inside the Pierce Arrow Museum. Drive by Larkinville and arrive for a tour of the Fontana Boathouse (2007) on the Black Rock Canal. Continue on to Graycliff (1926-31) for an essentials tour then visit historic Forest Lawn's Blue Sky Mausoleum (2004). The trolley will return you to Margaret L. Wendt Archive and Resource Center. This tour package includes a delicious lunch buffet. A knowledgeable guide will be on hand to point out architectural treasures along the way including the site of the Larkin Administration Building (1904) and manufacturing buildings in an area now known as Larkinville.”

Soldiers Through the Ages”, Saturday, May 26 and Sunday, May 27, Old Fort Niagara, 102 Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY. “A Military Time Line Explores Niagara's History from Muskets to Missiles. Join us for a trip through 300 years of military history. Special displays of military vehicles, period camps from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, weapons demonstrations, uniform programs and hands-on activities for families. In commemoration of the centennial of the Battle of Cantigny in World War One, a special program will also be presented in the Fort Niagara Officers Club.” Complete schedule here: https://www.oldfortniagara.org/event/100119/soldiers-through-the-ages

One World Water Lantern Festival”, Saturday, May 26, 4PM-9PM, Outer Harbor, 225 Fuhrmann Blvd., Buffalo. Tickets: http://www.waterlanternfestival.com/buffalo.php “One World is the premier water lantern festival, filled with fun, happiness, hope, and great memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime. This is a family friendly event that can be shared by everyone. Friends, families, neighbors, and lots of people that you haven't met can come together to create a peaceful, memorable experience.”

Elevator Alley Kayak Tours”, May 26, 27, and 30, and June 2, 3, 9, 10, and 13, meeting at Barrel Facotry, 65 Vandalia St., Buffalo. $45 adults and $40 students, including kayak rental. “The best way to appreciate Buffalo's many grain elevators is from the water! From a kayaking perspective, the massive scale of the grain elevators and silos will be even more awe-inspiring. Join us for a kayak tour of the Buffalo River and its grain elevators in partnership with Elevator Alley Kayak, who will provide the kayaks for this urban adventure tour. Learn about the history of the grain elevators in Buffalo and have many terrific photo opportunities on this guided kayak tour!” http://www.elevatoralleykayak.com/tourspage


Philadelphia:

Wizard World”, Thursday, May 17 through Sunday, May 20, Philadelphia Convention Center, 1101 Arch St., Philadelphia. A huge comic con for fans of many stripes. https://wizardworld.com/comiccon/philadelphia

Sheep to Shawl Day”, Saturday, May 19, 2PM. Thompson-Neely House, 1638 River Rd., New Hope, PA. $8 adults, $4 ages 5-11, free ages 4 and under. “Join us at the Thompson-Neely House for our special “Sheep to Shawl” experience. The day includes sheep shearing, demonstrations of wool dying, wool washing, pit cooking and gardening, and a tour of the Thompson-Neely House, located just a few miles north of the main park on River Road.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/sheep-to-shawl_day_7856

"Italian Market Festival", Saturday, May 19 and Sunday, May 20, 11AM-6PM, Philadelphia. "Philadelphia's largest block party! Everyone is Italian on May 19 & 20, when the nation's oldest outdoor market celebrates its annual Italian Market Festival. Bring the entire family to experience the Procession of Saints, and to enjoy the traditional Half Ball Tournament, Grease Pole contest, Live Entertainment stages, Family Events areas, Crafts, Food, Food, and more Food." http://www.italianmarketfestival.com

"Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby and Arts Festival", Saturday, May 19, 12PM-6PM, Trenton Ave. from Norris to Hagert, Philadelphia. "The Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby and Arts Festival is one of the city’s quirkiest spring events. The day-long celebration features a parade of human-powered, handmade floats and highlights the area’s creative spirit and community pride.Cheer on design ingenuity during the derby and at its conclusion at the giant, messy Mudpit finishing zone and/or browse the booths from 100-plus local artists and vendors selling and displaying various arts and crafts. Food trucks are onsite, too, serving up tacos, hoagies, ice cream and more. The free festival raises money for projects in the area while exposing people to an off-the-beaten-path neighborhood.http://kensingtonkineticarts.org 


West Virginia:

