August 2019 Events

This is my event list for the greater Pittsburgh area for August 2019. At the bottom of the list under "Road Trips" you will find a few cool happenings in Buffalo, Erie, Harrisburg, Maryland, Ohio, Philadelphia, Toronto, Washington DC and West Virginia. Please be sure to doublecheck the details of anything you plan to attend, in case of mistakes, typos and cancellations. And please share this list with anyone you know who might find it useful!

Almost every day in August, Venture Outdoors has scheduled stellar outdoor activities, including guided hikes and kayak paddles, fishing, and stand-up paddleboarding; far too many to list here: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org They are also renting kayaks at three locations through their program Kayak Pittsburgh: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/kayak-pittsburgh/ Kayaking is super easy and fun! 

LL Bean has many outdoor activities planned in August, including archery, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Most activities are $25, and many clinics to teach outdoor skills are free: https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/1000001727

Pittsburgh City Parks are featuring Cinema in the Park now through August 30. Check here for a complete schedule by location: https://pittsburghpa.gov/events/cinema/index.html

Allegheny County Parks are featuring their Summer Concert Series 2019 with free outdoor concerts for everyone from now to September 1. See schedule here https://www.alleghenycounty.us/special-events/summer-concert-series.aspx The Post-Gazette also has a huge list of all kinds of local summer concerts here: https://www.post-gazette.com/ae/music/2019/05/16/Pittsburgh-summer-times-concerts-KeyBank-Stage-AE-PPG-Paints-Heinz-Field/stories/201905090121

Exhibit, "An Atlas of Commoning: Spaces of Collective Production", now through September 22, Miller Institute for Contemporary Art, Carnegie Mellon University, Purnell Center for the Arts, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. “Facebook, Airbnb and other companies whose business models are based on the commercialization of social relationships, have transformed words like ‘community,’ ‘sharing’ or ‘we’ into empty concepts that no longer represent solidarity or a progressive social agenda, but rather form the basis for an emerging platform capitalism. This economic development is accompanied by a global political shift fueled by traditional community notions of identity and affiliation, exclusion and discrimination. Against this background, the exhibition and publication project An Atlas of Commoning aims to recapture and redefine the open and emancipatory space of ‘we’ as a concept. The project focuses on urban commons—here commons are to be understood as a set of practices dealing with the collective production and management of (material and immaterial) resources and spaces in general, rather than with the resources themselves, hence ‘commoning,’ the verb, takes center stage. Commoning is a process of dealing with differences and conflicts between the individual, the community and society. A process of spatial organization in the relations between production and reproduction, ownership and access to resources. A process that brings together solidarity networks and redefines individual and collective rights. The project questions the prevailing social and political structures and seeks new forms of collective, yet pluralistic, governance.” More about the exhibit here: https://miller-ica.cmu.edu/exhibitions/#408/an-atlas-of-commoning

Exhibit, “Guillame Marmin: Mythologies”, now through Sunday, August 25, Wood Street Galleries, 601 Wood St., Pittsburgh. Free. “The work of Guillaume Marmin is part of a revival of visual creation by avoiding traditional forms of narration and traditional scenic supports. He is looking for a common language between image and sound, a synesthetic alphabet made of rhythms, contrasts and refined figures in motion. – Murray Horne, curator. Timée, 2016: Artist Guillaume Marmin and musician Philippe Gordiani were drawn to one of Plato’s theories that each planet has its own tone and which divided the entire planetary system into a different octave, in effect the universe having its own musical score. Timée is Marmin and Gordiani’s attempt to recreate Plato’s vision in installation form. It is formed in a dark space with a wall that is perforated with a pattern of 300 holes. Light shines through each of them via a video projector placed in the rear and as the space fills with smoke shapes are formed within a stunning cosmic void. Anger and Hope, 2019: Anger and Hope is a reference to the Greek myth of Pandora’s box out of which escaped these two recurring emotions of our everyday lives. The aim of the device is to give physical form to sound frequencies, rendered in three dimensions through luminous flux. Images and sounds merge into one medium, with shifting contours, which appears to be alive and tangible.” http://woodstreetgalleries.org/portfolio-view/mythologies/

Screening, “Toni Morrison: The Pieces That I Am”, now through Thursday, August 8, Regent Square Cinema, 1025 S. Braddock Ave., Pittsburgh. “Toni Morrison: The Pieces That I Am offers an artful and intimate meditation on the life and works of the acclaimed novelist. From her childhood in the steel town of Lorain, Ohio to ‘70s-era book tours with Muhammad Ali, from the front lines with Angela Davis to her own riverfront writing room, Toni Morrison leads an assembly of her peers, critics and colleagues on an exploration of race, America, history and the human condition as seen through the prism of her own literature. Woven together with a rich collection of art, history, literature and personality, the film includes discussions about her many critically acclaimed works, including novels ‘The Bluest Eye’, ‘Sula’ and ‘Song of Solomon’, her role as an editor of iconic African-American literature and her time teaching at Princeton University.” http://cinema.pfpca.org/films/toni-morrison-the-pieces-that-i-am Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8sUwXTWb4M

“Boeing Boeing”, now through Saturday, August 3, Little Lake Theatre, 500 Lakeside Dr. South, Canonsburg. Ages 13 and up. “It's the 1960s, and Parisian playboy Bernard has Italian, German, and American fiancées, each a beautiful airline hostess with frequent layovers. He keeps 'one up, one down, and one pending' until his friend Robert comes to stay, and a new, faster Boeing jet brings all three women to Paris, and Bernard’s apartment, at the same time. Hilarity ensues in this farce, perfect for a summer evening!” https://www.littlelake.org/boeing-boeing

“Once”, now through Sunday, August 4, Benedum Center, 7th St. and Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “On the streets of Dublin, a woeful Irish musician and a captivating young Czech woman are drawn together by their shared love of music. Over the course of one fateful week, an unexpected friendship and collaboration quickly evolve into a powerful but complicated romance, underscored by emotionally-charged music, played by the very actors themselves! Winner of eight 2012 Tony Awards including Best Musical, ‘Once’ is a truly original theatrical experience. The music of ‘Once’ has won an Academy Award, a Grammy Award, an Olivier Award and a Tony Award. Featuring all of the breathtaking music from the critically-acclaimed film, including the Oscar-winning ‘Falling Slowly’, this achingly-beautiful, joyously-uplifting show strikes an unforgettable chord in audiences and speaks to the power of music to connect us all. A show like this only comes around ‘Once’.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/60420/once

“Sundance Film Festival Shorts Tour”, through Thursday, August 1, Harris Theater, 809 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “The 2019 Sundance Film Festival Shorts Tour is a 96-minute theatrical program of 7 short films selected from this year’s festival, widely considered the premier showcase for short films and the launchpad for many now-prominent independent filmmakers for more than 30 years. Including fiction, documentary, and animation from around the world, the 2019 program offers new audiences a taste of what the festival offers, from sharply-written comedy and drama to edgy genre and an intimate family saga. The Festival's Short Film Program has long been established as a place to discover talented directors, such as past alums Damien Chazelle, Wes Anderson, Jill Soloway, Spike Jonze, Paul Thomas Anderson, Dee Rees, Taika Waititi, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, Lake Bell, Debra Granik, Jay and Mark Duplass, Todd Haynes, Lynne Ramsay, Andrea Arnold, and many others.” http://cinema.pfpca.org/films/2019-sundance-film-festival-shorts-tour

“Alpha Author Discussion”, Thursday, August 1, 6:30PM, Barnes and Noble, 5155 Route 30, Greensburg. “Alpha, the Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Workshop for Young Writers holds their annual writers' discussion and author signing. This year the group hosts New York Times bestselling author Yoon Ha Lee, Seth Dickinson and Lara Elena Donnelly. The event is open to the public. Please join us for the readings and lively discussion.” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062042776-0

“Replay FX”, Thursday, August 1 through Sunday, August 4, David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh. “Replay FX is a public gathering dedicated to esports, pinball, arcade games and live music. Replay FX includes a full lineup of competitions overseen by the Pittsburgh Knights, a leading brand in the esports industry. Founded in 2017, the Knights are the officially recognized esports team of the city of Pittsburgh and a strategic partner of the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers. Replay FX showcases the largest arcade in the world, featuring more than 1,000 classic arcade and pinball machines, hundreds of console systems ranging from the original Magnavox Odyssey to the XBox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and virtual reality systems, as well as PC gaming and tabletop. The arcade is managed by the Replay Foundation, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to preserving gaming-related history and technology, making Replay FX both a central hub of modern esports as well as the largest living museum of retro video games, pinball, and associated tech culture.” https://replayfx.org 

“Barynya Russian Dance and Music”, Thursday, August 1, 2PM, People’s Library, New Kensington; Thursday, August 1, 6PM, Scottdale Library; Friday, August 2, 2PM, Jeanette Library; and Friday, August 2, 6PM, Delmont Library. “Join us for a free performance Barynya, a world-renowned Russian folk ensemble. The group will perform traditional Russian, Cossack, Ukrainian, Jewish and Gypsy Roma dances and music.” 

“Biophilia: Van Gogh and the Garden”, Thursday, August 1, 5:30, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Café Phipps, 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.phipps.conservatory.org/green-innovation/in-the-region/biophilia-network “Join us on Thurs., Aug. 1 at Café Phipps with Jordyn Melino, associate director of exhibits at Phipps, and Lucy Stewart, associate curator of education at Carnegie Museum of Art, for a talk about how nature inspired Van Gogh and how Van Gogh, in turn, inspired Phipps' Summer Flower Show. As the master himself said, “If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere.” While Lucy gives a curator's perspective on nature in the work of Van Gogh, Jordyn will discuss the process for bringing the paintings to life in our display rooms – selecting a plant palette, designing props and figuring out horticultural challenges such as the vertical wall portrait in the Welcome Center. 5:30 – 6 p.m. — Networking and refreshments; 6 – 6:30 p.m. — Presentation; 6:30 – 7 p.m. — Discussion.” 

“Summer Show”, Thursday, August 1 through Sunday, August 4, Portersville Steam Show, 1512 Perry Highway, Portersville. $5 adults, free for kids 11 and under. “Antique cars, craft building, Civil War encampment, exhibit building, flea market, food, old tracktors, train rides, vintage village, Baker Fan testing, equipment parades, gas engines, oil field engines, saw milling, steam building, steam engines, threshing and baling, cross cut saw, working field, 1940s dragline display.” http://portersvillesteamshow.org/Summer_Show.php

“Downtown’s Best: Special Places and Spaces”, Thursdays in August, 9:45AM-12PM, meeting at Grant Street and Fourth Avenue, in the Plaza at One Oxford Centre. $20, which includes a guidebook. Preregistration required; contact Mary Lu Denny: 412-471-5808, ext. 527; marylu@phlf.org. “Tour the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh to see more than 25 architectural landmarks, spectacular interiors, and significant urban spaces. Hear how Pittsburgh developed from a military outpost in the 18th century to a beautiful, walkable, and livable 21st-century city.” https://phlf.org/events/

“Culture and Foods of the Middle Eastern Immigrants”, Thursday, August 1, 7PM-8PM, Old Economy Village, 270 16th St., Ambridge. “This presentation is a part of the food series. On August 1st, Brenda Applegate, will be holding a presentation on Culture and Foods of the Native Americans. Information will be shared about the ‘Three Sisters’ (corn, beans and squash) and how the local natives who lived at Logstown in the middle 1700’s, would have prepared and stored their food. Depending upon seasonal availability, local flora and natural resources -plants, trees, fruits and nuts will be discussed. Additional information will be provided through a power point presentation on the history of Logstown. It is free to the public, but you need to register prior. To register please contact Chloe Thomas at 724-266-4500 x 104 or at c-chlthoma@pa.gov. The presentation will be held in the Visitor Center Classroom. A sample of food will be available.” http://oldeconomyvillage.org/visit/calendar/

“Great Asian Space Race”, Thursday, August 1, 7PM-8:30PM, Monroeville Library. “Join author and East Asian literature scholar Wendelin Gray for a multimedia presentation about the major space programs of East Asia and India. The presentation will also include a look at the top manga and anime Space Brothers which features a pair of brothers living their dreams as astronauts with NASA and JAXA, the Japanese space program!” 

“Zelienople: Along the Trail of History”, Thursday, August 1, 7PM, Zelienople Library. $8 adults, $3 kids 14 and under. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/zelienople-library-presents-tickets-57046430409 “Local historian Tom Nesbitt will be speaking. Tom is the author of Zelienople, in the Images of Amercia series. This talk is co-sponsored by the Zelienople Historical Society.” 

“Climbing Your Family Tree (Lab)”, Thursday, August 1, 7PM-8PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/P/PTLIB/ek.cfm “Join us as we learn some of the ins and outs of Ancestry Library Edition and Heritage Quest—both available to you free with your Peters Township library card. Start your family history quest today and explore the amazing history of you! Classes are free unless otherwise noted. Lab classes are limited to nine students, and basic mouse and keyboard skills are suggested.” 

“Inkspotters Teen Writing Group”, Thursdays, August 1, 8, and 15, 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.” 

“Word Basics”, Thursday, August 1, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Job and Career Education Center. Preregistration required; call 412-622-3133. “Learn the basics of word processing: formatting text, saving a document, cutting, copying and pasting and more.” 

“Friendly Fire Friday for Free”, Friday, August 2, 9:30AM-7PM, Fort Ligonier, 200 S. Market St., Ligonier. “Free admission to the fort, award-winning museum and special firing demonstrations. Firings (weather permitting) take place at 11:00 am, 1:00 and 3:00 pm. Explore the authentically reconstructed British fort while becoming immersed in the story of Colonial America before the American Revolution. Find out how this Fort, the last in a string of fortifications built along the newly cut Forbes Road that began in Philadelphia, made Pittsburgh possible and changed world history.” https://www.fortligonier.org/event/friendly-fire-friday-for-free-5/

“Woodchuckers Axe Throwing”, Fridays, 6PM-10PM, South Park Ice Rink. $20. Ages 13 and up. Parental permission required for minors. Close toed shoes required. Preregistration required; register online: http://woodchuckersaxe.com

Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice”, August 2, 3, 4, 9, and 10, 7PM, Tall Trees Amphitheater, Monroeville Park West, Tillbrook Rd., Monroeville. Free. These productions are really fantastic! https://pooryoricksplayers.org

“Hot Jam”, Friday, August 2, 6PM-9PM, Pittsburgh Glass Center, 5472 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Hot Jam is a free open house on First Fridays featuring heat-defying acts of art including live glassblowing demonstrations and a contemporary glass art exhibition. An American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter will be onsite to welcome visitors and narrate the glassblowing demonstration. Tonight Jaime Guerrero will be in the Hot Shop sculpting life-size children in glass for his upcoming exhibition Cuando el Río Suena that focuses on the refugee crisis. Casa San Jose, our local Latino welcome center, will also be here. Enjoy refreshing beverages from Hitchhiker Brewing's new mobile tap truck The Nomad, summer cocktails from Ketel One Botanical, and woodfired pizza from Romulus Pizza al Taglio.” https://www.pittsburghglasscenter.org/events/hot-jam-aug-2

“68th Annual Woodsmen Show”, Friday, August 2 through Sunday, August 4, 9AM-6PM, Cherry Springs State Park. “The Woodsmen Show celebrates the rich lumber history of Potter County. Come see the top lumberjacks in the country come to Cherry Springs State Park to compete in events like cross cut saw, springboard, axe throwing and tree felling - the same events featured in the popular outdoor games on TV. Witness ordinary people test their own skills while rubbing elbows with the pros. Watch talented chainsaw artists create works of beauty. Discover exhibits, vendors and historical re-enactments all commemorating our great forest and the life of the woodhick. After soaking in all the activities, sit down with a hearty meal and enjoy traditional music.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/68th_annual_woodsmen_show

“Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert”, Friday, August 2 through Sunday, August 4, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Audiences will be able to relive the magical adventure of Harry Potter’s second year at school like never before. This concert features ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets’ in high-definition while the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra performs John Williams’ otherworldly score. Experience the wonder of talking spiders, scolding letters, and giant snakes all over again!” https://www.trustarts.org/production/62917/harry-potter-and-the-chamber-of-secrets-in-concert

“Stargazing”, Friday, August 2, 9PM-10:30PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Amphitheater. “Join the Park Naturalist for this exciting hike through the night sky. We’ll observe the sky and try to identify some constellations and the stories that accompany them. We’ll also be keeping our eyes open for meteor showers. Bring your vehicle and binoculars if you have them. There is a very short drive to the viewing area.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/stargazing_8959

“Free Friday Walking Tours: Gateway Center”, Fridays in August, 12PM-1PM, meeting at Gateway “T” Station, on Stanwix Street near Liberty Avenue. Preregistration required; contact Mary Lu Denny: 412-471-5808, ext. 527; marylu@phlf.org. “Explore the Gateway Center area of Downtown Pittsburgh on a free guided walking tour with PHLF. You’ll see eleven buildings constructed during Pittsburgh’s Renaissance, set within landscaped plazas, and view Point State Park from Commonwealth Place. Gateway Center and Point State Park now compose the Pittsburgh Renaissance Historic District, nominated by PHLF and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013.” https://phlf.org/events/

“Spring Awakening”, Friday, August 2 through Saturday, August 17, Comtra Theatre, 20540 Route 19“An angsty rock musical adaptation of the seminal play about the trials and tribulations of growing up. The winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, told by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater through what Entertainment Weekly called, "the most gorgeous Broadway score this decade," Spring Awakening explores the journey from adolescence to adulthood with a poignancy and passion that is illuminating and unforgettable. The landmark musical is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock and roll that is exhilarating audiences across the nation like no other musical in years. It is Germany, 1891, a world where the grown-ups hold all the cards. The beautiful young Wendla explores the mysteries of her body and wonders aloud where babies come from... until Mama tells her to shut it and put on a proper dress. Elsewhere, the brilliant and fearless young Melchior interrupts a mind-numbing Latin drill to defend his buddy, Moritz – a boy so traumatized by puberty that he can't concentrate on anything... not that the Headmaster cares. He strikes them both and tells them to turn in their lesson. One afternoon, in a private place in the woods, Melchior and Wendla meet by accident and soon find within themselves a desire unlike anything they've ever felt. As they fumble their way into one another's arms, Moritz flounders and soon fails out of school. When even his one adult friend, Melchior's mother, ignores his plea for help, he is left so distraught that he can't hear the promise of life offered by his outcast friend, Ilse. Naturally, the Headmasters waste no time in pinning the ‘crime’ of Moritz's suicide on Melchior to expel him. And soon, Mama learns that her little Wendla is pregnant. Now the young lovers must struggle against all odds to build a world together for their child. Join this group of late nineteenth century German students on their passage as the navigate teenage self-discovery and coming of age anxiety in a powerful celebration of youth and rebellion in the daring, remarkable Spring Awakening.” http://www.comtratheatre.org

Screening, “The Farewell”, Friday, August 2 through Tuesday, August 6, The Manor, 1729 Murray Ave., Pittsburgh. http://www.manorpgh.com/ Rated PG. Comedy. “In this funny, uplifting tale based on an actual lie, Chinese-born, U.S.-raised Billi (Awkwafina) reluctantly returns to Changchun to find that, although the whole family knows their beloved matriarch, Nai-Nai, has been given mere weeks to live, everyone has decided not to tell Nai Nai herself. To assure her happiness, they gather under the joyful guise of an expedited wedding, uniting family members scattered among new homes abroad. As Billi navigates a minefield of family expectations and proprieties, she finds there’s a lot to celebrate: a chance to rediscover the country she left as a child, her grandmother’s wondrous spirit, and the ties that keep on binding even when so much goes unspoken. With The Farewell, writer/director Lulu Wang has created a heartfelt celebration of both the way we perform family and the way we live it, masterfully interweaving a gently humorous depiction of the good lie in action with a richly moving story of how family can unite and strengthen us, often in spite of ourselves.” Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RofpAjqwMa8

“2019 Family Fishing at Soggy Bottom Lake”, Saturday, August 3, and Friday, September 6, 6PM-8PM, Meeting at Fern Hollow Nature Center, 1901 Glen Mitchell Rd., Sewickley. $15 per person for fishing, $10 for Fern Hollow members, free for nonfishing adults. Preregistration required; register online: http://fhnc.org/events.aspx?id=419&d=07122019 “A great opportunity to learn how to fish, or keep improving your skills with the help of our certified fishing instructors. Equipment and bait will be provided.” 

“ARTLab Natural Dyeing”, Saturday, August 3, 1PM-4PM, Mattress Factory, 500 Sampsonia Way, Pittsburgh. Included with museum admission. “From rusty nails to avocado skins, see how a few odds and ends become vibrant colors for fabric.” https://mattress.org/content/artlab

“K-Pop Summer Dance Classes”, Saturday, August 3 and Saturday, August 10, 4PM-5PM, Yanlai Dance Academy, 2260 Babcock Blvd., Pittsburgh. $18. “K-pop has been sweeping through the popular mainstream culture. Come learn the choruses to your favorite songs at this dance class! For all levels! Taught by Lucy Chen.” https://www.yanlaidanceacademy.com/pittsburgh

“Poetry Reading”, Saturday, August 3, 7PM-9PM, White Whale Books, 4754 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “To kick off our poetry events during the month of August, White Whale’s delighted to welcome back local poets Scott Silsbe, Stefanie Wielkopolan, Meghan Tutolo, Bob Pajich, and Luke Kuzmish, for a reading in the store! All four writers will be selling their books and chapbooks during the reading as well.” https://whitewhalebookstore.com/events/2019/8/3/poetry-reading-scott-silsbe-amp-local-poets

“PA Black Bear”, Saturday, August 3, 8PM-9:30PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Amphitheater. “Join us for one of our most popular programs. We’ll discuss these amazing mammals, where they are found in Ohiopyle State Park, and then we’ll view a portion of the award winning video, ‘On the Trail of Pennsylvania Black Bears’.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/pa_black_bear_4017

“Moths!”, Saturday, August 3, 8PM-10PM, Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. Free. “Celebrate Moth Week! Join Jennings' Staff to discover these incredible insects. From the tiniest moth at .1 inches, to the largest with six-inch wingspans, moths are incredibly diverse. While often given a bad name by the damage some moth caterpillars cause to crops, moths are actually a fascinating and vital part of the ecosystem. After a short indoor presentation, we will head outside to the forest and the prairie to attract and observe moths in their natural habitats. Free and no registration is required.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/moths

“Pittsburgh Amusement Park Panel”, Saturday, August 3, 12PM, Barnes and Noble, 100 W. Bridge St., Homestead. “Attention amusement park enthusiasts! The Barnes and Noble Waterfront location will be hosting a Pittsburgh Amusement Park panel at 12PM. Panel includes: Rick Sebak-Kennywood Memories, from: WQED. Brian Butko- Kennywood: Behind the Screams, Luna Park From: Senator John Heinz History Center Jennifer Sopko- Idelwild; Dave Hahner- Images of America: Kennywood.” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062042827-0

“Youth Author Series: Jasmine Warga”, Saturday, August 3, 3PM-4:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/youth-author-series-jasmine-warga/ “Join us for a reading with author Jasmine Warga who will present her newly released middle grade novel, Other Words For Home. Her reading will be followed by Q/A conversation. Jasmine Warga is the internationally acclaimed author of Other Words For Home, My Heart and Other Black Holes, and Here We Are Now. Her novels have received multiple starred reviews and have been translated into more than twenty-five different languages. Other Words For Home, written in verse, is a middle grade novel centered on a young girl who must leave Syria for the United States. Jude never thought she’d be leaving her beloved older brother and father behind, all the way across the ocean in Syria. But when things in her hometown start becoming volatile, Jude and her mother are sent to live in Cincinnati with relatives. At first, everything in America seems too fast and too loud. The American movies that Jude has always loved haven’t quite prepared her for starting school in the US—and her new label of “Middle Eastern,” an identity she’s never known before. But this life also brings unexpected surprises—there are new friends, a whole new family, and a school musical that Jude might just try out for. Maybe America, too, is a place where Jude can be seen as she really is. This lyrical, life-affirming story is about losing and finding home and, most importantly, finding yourself.” 

