October 2019 Events

This is my event list for the greater Pittsburgh area for October 2019. Please doublecheck the details of any event you'd like to attend, in case of mistakes, typos and cancellations. And please share this list if it's useful to you.

Fall foliage is expected to peak between October 5 and October 21, with bland results predicted due to the uncooperative weather. DCNR has official fall foliage reports that may help you plan your leaf peeping excursions: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Conservation/ForestsAndTrees/FallFoliageReports/Pages/default.aspx. Penn Live also published a helpful guide: https://www.pennlive.com/life/2019/09/fall-foliage-guide-for-pennsylvania-make-this-fall-your-best-yet.html. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has only gotten into the act to report on why conditions aren’t favorable so far, but they will likely publish updates. 

Project Owlnet, when the National Aviary participates in an international saw-whet owl banding project, will begin in October in Sewickley Heights Borough Park, dates TBA: https://www.aviary.org/project-owlnet

Venture Outdoors has lots of lovely outdoor activities as usual in October, including a bunch of fall foliage hikes and paddles for you devoted leaf peepers! https://www.ventureoutdoors.org

“Cambodian Rock Band”, now through October 6, City Theatre Mainstage, 1300 Bingham St., Pittsburgh. Ages 15 and up. “Part thrilling new play, part electrifying rock concert, it’s an epic tale of family, love, and heritage featuring the Cambodian surf rock music of Dengue Fever. Discover Cambodia’s lost surf rock scene through the eyes of a young Cambodian American woman and her father, a Khmer Rouge survivor who begrudgingly returns to his home country for the first time in thirty years. This thrilling story toggles back and forth in time, as father and daughter face the music of the past. An intimate rock epic about family secrets set against the dark chapter of Cambodian history. Featuring actor/musicians who perform the show’s mix of contemporary Dengue Fever hits and classic Cambodian oldies.” https://citytheatrecompany.org/play/cambodian-rock-band/

“Radical Days 2019”, now through Sunday, October 13. “RADical Days is an annual thank you to the public with free admission, tours, performances, and family activities offered by the organizations and attractions that are funded by RAD.” Complete schedule here: https://www.radworkshere.org/pages/radical-days-2019

“A Few Good Men”, now through Sunday, October 13, O’Reilly Theater, 621 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “’You can’t handle the truth!’ is the most famous line from this riveting story about military lawyers defending two U.S. Marines accused of killing a fellow Marine at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba. Set in 1986, this play introduced Aaron Sorkin’s sharp dialogue and irresistible wit to the world before he went on to create TV’s ‘The West Wing’, the film Steve Jobs, and, most recently, a new adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird for Broadway.” https://www.ppt.org/production/61924/a-few-good-men

“The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe”, now through October 20, Little Lake Theater, 500 Lakeside Dr. South, Canonsburg. “Discover the magic and mystery of Aslan, the great lion, his struggle with the evil White Witch, and the adventures of four children who inadvertently wander from an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia.” https://www.littlelake.org/the-lion-the-witch-and-the-wardrobe

“Bloomsday”, now through October 20, Little Lake Theater, 500 Lakeside Dr. South, Canonsburg. Ages 12 to adult. “Robert returns to Dublin to reunite with Cait, the woman who captured his heart during a James Joyce literary tour thirty - five years ago. Dancing backwards through time, the couple retraces their steps to discover their younger selves. Through young Robbie and Caithleen, they relive the unlikely, inevitable events that brought them - only briefly - together. This Irish time-travel love story blends with, humor, and heartache into a buoyant, moving appeal for making the most of the present before it is past.” https://www.littlelake.org/bloomsday

Exhibit, “Mutant Media”, now through November 3, Space Gallery, 812 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “An exhibition of American artists working within the DIY aesthetic. Featured artists often work in the form of zines, t-shirts, posters, box-art, trading cards, and more. The exhibition explores these bodies of work which mutate media, iconography, and advertising. Curated by Joshua Rievel and Jesse Hulcher.” https://trustarts.org/exhibit/18400/mutant-media