Engines and Wheels Festival”, Saturday, May 5, 8AM-6PM, North Bend State Park, Jug Handle Day Use Area, Cairo, WV. Free. “Discover the history behind these fascinating machines and the men who worked with them. Local engine and wheels enthusiasts will be on hand displaying their knowledge of the equipment and the mechanisms that make it work.” https://www.facebook.com/EnginesAndWheelsFestival/

Spring Migration Birding and Banding at Tygart Lake”, Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6, Tygart Lake State Park , Grafton, WV. Free. “Learn to identify birds by sight and sound! Join Birder Joey Herron, certified master bird bander and photographer, as he captures and bands various breeding and migrating birds of West Virginia. Program is free and open to the public. This is one of our most popular weekends, and attracts visitors from across the United States. Make your lodge reservations now! Events Schedule: Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon: Banding at Tygart Lodge area; 1 p.m. Meet at Pleasant Creek for additional bird watching and banding. Sunday 8-11 a.m. Banding at Tygart Lake Lodge.” https://wvstateparks.com/event/spring-migration-birding-banding-tygart-lake/

Discover Forks of Coal Day”, Saturday, May 5, 9AM-3PM, Forks of Coal State Natural Area, Charleston, WV. Free. “You’re invited! The Foundation will hold another family fun Discovery Day event at the Forks of Coal State Natural Area on Saturday, May 5th. from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Plans are in the works for a morning bird walk, a Hike for Health, Coal River history exhibits, a native raptor presentation and educational games for children. Wildlife exhibits and a West Virginia History Alive presentation featuring General Stonewall Jackson will be part of the fun, in addition to a bake sale, book sale, door prizes, a hot dog sale by the Alum Creek Lions Club and a raffle. An afternoon Nature Walk will include a wildflower planting. The State’s mobile aquarium will be on display with fishes native to the Coal River watershed. Plan now to attend and learn more about Coal River history and wildlife. Plus, see the plans for the new Claudia Workman Wildlife Education Center to be built. The event is free and handicapped accessible.” https://forksofcoalfoundation.org/foundation-events/


Virginia:

Revolutionary War Weekend”, Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6, 9AM-5PM, Mount Vernon, VA. “Step back in time during one of the largest Revolutionary War re-enactments in the region! Watch hundreds of Continentals, Redcoats, Hessians, cannon, and cavalry in action on the estate. Throughout the weekend, learn more about life in the 18th century, discuss military techniques, and watch battle re-enactments. Wander through the encampment and meet the soldiers. This family-friendly event features a youth muster on the bowling green and even meeting General Washington! On the bowling green, walk through a replica of General Washington's Campaign Tent on loan from the Museum of the American Revolution. Concessions from the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant will be available on-site. Revolutionary War Weekend takes place rain or shine.” Lots of details here: http://www.mountvernon.org/plan-your-visit/calendar/events/revolutionary-war-weekend/

Living History Weekend”, Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6, 10AM-4PM, Ellwood, 36380 Constitution Hwy, Locust Grove, VA. Free. “Hear cannon blasts, hoof beats, rifle volleys, and the sound of marching feet! See the uniforms, weapons, equipment, tents and food of the Civil War. Speak with soldiers, civilians, and even General Ulysses S. Grant! Take part in this free, family-friendly interactive experience!” Schedule and details here: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-listing.htm?eventID=1B537A1E-1DD8-B71B-0B9FD517AEF6B884

21st Annual Eagle Festival on Mason Neck”, Saturday, May 12, 10AM-6PM, Mason Neck State Park, 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton, VA. “The Friends of Mason Neck State Park and the park staff invite you to participate in this jam packed day of live animal shows, activities, music, food and more. Mason Neck State Park is home to a thriving population of Bald Eagles and is a wonderful place to enjoy the beauty of nature in a busy urban area. Join us as we celebrate our national symbol! Admission to the festival and to the park that day is free!” http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/park-event-info?id=MN180001-00


Maryland:

20th Annual Kinetic Sculpture Race”, Saturday, May 5, 10AM-8PM, American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy., Baltimore. Free for spectators. “From the American Visionary Art Museum—a race through Baltimore of wacky, imaginative, totally human-powered works of art, designed to travel on land, through mud, and over deep Baltimore inner harbor waters, constructed out of used bicycles, gears, and parts, created by a lunatic genius who tinkers around in the garage or backyard (do you know this person?)! The machines can be simple, small crafts, piloted by only one brave soul, or they can be over 50 feet long, extremely well-engineered, sophisticated vehicles powered by a team of pilots. Pilots ("Kinetinauts") compete for the most coveted Grand Mediocre East Coast Champion Award (finishes right in the middle), and the highly prized Next to the Last Award (finishes, well, next-to-last), and other serious trophies including Art, Engineering, Best Bribes and more.” http://www.avam.org/kinetic-sculpture-race/index.shtml