“Learn to Kayak”, Saturday, August 3, and Saturday, August 10, 10AM-12PM, Laurel Hill State Park. Free. Preregistration required; please contact: Kimberly Peck 814-352-8649 kipeck@pa.gov. “Basic instruction will be followed by a leisurely paddle on Laurel Hill Lake.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/learn_to_kayak_8902 

“Moth Walk”, Saturday, August 3, 7:30PM-10PM, Chatham University, Eden Hall Campus, 6035 Ridge Rd, Gibsonia. $12, or $8 for Venture Outdoors members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/events/3208909/ “Moths play an important role in our environment and many are just as beautiful as butterflies. Come learn more about moth’s for VO’s National Moth Week event at Chatham University’s Eden Hall campus in the North Hills. We’ll take a walk in the forest, learn about moth biology, and identify moths at a light trap.” 

“Bioluminescent Fungi Walk”, Saturday, August 3, 9:30PM-11PM, Raccoon Creek State Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/bioluminescent_fungi_walk “Venture with us as we explore the trails in a hunt for the illusive bioluminescent fungi. On this journey, we will be hiking nearly a mile along dark trails in the hope of finding these strange and beautiful fungi. Space is limited for this special night hike. We recommend bringing a folding chair that is easy to carry, water, and repellent.” 

“Guided Nature Hike with a Park Ranger: Geology”, Saturday, August 3, 2PM-4PM, Settler’s Cabin Park, Mohawk. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/sc-guided-nature-hike-with-a-park-ranger-geology/3849 “This hike will be approximately 2 miles. Settlers Cabin Park has been shaped by forces both natural and man-made. Join us for a short hike and learn about the geology and recent history that has shaped the park as we see it today.” 

“Butterfly Walk”, Saturday, August 3, 1PM, Mingo Creek Park, Shelter 2, Finleyville. Free. Preregistration required; call 724-228-6867. “Learn more about the beautiful butterflies found in Washington County as we peer into the world of butterflies with Monica Miller. Search for and observe colorful butterflies along the way, learn life histories and the habitat preferences of common local butterflies. Wear comfortable shoes and a hat. Bring a bottle of water. Long pants are recommended.” http://www.co.washington.pa.us/DocumentCenter/View/6729/Calendar-of-Event-2019-Web-Layout-1-25-19

Author Talk, “Matt Bloom”, Saturday, August 3, 2PM, Barnes and Noble, 800 Settlers Ridge Center Dr., Pittsburgh. “Meet Matt Bloom, USMC, one of the authors of The Warrior's Book of Virtues: A Field Guide for Living Your Best Life. Along with his co-authors, he describes how to learn to adapt and overcome adversity. The book is a guide for living a virtuous life based on the principles of the United States Marine Corps, principles such as perseverance, respect, self-discipline and integrity.” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062030719-0  More about the book here:  https://www.theepochtimes.com/three-veterans-lessons-on-virtues-and-values_2971949.html 

“Operation Market Garden 1944 Nijmegen Bridge Reenactment”, Saturday, August 3, battle at 3PM, Tidioute. This is a large scale reenactment of a WWII bridge battle in Holland, with German and American troops and Dutch civilians. “Camps are open to public on Friday evening Aug. 2 and on Saturday from about 11:00 till 2:00 p.m., and also after the battle, on Sat. Camp grounds are located just down river of the bridge, with plenty of ample parking. There are military venders located at the camp where souvenirs and collectibles may be purchased. Small lunches and sandwiches may be purchased at an authentic military field kitchen, located on camp grounds.” http://remagenbridge.com 

“Audacious Pioneers: The Ladies of 14 (A Walking Tour)”, Wednesdays and Saturdays in August, Homewood Cemetery, 1599 S Dallas Ave, Pittsburgh. $10. Preregistration required; call 412-421-1822. “Audacious Pioneers" will introduce stories from the Distaff side of Pittsburgh History. Centering the tour on women will allow for a wider discussion Pittsburgh society, one that crosses lines of class and race in ways our traditional tour of Section 14 has yet to attempt. Some the ladies featured on the tour include: a world famous opera singer; a palm-reading Countess from Coshocton, Ohio; a politically minded widow with a fondness for cars; and the proprietor of a successful African American ‘tourist house’ in The Hill. The tour is $10 a person, all proceeds benefiting The Homewood Cemetery Historical Fund. Reservations are required.” https://www.facebook.com/events/360345097979098/

“Hummingbird Tea and Talk”, Saturday, August 3, 10AM, Raymond B. Winter State Park. “Join Wayne Laubscher as we capture and band ruby throated hummingbirds at the Park Office. This is a unique opportunity for anyone interested in bird research and a chance to see and learn about these amazing birds as up close as possible. Please meet outside the park office and bring something to sit on! Space is somewhat limited.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/hummingbird_tea_and_talk_4024

“256th Anniversary of the Battle of Bushy Run”, Saturday, August 3 and Sunday, August 4, 10AM-4PM, Bushy Run Battlefield, 1253 Busy Run Rd., Jeanette. $10 adults, $5 children, free for ages 2 and under. $15 weekend pass, $7 child weekend pass. “Witness a clash of cultures in as historical reenactors bring the Battle of Bushy Run to life! Learn what caused Native American warriors and British soldiers to take up arms against each other during a two-day battle in August 1763 during Pontiac’s War. Discover what life was like on the frontier for European settlers and Native peoples alike in this annual historical reenactment. Events include morning historical demonstrations, eighteenth century military camps, a Native American village, a refugee camp, a sutler trade area, a fashion show, live historical music, a children’s area, concession stand, and more!” https://bushyrunbattlefield.com/news-events/

“Chinese Calligraphy”, Saturday, August 3, 2:30PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Downtown and Business Branch. “A Chinese calligraphy expert will show us pictures of her home in China, give background on the art of calligraphy, and lead a Chinese calligraphy workshop for all ages! 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.” 

“Plant Pursuit: Medicinal Plants of the Wild”, Saturday, August 3, 3PM-4PM, Linbrook Woodlands, 2545 Hopkins Church Rd., Sewickley. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/event/plant-pursuit-medicinal-plants-of-the-wild/ “We are thrilled to have Jen Dalke of Blue Heron Nature Skills leading this hike on medicinal plants that might be growing in your own backyard! Learn how to identify and use local plants that help with coughs, sore throats, joint pains, and more. Hike will run one hour rain or shine.” 

“Guided Tour: Fort Pitt Museum”, Saturdays and Sundays in August, 11AM and 1PM, Fort Pitt Museum, Point State Park, 601 Commonwealth Ave., Pittsburgh. “Get to the point of Pittsburgh history by taking a one-hour highlights tour of the Fort Pitt Museum, featuring the Fort Pitt diorama, the Trader’s Cabin, and the main exhibits on the museum’s second floor. Following the tour, visitors are encouraged to re-visit displays and exhibits to learn more about Fort Pitt, the French and Indian War, and the American Revolution.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events

“Artillery and Artificers”, Saturday, August 3 and Sunday, August 4, 11AM-4PM, Fort Pitt Museum, Point State Park, 601 Commonwealth Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Witness how artillerists at historic Fort Pitt prepared for cannon firings to defend the Point in the 18th century. Artisans including tinners, turners, and blacksmiths will demonstrate and discuss how their trades contributed to 18th century artillery. The Fort Pitt Museum cannon crew will fire the museum’s replica British six-pounder cannon throughout the day, weather permitting.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events

“Dealing with Bats in Buildings”, Saturday, August 3, 6:30PM-9:30PM, Canoe Creek State Park, Wentz Education Center. “Join the staff of Bat Conservation and Management to learn about how to deal with bats in buildings. This free workshop starts by investigating why bats move into buildings and offers practical suggestions on how to safely exclude them. Then participants will visit nearby structures with bat colonies and discuss bat exclusions. Workshop participants will view several bat structures, view the evening bat emergence and use bat detectors and cameras for surveying roosts. The workshop is for ages 8+. Bring a headlamp or flashlight, hiking shoes, long pants, and a snack and water. Also consider bug spray and a blanket to sit on.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/dealing_with_bats_in_buildings

“Guided Tour: The Vietnam War: 1945-1975”, Saturdays in August, 11AM and 1PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Included with admission. “Join a History Center docent to explore the multiple perspectives that contribute to our current understanding of the Vietnam War. On this guided tour, you’ll discover local connections to both the war front and the home front and gain insight into the many ways that the Vietnam War shaped the country.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events

“Eastern Shadyside Walking Tour”, Sunday, August 4, 1PM-2:30PM, meeting at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 310 Shady Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15206. $20. Paid reservations required; contact marylu@phlf.org or 412-471-5808, ext. 527. “There’s so much of quality to see on this walking tour through the eastern edge of the City’s Shadyside neighborhood, including Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Kenmawr Apartments, Sellers-Carnahan house, Highland Towers, Alder Court, the former Hunt Armory, and Calvary Episcopal Church (shown here). You’ll hear about the development of apartment architecture in the East End and see how the continued use of historic religious properties and residential buildings has created a unique, desirable 21st-century neighborhood. Franklin West, Inc., is partnering with PHLF on this tour and will be opening Highland Towers to our group. Designed in 1913-14 by Frederick G. Scheibler, Jr., Highlands Towers is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is a Historic Landmark plaque recipient.” https://phlf.org/event/eastern-shadyside-walking-tour-2/

“Club Loose”, Sunday, August 4, 8AM-5PM, Pittsburgh International Race Complex, 201 Penndale Rd., Wampum. $5 at the door to spectate. “Club Loose” is “drifting”, which I think of as “driving sideways”: “Drifting is a driving technique. Drifting is an ‘extreme’ sport. Drifting is the fastest growing form of motorsport in the world. A car is said to be drifting when the rear slip angle is greater than the front slip angle, and the front wheels are pointing in the opposite direction to the turn (e.g. car is turning left, wheels are pointed right), and the driver is controlling these factors. You may think that drifting is the same thing to a power sliding, but drifting is more complex than that. Instead of a drifter causing a drift and then countering to straighten out, he will over-counter so his car goes into another drift. A good drifter has the ability to take five or six opposing turns without having traction at any point in time.” https://pittrace.com/event/club-loose-drifting-3/

“Beaver Pond Stroll”, Sunday, August 4, 10AM-11AM, Canoe Creek State Park, Beaver Pond trailhead. “Take a walk through the scenic beaver ponds to learn about this habitat and what lives there. We’ll talk about the seasonal changes and how the trail’s residents adapt to the cold season.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/beaver_dam_stroll

“Science in the Park: Pond Life”, Sunday, August 4, 2:30PM-3:30PM, Canoe Creek State Park, Beaver Pond trailhead. “Join us at the Beaver Ponds as we investigate what lives there. Get ready to get slimy and learn about the hidden life of a pond!” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/science_in_the_park_pond_life

“Archery”, Sunday, August 4, 10AM-12PM, Ohiopyle State Park. Preregistration is required.; email rbando@pa.gov or call 724-329-0986. “Throughout history humans have relied on the bow and arrow for protection and to gather food. This weapon is still widely used today. Join us for this introductory lesson to learn the basic techniques and safety rules of this reliable device. This program is for ages 8 to 80. All equipment will be provided.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/archery_2000

“Night Hike”, Sunday, August 4, 8:30PM-10PM, 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.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/night_hike_3231

“Historical Tours of Main Library”, Wednesdays, 11AM and 1PM, and Sundays, 1PM and 3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/historical-tours-of-main-library-registration-46770852880 “Join experienced staff and volunteer docents as we take you on a guided tour through Andrew Carnegie’s Main Library. You’ll get a look at the wonderful art and architecture that created this historic landmark, as well as how the building’s interior has changed over time. Tours will take place on Sundays at 1 PM and 3 PM and Wednesdays at 11 AM and 1 PM, and will last about 1 hour. All tours will meet in the front lobby of the Main Library.” 

“Painting in the Outdoors”, Sunday, August 4, 2PM-4:30PM, Raccoon Creek State Park. $15. Preregistration required; register online: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/painting_in_the_outdoors_9542 “Friends of Raccoon Creek State Park has partnered with Artist Lora Russell to bring you " Painting in the Outdoors" at the park. We invite anyone from beginner to skilled artist to learn and practice their artistic talents while enjoying the outdoors at Raccoon Creek State Park. Both children and adults are welcome to attend this painting program on Acrylic. There is a $15 charge per person.” 

“Native Butterfly Release”, Sunday, August 4, 6PM, Moraine State Park, Main Stage, $10 for a butterfly, free to watch. Purchase a butterfly here: http://www.morainestateparkregatta.org/30/Oliver+Outdoor+Native+Butterfly+Release+%26amp%3B+Tribute+Finale.html “Our Sunday tradition and evening farewell fills the sky with the color and movement from one of nature’s most beautiful creatures, the Western Pennsylvania Monarch. Over 200 butterflies will take flight in a mass release - a fitting send-off celebration (presented by Oliver Outdoor) for the Regatta weekend. Guests may also purchase individual butterflies, distributed in honor of a special someone, in memory of a loved one, or just for fun. Claim your pre-purchased at 5pm from the Regatta Information Tent Sunday, August 4th at 5pm and join us at the Main Stage for the mass release at 6pm.” This event is part of the Moraine State Park Regatta: http://www.morainestateparkregatta.org 

“Life Below the Prairie”, Sunday, August 4, 2PM-4PM, Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. Free. “Ever wonder what happens below your feet, down in the earth where you can’t see? Join Jennings' staff Sunday, August 4th from 2:00 - 4:00 PM for a guided walk to discover a world never seen, life below the prairie. Darkness, hard clay soils and extremes in moisture levels make this a difficult environment in which to survive, let alone thrive. But the plants and animals that call the prairie “home” have adapted to these conditions. Together connections are formed and communities are built. Below the surface the hustle and bustle of daily life happens, year-round, whether we can see it or not. The prairie at Jennings is a unique ecosystem (a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment) and exists due to a combination of geology, historical climate, and modern management.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/life_below_the_prairie_3579

“Pittsburgh Reptile Show and Sale”, Sunday, August 4, 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

“Greene County Fair”, Sunday, August 4 through Saturday, August 10, 107 Fairgrounds Rd., Waynesburg. “All ages can find something to enjoy at the Greene County Fair in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania! We have a wide range of activities including carnival rides, live music, animals, livestock shows, home and garden competitions, great food, and catching up with family and friends.” https://www.facebook.com/pg/greenecountyfairPA/events/?ref=page_internal

“Try Scuba”, Sunday, August 4, 7:30PM-9PM, South Park Wave Pool. $50, or $40 for Allegheny County residents. Ages 10- adult. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/sp-splash-water-sports-try-scuba/4183 “Within the confines of a shallow pool, participants will try scuba without committing to a certification course. No experience is required. Participants must be comfortable swimming underwater and be in reasonably good health. A liability release will be required.” 

“In the Workshop: Experimental Music w/ Anna Azizzy”, Monday, August 5, 7PM-9PM, Ace Hotel, 120 S. Whitfield St., Pittsburgh. Free. “Join performance artist, video artist, and experimental musician Anna Azizzy for this month’s free learning session. Curated by gfx, this workshop series highlights instruments from the Musical Instrument Lending Library at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. The Library will also be on hand with instruments for hands-on noodling. After making new sounds of your own, stick around to hear gfx DJs at Ace Hotel’s In the Weeds.” https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/in-the-workshop-experimental-music-w-anna-azizzy/

Screening, “A Stray”, Monday, August 5, 7PM-9PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/a-stray/ “Join us for a film screening of A Stray followed by a discussion curated by the Muslim Women’s Association of Pittsburgh. “A Stray tells the human story of one young man’s personal journey for belonging. The film—hailed as a “visually striking film,” and a NY-Times critics pick, follows Adan through the little-seen, vibrant world of Somali refugees in Minneapolis. Adan’s story provides a window into what it means for some of the most marginalized Americans to find their place in this country.” 

“Observe the Moon and Stars at the Library”, Monday, August 5, 7PM. Zelienople Library. “Two free presentations by amateur astronomy Larry McHenry, ‘Stargazing and Myths’ will be an intro to the constellations, followed by ‘Observing the Moon for Beginners’. After the presentation, weather permitting, there will be an outdoor observing session with several telescopes to observe the planets Jupiter and Saturn, and the moon, star clusters and nebulae. Adults and children welcome.” 

“Cell Therapy: From Research to Reality”, Monday August 5, 7PM-9PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Parking $5. Preregistration required; register online: http://carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/adult-programs-cafe-sci/ Presented by Ron Jankowski, Vice President of Scientific Affairs, Cook MyoSite. “What if we could harness the body’s natural ability to heal itself? Learn how a Pittsburgh-based company is leading the world in turning personalized, regenerative medicine from research into reality. On Aug. 5, join Ron Jankowski, PhD, Vice President of Scientific Affairs at Cook MyoSite Inc., as he discusses the concept of regenerative medicine, what it means for the future of healthcare, and how some companies are offering look-a-like treatments without FDA approval. Cook MyoSite’s technology is based off research conducted during the late 1990s at the University of Pittsburgh. The lab research focused on the cells responsible for the regeneration and regrowth of muscle. It was this research that led to the formation of Cook MyoSite in 2002. Since then, they have been dedicated to the translation of technology related to the transplantation of skeletal muscle cells for the treatment of a variety of disorders.” 

“Laser Cutting”, Monday, August 5, and Monday, August 19, 6PM-8PM, University of Pittsburgh Manufacturing Assistance Center, 7800 Susquehanna St., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/laser-cutting-tickets-62198662875?aff=efbeventtix “Learn how to use the laser cutter at the MAC Makerspace. In this free two hour workshop, you will learn how to operate the hardware and software needed to take your designs from idea to physical prototype. Please bring a laptop to this workshop. If you would like to borrow a laptop let us know, we have a couple for the public to use.” 

“An Evening With Ben Folds: Book Talk”, Monday, August 5, 7PM-9PM, First Unitarian Church, 605 Morewood Ave., Pittsburgh. $15, or $30 with a book included. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/an-evening-with-ben-folds-book-talk-tickets-65009155133?aff=ebdssbdestsearch “Ben Folds is widely regarded as one of the major music influencers of our generation. The singer-songwriter has an enormous body of work that includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, and numerous collaborative records. Now, he adds ‘author’ to his list of accomplishments with the release of his first book, A DREAM ABOUT LIGHTNING BUGS—a memoir as nuanced, witty, and relatable as his cult-classic songs ‘Brick,’ ‘You Don’t Know Me,’ ‘Rockin’ the Suburbs,’ and ‘The Luckiest.’ White Whale Books is proud to host Ben Folds at First Unitarian Church in Pittsburgh—a beautiful, intimate venue with great acoustics. Join us for a conversation with the genre-bending icon as he opens up about finding his voice as a musician, becoming a rock anti-hero, and hauling a baby grand piano on and off stage for every performance. Q/A and book signing to follow. Bundled tickets include a hardcover book and priority seating.” https://www.benfolds.com

“A Celebration of Animation: The 100 Greatest Cartoon Characters in Television History”, Monday, August 5, South Park Township Library. Preregistration required; call 412-833-5585. Presented by author Marty Gitlin. 6:30-7:30 for kids and families: “Marty will show the best of the best of kids’ cartoons and play a couple of games.” 7:30-8:30 for adults and teens: “Marty’s presentations include highly entertaining clips of the antics of Bugs Bunny, SpongeBob SquarePants, The Powerpuff Girls, Bullwinkle J. Moose and more. Find out what criteria was used to rank the best of the best and the historical significance of some of these characters.” 

“Evening Archery”, Monday, August 5, 6PM, Mingo Creek Park, Shelter 10, Finleyville. Free. Preregistration required; call 724-228-6867. “Join one of our NASP instructors for an evening of shooting archery in Mingo Creek Park. Participants will learn the basics of archery, including parts of the bow, shooting techniques, and safety on the range. Participants of all levels are welcome. Must be at least 10 years of age to participate.” http://www.co.washington.pa.us/DocumentCenter/View/6729/Calendar-of-Event-2019-Web-Layout-1-25-19

“Butler Farm Show”, Monday, August 5 through Saturday, August 10, 625 Evans City Rd., Butler. Monday $7 per person, Tuesday through Saturday $8 per person. http://www.butlerfarmshow.com

“Pittsburgh Police Chess Club”, Mondays, 3PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Brookline; and Tuesdays, 5PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Hazelwood. “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.” 

“Young Naturalist Program”, 3 sessions, Monday, August 5, Tuesday, August 6 and Wednesday, August 7, 10AM-2PM, North Park, Latodami Nature Center. $15. Ages 9-16. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/np-young-naturalist-program/4066 “Come to this hands-on outdoor exploration that will excite and spark interest in young nature lovers. This program will open your child's mind to the natural world.” 