“Allegheny Front Hawkwatch”, daily through Thanksgiving weekend 9AM-4PM, Central City. Free. Entirely weather dependent. “The main purpose of the hawk watch site is for the monitoring and counting of migrating raptors, (hawks, eagles, falcons, vultures, etc.), waterfowl insects and visiting song birds. This current site was developed in 1998, but we have been conducting migration counts since 1989. Counts are made by Allegheny Plateau Audubon Society members seven days a week during the migration seasons. The Spring migration count starts in mid-February and continues until mid-May depending on weather and access to the site. The Fall migration count is conducted from mid-August to Thanksgiving weekend. This site is the western most migration counting point in PA. Raptors, (hawks, eagles, falcons, etc…), are counted as they work their way through the spine of the Appalachians. The actual amount of birds that can be seen in a day vary greatly, even from hour to hour. The flight of raptors at the site can be influenced by the weather. A wind from the East can ‘push the birds into the mountain’ so they fly over our heads giving what can be a spectacular display. Their flight during other winds is variable. Prepare as much for seeing birds as for not seeing birds.” http://www.alleghenyplateauaudubon.org/hawk-watch.php

Exhibition, “16th International Exhibition of Botanical Art and Illustration”, now through December 18, Carnegie Mellon University, Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation, 5th Floor of the Hunt Library Building, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Campus map here: https://admission.enrollment.cmu.edu/pages/online-campus-map “This exhibition includes 41 artworks by 41 artists who reside in 14 countries. The Institute established the International Exhibition of Botanical Art and Illustration series in 1964 with the hope of supporting and encouraging contemporary botanical artists from around the world. Collectively, the International series catalogues are the most comprehensive record available of contemporary botanical artists and illustrators with individuals represented now totaling 1,212. The reception on 17 October (6:00–8:00 p.m.) is open to the public. At 6:30 p.m. in the gallery the curators will introduce the exhibition and the 16th International artists in attendance. The exhibition will be on display on the 5th floor of the Hunt Library building at Carnegie Mellon University and will be open to the public free of charge. Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–noon and 1:00–5:00 p.m. (except 28–29 November). Because our hours of operation are occasionally subject to change, please call or email before your visit to confirm. For further information, contact the Hunt Institute at 412-268-2434.” http://www.huntbotanical.org/exhibitions/show.php?128

Exhibition, “Boat Trip”, now through December 31, Wood Street Galleries, 601 Wood St., Pittsburgh. “‘Boat Trip’ investigates recent artist projects, installations, and videos related to the fast disappearing Arctic Circle.” http://woodstreetgalleries.org/portfolio-view/boat-trip/ A review of the show is here: https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/two-new-exhibits-address-the-climate-crisis-one-with-shocking-immersion-the-other-with-practical-sustainability/Content?oid=15914296

“Make It and Take It: Cork Pumpkins”, Tuesday, October 1, 5PM-6PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Sheraden. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/real-make-it-and-take-it-cork-pumpkins/ “Join us for a different craft project each month! Just bring your own creativity and we will supply the tools and other materials for you to design your very own masterpiece!” 

“Book Launch for Ribbons of Scarlet”, Tuesday, October 1, 7PM-8:30PM, Riverstone Books, 8850 Covenant Ave., Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.riverstonebookstore.com/events/stephanie-dray-amp-e-knight-launch-ribbons-of-scarlet “Join us for fabulous evening with not one but two of the six bestselling and award-winning authors who bring to life a breathtaking epic novel illuminating the hopes, desires, and destinies of princesses and peasants, harlots and wives, fanatics and philosophers—six unforgettable women whose paths cross during one of the most tumultuous and transformative events in history: the French Revolution. Stephanie Dray (My Dear Hamilton) and Eliza Knight (My Lady Viper) will launch their new book, Ribbons of Scarlet. Ribbons of Scarlet is a timely story of the power of women to start a revolution—and change the world. In late eighteenth-century France, women do not have a place in politics. But as the tide of revolution rises, women from gilded salons to the streets of Paris decide otherwise—upending a world order that has long oppressed them. We have a few French surprises in mind to make the evening trés magnifique!” 