Spring in the Village, Art at the Furnace”, Saturday, May 5, and Sunday, May 6, 10AM-5PM, Cunningham Falls State Park, Thurmont, MD. “Celebrate spring in the Historic Catoctin Iron Furnace. Enjoy a fun atmosphere with amusements for all. Art, wine garden, food, music, and children’s activities throughout the historic sites of the village. Special guest will be actor Millicent Sparks portraying Harriet Tubman. Parking at Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area. Shuttle to event provided.” Complete schedule here: http://www.catoctinfurnace.org/events/springinthevillage.html

To Garrison the Fort”, Saturday, May 12, 10AM-5PM, and Sunday, May 13, 10AM-3PM, Fort Frederick State Park, Big Pool, MD. Free with park admission. “Experience life at the fort during the French and Indian War as members of the recreated Joshua and Alexander Beall’s Maryland Companies garrison the fort. Highlights of the event include musket firing presentations, hearth cooking, military drills, and children’s drill. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Park entrance fees apply.”

Bioblitz at Patapsco Valley State Park”, in 3 volunteer shifts, Saturday, May 12, 12PM-2PM and 7PM-10PM, and Sunday, May 13, 12PM-2PM, Patapsco Valley State Park, Ellicott City, MD. “Registration is required for this event. Call 410-461-5005 or email volunteerpatapsco.dnr@maryland.gov for more information. Come wearing sturdy closed toed shoes and clothes to get dirty. Join park staff for a fun-filled day surveying the plants and animals of Patapsco Valley State Park! This family-friendly event will help you learn how to identify species and conduct citizen science that benefits the park and the community! Night Edition: This specialty BioBlitz will be aimed at finding the creatures of the night! We will have a campfire, look for bugs, call for owls, and search for bats.” https://go.activecalendar.com/doit-md/

58th Annual Fair Hill Scottish Games”, Saturday, May 19, 8AM-6PM, Fair Hill Race Track, Elkton, MD. Tickets here: http://fairhillscottishgames.org “Join us for a day of athletics, music, dancing, food, and arts celebrating Scottish and Celtic culture. Events will be held rain or shine. Ceud Mile Failte!”

Discovery Weekend”, Saturday, May 26 through Monday, May 28, 10AM-5PM, Fort Frederick State Park, Big Pool, MD. Free with park admission. “Bring your family and friends to explore the natural, cultural, historical and recreational resources of Fort Frederick State Park. This event features outdoor and historical activities for all interest levels and ages. Activities run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Saturday will feature a special night hike program starting at 8 pm.” http://www.friendsoffortfrederick.info/calendar.htm



Washington DC:

No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man”, now through January 21, 2019, Renwick Gallery, Pennsylvania Ave. at 17th St. NW, Washington DC. “Each year in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, a city of more than 75,000 people rises out of the dust for a single week. During that time, enormous experimental art installations are erected and many are ritually burned to the ground. The thriving temporary metropolis known as Burning Man is a hotbed of artistic ingenuity, driving innovation through its principles of radical self-expression, decommodification, communal participation, and reverence for the handmade. Both a cultural movement and an annual event, Burning Man remains one of the most influential phenomena in contemporary American art and culture. No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man brings the large-scale, participatory work from this desert gathering to the nation’s capital for the first time. The exhibition takes over the entire Renwick Gallery building and surrounding neighborhood, bringing alive the maker culture and creative spirit of this cultural movement. immersive room-sized installations, costumes, jewelry, and ephemera transport visitors to the gathering’s famed “Playa,” while selected photographs and archival materials from the Nevada Museum of Art's show 'City of Dust: The Evolution of Burning Man' trace Burning Man’s growth and its bohemian roots.” https://americanart.si.edu/exhibitions/burning-man

Around the World Embassy Tour”, Saturday, May 5, 10AM-4PM, Washington DC. Free. No reservations required. “Embassies will open their doors to DC visitors and residents Saturday, May 5, 2018. Participants can travel the world as they experience the food, art, dance, fashion, and music of different countries. In the past, visitors have been treated to karate demonstrations, dance performances, sari wrapping lessons, and henna demonstrations.” Complete list of participating embassies and details here: https://www.culturaltourismdc.org/portal/signature-events