“Teen Labs: Cosplay Costume-Making”, Tuesdays in August, 3PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Teenspace. “Get crafty on your costume and accessories with a professional costume-maker and cosplayer! Bring your own materials or use what we have… the ONLY limit is your own imagination! The Labs is staffed every Tuesday from 3:00-4:30 PM during the summer, and is exclusively for teens ages 11-19.” 

“We Say Our Own Names: West Coast Poets of Color”, Tuesday, August 6, 7PM-8PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/we-say-our-own-names-west-coast-poets-of-color/ “What does it mean to celebrate the West Coast as a writer of color? How can we use our voices to challenge definitions and popular assumptions of the West? This evening features four West Coast to Western PA poets reading from their recent releases, followed by a brief Q/A conversation.” 

“Interview with an Alien for Teens”, 2 session class, Tuesday, August 6 and Wednesday, August 7, 6PM-8PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Children’s Story Room. Grades 6-12. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “In the spirit of the iconic "War Of The Worlds" radio broadcast, join Miss Katie and Miss Rachel to design your own UFO/alien sighting podcast episode! We will provide the technology and sound effects! You provide the story.” 

“Hello, Dolly!”, Tuesday, August 6 through Sunday, August 11, Benedum Center, 7th St. and Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Tony Award winning Broadway legend Betty Buckley stars in ‘Hello, Dolly!’, the universally acclaimed smash that NPR calls ‘the best show of the year!’ and the Los Angeles Times says ‘distills the mood-elevating properties of the American musical at its giddy best.’ Winner of four Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, director Jerry Zaks’ ‘gorgeous’ new production (Vogue) is ‘making people crazy happy!’ (The Washington Post). Breaking box office records week after week and receiving unanimous raves on Broadway, this ‘Hello, Dolly!’ pays tribute to the original work of legendary director/choreographer Gower Champion – hailed both then and now as one of the greatest stagings in musical theater history. Rolling Stone calls it ‘a must-see event. A musical comedy dream. If you’re lucky enough to score a ticket, you’ll be seeing something historic. Wow, wow, wow, indeed!’.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/60436/hello-dolly

“Two Faces of Urban Renewal: Gateway Center and Market Square Walking Tour”, Tuesday, August 6, 10AM-12PM, meeting at Gateway “T” Station on Stanwix Street near Liberty Avenue (Pittsburgh PA 15222). $20. Paid reservations required; contact marylu@phlf.org or 412-471-5808, ext. 527. “Separated by a few short blocks––but miles apart in design philosophy––Gateway Center and Market Square reveal two different approaches to urban renewal in Downtown Pittsburgh. Participants will discuss the pros and cons of each approach as they explore Gateway Center, created during Pittsburgh’s Renaissance (1945-1974), and the Market Square area which has evolved over time through the efforts of multiple developers. Gateway Center is now part of the Pittsburgh Renaissance Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Market Square is a City-designated Historic District. Both districts contain significant architectural landmarks and urban spaces.” https://phlf.org/event/two-faces-of-urban-renewal-gateway-center-and-market-square-walking-tour-downtown-pittsburgh-3/

“In Conversation with Shannon Watts”, Tuesday, August 6, 7:30PM-9PM, Chatham University, 1 Woodland Rd., Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/in-conversation-with-shannon-watts-moderated-by-chris-potter-tickets-64128382719 “Riverstone hosts for an important conversation about gun violence and grass roots activism. Chris Potter, WESA’s Government and Accountability Editor will interview Shannon Watts. On the morning of December 14, 2012, Shannon Watts was folding laundry when news broke about a deadly shooting at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut. Outraged, heartbroken, and overwhelmed by a need to act, she discovered there was no gun violence prevention equivalent to Mothers Against Drunk Driving. So, the stay-at-home mother of five founded Moms Demand Action, a grassroots effort that has grown into a national organization with millions of supporters and local chapters in all 50 states. Guns outnumber citizens in the US. Our country is home to 82% of gun deaths worldwide. And 38,658 Americans died by gun-related incidents in 2016 alone. Fight Like a Mother: How a Grassroots Movement Took on the Gun Lobby and Why Women Will Change the World (HarperOne; May 28, 2019) by Shannon Watts is the powerful story of how one mother’s cry for action started a national movement to fight some of the richest and most powerful people in America: the gun lobby. Along with her observations and wisdom, Watts shares moving messages of perseverance, courage, and compassion, and outlines the core mantras and principles that Moms Demand Action has used to battle the NRA and the intimidating tactics they employ to prevent gun safety progress. Bringing activism into the everyday, Fight Like a Mother will inspire anyone motivated to work for change and channel their values into action. Shannon Watts will donate a majority of the books' proceeds to nonprofits—like Everytown for Gun Safety—that are working to end gun violence.” 

“Creating Upcycled Pendants and Keychains with Dana”, Tuesday, August 6, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Classroom A. “Join us for HOW, a series of hands-on workshops for adults and teens. Learn from skilled craftspeople. Dig in and try things out in a creative, supportive environment. Join us for one or all of these free programs. Learn how to create practical and fun pieces with reused materials.” 

“Exploring the Stable Complex”, Tuesday, August 6, 12PM-1PM, Hartwood Acres Park. $8, or $6 for Allegheny County residents. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/ha-exploring-the-stable-complex/4314 “Tour the beautiful stable complex, which was designed by famed architect Alfred Hopkins to resemble an English Cotswold village! (There are no horses at the stable complex)” 

“Author Meet and Greet: Julia Stewart”, Tuesday, August 6, 6PM-8PM, Moon Township Library. “Stop by Moon Library as Julia Stewart discusses 'I Have a Question: A Tormented Journey to Language', the memoir her mother wrote about Julia's own childhood journey through a painful, traumatic illness that left her struggling physically and emotionally. Books will be available for purchase and signing after Julia's talk. I Have a Question? is a poignant mother/daughter narrative that began as an exhaustive search to determine the origins and therefore the answers to multiple medical irregularities that entail the story of Julie, a remarkably determined young lady, whose only goal was to be accepted as the perceptive and intelligent person she indeed is. She wanted to be "Normal," like the three brothers who provided much of the early window of her world. Most of all, she wanted more than anything else to go to school. Her early development was noted for its steady and eager progress until a seemingly ordinary infection shortly before her second birthday turned the happy placid child into a screaming terror, unable to eat or sleep. Her weight dwindled to eighteen pounds whereupon she was prescribed a bottle-fed diet which included massive doses of Vitamin C, Niacin, B6, and B12--and large areas of Julie were covered with an angry burn like rash for six full months. The child became well then, as suddenly as she had become ill, though her growth would continue in the lower 10th percentile, and her language would now display only the repetition of the rote words learned in speech classes. Julie's experiences over the long and lonely years give important insight into the suppressed anger often seen in school yard violence, just as Julie's victories affirm the efforts of those who try harder to understand.” 

“Excel Basics”, Tuesday, August 6, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Job and Career Education Center. Preregistration required; call 412-622-3133. “Learn the basics of making an organized and readable spreadsheet including formula construction and basic worksheet formatting. Get extra practice after the class with instructor-guided learning.” 

“Mandala Painting”, Tuesday, August 6, 6PM-7:30PM, Cranberry Library. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.cranberrytownship.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=14759&month=8&year=2019&day=20&calType=0 “Join artist Mara Carlini for painting and meditation. A $5 cash fee for materials is due at the door. Space is limited and registration is require. This program must have 6 participants in order to take place.” 

“Water Ecology Study with a Park Ranger”, Tuesday, August 6, 6PM-8PM, North Park, Avalon. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/np-water-ecology-study-with-a-park-ranger/4071 “We will be testing water quality and examining biodiversity while determining appropriate steps to take to maintain the health of the stream. Please dress in clothes and footwear you don’t mind getting wet. This program is appropriate for ages 10+. All participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.” 

“Inclusivity in Action”, Tuesday, August 6, 7PM, Repair the World, 6022 Broad St., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://hcofpgh.org/events/ “How do different groups work together to effect change, while being sensitive of each other’s needs? Playback Theatre will lead this workshop. Playback Theatre conducts improvisational storytelling, based on feelings and stories shared by audience members. Playback Theatre is about creating dialogue and connection through the telling, witnessing, and honoring of our life experiences.” 

“Period, Ellipsis, Full Stop,” by Polly Rosenwaike – Light Literary Lunch Club – A Short Story Discussion Group”, Wednesday, August 7, 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 Polly Rosenwaike’s ‘Period, Ellipsis, Full Stop’. Stop by the library to request a copy or find it online here: https://www.thecut.com/2019/03/fiction-by-polly-rosenwaike-period-full-stop-ellipses.html .” 

“Vietnam War Speaker Series: Marci Reaven”, Wednesday, August 7, 7PM-9PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. $20 admission, discount for History Center members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/vietnam-war-speaker-series-marci-reaven “Marci Reaven is vice-president for history exhibitions at New-York Historical Society, where she served as the original curator for The Vietnam War: 1945-1975 (2017) and has curated other exhibitions including WWII and NYC (2012), Chinese American: Exclusion/Inclusion (2014), Black Citizenship in the Age of Jim Crow (2018), and an exhibit on the environmental history of the Hudson River, Hudson Rising (2019). Prior to NYHS, Dr. Reaven served as Managing Director of the cultural organization City Lore, where she co-founded the Place Matters project and co-authored the guidebook, “Hidden New York: A Guide to Places that Matter.” Prior to that, as Senior Associate with American History Workshop, she participated in interpretive planning, exhibit creation, and curriculum development for museums and historic sites around the country. Following her presentation, Dr. Reaven will sign copies of “The Vietnam War: 1945-1975” exhibition book, which will be available for purchase.” 

“Summer Lecture Series”, Wednesday, August 7, Pittsburgh Glass Center, 5472 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Join us for our free summer lecture series. Each week from May 15 to August 7, internationally renowned artists will present images, videos and informal discussions about contemporary glass art. August 7- Patrick Martin, Chad A. Parker and Topher Reynolds, and Mathieu Grodet.” 

“Free Wednesday Walking Tours: Fourth Avenue Historic District”, Wednesdays in August, 10AM-11AM, meeting at Smithfield Street at Fourth Avenue, in Downtown Pittsburgh (in front of Oxford Centre). Preregistration required; contact Mary Lu Denny: 412-471-5808, ext. 527; marylu@phlf.org. “The history housed in the distinctive buildings bordering Pittsburgh’s 25-foot-wide Fourth Avenue, between Smithfield and Stanwix streets, is amazing. As you explore the National Register Historic District, you’ll hear about Pittsburgh’s “Wall Street,” and see buildings designed by more than a dozen distinguished Pittsburgh architects, in styles ranging from Greek Revival to Post Modern, constructed between 1836 and 1984. You’ll see former banking buildings that have been renovated for new uses and Point Park University’s new Pittsburgh Playhouse.” https://phlf.org/events/

Concert, “Glen Zaleski and James Johnson III”, Wednesday, August 7, 7PM-8:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/glenn-zaleski-james-johnson-iii/ “The Glenn Zaleski + James Johnson III band is an improvisational, modern jazz group, playing original compositions, that incorporates a touch of classical and pop music. Join us for a night of great jazz with renowned musicians!” https://glennzaleski.com   https://www.facebook.com/jamesjohnsondrums/

“Bell, Book and Scandal”, Wednesday, August 7, 6PM, Historical Society of Mt. Lebanon, 794 Washington Rd., Pittsburgh. $15. Preregistration required; register online: http://lebohistory.org/event/bell-book-scandal-2/?instance_id=129 “The four corners where Washington Road, Castle Shannon Boulevard, and Lebanon Avenue intersect is one of the most history-laden intersections in Mt. Lebanon. In this 90-minute hardly-any-walking tour, former Mt. Lebanon Library Children’s Librarian Judy Sutton will talk about the history of the library and how it works behind the scenes. (There will not be a beside-the-scenes tour.) From there, you’ll head to the nave of Southminster Presbyterian Church across the street for a talk on their stained glass and famous bells. Finally, you’ll move to the four corners themselves to hear the history of Mt. Lebanon as revealed in what you can see from this intersection.” 

“Wednesday on the Water”, Wednesday, August 7, 6PM-7:30PM, Laurel Hill State Park. Free. Preregistration required; please contact: Kimberly Peck 814-352-8649 kipeck@pa.gov. “Explore Laurel Hill Lake by boat. You may encounter Osprey, Heron, Turtles and Wildflowers.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/wednesday_on_the_water

“Native Bees Need Pollinator Friendly Gardens”, Wednesday, August 7, 6PM-7PM, North Park, Sesqui. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/np-penn-state-master-gardeners/4073 Presented by Penn State Master Gardeners. 

“Teen Gender and Sexuality Alliance”, Thursday, August 8, 5PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “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.” 

“YA Book Club”, Thursday, August 8, Barnes and Noble stores. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/h/young-adult-book-club “Celebrate debut authors with us this summer! We’re excited to announce our new YA Book Club, happening every second Thursday of the month. Join us monthly to discuss these compelling stories and characters. Celebrate debut authors this summer. Join us to discuss Wilder Girls, a story about three best friends living in quarantine at their boarding school, and the lengths they go to uncover the truth of their confinement when one disappears. Plus, get a coupon for $2 Teavana teas (Café stores only).” 

“Intro to Geocaching Hike”, Thursday, August 8, 6PM-8PM, Allegheny Commons Park, north side Pittsburgh. $12, or $8 for Venture Oudoors members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/events/7520274/ “More than just a walk through the neighborhood, explore the area by using a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver to navigate through a series of waypoints. We'll start with an introduction to geocaching and then go on a 2-mile loop hike. As the GPS units communicate with satellites in space, they will guide us to interesting waypoints along the way. We will provide GPS units to share. This outing is part of the Venture Outdoors Again Initiative. Participants ages 50 and up can attend for free thanks to generous support from the Jewish Healthcare Foundation. To receive a promotion code to access these outings and other outings in the initiative for free click here or call 412-255-0564 ext. 0.” 

“English Style Teas”, Thursday, August 8, 12:30PM, McKeesport Garden Club and Rose Garden, 1400 Pin Oak Dr., McKeesport. $20 per person. For reservations call Jane 412-872-4321. “The tantalizing menu includes: fresh fruit, scones, savory tea sandwiches, dessert bread sandwiches, mini quiches, stuffed cherry tomatoes, mini cream puffs, lemon squares, chocolate truffles or chocolate covered strawberries (when in season). All items are homemade.” http://www.thegardenclubofmckeesport.org/contact-us.html

“Cabaret”, Thursday, August 8 through Saturday, August 24, Little Lake Theatre, 500 Lakeside Dr. South, Canonsburg. “Willkommen! Bienvenue! Welcome! It’s time to leave your troubles outside! The year is 1928 and Cliff Bradshaw, a young American writer, has just arrived in Berlin, where the party never ends. His life is turned upside down when he takes a visit to the Kit Kat Club, a dazzling cabaret, and he meets English singer Sally Bowles. Meanwhile, the golden age of Berlin is coming to an end as the Third Reich comes to power. A romance blossoms between Fräulein Schneider, proprietor of Cliff and Sally’s boarding house, and Herr Schultz, a mild-mannered fruit seller, who must now face a harsh new reality. And even the members of the glittering Kit Kat Club must acknowledge the new voice of Germany. Famous musical numbers include ‘Willkommen,’ ‘Cabaret,’ ‘Don’t Tell Mama’ and ‘Two Ladies’.” https://www.littlelake.org/cabaret

Screening, “The Strangest Dream”, Thursday, August 8, 7PM, Regent Square Theater, 1035 S. Braddock Ave., Pittsburgh. “Skype Q/A following the screening with Ronni Alexander of the Popoki Peace Project and a group of peace activists and students in Japan. When the U.S. government brought the world's greatest scientists together to build the first atomic bomb, nuclear physicist Joseph Rotblat was among them. However, his conscience would not allow him to continue. The film retraces Rotblat's life and the history of nuclear weapons from the first test in New Mexico to Hiroshima. With Bertrand Russell, Rotblat helped create the modern peace movement and eventually won the Nobel Peace Prize.” http://cinema.pfpca.org/films/the-strangest-dream

Concert, “Greenman-Roberts Duo”, Thursday, August 8, 7PM-8:30PM, Monroeville Library. “Featuring the virtuoso talents of violinist Steven Greenman and pianist Tom Roberts, the Greenman-Roberts Duo performs passionate and virtuosic arrangements of violin showpieces as they were performed by some of the world’s great violin masters of the past. The duo’s diverse repertoire includes brilliant violin works by the famed concert violinists David Rubinoff, Emery Deutsch, Fritz Kreisler and Jeno Hubay, passionate East European Gypsy violin showpieces, tantalizing tangos, original klezmer compositions, evocative Jewish chamber works by the early 20th century composers of the Society for Jewish Folk Music, classic operettas, and more.” 

“Steel City Con”, Friday. August 9 through Sunday, August 11, Monroeville Convention Center, 209 Mall Blvd., Monroeville. “The Steel City Con is the exclusive comic con of the Monroeville Convention Center. It is one of the largest comic cons in the United States with over 100,000 square feet of convention space and filled with 750 vendor tables, artist alley, and celebrity guests. At the Steel City Con you can meet TV and film celebrities along with experience celebrity Q and A’s, panels, celebrity photo ops, and the Artist Charity Quick Sketch. You can also take part in the Steel City Con’s cosplay, trivia contest and costume contests!” https://www.steelcitycon.com

“Star Party Hike”, Friday, August 9, 7:30PM-10PM, Deer Lakes Park, 1090 Baileys Run Rd, Tarentum. $12, or $8 for Venture Outdoors members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/events/7520275/ “Join us for an evening hike at Deer Lakes Park followed by stargazing with the Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh (AAAP) in a large open meadow with excellent views to all horizons. During the Star Party, members of AAAP will share their expertise and information on their telescope equipment. The hike will cover 3-4 miles with some hills.” 

“Star Parties”, at sunset, Friday, August 9 and Saturday, August 10 at Wagman Observatory, 225 Kurn Rd., Tarentum; and Mingo Observatory, Mingo Creek Park, 1 Shelter 10 Rd., Fineyville. Free. “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.” Lots of details here: https://3ap.org/resources/star-parties/

“39th Annual National Pike Steam, Gas and Horse Association Show”, Friday, August 9, Saturday, August 10 and Sunday, August 11, 10AM-6PM, 222 Spring Rd., Brownsville. $5 adults, free for ages 11 and under, seniors $3 on Friday. “Antique and vintage farm, construction, mining machinery, sawmill, trucks (semi and pick up), cars, steam, railroad, engines, and more.” http://nationalpike.com/index.html

“94th Annual San Rocco Festa”, Friday, August 9 through Sunday, August 11, Festa 5:30-11PM, Mass Sunday 9AM, Procession Sunday 11AM. Main Festa grounds: Fred Taddeo Park, 224 Center Grange Rd., Aliquippa. $3. “The tradition of the San Rocco Festa was brought to the Aliquippa area by immigrants from Patrica, Italy, where St. Rocco is the patron saint. They settled primarily in the Plan 11 section of Aliquippa, where the original Festa began in 1925. This year we mark our 94th celebration continuing the tradition of our forefathers. Not only to honor the tradition of our patron saint San Rocco and the memory of our ancestors, but also to preserve Italian heritage and culture in America. We look forward to having you celebrate the Festa and Italian culture with us! Viva San Rocco!” https://www.sanrocco.org

“Ecotone: Experimental Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration”, Friday, August 9, 8PM, KST Alloy Studios, 5530 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/ecotone-experimental-cross-disciplinary-collaboration/ “An ecotone is a transitional area between two biomes; a site where two communities meet and integrate. Ecotones are spaces where a diversity of life can flourish, with much higher biodiversity than surrounding areas. ECOTONE brings together artists from different disciplines for experimental performance presentations. Two curated trios of artists work together for two weeks to inform their presentation. Following the presentations, the audience and performers celebrate community through the simple ritual of a dance party.” 

“Teen Anime Club”, Saturday, August 10, 2PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh East Liberty; Saturday, August 17, 3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland; and Saturday, August 31, 2PM, Carnegie Library Pittsburgh Hill District. “Explore new anime and express your fandom at Teen Anime Club! We’ll watch anime, explore Japanese culture and enjoy a fun snack.” 

Roger Humphries and the RH Factor Present “Tribute to Pittsburgh Jazz”, Saturday, August 10, 8PM, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/roger-humphries-the-rh-factor-tribute-to-pittsburgh-jazz/ “The fourth installment of award-winning percussionist and icon Roger Humphries’ year-long KST residency. This concert is a tribute, bringing audiences on a musical journey of the rich Jazz histories of Pittsburgh. Joined by his full band, Roger Humphries and the RH Factor guarantee an evening of Pittsburgh Jazz classics. Come celebrate this storied tradition.” 