“Word Basics”, Tuesday, October 1, 2PM-3:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Job and Career Education Center. “Learn the basics of word processing: formatting text, saving a document, cutting, copying and pasting and more. Please call 412-622-3133 to register.” 

“Julie Ezelle Patton and Tyrone Williams: Writing Workshop”, Tuesday, October 1, 7PM, KST Alloy Studios, 5530 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/julie-ezelle-patton-tyrone-williams-writing-workshop/ “Copresented with the Center for African American Poetry and Poetics. This hands-on creative writing workshop offers an illuminating encounter with two extraordinary authors: Tyrone Williams and Julie Ezelle Patton. Tyrone Williams is a literary scholar and author of six collections of poetry who currently teaches literature and theory at Xavier University in Cincinnati. His works include c.c., On Spec, The Hero Project of the Century, Adventures of Pi, Howell, and As iZ. Julie Ezelle Patton is a poet, composer, performer, and permaculturist who has taught at New York University and Naropa University. Her works include Using Blue To Get Black, Notes for Some (Nominally) Awake, and A Garden Per Verse (or What Else Do You Expect from Dirt?). The workshop will last approximately 90 minutes.” 

“Artist Lecture: Kalup Linzy”, Tuesday, October 1, 6:30PM-8PM, Carnegie Mellon University, Kresge Theater, College of fine Arts Building, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Free and open to the public. Campus map here: https://www.cmu.edu/assets/pdfs/campus-map-2019-8.5x11.pdf “Kalup Linzy is a multidisciplinary performance artist whose works employ a variety of pop cultural forms to explore cultural identities and gender fluidity and boundaries. Working across various mediums—including video, performance, photography, collage, fashion, television, music, and film—Linzy creates complex characters who are linked together to form an invented “family tree.” His work is found in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, the Whitney Museum, and The Studio Museum in Harlem, among others.” http://www.art.cmu.edu/event/lecture-series-kalup-linzy/

“Anime Club”, Tuesday, October 1, 3:30PM-5PM, Sewickley Library. “Love anime? Join you fellow fans for your favorite anime movies and series. Plus snacks, crafts, games and more! Newbies welcome! Open to all students in grades 6-12. No registration required.” 

“Sewing with Kelsea”, Tuesday, October 1, 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. Sewing with Kelsea: Learn how to sew a fall tote bag.” 

“College Financial Aid and FAFSA Overview”, Tuesday, October 1, 6:30PM-8PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/P/PTLIB/ek.cfm “Discover the ins and outs of how to pay for college at our annual College Financial Aid Night. A representative from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) will discuss a variety of methods to finance a college education, as well as look at alternatives to the traditional college experience. We invite high school students and their parents to the presentation, which will describe all federal and PA-state financial aid programs, scholarships, and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) application process. A question and answer session will follow the program.” 

“Fake News and Information Literacy Workshop”, Tuesday, October 1, 6:30PM-8:30PM, Sewickley Library. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/S/SEWICKLEY/EK.cfm?zeeOrg=SEWICKLEY “In today's world of increasingly partisan and vitriolic politics, the words "fake news" get thrown around a lot. But what does that mean? Who creates it and how does it spread? How can you know what you're hearing and reading is accurate and true? From Soviet propaganda to message boards like 4chan, this class will take you inside the wild, devious world of fake news, of present and past, and give you the tools you need to fight it.” 

“Teen Creative Writing: Book Spine Poetry”, Tuesday, October 1, 4PM-6PM, Mars Area Library. Preregistration required; 724-625-9048.“Book Spine Poetry is the first of a series of creative writing workshops that are made to be fun. Each day will have a fun icebreaker activity, snacks, and a writing assignment that will get you laughing.” 