European Union Open House”, Saturday, May 12, 10AM-4PM, Free admission. “The Delegation of the European Union to the United States and the Embassies of 28 EU Member States to the United States will open their doors to the Washington public during the EU Embassies’ Open House Day. This annual event is the highlight of the Washington spring calendar and will be celebrated on May 12th, 2018.Each embassy will open their doors to the public from 10 am until 4 pm, offering a rare look inside the buildings. The day will provide a unique opportunity to experience the country’s cultural heritage and national traditions.” Details and list of events here: http://events.euintheus.org/landing_page/euopenhouse/

5th Annual Funk Parade”, Saturday, May 12, Washington DC. Day fair 1PM-7PM, Parade 5PM-6PM, and Music Fest 7PM-midnight, Showcase 8PM. “Funk Parade is a one-of-a-kind day fair, parade and music festival, celebrating Washington DC's vibrant music and arts, the U Street neighborhood, and the Spirit of Funk that brings us all together.“ https://www.funkparade.com

Fiesta Asia Street Fair”, Saturday, May 19, Pennsylvania Ave. between 3rd and 6th Sts. NW, Washington DC. Free admission. “The 12th annual National Asian Heritage festival Signature Event - Fiesta Asia Street Fair, features more than 1000 performers on five stages representing more than 20 cultures for 8 consecutive hours. Live performances by musicians, vocalists, dancer, martial artists; Pan-Asian cuisine; a shopping bazaar; kids friendly interactive activities; talent competition, cultural parade, Bollywood street dancing, and exhibits of traditional and contemporary Asian crafts.” http://fiestaasia.org


Ohio:

“The Biggest Week in American Birding”, Friday, May 4 through Sunday, May 13, Black Swamp Bird Observatory and Maumee Bay State Park Lodge and Conference Center, Oregon, OH. “The Biggest Week in American Birding is a 10-day festival in northwest Ohio, "The Warbler Capital of the World!" Immerse yourself in spring songbird migration and experience some of the best birding North America has to offer. The festival has something to offer beginner and seasoned birders alike, with bird identification workshops, guided birding trips, birding by canoe, daily walks at the world famous Magee Marsh, American Woodcock field trips, keynote presentations, a Birder’s Marketplace, and evening socials with free food and music. Come for a few days or stay for the whole 10-day celebration.” http://www.biggestweekinamericanbirding.com

Open Garden Days”, Saturday, May 5, 10AM-5PM; Sunday, May 6, 12PM-5PM; Friday May 11 and Saturday, May 12, 10AM-5PM; and Sunday, May 13, 12PM-5PM, Wolcott Lilac Garden, 450 W. Main ST., Kent, OH. $3 donation per person, kids free. Parking on N. Pearl St. or Christ Episcopal Church, 118 S. Mantua St., Kent. Entrance to garden from church parking lot. https://www.facebook.com/LilacGardens/ An article about the garden here: http://www.cleveland.com/insideout/index.ssf/2016/05/lilac_garden_from_kents_past_opens_to_visitors_again_this_weekend_and_next_photos.html

Bald Eagle Fest”, Sunday, May 6, 12M, Carol H. Sweet Nature Center, 5185 Corduroy Rd., Mentor, Ohio. Free. “This festive event celebrates Mentor Marsh's nesting Bald Eagles and features family friendly activities, a silent auction, art and craft vendors, food and fun! Register for a naturalist-led hike to view the Marsh's bald eagle nest at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30 or 3:30pm. RSVPs are required for the bald eagle hikes and can be made by calling the Nature Center at 440-257-0777, emailing Rebecca Donaldson at rdonaldson@cmnh.org, or messaging the Mentor Marsh Facebook Page. Learn about bald eagles, take part in kid-friendly activities and games, talk with representatives from local conservation organizations, and enjoy a live animal program. Food available for purchase. We're proud to make this a zero-waste event.” https://www.cmnh.org/calendar/mm-bald-eagle-fest

Understanding Dinosaurs in the 21st Century”, Friday, May 11, 7PM, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, $20. https://www.cmnh.org/calendar/es-may-11 Presented by Dr. Mark Norell, Macaulay Curator of Paleontology, Chairman Division of Paleontology, American Museum of Natural History. “Unearth how technological innovation, the advancement of paleobiology and an adventurous spirit to excavate in new locations around the globe have led to an explosion of new dinosaur knowledge in this century. Find out about the latest research from one of the premiere paleontology labs in the world, including the evolution of the bird brain, the color of dinosaurs and what animals that have been long dead can tell us about the complexity of creatures living today. This program is offered in conjunction with the special exhibition ‘Pterosaurs’ from the American Museum of Natural History.”