“VegFest”, Saturday, August 10, Allegheny Commons Park, Pittsburgh, north side. Free. “Pittsburgh VegFest is an outdoor ‘go-to’ summer festival located in the heart of the city bringing together the best vegan food in Pittsburgh, music, shopping, speakers, food, yoga demos, and family friendly entertainment for Pittsburghers of all ages – all celebrating the vibrant and diverse animal advocacy that goes on in the Steel City.” https://pittsburghvegfest.org

“Muddy Creek Oil Well Living History Tour”, Saturday, August 10, 11AM-4PM, Moraine State Park, beyond the State Parks Region 2 office, 195 Park Rd., Prospect. Free. “Come see a restored oil well in operation! The Muddy Creek Oil Well is an award-winning restoration site of an antique oil well. The Bessemer Gas Engine and Marshall-Barr No. 19 oil well equipment is restored and open (free admission) for visitors to hear and see the industry that powered this region. The well will operate from 11:00 AM until 4:00 PM on second Saturdays of the month, weather permitting. Volunteers will be there to operate the engine and answer your questions. So come out and see the Bessemer engine pump some Pennsylvania crude. The central powerhouse site is located beyond the State Parks Region 2 office, 195 Park Road, Prospect PA, (Old 422 off Route 528). Visit www.3mjc.org for more information.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/muddy_creek_oil_well_living_history_tour

“Falconry”, Saturday, August 10, 9:30AM-11:30AM, National Aviary, 700 Arch St., Pittsburgh. $50. Preregistration required; call 412-258-9445. “Join the National Aviary's licensed falconer, Cathy Schlott, to discover the history, practices, and theories behind the unique sport of falconry. Explore the variety of birds used in the sport and why they are selected, and become familiar with equipment and regulations governing falconry in the United States. This unique two hour class will provide participants with: an overview of the sport, including how it was used in the past and what makes it relevant today; a chance to see, touch, and work with the equipment used for falconry; information on how to become a licensed falconer; an opportunity to see a Lanner Falcon up close and take photos; and demonstration of lure flying and falconry.” https://www.aviary.org/special-events/falconry

Screening, “Azur and Asmar”, Saturday, August 10, 3PM-5PM, , Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/azur-asmar/ PG, ages 6+. Animation. “Azur and Asmar is the story of two boys raised as brothers. Blonde, blue-eyed, white skinned Azur and black-haired, brown-eyed, dark-skinned Asmar are lovingly cared for by Asmar’s gentle mother, who tells them magical stories of her faraway homeland and of a beautiful, imprisoned Fairy Djinn waiting to be set free. Time passes, and one day Azur’s father, the master of the house, provokes a brutal separation. Azur is sent away to study, while Asmar and his mother are driven out, homeless and penniless. Years later, as a young adult, Azur remains haunted by memories of the sunny land of his nanny and sets sail south across the high seas to find the country of his dreams.” Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80WFVB1EHT0

“Vicary Day”, Saturday, August 10, 10AM-5PM, William Vicary Mansion, 1235 3rd Ave., Freedom. “Come celebrate with our community as we host various historic crafters and demonstrators and give guided tours explaining the history of the Captain William Vicary Mansion. You will see quilters, tatters, lacemakers, brain tanners, scherenschnitte (paper cutting) artists, weavers, woodcutters, bakers, and gardeners!” http://bchrlf.org/events/vicary-day/

“3rd Annual Pollinator Festival”, Saturday, August 10, 10AM-3PM, Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 State Route 381, Rector. Free. “Learn how to bring pollinators to your garden and how you can help the bees, butterflies and hummingbirds! Free to attend! Pollinator-friendly plants for sale. Food, honey, and garden tours. Speakers: John Wenzel, Ph.D., 10:30 a.m. How to Work as a Team When No One Knows What She’s Doing; Michelle Duennes, Ph.D., 11:30 a.m. The Bumblebees of Pennsylvania: How to Identify Them and How to Help Them; Martha Oliver, 1:30 p.m. Garden Design as if Pollinators Mattered.” https://www.facebook.com/events/732589383825832/

“Mexican War Streets Walking Tour”, Saturday, August 10, 1PM-3PM, meeting at Allegheny Commons, across from St. Peter’s Church (720 Arch Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212). $20. Paid reservations 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.” https://phlf.org/event/mexican-war-streets-walking-tour-6/

“Illustration Program for Teens with Jayla Patton”, Saturday, August 10, 2PM-3PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Lawrenceville. “Do you love to draw? Think you’re bad at drawing, but want to improve? Learn how to animate with local artist and educator, Jayla Patton!” 

“Pittsburgh Pogo Meetups”, Saturday, August 10, and Saturday. August 24, 1PM-3PM, Community Forge, 1256 Franklin Ave., Wilkinsburg. Free. “Come to the Xpogo Office the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month in the start of 2019 to pogo with us. We have sticks for riders of all skill levels and Xpogo Pros will be around to help you whether you're just starting out or already a master. Completely free and open to everyone!” https://www.facebook.com/events/428525457716127/

“Tour of Sherman Memorial Lighthouse”, Saturday, August 10 and Saturday, August 17, 1PM-4PM, Lighthouse Island, end of Highland St., Tionesta. $5 adults, $2 children. “The octagon shaped tower, fifty feet high and sixteen feet in diameter based on Jack Sherman’s conceptual design is a one-of-a-kind lighthouse. Most existing lighthouses are of masonry or concrete construction. The Sherman Lighthouse is rendered in timber framing, vertical beams, OSB and Styrofoam board. The pre-manufactured lantern room is twenty-five feet high and 12 feet in diameter and constructed of aluminum and glass. A spectacular view of Tionesta and surrounding area is provided from the lantern room. The lighthouse foundation is solid, reinforced concrete two feet thick and 18 feet in diameter. There is a basement within the foundation walls, plus six floors. All floors and the basement can be accessed by spiral stairs, seventy-six (76) steps to be exact. A video recording will be available to those unable or unwilling to climb the 76 steps.” Complete details here: http://www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/tionesta/page-6.php

“Screen Printing with the Andy Warhol Museum”, Saturday, August 10, 2:30PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Downtown and Business Branch. “Make your own screen print! From amateur crafters to experts—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.” 

“Paddling Skills- Learn How to Kayak”, Saturday, August 10, and Sunday, August 18, 9:30AM-11AM, Canoe Creek State Park, Boat Rental building. $5. “Come to this user-friendly class for ages 12+ that will teach basic paddling skills. For first timers only please! Call the park at 814-695-6807 to register and prepay the $5.00 fee. Program fee applies if you bring your own kayak. Please notify park if you’re bringing your own kayak. Ages 18 and under must have parent present. Participants must present valid driver’s license to get a boat. All participants must wear provided life vest.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov

“Snakes”, Saturday, August 10, 8PM-9PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Amphitheater. “Are there snakes in Ohiopyle? Of course there are! Ohiopyle State park is the perfect habitat for our slitherin’ scaly friends. We will learn all about what makes them so special, how to identify snakes and what to do in the unlikely event of a snakebite.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/snakes_3836

Author Talk, “Matt Lake”, Saturday, August 10, 2PM, Barnes and Noble, 1000 Cranberry Square Dr., Cranberry. “Author Matt Lake will discuss and sign his book Weird Pennsylvania. Lake has compiled all sorts of weird facts about our state, tracking down fabled people and places, ghost stories, roadside oddities, and more. This is stuff your history teacher never taught you!” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062043097-0

“Perseid Meteor Shower”, peaking late evening to dawn on August 11, 12 and 13. “The Perseid meteor shower is perhaps the most beloved meteor shower of the year for the Northern Hemisphere. It’s a rich meteor shower, and it’s steady. These swift and bright meteors radiate from a point in the constellation Perseus the Hero. As with all meteor shower radiant points, you don’t need to know Perseus to watch the shower; instead, the meteors appear in all parts of the sky. These meteors frequently leave persistent trains. Perseid meteors tend to strengthen in number as late night deepens into midnight, and typically produce the most meteors in the wee hours before dawn. In 2019, the peak night of this shower will be marred by the brilliant waxing gibbous moon, although the brighter Perseids will likely overcome the moonlit glare. Predicted peak in 2019: the night of August 12-13, but try the nights before and after, too, from late night until dawn.” https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/everything-you-need-to-know-perseid-meteor-shower

“The Moon”, Sunday, August 11, 8:30PM-10:30PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Amphitheater. “Humans have been fascinated by our closest extraterrestrial neighbor, throughout our history. During this program, we will take a closer look at this beautiful entity. Take a step back in time and relive the moment that man landed on the Moon. Please bring your vehicle as we drive a short distance to a viewing area.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/the_moon_5719

Concert, “The Casual Hobos”, Sunday, August 11, 2PM-3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “The Casual Hobos are Hard-Driving Pittsburgh Bluegrass. Distinguishing themselves from the rest of the Bluegrass hordes, they take Bluegrass music back to its most elemental and purest form. The Hobos strive to produce that authentic, traditional Bluegrass sound, while also adding their own stamp to every song they perform. Digging deep into the archives of the music, the Hobos never cease to thrill the audience with lesser known tunes as well as exciting renditions of old Bluegrass standards. The Hobos feature Steve Ludwig on vocals and guitar, Jason Ericsson on banjo, Marina Pendleton on fiddle, and Trish Imbrogno on upright bass.” https://www.facebook.com/TheCasualHobos/

“Healing Treasures with a Park Naturalist”, Sunday, August 11, 2PM-4PM, Boyce Park Nature Center. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/bp-healing-treasures-with-a-park-naturalist/3731 “Botanical interpretation of medicinal plant species can be discovered through uses and identification exploration!” 

“Guided Hike: Birds”, Sunday, August 11, 2PM-4PM, Hartwood Acres, mansion parking lot. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/ha-guided-hike-birds/3758 “Approximately 2 miles. Birds are fascinating creatures and many different species call our region home. Join us for a short hike, along the way we will observe birds and discuss their important role in our ecosystems.” 

“Restorative Hike: Native American Storytelling and Flute”, Sunday, August 11, 10AM-11:30AM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events “This year, we're introducing a new program, Restorative Hikes. Those of us who spend time in nature know the healing qualities it has. Nature improves our quality of life and rejuvenates the mind, body, and spirit. Through our Restorative Hikes program--free and open to the public--we hope you'll be able to deepen your connection to nature and each other. Restorative Hikes will take place once per month, through October. Each hike is led by an experienced guide and focuses on increasing overall happiness and health. Hikes are slow-paced on easy-to-moderate terrain. The third of our Restorative Hikes will be led by Native American couple, Earl and Lee Dingus. Earl and Lee are accomplished artists and silversmiths. In addition to his artistry, Earl is a talented Native American flute player. He recently gave a world premiere performance of "We Get Our Music from Nature" with musical Director, William Burkhard, and the Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra. Lee Dingus is a storyteller of traditional Native America stories and a traditional Seneca style dancer. Lee uses her beadwork, story telling, dancing, and lecture skills in conducting youth art camps, after school programs and various art classes for both children and adults. The hike will start at the Frick Environmental Center at 10:00 a.m. Sunday, August 11, and last approximately 1 ½ hours. Participants should meet at the front desk to meet Earl and Lee and to learn a bit more about their hike.” 

Author Talk, “Kagiso Lesego Molope”, Sunday, August 11, 6PM-7:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/kagiso-lesego-molope/ “Join us for a reading and audience Q/A with visiting writer Kagiso Lesego Molope (South Africa), as she discusses and reads from her work Such a Lonely, Lovely Road and some of her newest writings. Members of City of Asylum’s staff met Kasigo at the annual ICORN conference in the Rotterdam, Netherlands. Kasigo is attempting to start a City of Asylum in Ottawa, Canada and interviewed City of Asylum Pittsburgh cofounders to understand the process of creating a new city. Kagiso Lesego Molope will be at City of Asylum for a weeklong residency as she works on her newest novel.” 

“Hike with a Naturalist: Summer Tree ID”, Sunday, August 11, 10AM-12PM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events “Summers in Pennsylvania are lush with abundant shades of green, even in cities, thanks in large part to trees. Living in Pennsylvania, trees shape our environment. Almost all of the land that surrounds us is gradually working towards being forested, and often with an astounding diversity of species. Join Naturalist Stephen Bucklin to learn observation skills for identifying the many trees that call Pennsylvania home and to begin seeing the forest AND the trees. Registration is required. While this is an all-ages event, it is intended for teenagers and adults. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This hike is rain or shine. Weather-appropriate clothes and footwear with good tread are encouraged. Participants should expect to walk between one and two miles at a leisurely pace. Hike will meet at the Frick Environmental Center.” 

“Great Dayton Fair”, Sunday, August 11 through Saturday, August 17, 1249 PA-839, Dayton. http://www.daytonfair.org

“Washington County Agricultural Fair”, Sunday, August 11 through Saturday, August 17, Washington County Fairgrounds, 2151 N Main St, Washington. http://www.washingtonfair.org/site3/index.html 

“Intro to 3D Printing”, Monday, August 12, 2PM-3PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/P/PTLIB/ek.cfm “Curious about what everyone’s talking about? Join us for a brief introduction to the hows and whats of a 3D printer, including an introduction to the Tinkercad and Thingiverse websites, where you can learn to create (or borrow) your own 3D designs. Classes are free unless otherwise noted. Lab classes are limited to nine students, and basic mouse and keyboard skills are suggested. Click the REGISTER button below to register for this program.” 

“YA Book Club”, Monday, August 12, 6PM-7PM, Panera Bread, 1025 Washington Pike, Bridgeville. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=BRIDGEVL#6077063 “Do you love YA books? Would you like to try a new read? Or just need a fun night to enjoy with some friends? Then come to our easy-going YA Book Club! We'll meet every 2nd Monday of the month at Panera Bread on Washington Pike. The best part is that you'll get to pick what books we should be reading for the book club! So, make sure to come with a books-to-read list. We will have the books for the book club at both Bridgeville and South Fayette Libraries. The book we will be reading is Man-Eaters Vol 1 by Chelsea Cain. ” 

“Black Media and the Vietnam War”, Tuesday, August 13, 7PM-8:30PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/black-media-and-the-vietnam-war “Join Samuel W Black, the History Center’s lead curator on The Vietnam War: 1945-1975 exhibition, and longtime Pittsburgh broadcaster Chris Moore for an in-depth conversation on the role of Black media during the Vietnam War era. Black, who also serves as director of the History Center’s African American Program, will take attendees on a deep dive into how Black media communicated news about the Vietnam War to African Americans, the complex power and racial dynamics between the African American community and traditional American news outlets, and speak with local Pittsburgh media figures about their experience working in the industry in the 1970s. As a recognized voice for decades on the television and radio airwaves in Pittsburgh, Chris Moore will share his perspective as a media professional who also served in the Vietnam War.” 

“Perseids Paddle”, Tuesday, August 13, 7:30PM-9:30PM, Moraine State Park. $40, or $30 for Venture Outdoors members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/events/7520277/ “The Perseid meteor shower, one of the largest meteor showers of the year, comes around every August. This year, it will peak on August 12 and we're going for a paddle to try to get a glimpse of it! We'll go for a moderately paced paddle around Lake Arthur as the sun sets and the stars come out. Tandem kayaks are not available for this outing. Previous paddling experience is required for this outing.” 

“Monarch Butterfly Watch”, Tuesday, August 13, 7PM-8PM, South Park Ice Rink; and Thursday, August 15, 7PM-8PM, Boyce Park, Patrol Shelter. Free. Preregistration required; email info@acparksfoundation or call 724-327-7627. Our mission is to better understand the distribution and abundance of breeding monarchs and to use that knowledge to inform and inspire monarch conservation. A Citizen Scientist is an amateur scientist who helps increase the public’s understanding of science. With funding from The Pittsburgh Foundation, the Allegheny County Parks Foundation will offer three free programs in South Park and Boyce Park this summer! Join staff from the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania to learn about fireflies, monarch butterflies and bumble bees and how recent ecological improvements in South and Boyce Parks can help increase their presence. Become a citizen scientist!” http://www.acparksfoundation.org/become-citizen-scientist-south-park-sign-today/

“McKeesport’s International Village”, Tuesday, August 13 through Thursday, August 15, 3PM-9PM, Renziehausen Park, Eden Park Blvd. and University Dr., McKeesport. $2 donation. “It’s one of the Pittsburgh area’s oldest and largest ethnic festivals, back for its 60th annual celebration! Founded in 1960, International Village in McKeesport, Pa., is a three-day celebration of shared traditions and heritage, including food, music, dancing, traditional clothing and crafts. Each year, you’ll find more than a dozen booths selling freshly-made ethnic foods from around the world, continuous live entertainment, live music for dancing, crafts, community information and games, plus short educational sessions about world cultures, presented by the same organizations whose food booths—each representing a different nationality or culture—have been a Pittsburgh-area tradition for more than a half-century.” http://www.mckeesportinternationalvillage.com 

“Perseids Hike”, Tuesday, August 13, 7:30PM-9:30PM, Deer Lakes Park, 1090 Baileys Run Rd, Tarentum. $12, or $8 for Venture Outdoors members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/events/752027700/ “The Perseid meteor shower, one of the largest meteor showers of the year, comes around every August. This year, it will peak on August 12 and we're going for a hike to try to get a glimpse of it! We'll go for a moderately paced hike around Deer Lakes Park as the sun sets and the stars come out.” 

“Night Sky Exploration: Perseid Meteor Shower”, Tuesday, August 13, 9PM-121AM, Round Hill Farm, Quiet Acres. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/rh-night-sky-exploration-perseid-meteor-shower/3779 “The Perseid Meteor shower is the most visible meteor shower of the year. As the meteors soar, the Park Rangers will be on hand to teach about this natural phenomenon and answer any questions you may have. Bring a blanket or chair to lie out and view the stars. Drop in at any time between 9:00 pm and 12:00 am to catch a glimpse of this meteor shower.” 

Author Talk, “Abdi Nor Iftin”, Tuesday, August 13, 7PM-8:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/abdi-nor-iftin/ “Abdi Nor Iftin’s memoir tells the story of someone who’s desperately trying—against long odds—to make it to the United States and become an American. Abdi was a Somali refugee who fled Kenya for fear of the radical Islamist group al-Shabaab. In Kenya he got ‘the luckiest break of his life:’ winning the lottery to land on a short list for a U.S. visa. This was his ticket out. But before he could cash in his golden ticket, the police start raiding his neighborhood, targeting refugees. Parts of Abdi’s story were first heard on the BBC World Service and This American Life. Now a proud resident of Maine, on the path to citizenship, Abdi Nor Iftin’s dramatic, deeply stirring memoir is truly a story for our time: a vivid reminder of why America still beckons to those looking to make a better life.” 

“Meet, Play, Learn: Dungeons and Dragons”, Wednesday, August 14, 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.” 

“A Celebration of Animation: The 100 Greatest Cartoon Characters in Television History”, Wednesday, August 14, 6PM-7PM, Community Library of Allegheny Valley, Natrona Heights. Ages 12-adult. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/A/ALVALLEY/ek.cfm?curOrg=ALVALLEY#6120903 “Award-winning author and pop culture historian Martin Gitlin hosts this fun and enlightening presentation based on his new book, A Celebration of Animation: The 100 Greatest Cartoon Characters in Television History. He is the only author to actually rank the greatest cartoon characters ever, such as Bugs Bunny, Mickey Mouse, Scooby Doo, Snoopy and SpongeBob SquarePants. He will show funny cartoon snippets of characters from the past century, some of which feature a space theme to cater to the reading program. Marty will play cartoon-related trivia and other games with the kids. He will also discuss the criteria he used to rank the best of the best and speak a bit about their impact on American culture. Gitlin has had more than 150 books published since 2006, including the critically acclaimed Great American Cereal Book (which was featured in the New York Times, Time Magazine, Reader's Digest, Wall Street Journal). The program is just a lot of fun, you won’t want to miss it!” 

“Dish! Cookbook Club at the Library – Frugal Vegan: Affordable, Easy and Delicious Vegan Cooking by Katie Koteen and Kate Kasbee”, Wednesday, August 14, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Phipps Conservatory, Botany Hall Teaching Kitchen. $10. Preregistration required; register online: https://3989p.blackbaudhosting.com/3989p/Dish-Cookbook-Club “August’s Dish! will meet at the Botany Hall Teaching Kitchen at Phipps Conservatory to discuss ‘Frugal Vegan: Affordable, Easy and Delicious Vegan Cooking’ by Katie Koteen and Kate Kasbee. Phipps is very close to CLP-Main. This venue is going to allow us to not only talk about the cookbook and share our experiences with it, but we’ll get to help prepare and then view the demonstration of the cooking of selected dishes from the book and eat them during our program. So come hungry and expect to have dinner with us! This upgrade to our program and meeting space does come with a slight cost. If you’re interested in joining us for Dish! on August 14th, there will be a $10 per person charge. This amount will pay for the food for each person. Phipps staff will be purchasing the food and it will be organic and sustainable whenever possible.” 

“Tania Grubbs: I Am, Volume 4 Color”, Wednesday, August 14, 7PM-9PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/tania-grubbs-i-am-volume-4-color/ “Join us for an evening of original jazz with vocalist Tania Grubbs. I AM: Volume 4, Color explores the emotional effects of color in literature, poetry, and musical composition. This volume celebrates color’s glorious presence as an integral part of our everyday existence. Notes have color, sounds have color, people can see and feel color, colors is therapeutic, it can calm us, ignite us, spark inspiration. Visual artist Sasha Phillips will interact with the music by creating visual art live throughout the concert as Jeff, James, Cliff, and Tania set the colorful musical backdrop of sounds to inspire. I AM is a series of 60-80 minute concerts filled with original music, well known, and some less known standards along with interesting stories and researched facts. Tania describes the series as “a live documentary with a point of entry approach.” All performances include video footage, photography, and narration.” 

“Watercolor Wednesdays”, Wednesday, August 14, 10AM-12PM, Moraine State Park, McDaniel’s Launch, 118 North Shore Dr., Portersville. Preregisration required; call the Owlet gift shop at 724-368-9185. “Join guest artists and Moraine Preservation Fund volunteers for a two-hour watercolor Workshop, on the second Wednesdays of the summer months. Adults of all skill levels are welcome at these free painting workshops, June 12, July 10, and August 14, and every session is different. Bring your own watercolor painting supplies if you have them. If not, materials will be provided. After a short walk, we will practice some easy techniques and then it is your chance to get creative.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/watercolor_wednesdays_606

“Ulysses S Grant Reenactor Visit”, Thursday, August 15, 11AM-12:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End. “CLP – West End will host living Historian, Ken Serfass, for a presentation about General Ulysses S. Grant’s involvement in the Civil War and his victory at Vicksburg. His presentation will include a full reenactment outfit and a Q/A session about the General and later, President. All ages are welcome at this great opportunity in the West End!” 

“Little Italy Days”, Thursday, August 15 through Sunday, August 18, Liberty Ave. from Ella St. to Gross St., Pittsburgh. “The region’s largest heritage festival. Vienti parte Italiana!” http://littleitalydays.com

“PowerPoint Basics”, Thursday, August 15, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Job and Career Education Center. Preregistration required; call 412-622-3133. “Learn how to create slides with text and pictures as well as other special techniques to make your next presentation a hit.” 

Concert, “River City Brass”, Thursday, August 15, 7:30PM-9:30PM, Crafton Park Amphitheater, 117 W Steuben St, Crafton. Free. “Come hear the River City Brass Octet play under the stars in this beautiful outdoor venue. This is a free family-friendly concert!” https://www.rivercitybrass.org/touring-schedule/2019/8/15/crafton-park-amphitheater

“Family Science Night: Fun with Microscopes”, Thursday, August 15, 6:30PM-8PM, Raccoon Creek State Park. Preregistration required; please email Shane Miller at shanemille@pa.gov before August 13. “Calling kids ages 8-16 and their parents, come and discover the many interesting microscopic creatures that live at Raccoon Creek State Park. During this interactive educational program, you and your family will learn how to collect, prepare, view, and identify microscopic organisms under a microscope. This program does include a short 1 mile hike to collect samples for viewing under the microscope.” 