“Word Beyond the Basics”, Wednesday, October 2, 2PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Job and Career Education Center. “In this class you’ll learn how to import pictures, create bulleted lists, make tables, save your document as a PDF and more. Prerequisite: Word Basics or solid Word experience. Please call 412-622-3133 to register.” 

“College Prep: Scholarships, Grants and Loans”, Wednesday, October 2, 7PM-8PM, Monroeville Library, Yolanda’s Room. “There are a wide variety of scholarships available to students that they simply never knew about. Join Tyler Cuddeback from Let's Go to College to learn how to find, apply for, and be awarded scholarships and grants to achieve your goals.” 

“Teen Anime Club”, Wednesday, October 2, and Wednesday, October 30, 3:15PM-4:15PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. “Come hang out with other anime fans, make crafts, share cosplay ideas, draw, and eat snacks.” 

“Salvaging the Fleet Part II”, Wednesday, October 2, 2PM-3PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. “Most of us have an understanding of the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Few are acquainted with the aftermath in which our Navy undertook to clear the harbor and salvage what was left of the US battle fleet. Join radio's Mike Plaskett for more stories and photos of miracles of accomplishment. In part I, we learned about the USS Washington, West Virginia and Arizona. This time we'll discuss ships that the Navy brass considered goners: the USS Oklahoma, the mine flagship Oglala and three destroyers, Shaw, Cassin and Downes. No surprise, US sailors and civilians in this phase of the war were incredibly capable and courageous -- they were truly the First Team.” 

“Evening with Spiders”, Wednesday, October 2, 7PM-9PM, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. $10, or $6 for members of Audubon Society of Western PA. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8708 “Learn all there is to know about spiders with Amy Bianco. Enjoy discovering what spider species we have here in the region, see live specimens, and go on a brief spider hunt outside at Beechwood!” 

“In Conversation: John Van Hamersveld”, Wednesday, October 2, 7PM-8:30PM, Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N. Main St., Greensburg. $10 adults, $8 members, free for students with ID. Preregistration required; register online: https://thewestmoreland.org/event/in-conversation-john-van-hamersveld/ Join us for a private screening of legendary artist John Van Hamersveld’s award-winning, short documentary film 'Crazy World Ain’t It' and conversation with John Van Hamersveld! This will be the first screening of Van Hamersveld’s documentary, ‘Crazy World Ain’t It’ outside of a film festival. Chief Curator Barbara Jones will talk with Van Hamersveld about his iconic career launching Endless Summer poster, the numerous album covers and posters he has designed for bands such as the Beatles, Jefferson Airplane, Blondie and the Rolling Stones and the numerous mural and public art projects he continues to do today.” 

“Free Wednesday Walking Tours: Penn-Liberty Cultural District”, Wednesdays in October, 10AM-11AM, meeting at Katz Plaza in Downtown Pittsburgh, at the corner of Penn Avenue and Seventh Street. Preregistration required; contact Mary Lu Denny: 412-471-5808, ext. 527; marylu@phlf.org. “Hear how a blighted area in Downtown Pittsburgh was designated both a City and National Register Historic District and transformed into Pittsburgh’s Cultural District, a 14-block area attracting more than two million people to approximately 4,000 performances, exhibits, and events each year. PHLF guides will discuss how historic buildings have been saved and renovated for the performing arts, galleries, schools, restaurants, one-of-a-kind stores, and residences––and how new construction, urban spaces, sculpture, and bike lanes have been added to the mix.” https://phlf.org/events/

“Wet Felted Zipper Pull/Keyring”, Wednesday, October 2, 7PM-8:30PM, and Thursday, October 3, 1PM-2:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. $5. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “Wet Felted Zipper Pull/Keyring – No matter your experience level, local artist Judé Ernest will teach you how to wet felt unspun sheep’s wool and other fibers in to a truly unique Zipper Pull/Keyring. NOTE: PLEASE bring a terry cloth dishtowel for use in class. $5 donation suggested. Registration required.” 