Blue Week 2018”, Sunday, May 13 through Sunday, May 20, Kitty Todd Preserve, 10420 State Line Rd., Swanton, OH. Details here: http://www.oakopenings.org/learn/oak-openings-blue-week/ “Each May, the partners of the Green Ribbon Initiative assemble a wide array of programs to encourage people to get out into the amazing region that we have right here in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. This globally unique regionis home to a wide variety of plants and animals such as wild blue lupine, Karner blue butterflies, blue spotted salamanders, big and little bluestem, blueberries, bluebirds, blue racers and much, much more. From bike rides and canoeing, to guided hikes and demonstrations by local experts, the pro grams offered each year are assembled to encourage people to get out and explore the region and inform them of how diverse and important the region really is.”

Cleveland Asian Festival”, Saturday, May 19 and Sunday, May 20, 11aM-7PM, E. 27th St. and Payne Ave., Cleveland. Bringing up to 50,000 people for the weekend festival, featuring live cultural performances, dance, martial art demonstrations, games, competitions, and activities.” http://clevelandasianfestival.org/2018/

Asian Festival”, Saturday, May 26, 10AM-8PM, and Sunday, May 27, 10AM-6PM, Franklin Park, 1755 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH. “This annual event with more than 100,000 visitors and will continue to grow, thanks to the strong participation of many people regardless of origin and ethnicity. Because of the tremendous success, the festival has received strong support from state, city, corporate, and communities every year since its beginning in 1995. The festival is also recognized as one of the major special events in Central Ohio.” http://asian-festival.org



Toronto:

Doors Open Ontario”. May 5 in Peterborough and Whitby, May 5-6 in Hamilton, May 12 in Richmond Hill, and May 26-27 in Toronoto. About Doors Open Toronto: “Toronto was the very first city to host Doors Open in North America! 150 architecturally, historically, culturally and socially significant buildings open their doors for the weekend and highlight the people who built the city. All for free!” http://www.doorsopenontario.on.ca https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/doors-open-toronto/

Exhibit, “Manolo Blahnik: The Art of Shoes”, Wednesday, May 16 through January 6, 2019, Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON. “The Bata Shoe Museum is excited to present the highly anticipated traveling exhibition “Manolo Blahnik: The Art of Shoes”, a stunning retrospective by one of the world’s most influential figures within the fashion industry. For over 45 years, Blahnik’s inventiveness and superb artisanship has crossed boundaries between fashion and art, inspiring elegance and perfection. The underlying theme of the exhibition – that shoes are art – aligns perfectly with Blahnik’s own approach to creating footwear. The BSM is excited to be the final and only North American venue to showcase this travelling exhibition. Previous stops on the international tour included Milan, Saint Petersburg, Prague and Madrid. Over 200 shoes and 80 drawings on display.” http://www.batashoemuseum.ca/manoloblahnik/

Carassauga Festival”, Friday, May 25 through Sunday, May 27, 10 locations throughout Mississauga, ON. Unlimited entry passports $10 CN in advance, $12 CN day of festival, free for kids 12 and under. “Mississauga’s Festival of Cultures! The 33rd anniversary of Carassauga; Festival of Cultures will be one of the biggest attractions this summer as we stand as one of the largest multicultural showcases in Ontario and also of all of Canada. Join 32 countries bring you the best of food, music, dance, art and history in a packed 3 day weekend. This year’s lineup of countries includes: Poland, Ukraine, Brazil, China, Colombia, Portugal, Iraq, Ireland, India, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Philippines, Pakistan, Ukraine, Mexico, Greece , Africa, Croatia, Kyrgyz Republic, Macedonia, Turkey, Vietnam, Serbia, Egypt, Hawaii, Korea, Lebanon, Cyrus, Indonesia, Ecuador, Nepal, Peru and of course Canada.” https://www.carassauga.com

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