Screening, “Kusama: Infinity”, Thursday, August 15, 6PM-8PM, Mattress Factory, 500 Sampsonia Way, Pittsburgh. $20 adults, $15 students and members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.showclix.com/event/kusama-infinity “Get to know the artist behind the polka dots. Join us for a special screening of Kusama: Infinity, a documentary that looks at the life and work of Mattress Factory artist Yayoi Kusama, the top-selling female artist in the world. Along with the film, you can experience Infinity Dots, Mirrored Room and Repetitive Vision, two Kusama rooms that are part of the Mattress Factory’s permanent collection, and explore photos and items – think a polka dot chair! – from Kusama’s Mattress Factory installation in 1996. If you’re not sure what to wear, channel the artist herself and take part in a Kusama-themed costume contest – best costume wins a one-year membership to the museum! Drinks and light bites will be provided." Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8mdIB1WxHI

“Ypapanti Greek Food Festival”, Thursday, August 15 through Saturday, August 17, 11AM-10PM, and Sunday, August 18, 11AM-7PM, Olympia Hall, 1575 Electric Ave., East Pittsburgh. Free admission and parking. “The Ypapanti Greek Food Festival in East Pittsburgh has several centers of food and entertainment for you and your entire family to enjoy a sunny afternoon or a cool summer night. Our Indoor Dining Room features a diverse menu of Greek entrees and Pastries. And the Outdoor Grecian Garden, is a festive environment with gyros, loukoumades, and live Greek folk music and authentic Greek folk dance performances.” http://greekburgh.com

“Hawk Mountain Raptor Count”, daily August 15- December 15, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, 1700 Hawk Mountain Rd., Kempton. $10 adults, $7 seniors, $5 children 6-12, free for ages 5 and under. “Why do migrating raptors concentrate at Hawk Mountain? Hawk Mountain straddles the Kittatinny Ridge or Blue Mountain, a 300-mile-long, prominent ridge that extends from 60 miles north of New York City to 20 miles west of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. The Kittatinny is the southeasternmost “corduroy hill” in the Appalachian Ridge-and-Valley Province of eastern Pennsylvania. Birds drifting south from Canada, New England and New York, slope soar the length of the ridge, saving energy on their journey south. In the spring, prevailing easterly winds south of Hawk Mountain push raptors west of the Sanctuary, reducing spring migration to a small fraction of what it is in the fall. Autumn hawk flights are best on days with northwest wind following a cold front. The Daily Count is posted after 6 pm. You can hear tomorrow's weather forecast and flight prediction by calling 610-756-6000 x6 after 6 pm.” https://www.hawkmountain.org/science/hawk-mountain-raptorcount/hawk-count~default.aspx?id=518

“What’s Cooking? for Teens”, Friday, August 16, 1PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Hazelwood; Monday, August 19, 3:30PM-5PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Allegheny; Tuesday, August 27, 4:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End; and Friday, August 30, 3PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Learn to feed yourself and your friends! Chop, dice and mince your way to culinary mastery — then eat what you cook. For teens in grades 6-12.” 

“Laser Cutting 101”, Friday, August 16, 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.” 

“Graffiti and Style-Writing Workshop”, Friday, August 16, 5PM-8PM, Carrie Furnace, Carrie Furnace Blvd., Rankin. $30. Preregistration required; register online: https://riversofsteel.com/event/graffiti-style-writing-workshop-2019-08-16/ “Master urban artists share style-writing, typography, traditional sign-painting techniques, and painting with aerosol to teach design principles and encourage greater appreciation for the work and culture of graffiti artists.” 

“Full Moon Hike”, Friday, August 16, 9:30PM-10:30PM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events “Enjoy a free moonlit stroll through Frick Park led by a naturalist. This relaxing one-hour hike is designed to connect participants to the cycles in nature and the seasonal phenomena each month brings. Registration is required for this event. This hike is geared towards teens and adults. Dogs are not permitted to join this hike. This hike is rain or shine. Weather-appropriate clothes and footwear with good tread are encouraged. The hike will meet at the Frick Environmental Center. We'll be relying on moonlight for this hike, so please leave your flashlights at home.” 

“Flint and Steel Fire Making”, Friday, August 16, 6:30PM-8PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Amphitheater. “Before the invention of matches, flint and steel was the preferred method of starting fires. Come learn the basic elements of what is needed to build a flint and steel fire. Then try your hand at this primitive skill. Successful builders of a flint and steel fire will be rewarded with s’mores!” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/flint_and_steel_fire_making_481

“Westmoreland Fair”, Friday, August 16 through Saturday, August 24, Westmoreland Fairgrounds, 123 Blue Ribbon Ln., Greensburg. https://westmorelandfair.com

“Fun Home”, Friday, August 16 through Sunday, August 25, New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square East, Pittsburgh. “When her father dies unexpectedly, graphic novelist Alison Bechdel dives deep into her past to tell the story of the volatile, brilliant, one-of-a-kind man whose temperament and secrets defined her family and her life. Moving between past and present, Alison relives her unique childhood playing at the family’s Bechdel Funeral Home, her college years and growing understanding of her own sexuality, and the looming, unanswerable questions about her father’s hidden desires. ‘Fun Home’ is a refreshingly honest, wholly original musical about seeing your parents through grown-up eyes. An unforgettable and groundbreaking musical, ‘Fun Home’ explores the haunting pull of memory and the power it has to alternately destroy or shape, our identity. By Lisa Kron, Jeanine Tesori (Violet) and Alison Bechdel, this 2015 hit Broadway musical was nominated for 12 Tony Awards, winning 5, including Best Musical, Best Original Score, and Best Book of a Musical.” https://newhazletttheater.org

“Mellon Park Grand Tour and Star Party”, Friday, August 16, 9PM-10:30PM, Mellon Park, 1047 Shady Ave, Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events

“Public Sky Watch”, Friday, August 16, 8:30PM-11PM, Canoe Creek State Park, main parking area. “Get a glimpse of the night sky with your own telescope or use the telescopes of the Starlight Astronomy Club as they scan the heavens.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/public_sky_watch_6023

Author Talk, “Zach Powers”, Friday, August 16, 7PM-9PM, White Whale Books, 4754 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “We’re thrilled to welcome Zach Powers to Pittsburgh for a reading from his debut novel, First Cosmic Velocity, and a conversation with local author Tom Sweterlitsch (The Gone World, Tomorrow and Tomorrow). “It's 1964 in the USSR, and unbeknownst even to Premier Khrushchev himself, the Soviet space program is a sham. Well, half a sham. While the program has successfully launched five capsules into space, the Chief Designer and his team have never successfully brought one back to earth. To disguise this, they've used twins. But in a nation built on secrets and propaganda, the biggest lie of all is about to unravel. Because there are no more twins left. Combining history and fiction, the real and the mystical, First Cosmic Velocity is the story of Leonid, the last of the twins. Taken in 1950 from a life of poverty in Ukraine to the training grounds in Russia, the Leonids were given one name and one identity, but divergent fates. Now one Leonid has launched to certain death (or so one might think . . .), and the other is sent on a press tour under the watchful eye of Ignatius, the government agent who knows too much but gives away little. And while Leonid battles his increasing doubts about their deceitful project, the Chief Designer must scramble to perfect a working spacecraft, especially when Khrushchev nominates his high-strung, squirrel-like dog for the first canine mission. By turns grim and whimsical, fatalistic and deeply hopeful, First Cosmic Velocity is a sweeping novel of the heights of mankind's accomplishments, the depths of its folly, and the people--and canines--with whom we create family.” http://zachpowers.com/firstcosmicvelocity/   https://whitewhalebookstore.com/events/2019/8/16/zach-powers-first-cosmic-velocity-reading-conversation-with-tom-sweterlitsch

“Try It Out! Electric Guitar and Bass”, Saturday, August 17, and Saturday, August 31, 3PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh East Liberty. “Try it Out! is a series of programs where adults can learn creative skills at the library using our collections, databases, or software. In August we will have an electric guitar and bass to use. Learn a basic chord or two on these instruments from our Teenspace and learn about the resources that the library has to help you play.” 

“79000 Stories: Founders' Day at The Homewood Cemetery”, Saturday, August 17, 12PM-4PM, Homewood Cemetery, 1599 S Dallas Ave, Pittsburgh. Free. “Our 7th Annual Founders' Day celebration will feature amazing stories about some of the 79,000 people at rest within The Homewood Cemetery. Details are being finalized but so far we can tell you that puppets, food trucks, steel pan drums, model trains, vintage hearses, selfie stations, and a bespoke musical about our palm reading Spanish Countess from Coshocton, Ohio will be part of the day's offerings. As always, admission is free and all events are family-friendly.” https://www.facebook.com/events/2012866195688412/ 

“ARTLab Fabric Scraps”, Saturday, August 17, 1PM-4PM, Mattress Factory, 500 Sampsonia Way, Pittsburgh. Included with museum admission. “Give new life to old snippets by turning them into magnets, journals, baskets and more.” https://mattress.org/content/artlab

“Poetry Reading”, Saturday, August 17, 7PM-9PM, White Whale Books, 4754 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “Need a mid-month literature reading pick-me-up? Edmund Berrigan will be visiting Pittsburgh to read from his most recent collection of poetry, More Gone (City Lights, 2019), alongside local writers Lauren Russell and Karen Lillis. Other recent publications from Edmund include We'll All Go Together (Further and Fewer, 2015) and Can It! (Letter Machine Editions, 2014).” https://whitewhalebookstore.com/events/2019/8/17/poetry-reading-edmund-berrigan-w-lauren-russell-and-karen-lillis

“Family Fun at Soldiers and Sailors: Women in the Military”, Saturday, August 17, 11AM-1PM, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum, 4141 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://soldiersandsailorshall.org/event/summer-family-fun-at-soldiers-sailors-women-in-the-military/ “Family friendly activities throughout the museum. Activities will include: making cards for soldiers, meeting historical re-enactors and/or veterans, interacting with museum artifacts, scavenger hunt, selfie station and more. All attendees age 16 and younger will receive a personalized dog tag.” 

“Ashes and Iron Blacksmith Shop Archaeological Digs”, Saturday, August 17, 9AM-4PM, Clear Creek State Park, Blacksmith Shop Dig site, Park Road Before the Maintenance Building, Sigel. “Clear Creek State Park's lumbering history is being uncovered inch by inch by our volunteer archaeologists, Brian and Amanda Valko-Fritz. Meet at the blacksmith’s shop dig site above the maintenance building and help to discover more about the man who pounded iron in the 1800's. Come for the day or for an hour. Youth ages 8-18 who attend all three Saturdays for a total of 9 hours or more will receive the Bureau of State Parks Junior Historians collectable tag.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/clear_creek_state_park

“Style Week Pittsburgh Fashion Show and Marketplace”, Saturday, August 17, 6PM-10PM, location TBA: http://www.styleweekpittsburgh.com “Style Week Pittsburgh returns for its sixth year August 16th-18th, 2019. The events kick off with an awards ceremony honoring influencers in fashion and the arts, followed by a designer fashion show, and a discussion led by experts in business and fashion about growing a successful brand. As in previous years, SWP will feature a diverse spectrum of talent including fashion designers ProBantu Style, RubyDawn International, Willie Gee’s, and emerging designer Jensine Noir.” 

“Basic Survival Skills”, Saturday, August 17, 2PM-6PM, North Park, Wyoming. Ages 13 to adult. $10. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/np-basic-survival-skills/4088 “We will learn about primitive survival techniques to build fire, purify water, and construct shelter. Be prepared to get dirty, build a survival shelter and take a hike on and off the trail as we work on our outdoor survival skills. Closed-toe shoes and long pants are required. Ages 13+ (parent or guardian must accompany children 17 and under)” 

“Artificial Bat Roosts for Conservation”, Saturday, August 17, 3:30PM-10PM, Canoe Creek State Park, Wentz Education Center. $45, which includes a 3 chamber bat house kit which attendees will build in the class. Preregistration required; register online: https://batmanagement.com/products/artificial-roosts-for-bat-conservation 3:30 – 5:30 pm: Building Bat Houses; 6:00 – 10:00 pm Artificial Roost Viewing. “Join the staff of Bat Conservation and Management to learn about artificial bat roosts for conservation. Participants can purchase and build a 3-chamber bat house kit. BCM staff will discuss the design features of modern bat houses and their connection to bats. The workshop begins with session on bat houses and moves to an outdoor area for viewing bat roosts and using bat detectors and cameras for surveying roosts. This $45.00 workshop is for ages 8+ and has limited seating, so reserve your spot now.” 

“Fall 2019 Reclaim”, Saturday, August 17, 10AM-4PM, in the garage next to Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse, 214 N. Lexington St., Pittsburgh. “$5 plus tax for as much as you want! Expired design samples often get thrown into the landfill when they go out of style – but they have plenty of creative life left in them! At Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse, we collect and weigh thousands of pounds of samples from local designers and architects, and add in an assortment of other surplus materials like trophy parts, binders, and media. Then, we open the warehouse door, and invite the public to take as much as they want for just $5 plus tax for as much as you can take. This event is great for artists, crafters, educators, and DIY aficionados, but everyone is welcome to participate. Our unique and quirky retail shop will also be open during the event, and we hope that creative people who haven’t yet visited will take the opportunity to explore it.” https://www.facebook.com/events/838628673185034/

“Wildflowers and Butterflies Walk”, Saturday, August 17, 2PM-4PM, Raccoon Creek State Park, Wildflower Reserve Interpretive Center. “Take a stroll around the Wildflower Reserve as we discover our late summer wildflowers and the butterflies that pollinate them in our two large meadows. This hike is 1.5 miles and includes two hills. Free program.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/wildflowers_and_butterflies_walk

“Open Days”, Saturday, August 17, and Sunday, August 18, 10AM-5PM, Coolspring Power Museum, 179 Coolspring Rd., Coolspring. $8 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/Events.htm

“Amm(i)gone”, Saturday, August 17, 8PM, KST Alloy Studios, 5530 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/adil-mansoor-ammigone/ “As part of a month-long residency at KST, Pittsburgh-based theater maker Adil Mansoor presents an in-process showing of his latest work. Amm(i)gone is an adaptation of Antigonie as an apology to and from a mother. Creator and director Adil Mansoor explore queerness, the afterlife and obligation using Sophocles’ canonical text, teachings from the Quran and audio conversations with his mother to create an original performance locating love across faith. Amm(i)goneasks: Can prayer substantiate care? Can care manifest as artistic methodology and inquiry? Can Mansoor and his mother contend with Antigone’s fate? Come witness a work-in-progress showing of selections from Amm(i)gone and join us for a post-show discussion.” 

“Fungus Among Us”, Saturday, August 17, 9AM-12PM, Dead Man’s Hollow Conservation Area, Catfish Pond Parking Area, Scene Ridge Rd and River Ridge Rd, McKeesport. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/event/fungus-among-us-2/ “Ever wonder what that mushroom is you see growing on a log? Join our education team and the Western PA Mushroom Club experts as we hike the Catfish Pond entrance at Dead Man’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. The program runs for 3 hours, rain or shine, and will start with a one-hour ecological focus on fungus with an ALT Environmental Education Team member followed by a all hands-on-deck hunt for species with WPMC Identifier Jared White for an hour ending with a tabling and identification of all the specimens.” 

“Beech Loop / Frog Pond Hike”, Saturday, August 17, 10AM-11:30AM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Amphitheater. “Join us for this short easy hike through a variety of habitats. We’ll end the hike at an old homestead that provides a home for amphibians and possibly a reptile or two. This is a great family hike and is only 1 mile long.” 

“18th and 19th Century Living History Weekend”, Saturday, August 17 and Sunday, August 18, 9AM-5PM, Old Bedford Village, 220 Sawblade Rd., Bedford. $10 adults, $9 seniors, $5 students 6-18, free for ages 5 and under. “Demonstrations and Interpretations of frontier life during the18th and 19th centuries.” http://oldbedfordvillage.com/events.php

“Star Party at Millennium Park”, Saturday, August 17, 8PM, Millennium Park, 5900 Baptist Rd, Bethel Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/B/BETHPARK/EK.cfm?curOrg=BETHPARK&curMonth=8&curYear=2019&SelectedDate=8/17/2019 “Mark your calendars now for this perfect wrap-up to Summer Learning 2019! Tim Kelly and the Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh will share their knowledge of astronomy and then give us a guided viewing of the awesome nighttime sky. For all ages.” 

“Garden in the Park”, Saturday, August 17, 9AM-1PM, North Park and South Park Demonstration Gardens. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search Presented by Penn State Master Gardeners. “Visitors will be given tours of the demonstration gardens and be able to visit educational displays on beekeeping, pollinators, garlic and tomatoes. Ice Cream from Penn State’s creamery will also be available.” https://extension.psu.edu/programs/master-gardener/counties/allegheny/demonstration-gardens/garden-in-the-parks

“Pittsburgh’s ‘Other’ Irish: Before the Robber Barons”, Saturday, August 17, 1:30PM, Historic Pump House, 880 E. Waterfront Dr., Munhall. Free. “The phrase ‘Scotch-Irish Presbyterian’ might seem synonymous with self-righteous robber barons. But take a further look back to a Western PA of farms and artisans’ workshop—when Pittsburgh’s Irish were mostly Presbyterians whose religious beliefs discouraged them from the pursuit of wealth for its own sake. Come hear Dr. Peter Gilmore discuss his recent books Irish Presbyterians and the Shaping of Western Pennsylvania 1770-1830, and Exiles of ’98: Ulster Presbyterians in the US.” https://battleofhomestead.org/bhf/event/pittsburghs-other-irish-before-the-robber-barons-pump-house/

“Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival”, August 17, 18, 24, 25, and 31, and September 1, 2, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22, 10:30AM-6:30PM, 112 Renaissance Lane, West Newton. $23 adults, $11 kids 5-12, free for kids 4 and under. “This season we will take you on a magical tour through time and legend. As you wander down the village streets and pathways of the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival, ready thyself to revel with master revelers, watch artisans create original works of their ancient craft and be taken in by the tantalizing aromas of roast turkey legges, steak on a stake, fresh baked goods and much more. Featuring a cast of hundreds of authentically costumed merrymakers living and working throughout the village and performing, continuously, upon the Festival’s stages, the illusion of a rollicking 16th Century festival day is created.” https://pittsburghrenfest.com

“Vintage Base Ball Game”, Saturday, August 17, 12PM-5PM, Meadowcroft, 401 Meadowcroft Rd., Avella. Included with museum admission. “Play ball! Celebrate America’s pastime and cheer for a baseball game, 19th-century style. Visit Meadowcroft to watch a “base ball” (originally written as two words!) game between the Somerset Frosty Sons of Thunder and the Addison Mountain Stars. The teams will wear vintage uniforms and follow the rules commonly used during the 1860s. Enjoy food and fun in the 19th century American tradition.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/vintage-base-ball-game-at-meadowcroft-2019

“High Point Hike”, Saturday, August 17, 10AM-12PM, Forbes State Forest. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201.” Take a step back in time and learn about the fascinating history that surrounds the Mt. Davis Natural Area on this easy but rocky, 2 mile trek.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/high_point_hike_8357 

“Foraging Your Backyard”, Saturday, August 17, 12PM, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. $10, or $6 for Audubon members. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8553 “Discover native plants that not only provide beauty and resources for wildlife in the landscape but are also a delight on the dinner table. We will have a cooking demo and sample a taste of what an edible backyard can offer us.” 

“Best of 48 Hour Film Project”, Saturday, August 17, Oaks Theater, 310 Allegheny River Blvd., Oakmont. “Catch the best of the Pittsburgh 48 Hour Film Project and see who takes home all the awards! This screening will feature the best of all screening groups and decide who moves on to the national 48 Hour Film Project Finals!” http://theoakstheater.com/events/

“Vietnam Voices”, Sunday, August 18, 2PM-4PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Included with museum admission. “Speak with an eyewitness to history who represents one of many diverse perspectives on the Vietnam War inside the History Center’s The Vietnam War: 1945-1975 exhibit. Vietnam Voices participants in the gallery will range from those who served in Vietnam, those who supported the war at home, and those who opposed the war.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/vietnam-voices-august-18

“Guided Hike: Stream Ecology”, Sunday, August 18, 2PM-4PM, White Oak Park, Chestnut Playground parking lot; and Saturday, August 24, 2PM-4PM, Harrison Hills Park, Ox Roast. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search “Please dress to participate and get wet. This hike will be approximately 2 miles. Join the Park Rangers as we take a closer look at the health and quality of a park stream. While hiking along the waterway we will be testing water quality and examining biodiversity while determining appropriate steps to take to maintain the health of the stream.” 

“Free Family Fishing Program with PFBC and Trout Unlimited”, Sunday, August 18, 2Pm-4PM, Canoe Creek State Park, meeting between Pavilion and Boat Rental Building. Preregistration required by August 16; register online: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/free_family_fishing_program_with_pfbc_and_trout_unlimited_1759 “Learn to fish basic skills like knot tying, casting, baiting the hook, and taking the fish off the line. You and your family will have the opportunity to fish – no fishing license required. All equipment is provided. The ‘catch’ is adults must bring a child and children must bring an adult – you’ll be learning to fish together!” 

“Orienteering at Blue Spruce Park”, Sunday, August 18, 11AM-2PM, Blue Spruce Park, 1128 Blue Spruce Rd, Indiana. $6 map fee. “Orienteering is a sport for all ages in which the participant uses a detailed topographic map and a compass to find pre-marked locations (controls) that are shown on the map. It usually takes place in a forested area or a park, although it can be done on city streets. Participants in the sport are called orienteers. Anyone who is able to walk through the woods is allowed to participate (after he/she signs a waiver of responsibility).” http://www.wpoc.org

“Kentuck Loop Hike”, Sunday, August 18, 10AM-11:30AM, Ohiopyle State Park, Tharp Knob Picnic Area. “This short easy 1 mile loop travels through a variety of habitats. Along the way, we'll look for signs of an old homestead. Towards the end of the hike, we will see a spectacular view of the town of Ohiopyle.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/kentuck_loop_hike_7715

“Toxic Toffee: Mystery Book Signing with Amanda Flower and Christin Brecher”, Monday, August 19, 7PM-8PM, Riverstone Books, 8850 Covenant Ave., Pittsburgh. “Join Christin Brecher and Amanda Flower for a fun night talking about the craft of mystery.” https://www.riverstonebookstore.com/events/toxic-flower-book-signing-with-amanda-flower

“Intro to Word”, Tuesday, August 20, 10AM-11AM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/P/PTLIB/ek.cfm “Covering the basics of Microsoft Word, this class will cover creating and saving documents, navigating the toolbars, and different ways of customizing your information. Classes are free unless otherwise noted. Lab classes are limited to nine students, and basic mouse and keyboard skills are suggested.” 