Screening, “Plastic Paradise: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch”, Wednesday, October 2, 7PM, Breezeway Café, 7113 Reynolds St., Pittsburgh. “Plastic Paradise is an independent documentary film that chronicles Angela Sun’s personal journey of discovery to one of the most remote places on Earth, Midway Atoll, to uncover the truth behind the mystery of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Along the way she encounters scientists, celebrities, legislators and activists who shed light on what our society’s vast consumption of disposable plastic is doing to our oceans — and what it may be doing to our health. A brief discussion and presentation will follow the film showing, on how we as individuals, communities and our local governments can refuse and reduce our single-use plastics footprint.” https://battleofhomestead.org/bhf/event/plastic-paradise-the-great-pacific-garbage-patch-film/

Author Talk, “Scott Brown”, Wednesday, October 2, 6:30PM, Ligonier Valley Library; Saturday, October 5, 1PM, Jeanette Library; Tuesday, October 8, 7PM, New Florence Library; Saturday, October 12, 1PM, Monessen Library; Saturday, October 19, 2PM, Greensburg Hempfield Area Library; and Monday, October 21, 6:30PM, Sewickley Township Library, Herminie. “A father who lost his 20-year-old son to an overdose and refused to stay silent. A mother who fulfilled a promise to write an honest obituary if her 20-year-old daughter died from an overdose—and hasn’t stopped telling their heartbreaking story. Carmen Capozzi and Michelle Schwartzmier are linked in a way that no parents ever should be. What happened to them can happen to anyone and their stories epitomize the tragedy and inspiration that author Scott Brown found while chronicling the opioid epidemic in Westmoreland County and the surrounding area for almost a year. Join Scott as he shares stories, lessons, and more from his newest book.” 

“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.” 

“Gus Buhl: A Soldier’s Story”, Thursday, October 3, 7PM, Zelienople Area Library. Tickets $8 adults, $3 ages 14 and under: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/zelienople-library-presents-tickets-43630061689 Presented by Ken Harms. 

“Public Planetarium Shows”, Mondays and Thursdays, 8PM, Slippery Rock University Planetarium Rocket Room, Room 142, Vincent Science Center, Slippery Rock. Campus map here: https://rockpride.sru.edu/map/access.php “SRU's planetarium is unique, because it is run entirely by students. There has been a slow migration from the old Spitz star projector to a digital projector. The capacity for seating is 50. Students organize the material and music for the shows, which includes full dome movies.” https://www.facebook.com/SRUPlanetarium/

“Reel Q LGBTQ+ Film Festival”, Thursday, October 3 through Saturday, October 12, Row House Cinema, 4115 Butler St., Pittsburgh. Complete details about each film and schedule here: https://reelq.org/2019-festival/

Pittsburgh Opera Presents “Market Square Concert”, Thursday, October 3, 11:30AM-1PM, Market Square, Downtown Pittsburgh. Free. “Pittsburgh Opera's 2019-20 Resident Artists will entertain Pittsburghers with a free open-air concert at Market Square during the Farmers Market. Sample all that the Market Square Farmers Market has to offer while enjoying world-class singing of opera favorites by Pittsburgh Opera Resident Artists! https://www.pittsburghopera.org/calendar/detail/market-square-concert3

River City Brass Presents “Hollywood and Bollywood”, Thursday, October 3 through Thursday, October 10, various venues. “Hollywood continues to produce a treasure trove of fabulous music, but there’s a whole other world of movie music that’s a little less familiar to Western audiences but no less amazing: the music of India’s Bollywood. Our Hollywood and Bollywood concert will reacquaint you with old favorites by John Williams, Ennio Morricone and Danny Elfman, but also introduce you to the spicy sounds of ‘Meera Joota Hai Japani,’ ‘Jai Ho,’ and ‘Badtameez Dil,’ sung by Akshay Hari.” https://www.rivercitybrass.org/hollywoodbollywood

“Tiger at the Gates”, Thursday, October 3 through Saturday, October 12, Carnegie Mellon University, Purnell Center for the Arts, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Campus map here: https://www.cmu.edu/assets/pdfs/campus-map-2019-8.5x11.pdf “With ancient Troy as the backdrop and the looming Trojan War imminent, the great Trojan diplomat and warrior, Hector, and the fabled Greek philosopher and warrior, Ulysses, are set to meet to see if the conflagration of war can possibly be avoided. Originally entitled The Trojan War Will Not Take Place, Tiger At The Gates is ultimately a play about peace, not war. It asks the question: Are we worthy, of attaining peace?” https://drama.cmu.edu/box-office/tiger-at-the-gates/

“Biophilia: The Influence of Screen Time, Nature and Reading on Child Development”, Thursday, October 3, 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., Oct. 3 at Café Phipps with Dr. Catalina Hoyos, local pediatrician at UPMC's Children's Community Pediatrics, for a talk about how nature and technology increasingly compete for our attention. While the outdoors beckon with adventure and beauty, we are drawn to our screens more and more. Dr. Hoyos will discuss the impact of time spent in nature or reading, versus time spent with technology and screens, and how both impact child development. 5:30 – 6 p.m. — Networking and refreshments; 6 – 6:30 p.m. — Presentation; 6:30 – 7 p.m. — Discussion.” 

“E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial”, Thursday, October 3, 7PM, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Director Steven Spielberg's heartwarming masterpiece is one of the brightest stars in motion picture history. Filled with unparalleled magic and imagination, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial follows the moving story of a lost little alien who befriends a 10-year-old boy named Elliott. Experience all the mystery and fun of their unforgettable adventure in the beloved movie that captivated audiences around the world, complete with John Williams’ Academy Award-winning score performed live by a full symphony orchestra in sync to the film projected on a huge HD screen!” https://www.trustarts.org/production/62731/et-the-extra-terrestrial 

“next to normal”, Thursday, October 3 through Sunday, October 13, University of Pittsburgh, Richard E. Rauh Studio Theater, B70 Cathedral of Learning, 4200 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. $25 adults, $15 seniors, $12 students. “next to normal explores how one suburban household copes with crisis and mental illness. next to normal tells the story of a mother, Diane Goodman, who struggles with bipolar disorder and the effect that her illness has on her family. Diana has lived with bipolar depressive disorder and delusional episodes for the past seventeen years. The illness has affected everyone in her life, and has nearly torn her family apart on several occasions. With subject matter rendered achingly recognizable by Brian Yorkey, and a dynamic, energetic pop-rock score by Tom Kitt, next to normal is a show that enables a small group of actors to showcase powerhouse vocals while exploring pressing contemporary issues of trauma, loss, mental health treatment, and the meaning of family.” https://www.play.pitt.edu/production/next-normal

“Yoga for Teens”, Thursdays, October 3, 11, 18 and 24, 6PM-6PM, Baldwin Borough Library, Pittsburgh. Grades 6-12. Preregistration required; register online for each session individually: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/B/BALDWIN/EK.cfm?zeeOrg=BALDWIN “Yoga for Teens incorporates mindfulness and yoga practices to help teens connect with their own strength, calm and well-being. We use meditation, breathing techniques, sound, movement and yoga poses that are accessible to all teens. No previous yoga experience is required. Please bring your own mat and water bottle. This program is taught by Ms. Beth from Clarity Wellness, who is a certified instructor of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Teens.” 

“Ask the Clergy: Islam”, Thursday, October 3, 7PM-8:15PM, Monroeville Library Gallery Space. “Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan? How different are Catholics and Protestants? Do Sikhs cover their heads for the same reason as Muslims and Hindus? Why don’t Jews study the New Testament? Do you have a different question you always wanted to ask a religious leader? Then email it to: asktheclergy@mimcares.org and come to one or all sessions. On October 3, Abdul Aziz Suraqah (Imam) will answer questions about Islam.” 

“Inkspotters Teen Writing Group”, Thursdays in October, 6PM-7PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. “Join our weekly writing group, Inkspotters, and meet other writers! Talk, work on an existing project, or try a writing prompt. Thursdays: September 19 through December 12 from 6pm to 7pm.” 