“Map and Compass Navigation Basics Class”, Tuesday, August 20, 6:30PM-8:30PM, Settler’s Ridge REI, 500 Business Center Drive, Pittsburgh. $30, or $20 for REI members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.rei.com/events/43656/map-compass-navigation-basics-class/249968?course.session.anyLocation=100.000000~40.428400~-79.965600;geo_r “Come learn basic navigation skills using map and compass to find your way. In this in-store class you'll learn the parts of a compass, how to read a topographic map and how to use them in tandem. You'll learn how to pinpoint your location through triangulation and then navigate to new locations by following a bearing. You'll also learn how plan routes using a topographic map. This is a hands-on in-store class with some lecture components. Maps and compasses are provided, but bring your own if you prefer. Depending on weather and location, this class may include a portion held outdoors, please dress accordingly.” 

“Hookstown Fair”, Tuesday, August 20 through Saturday, August 24, 1198 PA-168, Hookstown. http://hookstownfair.com

“The Courthouse and City-County Building in Depth Walking Tour”, Tuesday, August 20, 10AM-11:30AM, meeting at 414 Grant Street, Pittsburgh PA 15219 (City-County Building steps, near statue of Mayor Richard Caliguiri). $20. Paid reservations required; contact marylu@phlf.org or 412-471-5808, ext. 527. “You’ll explore two of the city’s most significant buildings, inside and out. The Allegheny County Courthouse, designed in 1884 by H. H. Richardson and completed in 1888, was dedicated 100 years after the incorporation of Allegheny County. The City-County Building, designed in 1915 by Henry Hornbostel, was nearly completed in 1916, marking the centennial of the City’s incorporation in 1816. Both buildings were designed by architects who studied at the prestigious Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, France. Both Richardson and Hornbostel collaborated with the best artists and craftsmen of the day to create buildings ‘tuned to the eye’ and a joy to explore.” https://phlf.org/event/the-courthouse-city-county-building-in-depth-downtown-walking-tour/

“Evening Paddle (Kayaking)”, Tuesday, August 20, 6:30PM, Ten Mile Creek Park, Park Office, 128 Maple Rd., Clarksville. Free. Preregistration required; call 724-228-6867. “Discover flat water kayaking on Ten Mile Creek with the Parks and Recreation staff. Join us for an evening of outdoor recreation that is sure to be fun, invigorating and relaxing, all while enjoying the outdoors in Washington County.” http://www.co.washington.pa.us/DocumentCenter/View/6729/Calendar-of-Event-2019-Web-Layout-1-25-19

“Mark Twain: Tales from His Life”, Wednesday, August 21, 6PM, Adams Library, Latrobe. “We present an evening with the quintessential American storyteller, Mark Twain, portrayed by Charles Kiernan. Hear tales and anecdotes about his boyhood, his life on the Mississippi, his work in newspaper publishing and frogs! This program is free, but registration is required due to extremely limited seating. Please phone 724-539-1972 to register.” 

“Chimney Swifts: Life on the Wing”, Saturday, August 21, 7PM-9PM, Beechwood Farms Nature Preserve; and Saturday, August 24, 10AM, Succop Nature Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events “A bird best identified by what looks like a cigar with wings, the smudge-gray Chimney Swift nimbly maneuvers over rooftops, fields, and rivers to catch insects. Learn about the life history of this enigmatic little bird that spends almost its entire life airborne, as well as ASWP’s Swift conservation efforts across the region.” 

Screening, “Facing Mirrors”, Wednesday, August 21, 7PM-8:45PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/reelq-facing-mirrors/ “A low budget film set in contemporary Iran, Facing Mirrors is a story of an unlikely and daring friendship that develops despite social norms and religious beliefs. Although Rana is a traditional wife and mother, she is forced to drive a cab to pay off the debt that keeps her husband in prison. By chance she picks up the wealthy and rebellious Edi, who is desperately awaiting a passport to leave the country. At first Rana attempts to help, but when she realizes that Edi is transgender, a dangerous series of conflicts arises. Directed by Negar Azarbayjani, Facing Mirrors is the first narrative film from Iran to feature a transgender main character.” Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBFF0EMJoOA

Screening, “1959 The Year that Changed Jazz”, Wednesday, August 21, 5:30PM-8PM, Frick Environmental Education Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. “Join us for a screening of ‘1959 The Year that Changed Jazz’ at the Frick Environmental Center on Aug. 21, as part of the 2019 From Slavery to Freedom Film Series presented by the African American Program of the Heinz History Center. “In 1959, four important jazz albums were released, each a watershed moment for the genre that reflects its time. With rare footage and plenty of interviews with musicians and critics, this documentary seeks to explore their achievements in social, political, and musical context, as well as to touch on the enduring influence they have had in the intervening years. The albums considered are: Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue; Dave Brubeck’s Time Out; Charles Mingus’ Mingus Ah Um; and Ornette Coleman’s The Shape of Jazz to Come.” 

“Listening Session: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame”, Wednesday, August 21, 7PM-8:30PM, Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N. Main St., Greensburg. $10, or free for students. Preregistration required; register online: https://thewestmoreland.org/event/listening-session-rock-roll-hall-of-fame/ “Nwaka Onwusa, Curator and Director of Curatorial Affairs at the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame, leads an interactive conversation and listening session celebrating the overwhelming musical explosion, creativity and impact of rock n’ roll music during the ’60s and ’70s. Revisit familiar sounds that shaped the culture while uncovering stories and sounds that helped to challenge and propel rock n’ roll further.” 

“Salvaging the Fleet”, Wednesday, August 21, 2PM-3PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room A. “Most people have an understanding of the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Few are acquainted with the aftermath in which our Navy undertook the job of clearing the Harbor and salvaging what was left of the US battle fleet. Turns out, due to luck and fierce resolve, a very great deal of the fleet could be saved. Join radio's Mike Plaskett for stories and photos of miracles of accomplishment. Ships being lifted off the muddy bottom of Pearl Harbor. Battleships being rolled over and re-floated. Warships rebuilt and sent back to battle. All in sixty short minutes!” 

“3MJC Meeting: Backyard Birding”, Wednesday, August 21, 7PM-8:30PM, Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. Free and open to the public. “What was that bird in my backyard? A chickadee, a bluejay, a wren? Join Dave Kwasnick, the new owner of the Birdwatcher's Store in Slippery Rock, as he discusses backyard birding. He'll discuss birding as a hobby, bird identification, the common birds of the area, migrating birds, and types of feeders and seed/suet to attract birds to your yard. The public is welcome to this meeting of Moraine, McConnells Mill and Jennings Commission (3MJC), a non-profit friends group that supports these three parks. Meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 PM at Jennings EEC (2951 Prospect Road in Slippery Rock, PA)." https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/3mjc_meeting_backyard_birding

“Rainbow Reading Group: An LGBTQIA+ Book Discussion Group”, Thursday, August 22, 6:30PM-8PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Join us to discuss contemporary and classic LGBTQIA+ fiction and nonfiction. 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 Director’s Conference Room on the First Floor of the Main Library on the fourth Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. This book group meets every month, except for November and December. August’s book selection is The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee – Two friends on a Grand Tour of 18th-century Europe stumble across a magical artifact that leads them from Paris to Venice in a dangerous manhunt shaped by pirates, highwaymen and their growing attraction to one another.” 

“Indian Hill Meadow Tour”, Thursday, August 22, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Boyce Park, Indian Hill Meadow. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/bp-indian-hill-meadow-tour/3734 “This is your opportunity to learn more about the Boyce Park Meadow; how and why it was created by the Allegheny County Parks Foundation and Allegheny County Parks; how it is being maintained; what plants are in the meadow and what is blooming now; and how you can create a meadow in your own yard. Join Penn State Master Gardeners and Park Rangers for a leisurely and informative stroll along the grassy paths through the meadow.” 

“Meet Pittsburgh author Elizabeth Jefferies”, Thursday, August 22, 7PM-8PM, Riverstone Books, 8850 Covenant Ave., Pittsburgh. “Growing up evangelical, Elizabeth Jeffries was certain about how the world worked. She had a clear understanding of scripture, sin and God’s will, and she carried this same certitude into her graduate study of cell biology. There, rather than discover the simplicity of the natural world, she instead discovered the simplistic lenses through which she was viewing the world all along. In her first book, a work of deep reflection and vulnerable storytelling, Elizabeth invites readers to candidly tour her conservative Christian upbringing and the doctrines that shaped her identity. With grace and intelligence, she critically engages her past without condemning it. She brilliantly draws from her insights in the laboratory and offers a new set of metaphors from the field of cell biology to help reframe concepts like identity, community, certainty, perfectionism and truth. The result is a rich tapestry of the scientific and the sacred.” https://www.riverstonebookstore.com/events/w2fpys698kt5z63yk4ufoloi6hakzd

“Woodstock Night at the History Center”, Thursday, August 22, 6PM-9PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. $20 adults, $10 kids 6-17, free for ages 5 and under, including History Center exhibits. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/woodstock-night “Join the History Center for a night marking 50 years since Woodstock rocked America! Featuring live music, specialty cocktails, groovy activities, and, of course, a lot of tie-dye. Woodstock Night at the History Center will be split into two events: one for adults and one for kids, each featuring entertainment and activities appropriate for each age group.” 

“Venomous Snakes of PA”, Thursday, August 22, 6PM-7:30PM, Moraine State Park, Pavilion #7 McDanel’s Launch Area (North Shore) . Free. “Join the park naturalist to learn about all the snakes we have in Pennsylvania. Don’t let their scales and appearance fool you…snakes play an important role in the environment. Find out what’s real and what’s not, from the venomous to the perfectly harmless and much, much, more. Live snakes will be on hand, so don’t miss out on this grand opportunity.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/venomous_snakes_of_pa_5520

“Breaking Ground”, Thursday, August 22, Friday, August 23 and Saturday, August 24, 8PM-10PM, Carrie Furnaces, Carrie Furnace Blvd., Rankin. Tickets TBA: http://rosarts.org/events/ “Rivers of Steel Arts is excited to present the traveling multimedia installation Breaking Ground at the Carrie Blast Furnaces for a three-night screening. Lensed through the rise of the oil industry in North Dakota, Breaking Ground is an immersive meditation on the tale of dreams sought and abandoned that wends its way through the American psyche and the physical landscape of the country itself. The Breaking Ground exhibition has traveled across the country showcasing a series of site-specific photographic and sound installations created by artist Valerie Lyman. Photographs projected onto large industrial remnants accompany sound compositions selected from over 15,000 negatives and hours of audio recorded during her five year field work in the Bakken region of North Dakota.” 

“Calling All ‘My Favorite Murder’ Fans!” Thursday, August 22, 7PM, Barnes and Noble, 800 Settlers Ridge Center Dr., Pittsburgh. “Calling ALL Murderinos! Join us for a discussion (and snacks) of our favorite podcast, My Favorite Murder! We will discuss our favorite hometown murders as well as well-known cases in recent news. Meet us in the store at 7PM and settle in for a great discussion! Meet near Food and Cooking section at 7PM.” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062030721-0 

“Microsoft Word 2016 Basics Part 1”, Friday, August 23, 10:30AM-12PM, Northland Library, Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/N/NORTHLAND/ek.cfm?curOrg=NORTHLAND#6115801 “Participants will learn about the parts of the Word window and practice formatting and editing text. Participants will also learn how to Cut, Copy, and Paste text, as well as how to Save a Word document. For students with no previous Word experience. Prerequisite: Must have mouse skills.” Part 2 takes place Friday, August 30. 

“Basic Circuitry and Soldering 101”, Friday, August 23, 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.” 

“Salamander Safari”, Friday, August 23, 4PM-5:30PM, Moraine State Park, meeting outside the Davis Hollow Marina Office (North Shore). Free. “Join the Park Naturalist at Moraine State Park to explore Davis Hollow Creek for salamanders and other critters. There will be a 15 minute walk to the stream. Wear a sturdy pair of walking shoes for hiking to and from the stream. Pack water shoes to slip on at the stream and bring bug spray. Great fun for the whole family!” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/salamander_safari_8066

“Frog Hunt”, Friday, August 23, 8PM-9:30PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Amphitheater. “Join us for one of our most fun and popular programs. We’ll meet at the amphitheater to discuss our plan of attack. Then we’ll head to the infamous frog pond where we will try and catch some of our elusive green buddies.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/frog_hunt_1528

“Butler Italian Festival”, Friday, August 23, 5PM-10PM, Saturday, August 24, 12PM-10PM, and Sunday, August 25, 12PM-6PM, Main St., downtown Butler, between Jefferson St. and Brady St. “Buon Giorno and welcome to the second annual Butler County Italian Festival, a three-day celebration of all things “molto Italiano.” From music and food…to friends, family and fine wines…it’s a ‘Taste of Italy’ in all the red, white and green trimmings that make Mediterranean merriment a splendor all its own.” http://butleritalianfestival.com

“Afternoon Paddle (Kayaking)”, Friday, August 23, 1PM, Ten Mile Creek Park, Park Office, 128 Maple Rd., Clarksville. Free. Preregistration required; call 724-228-6867. “Discover flat water kayaking on Ten Mile Creek with the Parks and Recreation staff. Join us for an afternoon of outdoor recreation that is sure to be fun, invigorating and relaxing, all while enjoying the outdoors in Washington County.” http://www.co.washington.pa.us/DocumentCenter/View/6729/Calendar-of-Event-2019-Web-Layout-1-25-19

“Microsoft Excel 2016 Basics Part 1”, Friday, August 23, 12:30PM-2PM, Northland Library, Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/N/NORTHLAND/ek.cfm?curOrg=NORTHLAND#6115801 “Participants will go through some basic Excel terminology before learning how to move around the spreadsheet. Participants will then build some simple financial documents to practice on, using simple functions, formulas (such as addition), and constants. Prerequisite: Must have solid Word experience.” Part 2 takes place Friday, August 30. 

“History Happy Hour”, Friday, August 23, 5:30PM-7:30PM, Fort Ligonier, 200 S. Market St., Ligonier. Rain or shine. $20. Preregistration required; contact Candace Gross at 724-238-9701. “Happy Hour with an historical twist! The fort's reproduction field ovens are fired up for Connection Cafe's delicious grilled pizzas! Live music, spirits, and living history demonstrations make this one of the fort's most popular events of the year!” https://www.fortligonier.org/event/history-happy-hour-rain-or-shine-3/

“School of Drag Showcase”, Friday, August 23, 7PM-9PM, Andy Warhol Museum, 117 Sandusky St., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.warhol.org/event/school-of-drag-showcase/ “Join us for the School of Drag program finale, a showcase featuring performances from the School of Drag students and instructors. The Warhol’s School of Drag teaches teens the history, culture, and practice of drag and gender-bending performance over the course of a seven-week program. Andy Warhol pioneered the representation of gender nonconformity and the use of drag queens in both his film and artworks and embraced this LGBTQ+ community’s cultural practice as an avenue of creative expression.” 

“All About Astronaut Cuisine”, Saturday, August 24, 2PM-3PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End. “What do astronauts eat when they’re in outer space? What kinds of foods are best to take into space, and what kind of preparation is involved? Find out the answers to these questions and lots more at this program. Space food samples will be available!” 

“Monarchs”, Saturday, August 24, 10AM-11AM, Ohiopyle State Park, Visitor Center. “During this program we will explore our most well-known butterfly. 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.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/monarchs_307

“Ghost Hunt at the Andrew Carnegie Library and Music Hall”, Saturday, August 24, 7PM-10:30PM, Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall, 300 Beechwood Ave., Carnegie. $45. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ghost-hunt-at-the-andrew-carnegie-library-music-hall-carnegie-pa-tickets-64677648588 “Join Ghosts N'at Paranormal Adventures for an evening you won't soon forget! On Saturday August 24th, experience what happens when the lights go out in The Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall in Carnegie, PA during a real GUIDED GHOST HUNT. Ghosts N'at Paranormal Adventures will guide you on a ghost hunt of your very own through the notoriously haunted location. During our ghost hunt, you will be paired with a real paranormal investigator using the latest and greatest in ghost hunting gadgetry to try to make contact with ‘The Other Side’. We will be investigating the most active areas of the building, where we've captured evidence - or library staff have had personal experience! We've experience a wide variety of paranormal activity in the library and music hall including EVPS, disembodied voices, shadow figures and more! Additionally, the library was featured on the Bio Channel TV show My Ghost Story.” 

“Archery 101”, Saturday, August 24, 11AM-1PM, Forbes State Forest, Braddock Division. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201. “Learn the basics of archery during this beginner-friendly program. Participants must be 8+ years of age or older. Equipment is available to borrow.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/archery_101_7996

“The Space Between”, Saturday. August 24, 2:30PM-4PM, Contemporary Craft, 2100 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://contemporarycraft.org/event/the-space-between-2019-08-24/ “As part of the closing celebration for Contemporary Craft’s final exhibition in The Strip – Fiberart International 2019 (FI2019) – we invite two exceptional FI2019exhibiting artists, Jozef Bajus and Erika Diamond, to discuss creativity and their artistic journey in an inspiring conversation through our salon-style speaker series – The Space Between. The featured speakers will talk briefly about their background and the way they approach the creative process. Topics may include the concepts and themes in their work, personal connections to craft, and creativity. The speakers and audience will then engage in an informal discussion inspired by the speakers’ creative journeys and Fiberart International 2019.” 

“Star Party”, Saturday, August 24, 9PM-11PM, Laurel Hill State Park, meeting at the Scenic View Overlook. “Join the Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh for a spectacular view of the night sky!” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/star_party_9708

Screening, “Singin’ in the Rain”, Saturday, August 24, 2PM, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/singin-in-the-rain-celebrating-gene-kelly/ “In honor of the birthday of one of the biggest names in dance and cinema, and the vibrant ‘K’ in ‘KST’ —Gene Kelly—we host a screening of one of the greatest movie musicals of all time. This matinee birthday celebration features dynamic choreography with the multi-award-winning musical film Singin’ in the Rain. Witness Kelly’s versatility as an actor, singer, dancer, and choreographer in an unforgettable family-friendly film. After the screening, we’ll share some birthday sweets in honor of Pittsburgh’s beloved Gene!” 

“Wilderness Survival: Primitive Fire Building and Meal Preparation”, Saturday, August 24, 9AM-2PM, Cook Forest State Park. $25. “Dust off your ferrule rods and meet us at the Log Cabin Inn Environmental Learning Classroom to learn various fire starting techniques. We will then prepare our lunch and car-pool to the Black Bear Trail area to use our newfound fire starting skills to cook our meal. All participants will receive a ‘Fire N’ Five’ fire starting kit and food for their meals. Ask past participants, we do not skimp on food! Please contact the Park Office at (814)744-8407 to register. Cost is $25 due by 8/22 with check or money order made out to the ‘Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’ and sent to Cook Forest State Park, P.O. Box 120, Cooksburg, PA 16217 with ATTN: Wilderness Survival. Participation will be limited to 20 people. Registration fee will be withheld for cancellations after registration deadline.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/wilderness_survival_primitive_fire_building_meal_preparation_3285 

“Owl Prowl”, Saturday, August 24, 7:30PM-9:30PM, Moraine State Park, meeting beside Bear Run Launch (South Shore). Free. “Join the park naturalist to learn about the wonderful owls that prowl the night woods in Pennsylvania. After a short discussion, we will go in search of these night-flying creatures to do a little prowling of our own. Bring a flashlight if you have one. Dress for the weather.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/owl_prowl_5214

“Beaver County Amateur Astronomers Star Party”, Saturday, August 24, 8PM-11PM, Bradys Run Park baseball complex, 121 Bradys Run Rd. Beaver Falls. “Star Party to observe Jupiter, Saturn, Summer constellations, nebula.” https://www.facebook.com/events/605144523270516/

“Sycamore Island Paddle”, Saturday, August 24, 9AM-2PM, Kayak Pittsburgh, Aspinwall Riverfront Park, 285 River Ave, Pittsburgh. $40, or $30 for Venture Outdoors members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/events/3239000/ “Conserved by Allegheny Land Trust, Sycamore Island hosts a unique floodplain ecosystem. We'll paddle from Kayak Pittsburgh - Aspinwall Riverfront Park to Sycamore Island where we'll stop for some lunch. After lunch, we’ll talk about the island's social and environmental history while our group explores the island by kayak and foot before paddling back to the start. Tandem kayaks are not available for this outing.” 

“Family Night Hike”, Saturday, August 24, 8PM-10PM, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, Succop Nature Park and Todd Nature Reserve. $10 per person or $6 for Audubon members. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events “In the twilight of summer the katydids are calling and warmer days are winding down. Come and enjoy a fun, night-time hike with the family on our reserves trails. Participants will get to walk in the darkness while using your senses to experience nature in a uniquely different way.” 

“Origami Paper Crafts Workshop”, Saturday, August 24, 1PM-2PM, Dormont Library Pittsburgh. “By popular demand, our Origami Paper Crafts workshops will be continuing! Sessions are held on the fourth Saturday of each month from 1-2 PM. This program is open to adults, teens, and children 3rd grade and up. You can see some photos of our previous workshops on Facebook. Registration is requested for this program. To register or for more information, please call 412-531-8754 or ask at the front desk.” 

“Indiana County Fair”, Saturday, August 24 through Saturday, August 31, 803 Hospital Rd., Indiana. http://indianacountyfair.com

“Meet the Union Generals Living History Weekend”, Saturday, August 24 and Sunday, August 25, 9AM-5PM, Old Bedford Village, 220 Sawblade Rd., Bedford. $10 adults, $9 seniors, $5 students 6-18, free for ages 5 and under. “The Confederation of Union Generals and their ladies discuss their lives and the Civil War.” http://oldbedfordvillage.com/events.php

Concert, “River City Brass”, Saturday, August 24, 11:15AM-1PM, Fairview Park, 129 Greenwood Dr., Bridgeville. Free. “River City Brass Quintet plays at South Fayette Community Days!” https://www.rivercitybrass.org/touring-schedule/2019/8/24/south-fayette-township-free-outdoor-concert

Concert, “KleZlectic”, Sunday, August 25, 2PM-3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, North Wing Music Room, 2nd Floor. “Inspire your creative spirit and feed your musical soul! KleZlectic specializes in klezmer music (Jewish soul and lively dance music), but also performs American, popular, jazz and Jewish folk songs, serving up a lively feast of truly sweet genres for any occasion. Janice Coppola, clarinet; Mark Perna, trombone and bass; Roger Day, tuba; Laura Daniels, vocals and keyboard; and Jeff Berman, percussion are all long-time Pittsburgh musicians who present a one-of-a-kind musical experience for audiences of all ages. Their arrangements of new compositions, and of even the more familiar, older melodies, bring a 21st-century appeal to the listener who is looking for an ensemble that will have their audience kicking up their heels and asking for more! Find out more by perusing their website at JaniceCoppola.com.” 