“Club Otaku- Teen Anime Club”, Thursdays, October 3, 10, 17 and 24, 6PM-7PM, Whitehall Library Pittsburgh. “Club Otaku is a meeting place for anime and manga fans to watch, read, and discuss anime and manga. As well as share your favorite fanfiction and fanart with your fellow otaku!” 

“Veterans Speak Out: Were the Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan Worth Fighting?”, Thursday, October 3, 7PM-8:30PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online and read about the panelists: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/P/PTLIB/ek.cfm “According to a recent Pew Research Center poll, two-thirds of our nation's veterans think the wars fought since September 11, 2001 weren't worth the cost of fighting them. The Veterans Breakfast Club will convene a panel of young post-9/11 veterans to share their thoughts, pro and con. Refreshments compliments of Pilgrimage Hospice.” 

“Free Friday Walking Tours: Fourth Avenue Historic District”, Fridays in October, 12PM-1PM, meeting at Smithfield Street at Fourth Avenue, in Downtown Pittsburgh (in front of Oxford Centre), Pittsburgh. 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 2018. You’ll see former banking buildings that have been renovated for new uses and the Fourth-Avenue façade of Point Park University’s new Pittsburgh Playhouse.” https://phlf.org/events/

“Respect: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin”, Friday, October 4 through Sunday, October 6, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra pays some R-E-S-P-E-C-T to Aretha Franklin, featuring your favorite hits from the Queen of Soul! You’ll hear powerhouse vocalists perform ‘Respect,’ ‘Think,’ ‘Natural Woman,’ and much more in this incredible kick-off to the PNC Pops season.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/62578/respect-a-tribute-to-aretha-franklin

“An Evening with the Ghosts of Pittsburgh”, Friday, October 4, and Saturday, October 5, and Thursday, October 10, 7:30PM, The Oaks Theater, 310 Allegheny River Blvd., Oakmont. Tickets $15 or $22. “Now with New Ghosts, Stories, Videos and More – Don’t miss this spooktacular storytelling event! Haydn Thomas–the dean of Pittsburgh tour guides–takes you on a goose bump-inducing, whirlwind virtual ghost tour with photos and storytelling – through Western Pennsylvania’s most terrifying locations – and you’ll never leave your seat! These stories invoke classic Pittsburgh Ghosts with new video tours and pictures! This Multi-Media Ghost Experience will have you captivated all night long!” http://theoakstheater.com/events/

“Lakeside Trail Twilight Walk”, Friday, October 4, 6:30PM, Keystone State Park, Beach Parking Lot. “Meet the park naturalist in the beach parking lot at 6:30PM. From there we'll head to the causeway bridge for the best sunset view in the park, then take a twilight walk around Lakeside Trail. If we're quiet, we may hear some 'bumps in the night'." https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/lakeside_trail_twilight_walk#.XZI4KS3Myi4 

Exhibit, “Cuando el Río Sueña”, Friday, October 4 through January 26, 2020, Pittsburgh Glass Center, 5472 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free lecture with the artist on Wednesday, October 23, 6:30PM. “Award winning artist and sculptor Jaime Guerrero offers a unique look into the refugee crisis in the United States with his upcoming solo exhibition titled Cuando el Río Suena. The title of the exhibition, Cuando el Río Suena ("When the River Sounds"), is from a South American proverb: Cuando el río suena, es porque agua lleva ("When the river sounds it is because it carries water"). It relates to the danger in the journey of migrants crossing the U.S. border. Guerrero uses this new body of work, created during a nine month long residency at PGC, supported in part by The Pittsburgh Foundation and the Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass, to shed light on everything from border crossings and child/family separation to detainment camps and subsequent fatalities.” https://www.pittsburghglasscenter.org/events/cuando-el-rio-suena 

“3D Printing 101”, Friday, October 4, 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 design and print on Fab Lab’s 3D printers and explore the technology of 3D printing using a 3D printing pen. This introductory class is required in order to use the 3D printer during Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.” 