“Shannon Run Paddle”, Sunday, August 25, 9AM-11AM, Moraine State Park, meeting at Mount Zion Church. https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/shannon_run_paddle_6470 “Join Moraine Park staff and explore the Shannon Run area of Moraine’s Lake Arthur. During this nature-based paddle, participants will learn some basic kayak tips and set off to explore the abundant wildlife and plant life of this unique inlet. Borrow binoculars and watch an osprey or eagle soar. Ages 12 and up, under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Kayak and gear provided, or bring your own. Life jackets required to be worn. Pre-registration required. Registration opens Monday, August 13th. To register call the park office 724 368-8811. Due to increased interest, participation in park kayak programs is limited to 2 programs per season.” 

“Piano Day of Pittsburgh”, Sunday, August 25, 12PM-8PM, downtown Pittsburgh. Free. “We'll see you in Downtown Pittsburgh at Heinz Hall Garden, Katz Plaza, PPG Place, and Market Square. We take over 4 points of the Cultural District with concert-grade pianos and performances by some of Pittsburgh's greatest musicians! At one of our locations we host a piano that is ‘open to all’ meaning anyone can play.” https://www.pianodaypgh.com

“Meadow Run Hike”, Sunday, August 25, 10AM-12PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Meadow Run Trailhead parking lot. “The Meadow Run Trail has many geological features that create the back drop for its beauty. From large rock formations to water falls to majestic hemlocks, this trail is a must. The loop is about a 1.5 miles long. Please wear sturdy shoes.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/meadow_run_hike_4783

“Hellbenders”, Sunday, August 25, 1PM-2PM, Ohiopyle State Park Visitor Center. “Recently, the Hellbender has been named the 'State Amphibian'. A few have been spotted in the Yough River so we have partnered with the PA Conservancy to do a survey with their scientist of the hellbenders in our river. We will be sharing the results and learning more about these elusive animals.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/hellbenders_4214

“100 Years After the Assassination of Mineworker Organizer Fannie Sellins: A Community Commemoration”, Monday, August 26, 2PM-8:30PM, 3 Allegheny Valley locations, free. 2:00-3:00 pm Community Commemoration at Ducktown; 3:30PM-5PM Brackenridge at USW Local 1196 Union Hall to hear speeches about Fannie’s relevance today; 6:45PM Arnold Cemetery at the Mineworker Memorial to pray for the dead.” Complete details here: https://battleofhomestead.org/bhf/event/100-years-after-the-assassination-of-mineworker-organizer-fannie-sellins-a-community-commemoration/

Screening, “Nigerian Prince”, Monday, August 26, 7PM-9PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/nigerian-prince/ “Nigerian Prince follows Eze, a stubborn first-generation Nigerian-American teenager, and his cousin, Pius, a desperate Nigerian Prince scammer. After Eze’s mother sends him to Nigeria against his will, Eze retaliates by teaming up with Pius to scam unsuspecting foreigners in order to earn money for a return ticket back to America. Nigerian Prince is directed by New York City-based Nigerian-American filmmaker Faraday Okoro.” Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7_jlp1_MLg

“Our Next 75”, Monday, August 26, 6PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://promo.post-gazette.com/ournext75 Parking provided in the 11th and Smallman lot across from the Heinz History Center. “No place has had more lives—more renaissances, more fresh starts—than the Pittsburgh region. A laboratory for innovation and re-invention, Pittsburgh is experiencing a new burst of energy and innovation. With new opportunities beckoning and new challenges gathering, the Post-Gazette has assembled a distinguished panel of thought leaders and innovators to help shape Pittsburgh's conversation and its next economic conversion.” 

“Write or Die: Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Writing and Critique Group”, Tuesday, August 27, 6:45PM-8:55PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room B. “Write or Die (WorD) is a Pittsburgh, PA science fiction, fantasy and horror writing and critique group. Established in 1996, it has been steadily growing since then. Meetings are free to attend and open to the public. Our group includes experienced writers with decades of writing experience behind them, and newcomers who have yet to see anything in print. What exactly do we do? We're writers of science fiction, fantasy and horror, and we gather together to share our work with each other and gain insight so we can all become better writers. We look for the good in your work and always strive to point out the good parts but understand, as a Critique Group we will also give you helpful criticism that will help you make your writing better. We look for mistakes and problems with your writing so that you can make it better.” 

“77th Annual Big Knob Grange Fair”, Tuesday, August 27 through Saturday, August 31, 336 Grange Rd., Rochester. Admission is a non-perishable food donation for the Unionville Food Pantry. “The showplace of agriculture, horticulture, home arts, entertainment, food and more!” http://www.bigknobgrangefair.org/index.html

“Communitopia Presents Mobile Climate Lab for Teens”, Wednesday, August 28, 3:30PM-5PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Squirrel Hill. “Explore activities to build background knowledge about climate change, learn about local impacts and find ways to make a difference. For teens age 11-19.” 

“Needle Felting 3D”, Wednesday, August 28, 1PM-2:30PM and 7PM-8:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room A. $5. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “Fiber Artist Judé Ernest will help you learn to hand needle felt wool fibers into 3 dimensional shapes. The class is an introduction to sculpting with wool to create hand needle felted dimensional objects. The student will learn safe needles felting skills using felting needles, various wool fibers and other materials.” 

“Holy Trinity’s Taste of Greece”, Wednesday, August 28 through Sunday, September 1, 11AM-9PM, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 985 Providence Blvd., Pittsburgh. “It's a long-time Holy Trinity Church tradition at new Holy Trinity Church location! For over 40 years, Pittsburghers travelled to the North Side for great Greek food at the Holy Trinity Festival. We are now in our fourth year at new neighborhood in the North Hills at the corner of Babcock Boulevard and Cumberland Road, across from UPMC Passavant Hospital, and have we got a Festival for you! Join us in our new home for the biggest-ever Taste of Greece. Great food, dancing, company and Greek tradition.” http://www.holytrinitypgh.org/festival/ 

“Science Fiction Book Discussion Group”, Wednesday, August 28, 7PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room B. “The science fiction book discussion group focuses on classic, ‘hard,’ and/or award winning science fiction books.” Novel: “Red Moon” by Kim Stanley Robinson. Short Fiction: “The Things” by Peter Watts, “Pale Blue Memories” by Tobias S. Bucknell. 

“Intro to PowerPoint”, Thursday, August 29, 7PM-8PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/P/PTLIB/ek.cfm “Learn to create basic and effective PowerPoint presentations—complete with charts, pictures and eye-catching animations. Classes are free unless otherwise noted. Lab classes are limited to nine students, and basic mouse and keyboard skills are suggested.” 

Slowdanger Presents “Empathy Machine”, Friday, August 30 and Saturday, August 31, KST Alloy Studios, 5530 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/slowdanger-empathy-machine/ “An evening-length quintet, empathy machine is an imagined future, a beginning, an ending, an answer, and a warning. With intense physicality, responsive technology and heightened states of awareness, empathy machine questions societal reflexes by desexualizing intimacy, and examines empathy as an ongoing process of sensitizing ourselves to our bodies, companions, and environment. Collaboratively constructed with Projectile Object / Neil Henke and computational artist Char Stiles and performed by Ru Emmons, Roberta Guido, Simon Philips, Taylor Knight, and Anna Thompson, empathy machine takes a multidisciplinary approach to world building.” 

“Twilight Hike with a Park Ranger”, Friday, August 30, 7PM-9PM, Boyce Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/bp-twilight-hike-with-a-park-ranger/3735 “Approximately 2 miles with moderate elevation changes. Join us for an evening hike to explore the park after dark and learn about the world that wakes up when we go to sleep. Explore the changes the night brings and learn about how animals and humans have adapted to the darkness.” 

“Night Hike with a Park Ranger”, Friday, August 30, 8PM-10PM, Deer Lakes Park, Pike 1. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/dl-night-hike-with-a-park-ranger/3695 “This hike will be approximately 2 miles with moderate elevation changes. Join us for an evening hike to explore the park after dark and learn about the world that wakes up when we go to sleep. Explore the changes the night brings and learn about how animals and humans have adapted to the darkness.” 

Author Talk, “Damon Young”, Friday, August 30, 5:30PM-6:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/damon-young/ “Join us for a reading of What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Blacker with author, Northside neighbor, and friend Damon Young! This program will be a gathering of friends, family, neighbors and fans to celebrate Damon’s literary work and service to the broader Pittsburgh community. This will mark the first time that Damon will be reading solo from his memoir in his native city of Pittsburgh. The reading will be followed by a short discussion with audience Q/A.” 

“Natives, Non-Natives and Invasive Plants”, Saturday, August 31, 3PM-4PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Allegheny. “Learn about native, non-native and invasive species and how they affect each other. Many non-natives and invasive species have been introduced to our environment and some have profound effects on our natural ecosystem. Participants will learn how to identify common invasive species and non-natives, as well as some basic control methods to help protect native species. Presented by an Allegheny County Park Ranger.” 

“REI Outdoor School: Backcountry Navigation”, Saturday, August 31, 9AM-2PM, South Park. $80, or $60 for REI members. Ages 12- adult. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.rei.com/events/49378/backcountry-navigation-with-a-map-compass?page=4&course.session.anyLocation=100.000000~40.428400~-79.965600;geo_r “During this field outing, our instructors will help you understand the information provided on your map, the proper use of your compass, and how to put the two together. You'll learn about magnetic north, true north, and magnetic variation (declination). After covering these fundamentals, you'll get time to practice taking a bearing from the terrain and your map so that you can make sense of your position and plan a route. This hands on course is a great introduction to outdoor navigation and map reading! Read a topographic map. Understand the difference between true north and magnetic north. Learn to calculate declination. Use a compass to take a bearing, plot your position on a map, and develop a route plan. Build confidence in your navigational skills.” 

“The New Map of Empire”, Saturday, August 31, 11AM-1PM, Fort Pitt Museum, Point State Park, 601 Commonwealth Ave., Pittsburgh. $15 adults, $10 students and History Center members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/fort-pitt-museum-new-map-of-empire “Join the Fort Pitt Museum in welcoming S. Max Edelson, professor of History at the University of Virginia, for a discussion on the British efforts to map America before the American Revolution. In the generation before the American Revolution, British surveyors drew thousands of new maps of American territories. With ink and paper, they mapped out a new empire, controlled from London, over which American colonists had little influence. Illustrated by a dynamic digital presentation that features original maps of Florida, the New England coast, the Mississippi River, the Native American frontier, island colonies in the Caribbean, and Fort Pitt, Edelson will explain how Americans reacted to this grand scheme of control and rejected the bonds of empire.” 

“Union Army Camp and Field Weekend”, Saturday, August 31 and Sunday, September 1, 9AM-5PM, Old Bedford Village, 220 Sawblade Rd., Bedford. $10 adults, $9 seniors, $5 students 6-18, free for ages 5 and under. “We invite you to join us for a weekend of interpretive living history, as we recreate the raising of Bedford County’s Co’s. D, E., and F., of the 138th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment. This event will feature a recruiting and training camp, using the U.S. Army Regulations of 1861 and the U.S. Army School of the Soldier tactics being demonstrated according to the original manuals. Camps will feature other U.S. Army departments and functions that would have existed during the time.” http://oldbedfordvillage.com/events.php

“Late Summer Wildflower Walk”, Saturday, August 31, 10AM-12PM and 2PM-4PM, Raccoon Creek State Park, Wildflower Reserve Interpretive Center. Free. “Take a stroll around the Wildflower Reserve as we discover our late summer wildflowers in our two large meadows. The 1.5 mile walk will cover identification, medicinal/edible uses, and folklore associated with various flowers. Free program.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/raccoon_creek_state_park/calendar/month/2019/8

“Music in the Mountains”, Saturday, August 31, 12PM-8:30PM and Sunday, September 1, 12PM-6PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Main Falls Area. “Our annual Music In the Mountains festival featuring music, crafts, food and interpretative programming is a fun time for all. So bring the whole family and enjoy a relaxing day by the river.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/ohiopyle_state_park

***************Road Trips************** 

Buffalo 

“Buffalo Infringement Festival 2019”, now through Sunday, August 4. “Poetry, literature, film, workshops, visual art!” Details TBA: https://www.facebook.com/InfringeEveryDay/

“Elevator Alley Kayak Tour”, August 4, 10, 18, and 24, 9AM, meeting at Barrel Factory, 65 Vandalia St., Buffalo. $45 adults, $40 students, includes kayak rental. Preregistration required; register online: http://explorebuffalo.org/kayak-tours/ “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!” 

“Soldiers of the American Revolution”, Saturday, August 10 and Sunday, August 11, Old Fort Niagara, 102 Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY. $13 adults, $9 ages 6-12, free for ages 5 and under. “Experience the American Revolution on the New York frontier as British and American forces do battle. The event includes battle reenactments, living history camps, recruiting programs for kids, artillery and musket firings. Ongoing demonstrations: woodworking, blacksmithing, Native American material culture, foodways.” Complete schedule here: https://www.oldfortniagara.org/event/100152/soldiers-of-the-american-revolution

“Patient Life Tour”, August 11 and 25, September 15 and 29, 10AM-12PM, Richardson Olmstead Campus, 444 Forest Ave., Buffalo. $40. Preregistration required; register online: “What was it like to live at the Buffalo State Asylum for the Insane (now known as the Richardson Olmsted Campus)? Go behind-the-scenes and back in time to when the Richardson was home to thousands of people: patients, doctors, nurses, attendants, and staff.” https://richardson-olmsted.com/visit/tour-descriptions/

“Fossil Hunting for Beginners”, Sunday, August 11, 10AM-12PM, Penn Dixie Fossil Park, 4050 North St., Blasdell, NY. Included with admission, $10 adults, $9 seniors, military and students, $7 ages 3-17. “New to fossil hunting? Learn the tricks of the trade from paleontologist Dr. Holly Schreiber. Tour the site and learn all the best spots to hunt for fossils. Dr. Schreiber will teach you how to find, dig, and preserve all the fossil treasures you find. No experience necessary. All ages welcome. Bring your own tools or borrow from our limited supply.” https://penndixie2018.wordpress.com

“North American Drone Masters Race”, Sunday, August 11, 7PM, at the Erie County Fair, Gusto Grandstand, 5600 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg, NY. Free with fair admission. “The racecourse track, to be constructed in-front of the Grandstand seating, is being designed to included tight, hairpin curves and straightaways that will facilitate speeds of up to 80 mph. The track will be contained behind safety nets designed to keep drones in and spectators at a safe distance. Pilots flying will be staged in front of the spectators with live video feeds from each of their drones so the crowd may follow along and experience the race with them. The excitement of the race will include commentary by Joe Scully, a globally known announcer of drone races and rodeos.” https://www.ecfair.org/events/2019/nadronemasters

“War of 1812 Encampment”, Saturday, August 31, and Sunday, September 1, Old Fort Niagara, 102 Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY. $13 adults, $9 ages 6-12, free for ages 5 and under. “The War of 1812 comes to life as British and American forces gather at Old Fort Niagara. The event features battle reenactments, living history camps, uniform programs and a Saturday night battle that recreates the 1813 British capture of the fort.” https://www.oldfortniagara.org/event/100152/soldiers-of-the-american-revolution

Erie 

“Gerry Rodeo”, now through Saturday, August 3, 4351 Route 60, Gerry, NY. “Welcome to the Oldest Consecutive Rodeo East of the Mississippi, as approximately 7,000 fans, and 250 cowboys and cowgirls roll into town to vie for more than $40,000 in prize money in four rodeo performances. The award winning, Gerry Rodeo, celebrates the 75th Annual Rodeo in 2019 – you won’t want to miss the fun!" https://www.gerryrodeo.com

“Purple Martin Roost Watch”, Thursday, August 8 and Tuesday, August 13, 6PM-8PM, Presque Isle State Park, Erie. “Every year in preparation for their migration south the Purple Martins Gather by the thousands along the shore at dusk. Join the Park Naturalists at the North Pier to watch the Purple Martins fly into the roost for the evening. The Naturalists will share some history of the North Pier and interpret the journey the Purple Martins take every year. There is no fee or registration for this event.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/purple_martin_roost_watch

“Girard Candlelight Ghost Walk”, Saturday, August 10, 8PM-9:30PM, meeting at the corner of Main and Mechanic Streets in Girard (near the Civil War monument) at 8:00pm. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 kids 6-12, not recommended for kids 5 and under. “Candlelight Ghost Walks invites you to join us for an evening of spooky legends and ghost stories as we explore historic, haunted Girard Pennsylvania. This 90-minute, lantern-lit tour will introduce you to the multitude of spirits who still call Girard home—most friendly….some not so much.” https://www.candlelightghostwalks.com

“Joe Root”, Saturday, August 17, 10AM-11:30AM, Presque Isle State Park. “Join the Park Naturalist at the AAUW Pavilion at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center to experience the life of Joe Root through first person interpretation. Fun for all ages. No fee or registration.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/joe_root

“Tall Ships Erie”, Friday, August 23 through Sunday, August 25, 10AM-6PM, 150 E. Front St., Erie. Single day passes $10. Day sail tickets are separate. “Erie never gave up the ship. In fact, we're opening our ports to more! Join Erie in a three-day maritime celebration. Climb aboard and explore one of 14 tall ships, sail the day away on select ships, or enjoy many other festival highlights including live music and entertainment, children’s activities, a festival marketplace, food vendors, a beer garden and much more.” https://www.tallshipserie.org

“Erie Candlelight Ghost Walk”, Saturday, August 31, 8PM-9:30PM, meeting at the Bicentennial Tower on Dobbins Landing, Erie. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 kids 6-12, not recommended for kids 5 and under. “Join local paranormal author Stephanie Wincik for an evening of spooky legends, mysterious sightings, and terrifying ghost stories, all set against the backdrop of Erie County's rich history. Our 90-minute lantern-lit stroll takes us along Erie's beautiful bayfront as we uncover the chilling tales that have earned Lake Erie its reputation as the most haunted of all the Great Lakes.” https://www.candlelightghostwalks.com

Harrisburg 

“Nature Lab”, Wednesdays Thursdays, August 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, and 21, 11:30AM, State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North Street, Harrisburg. Included with museum admission, $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 ages 1-11, free for active military and families, and retired military with ID. “This Summer, The State Museum of Pennsylvania will offer visitors the opportunity to engage with museum curators and representatives of various Pennsylvania state agencies through its Summer 2019 Nature Lab series. This program will be presented every Wednesday and Thursday at 11:30 AM, June 26 through August 21, and is included with general admission.” August 1: Measuring and Mapping in Archaeology with State Museum’s Section of Archaeology; August 7: Pennsylvania Wildlife with Dr. Walter Meshaka, Senior Curator Zoology and Botany, The State Museum; August 8: Chipped Stone and the Prehistoric Tool Box with State Museum’s Section of Archaeology; August 14: Evolution of Pre-historic Life through Hands-On Objects with Museum educator Cherie Trimble, The State Museum of Pennsylvania; August 15: Pots of Clay and What They Say with State Museum’s Section of Archaeology; and August 21: Wild Cats of Pennsylvania: Cougar and Bobcat 

with The State Museum’s Education Department. http://statemuseumpa.org/summerlab19/

“2019 HBG Mural Fest”, Friday, August 30 through Sunday, September 8, throughout Harrisburgh. “We’re back! Sprocket is super thrilled about bringing our second mural festival to brighten the cityscape of Harrisburg. This fall, local, national and international artists will create 10 new murals in 10 days. The 2019 HBG Mural Fest will host a week long series of events, including artist meet-and-greets, talks on public art, and a community paint day. It will culminate in a free block party on September 8.” https://www.sprocketmuralworks.com

Maryland 

“BronyCon”, Thursday, August 1 through Sunday, August 4, Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St., Baltimore, MD. “BronyCon is the world’s largest convention for and by fans of the animated TV series ‘My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic’. Starting out as a one day event in New York City with just 100 attendees, BronyCon has grown over the years to a 4-day-long extravaganza drawing over 9,000 fans from every corner of the globe. Featuring show guests, an incredible panel lineup, BronyPalooza, a fully stocked vendor hall, screenings, contests, and so much more, BronyCon has something in store for everyone.” https://bronycon.org

“Monarch Release”, Saturday, August 3, 5PM-6PM, Gunpowder Falls State Park, Hammerman Area, 7200 Graces Quarters Rd. Middle River, MD (Directions: After driving through the Ranger Station, continue on the one-way loop for half a mile. Make a right hand turn onto the driveway leading to the beach area. Park in front of the big blue building where naturalists will be stationed on the boardwalk to meet you); and Wednesday; August 14, 4PM-5PM, North Point State Park, 8400 North Point Rd., Edgemere, MD (Directions: After driving through the Contact Station, continuing on the lane for a mile. Park in Lot B, and walk down the path towards the Takos Visitor Center.). Park entry is $5 per vehicle, or $3 for MD residents. “Enjoy watching the initial flight of freshly emerged monarch butterflies! Visitors will be able to hold butterflies and take photos with them before they fly away. A naturalist will discuss the monarch life cycle as well as their migration and the threats that these delicate creatures face in both their overwintering habitats and their breeding locations. Butterfly tagging will be demonstrated. This program will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather.” https://www.visitmaryland.org/events-calendar

“Pirates and Wenches Weekend”, Friday, August 9 through Sunday, August 11, Rock Hall, MD. “Don't miss our 12th Year! Costume contests, live music, grub and grog, swashbuckling, mermaids, beach party, decorated boats, vendors, rum tasting and more!! Festivities are spread throughout Rock Hall. Fun for the whole family.” http://rockhallpirates.com

“Mallows Bay Park Kayak Tours”, Sundays, August 11, 18, and 25, 9AM-12PM ($75) and 1PM-2:30PM ($49), Mallows Bay Park, 1440 Wilson Landing Rd., Nanjemoy, MD. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.charlescountyparks.com/parks/guided-tours “Mallows Bay, located near the Potomac River, is home to the largest ship graveyard in the Western Hemisphere. The area offers unique archaeological, recreational, historical, cultural, educational, and environmental opportunities for residents and tourists. The site includes historic vessels dating back to the Revolutionary War, remains of the largest ‘Ghost Fleet’ of the World War I steamships, wildlife viewing areas, fishing, boating access and a hiking trail. Paddle through the World War I Ghost Fleet while observing the park's unique wildlife and historic and cultural features. All tours will be led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide. Fee includes an introductory kayak lesson, guided tour, tandem kayak (two-person), paddle, and PFD (personal floatation device). No experience necessary. Pace is very relaxed. Single person or odd number parties will be paired with others. Open to participants age 8 and older. Participants age 8-17 must be accompanied by an adult.” 

“Fossil Field Experience”, Saturday, August 17, 9AM-2PM, Calvert Marine Museum, 14200 Solomons Island Rd., Solomons, MD. Ages 8 to adult. $20 Preregistration required; register online: http://www.calvertmarinemuseum.com/215/Fossil-Field-Experience “This program is designed for people who want to learn more about fossils: where to find them, how to identify them, what they can tell us about the past. This program is for adults and children 8 and older, accompanied by an adult. At 9:00 a.m., you will meet CMM educators at Cove Point Lighthouse. In our Visitor Center you can learn about Miocene fossils and what to look for. From 9:30 to approximately 11:30 a.m., you will explore the beach to search for fossilized shell, bone, and sharks’ teeth. Lunch is on your own. Picnic facilities are available at the museum. Report to the admission desk at the museum by 1 p.m. to get your admission sticker and to meet up with the educator. You will get a guided tour of our fossil hall and have an opportunity to explore our fossil prep lab. Working with the museum educator, you will identify the fossils you have found. The program ends at 2 p.m., and you are welcome to continue to explore the museum on your own.” 

“French and Indian War Muster”, Saturday, August 24, 9AM-4PM, and Sunday, August 25, 9AM-3PM, Fort Frederick, 11115 Fort Frederick Rd., Big Pool, MD. “French, British and American Indian reenactors assemble for two days of 18th century living history demonstrations and battle reenactments. Period crafts and a food vendor will also be available.” http://friendsoffortfrederick.info/calendar.htm

“Maryland Renaissance Festival”, Saturdays, Sundays, and Labor Day, August 24 through October 20, 1821 Crownsville Rd., Annapolis, MD. “The Maryland Renaissance Festival has become the region's premier outdoor event and the second largest Renaissance Festival in the country. Since the Festival's first season as a ramshackle village in 1977, the event has matured into a large theme show with more than 1,300 participants and 280,000 guests per season.” https://rennfest.com

“Pollinators of Maryland and Monarch Release at North Point State Battlefield”, Wednesday, August 28, 6PM-7:30PM, North Point State Battlefield, 2878 S. North Point Rd., Dundalk, MD. “A hidden treasure located in Dundalk, the North Point State Battlefield was once the location where American soldiers stood firm against British advancement in defense of Baltimore. The Battle of North Point delayed the British enough to enable further fortification of the port city, and, as a result, Baltimore did not suffer a British raid during the War of 1812. The battle took place between groves of trees and meadow, recreated during the renovation of the Battlefield in 2015. Join naturalists to explore this landscape with a focus on the meadow area to learn about the importance of pollinators. We will even bring Monarch caterpillars and butterflies for an up-close encounter and release. Meet under the flag poles in the parking lot. This program will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather.” https://go.activecalendar.com/doit-md/event/pollinators-of-maryland-and-monarch-release-at-north-point-state-battlefield/

Ohio 

“Chihuly: Celebrating Nature”, now through March 29, 2020, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Garden, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH. “Franklin Park Conservatory is awash in the vibrant colors of stunning glass artwork by Dale Chihuly. It has been nearly a decade since the Conservatory last featured a full-scale Chihuly exhibition and while select pieces have been on view since 2009, the Conservatory is thrilled to exhibit its full collection, the largest Chihuly collection in a botanical garden, once again. Chihuly: Celebrating Nature takes visitors on a journey through the bold and colorful work of Dale Chihuly. These beautiful, breathtaking pieces are situated within the Conservatory’s botanical gardens and courtyards.” https://www.fpconservatory.org/exhibitions/chihuly-celebrating-nature/

Exhibit, “Blacklight Magic”, now through September 8, Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH. Included with admission. “Imaginative, psychedelic, and wildly creative works make for a genuinely far-out experience in Blacklight Magic. View more than 20 vintage works of blacklight art from the collection of Daniel Donahue, author of Ultraviolet: 69 Blacklight Posters from the Aquarian Age and Beyond, the first catalogue to celebrate the art of blacklight posters. These works reveal the role that blacklight posters played in the American counterculture of the late 1960s and early 1970s, and address environmental awareness, anti-war activism, women’s reproductive rights, and the Black Power movement.” https://www.columbusmuseum.org/blacklight-magic/

“Monsters: Terrors, Aliens, Wonders”, now through Sunday, October 6, Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH. Free. “Monsters captivated the imagination of medieval men and women, just as they continue to fascinate us today. Drawing on the Morgan Library and Museum’s superb collection of illuminated manuscripts, this major exhibition— the first of its kind in North America—will explore the complex social role of monsters in the Middle Ages. Medieval Monsters will lead visitors through three sections based on the ways monsters functioned in medieval societies. ‘Terrors’ explores how monsters enhanced the aura of those in power, be they rulers, knights, or saints. A second section, ‘Aliens,’ demonstrates how marginalized groups in European societies—such as Jews, Muslims, women, the poor, and the disabled—were further alienated by being figured as monstrous. The final section, ‘Wonders,’ considers a group of strange beauties and frightful anomalies that populated the medieval world. Whether employed in ornamental, entertaining, or contemplative settings, these fantastic beings were meant to inspire a sense of marvel and awe in their viewers.” https://www.clevelandart.org/exhibitions/medieval-monsters-terrors-aliens-wonders

“Hungry Hummers”, August 1, 3, 4, 8, 10, 11, 15, 17, 18, 22, 24, 25, 29, and 31, 1PM-3PM, Lake Hope State Park, 27331 State Rt 278, Zaleski, OH. “Meet at the nature center to hand-feed ruby-throated hummingbirds.” http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/lakehope

“Dublin Irish Festival”, Friday, August 2 through Sunday, August 4, Dublin Coffman Park, 5200 Emerald Parkway, Dublin, OH. “Irish attitude is all you need to experience the Dublin Irish Festival in Dublin, Ohio, USA. For 32 years, the first weekend in August has been reserved for what is now the largest three-day Irish Festival on the planet. More than 100,000 guests are expected to attend. With 7 stages, 80 acts and more than 600 performers, there is something for everyone.” https://dublinirishfestival.org 

“Twins Days”, Friday, August 2 through Sunday, August 4, Twinsburg, OH. “The Twins Days Festival in Twinsburg, Ohio is the largest annual gathering of twins and multiples in the world!” https://twinsdays.org

“Ohio State Fair”, now through Sunday, August 4, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, OH. https://ohiostatefair.com

“All Ohio Balloon Festival”, Thursday, August 8 through Saturday, August 10, Union County Airport, 15000 Weaver Rd., Marysville, OH. “The All Ohio Balloon Festival is celebrating 44 years in Marysville Ohio and is a family friendly atmosphere that has something for all ages. We feature hot air balloons including Yoda from Belgium and the Pink Ribbon named Hope. Patrons can sign up for a hot air balloon or a helicopter. Friday and Satruday will have Kidz City for ages 10 and under that has a balloon artist, bounce houses, slides and an obstacle course.” http://www.allohioballoonfest.com

“Festival Latino”, Saturday, August 10 and Sunday, August 11, 11AM-8PM, Genoa Park, downtown Columbus, OH. “Festival Latino began as a five-hour pilot project by the City of Columbus in 1996, and after an overwhelming response, expanded to a two-day event in 1997. The event offers lively music, dancing in the streets, cultural and arts workshops for children and adults, Latin-American cuisine, and community information tents. Over the years, Festival Latino has continued to flourish and grow in the number of performing artists, workshops, vendors, participating community groups, and audience.” https://festivallatino.net

“Columbus Fiery Foods Festival”, Saturday, August 10, 2PM-10PM, John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St., Columbus. $25 advance tickets. “Join us at the inaugural Columbus Fiery Foods Festival on Saturday, August 10, 2019 from 2 PM—10 PM at the Columbus Commons. The event will benefit the children's charity CD102.5 for the Kids and showcase the fiery side of life with restaurants, hot sauce and salsa vendors, and exhibitors from around the country. Early Bird General Admission for the event is $25 per person. Admission to the event includes 2 (12 oz) beers or 2 nonalcoholic beverages if under 21 years of age, a commemorative engraved fork, 6 spicy food samples from our food trucks and samples from all our hot sauce and salsa vendors.” https://www.facebook.com/events/380217425859699/

“Columbus Vegan Festival”, Saturday, August 24, 11AM-6PM, Whetstone Community Center, 3923 N. High St., Columbus, OH. Free. “Spend a day with friends, enjoy music, education, dynamic speakers, or just perusing vegan owned businesses and sample local vegan eats!” https://www.eventbrite.com/e/columbus-vegan-festival-tickets-66211545515

“Urban Scrawl”, Saturday, August 24, 12PM-10PM, and Sunday. August 25, 12PM-6PM, 400 W. Rich St., Columbus, OH. “Urban Scrawl is the Franklinton Arts District's free annual 2-day public mural festival located at 400 West Rich Street. Each year, more than 5,000 attendees immerse themselves in a one-of-a-kind experience where dozens of artists create large-format murals on the site of Columbus's largest indoor artist community. In addition to the fantastic art, attendees should plan to eat at the city's best food trucks, listen to electronic DJ performances, watch amazing youth break-dancing competitions, and enjoy a host of adult beverages from Columbus’s finest breweries and distilleries. Last but not least, many artists at 400 West Rich, the city's largest indoor artist community, will be holding open studio hours during the event.” http://www.franklintonartsdistrict.com/urban-scrawl.html

“Columbus African Festival”, Saturday, August 24, 12PM-8PM, Innis Park, 2995 Innis Rd., Columbus, OH. Donations requested. “Check out food from various parts of the African continent. Partake in Africa fashion and entertainment. Build community awareness about African cultures represented in Greater Central Ohio.” http://columbusafricanfestival.com

“IndiaFest”, Saturday, August 24, Ohio Expo Center, Celeste Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, OH. $5, free for kids 5 and under. “Over 120 cultural performances, performed by over 600 local performers from Central Ohio. With over 20 different Indian food vendors from Central Ohio.” https://www.indiafestival.org

Philadelphia 

Exhibit, “Sara Berman’s Closet”, now through September 2, National Museum of American Jewish History, 101 S. Independence Mall East, Philadelphia. “Sara Berman’s Closet, a small and monumental story, is a powerful and intimate exploration of independence, identity, feminism, family, time, immigration, memory, joy, and courage. It speaks to the universal pursuit of meaning and beauty, from the monumental to the mundane. Sara’s daughter and grandson, celebrated artist Maira Kalman and curator Alex Kalman, have re-created Sara’s meticulous and quirky closet as an homage to stories everyday belongings carry. NMAJH has invited the Kalmans, who have been featured at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and The New Yorker, to create an outdoor installation of Sara’s closet, positioned across from Independence Mall, where it puts Sara’s story on par with the surrounding monuments to our country’s founding fathers. Additionally, the Kalmans blend art, history, and memory to explore Sara’s journey from Belarus to Tel Aviv to NYC in NMAJH’s 5th floor gallery through original paintings, text, and ephemera. This exhibition will include an installation on the Museum’s Kimmel Plaza outdoors, and inside on the Museum’s 5th floor special exhibition gallery.” https://www.nmajh.org/sbc/

“Acana Festival”, Sunday, August 4, 2PM-8PM, Penn’s Landing, Great Plaza. Free. “Grammy-nominated African music and dance artists will take center stage once again when the PECO Multicultural Series Presents the 12th annual African Festival hosted by The African Cultural Alliance of North America’s (ACANA). The African Musical, Dance and Cultural Festival will involve 6 hours of nonstop music, food, games and activities for the whole family. On Sunday, August 4th with the African Festival which will take place from 2:00pm to 8pm at the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing/ Delaware River Waterfront. 2019 marks our 12th anniversary of hosting the African Festival as part of the PECO Multicultural Series.” http://www.acanafest.org

“Bug Fest”, Saturday, August 10 and Sunday, August 11, Academy of Natural Sciences, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia. “Join us for our annual celebration of insects! Enjoy new activities and shows plus revisit some old favorites—back by popular demand. Talk with real scientists, learn about insects from all over the world, and see specimens from the Academy’s behind-the-scenes collections. Eat bugs, get your face painted, and relax as you enjoy a buggy show.” https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/festivals/bug-fest/

“Jamaica's 57th Independence Celebration Bob Marley Tribute 2019”, Sunday, August 11, 10AM-8:30PM, Love Park, 1599 JFK Blvd., Philadelphia. Free. “Bring your family and friends and enjoy a taste of Jamaica in the City of Philadelphia.” Details here: https://www.facebook.com/events/655455898288494/

“Philadelphia Folk Festival”, Thursday, August 15 through Sunday, August 18, Old Pool Farm, Upper Salford Township, PA. “The 58th Annual Philadelphia Folk Festival is slated for August 15th — 18th, 2019 on the Old Pool Farm, where more than 100 amazing acts will perform on eight separate stages.” Complete details here: https://pfs.org

Toronto 

“Pan American Food and Music Festival”, Saturday, August 17, 11AM-10:30PM, and Sunday, August 18, 11AM-8PM, Yonge Dundas Square, 1 Dundas St. East, Toronto, ON. Free. “This is Canada’s only event that brings together the 41 countries that make up the American continent. Join Pan American Food and Music Festiavl for a celebration of flavours, music, and dance at Yonge-Dundas Square in Toronto on August 17th and 18th.” http://panamfest.com

“Toronto Chinatown Festival”, Saturday, August 17, 12PM-11PM, and Sunday, August 18, 11AM-8PM, west side of Spadina Ave. between St. Andrew St. and Sullivan St., Toronto, ON. “A few highlights of the 2019 Toronto Chinatown Festival will be various cultural performances on two stages with about 80 vendors to showcase Asian culture and communal diversity in Canada while improving local tourism and economy. There will be also interactive activities for visitors to learn more about Toronto Chinatown and Chinese culture, such as a Free Chinatown Walking Tour with Professor Leo Chan to explore the history of Chinatown.” https://www.chinatownbia.com/eventsnews/toronto-chinatown-festival/

“Ukrainian Independence Day”, Saturday, August 24, 10AM, Centennial Park, Etobicoke, Toronto, ON. “This year, North America's largest Independence Day Celebration takes place on August 24 at Centennial Park in Etobicoke. Hosted by the Toronto Branch of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress it will be twinned with Celebrations from Ukraine.” https://ucctoronto.ca/events/ukrainian-independence-day-2019-1

“First Five Fest”, Saturday, August 31, 12PM-10PM, and Sunday, September 1, 12PM-6PM, Aga Khan Museum, 77 Wynford Dr, Toronto, ON. Free. “You’re invited to our fifth birthday bash! We’re throwing a party to commemorate five years since we opened our doors and began our quest to connect cultures. In the spirit of that mission, we proudly bring you an exciting range of cross-cultural music and activities, including Persian jazz, Filipino hip-hop, and even Bhangra dance classes! Other festival highlights include a food fair, family art activities, live music, dance classes, an artisan market, and free admission to our Museum Collection.” https://www.agakhanmuseum.org/programs/first-five-fest

Washington DC 

“Queens of Egypt”, now through September 2, National Geographic Museum, 1145 17th St. NW, Washington DC. $15 adults, $12 seniors and military, $10 children 5-12, free for ages 4 and under. “Travel back in time with National Geographic to visit ancient Egypt, one of the world’s greatest civilizations, and get to know some of its lesser-known leaders—Egypt’s mighty queens. Learn about the hidden role of women in all aspects of Egyptian society. Meet seven Egyptian queens whose impact helped shape both the ancient and modern worlds. Then travel in the footsteps of women through their daily lives and into their tombs on their journeys to reach the afterlife. See more than 300 incredible artifacts, including monumental sculptures, sparkling jewelry, and impressive sarcophagi. Take a 3-D virtual tour of one of the most beautiful and well-preserved tombs in the Valley of the Queens. Experience the sights, smells, and everyday activities of ancient Egypt. Uncover a 3,000-year-old murder mystery, then learn how modern technology is shedding new light on ancient discoveries.” https://www.nationalgeographic.org/events/exhibition/queens-egypt/

Exhibit, “Ginny Ruffner: Reforestation of the Imagination”, now through January 5, 2020, Renwick Gallery, Pennsylvania Ave. at 17th St. NW, Washington DC. Free. “Ginny Ruffner is an artist best known for her elegant sculptures and mastery of glass techniques. Recently, she has created work that combines traditional glass sculpture with Augmented Reality (AR) technology to create an interactive viewer experience. Visitors to the exhibition Reforestation of the Imagination will use a downloadable app that superimposes digital information over seemingly barren sculptures, creating two distinct realities to explore. The installation consists of six islands, each featuring colorless glass sculptures of tree stumps. The landscape appears barren and bleak. Ruffner has imagined a gloriously complex and colorful alternative environment that viewers can access using AR’s technological lens. In this second reality, the stumps grow unique appendages of mythical flora. Ruffner designs these fictional species to adapt to their surrounding conditions in a means unexpected, beautiful, and optimistic. These plants have evolved from existing fruits and flowers, developing dramatic appendages and skills necessary to flourish in this radically different environment. Reforestation of the Imagination calls into question our very notions of reality and fantasy, of concrete and abstract, and of desolation and hope, all while drawing attention to contemporary ecological issues. The installation also includes nineteen drawings that were the inspiration for the AR images.” https://americanart.si.edu/exhibitions/ruffner

“BrickFair”, Saturday, August 3 and Sunday, August 4, Dulles Expo Center, 4320 Chantilly Center, Chantilly, VA. $15 for ages 4 and up, free for ages 3 and under. Lego fan expo. https://www.brickfair.com/

“DC VegFest”, Sunday, August 11, 11AM-5:30PM, Nationals Park, 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, Washington DC. Free. “Compassion Over Killing is proud to host the annual DC VegFest in the nation’s capital – the largest vegan gathering on the east coast! Each year tens of thousands attend DC VegFest, including vegetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike (all are welcome!). DC VegFest is a free event and features over one hundred vendors, celeb speakers, cooking demos, a kids zone, and more!” https://www.facebook.com/events/409869869738975/

West Virginia 

“Rendezvous Living History Encampment”, Friday, August 2 and Saturday, August 3, 9AM-5PM, West Virginia State Wildlife Center, 163 Wildlife Rd, French Creek, WV. $4 ages 16 and up, $2 ages 6-15, free for ages 5 and under. “This will be our 4th Annual Rendezvous. We have invited Re-enactors from Pre-Colonial Days through the Civil War Era to camp on the area. There will be interactive demonstrations of gunsmithing, bead work, fire starting, cooking, knife making, leather working, and other skills.” http://www.wvdnr.gov/Wildlife/WildlifeCenter.shtm

“Geocaching: Join the World’s Largest Treasure Hunt”, Tuesday, August 6, 6PM-8PM, West Virginia Botanic Garden, 1061 Tyrone Rd., Morgantown, WV. $15. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.wvbg.org/programs/events/ “Learn about the family-friendly game of geocaching, visit with veteran geocachers from the area, and play some fun games as we host a Geocaching 101 Event at the WVBG. Led by Chris Matlick with the Mountaineer Area Geocaching Persons of Interest (MAGPI). Bring a smartphone with a geocaching app loaded or a handheld GPS unit” 

“State Fair of West Virginia”, Thursday, August 8 through Saturday, August 17, 947 Maplewood Ave, Lewisburg, WV. http://statefairofwv.com/fair/

“Peak of the Bloom”, Friday, August 16 through Sunday, August 25, Camp Creek State Park, Camp Creek, WV. “For ten days in the month of August in the beautiful hills of West Virginia, there are annual wildflowers in their peak bloom. There are fields of these flowers tucked in a remote area of the beautiful Camp Creek State Park; it’s one of the best kept secrets of our area, and a true moment in time to behold. August 16-25, we will celebrate Peak of the Bloom, honoring the art of nature. During the ten days, events will be held in Camp Creek State Park and Mercer Street Grassroots District celebrating this beauty. Guided photo hikes, picnics, plein air painting, wildcraft and beekeeping demos, music in the park, photo and songwriting contests, public art projects, and other special events will make up the annual celebration.” https://peakofthebloom.com/home

“Fort Mulligan Day”, Saturday, August 17, 10AM-4PM, Fort Mulligan, Petersburg, WV. “The Civil War will again come to the South Branch Valley as we once again celebrate Fort Mulligan Day at Petersburg WV with Civil War camps, reenactors from the 22nd North Carolina Regt. (Confederate) and the 3rd Maryland Regiment (Union), guest speakers Steve French and Jim Goldsworthy, music by the Garrett Highlands Pipes and Drums and a skirmish. Food and hand squeezed lemonade will be available so you can bring a lawn chair and come and spend the day, we will begin at 10am and close at 4pm.” https://www.facebook.com/FortMulligan/

“Wildflower Walk”, Saturday, August 24, 10AM-12PM, West Virginia Botanic Garden, 1061 Tyrone Rd., Morgantown, WV. $15. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.wvbg.org/programs/events/ With local naturalist Ellen Hrabovsky, we will explore the plethora of summer wildflowers found around the reservoir basin. A wildflower book is helpful. All ages.” 

“WV Butterflies and Pollinators Workshop”, Saturday, August 31, 10AM-12PM, West Virginia Botanic Garden, 1061 Tyrone Rd., Morgantown, WV. $15. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.wvbg.org/programs/events/ Please join Dave Davis, PhD., groundskeeper of the WVBG, at our new pollinator garden to learn about native butterflies and pollinators in West Virginia. Dave will focus on swallowtail and monarch butterflies, their host plants, and many native bees that occur in the area. Participants will also have the opportunity to take home some pollinator-friendly plants to get them started on supporting these wonderful insects at home. All ages.”