“Fall Wonders Star Party”, Friday, October 4, 8PM-10:30PM, Schenley Park, Westinghouse Memorial, W Circuit Rd. at Schenley Dr., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events

“Hot Jam”, Friday, October 4, 6PM-9PM, Pittsburgh Glass Center, 5472 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Join us on the first Friday of each month for an open house with live hot glass demonstrations and groundbreaking contemporary glass art exhibitions. A sign language interpreter is provided.” https://www.pittsburghglasscenter.org/events

Steel City Shakespeare Presents “Emma by Jane Austen”, Friday, October 4 through Saturday, October 13, Provident Charter School, 1400 Troy Hill Rd., Pittsburgh. $15. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.steelcityshakespeare.org/emma.html “Based on the Jane Austen novel, "Emma" tells the story of a young socialite in England who plays at becoming her town's matchmaker. When attempting to match up her friend Harriet Smith with various eligible suitors, Emma starts to run into complications, which multiply amongst themselves with cases of mistaken intentions of love and a cast of supporting characters who each love someone else. Emma doesn't know who loves who, and realizes that she is even unsure of her own feelings until it may be too late to act upon them. Though set long ago this tale still connects with problems that we still face to this day, chief among them figuring out who we are and what our place is in the world.” 

Screening, “Voodoo Black Exorcist”, Friday, October 4, 7PM-9PM, Glitter Box Theater, 460 Melwood Ave., Pittsburgh. $7. Rated R: 88 minutes. “If you’re looking for reanimated voodoo priest mummies searching for lost loves on a cruise ship, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s gather and behold Voodoo Black Exorcist, an outlandish 70s horror flick trying to capitalize on the popularity of Blaxploitation and The Exorcist with inane characters, awful editing and dreadful dubbing mixed in with some interesting camera work, giallo-esque lighting, and murder by steamroller! Come early to hear some inspired readings of internet reviews of voodoo priests by our own Wayne Massey! Friday, October 4 - doors open at 7p, film at 7:30 Tickets $7, which includes popcorn, beer, soda, and film.” https://www.facebook.com/events/380561475970722/

“Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical”, Friday, October 4 through Sunday, October 20, Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, 1 Loncoln Park, Midland. “Be inspired by the story of an extraordinary little girl who proves that with courage and cleverness, you can do anything you put your mind to. Based on the beloved Roald Dahl novel, Matilda will thrill audiences of all ages with high-energy singing and dancing and inspire you to take your destiny into your own hands.” http://www.lincolnparkarts.org/event/16266814251e56a589e1736cc6b32c60

“Philip Wesley Gates and Jamison Edgar, Freshworks Residency Presentation”, Friday, October 4, 8PM, KST Alloy Studios, 5530 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/gates-edgar-freshworks-2019/ “In a first-time collaboration, theater artist Philip Wesley Gates and visual artist Jamison Edgar trace the way queer lives and memories travel between archival storage, digital systems, and the human body. Philip Wesly Gates’s work as a director, performance maker, and critical writer uses performance to activate collective understandings of connection and care. Jamison Edgar, a project-based visual artist, offers space in his own work to explore the potentialities of an embodied abstract-queer orientation. Collectively, the artists remix strategies from their respective trained disciplines to create genre-bending experiences.” 

“The Bloodless Jungle”, Friday, October 4 and Saturday, October 5, 8PM, Duquesne University, Genesius Theater, 1225 Seitz St., Pittsburgh. Free tickets here: https://www.duqredmasquers.com/purchase-tickets “State Senator Ethan St. John is a rising star in the political world who is being courted by the President and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee to challenge a long-term incumbent for a critical seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Ethan agrees to undertake the run but must vest control of the campaign in the hands of H. Henderson Hill, a nationally renowned “win-at-any-cost” political consultant. Ethan is ahead in the polls when, J.J. Stiles, his best friend from high school, who had previously served time for sexual assault, is arrested upon suspicion of having committed another rape. Ethan soon faces mounting pressure from both the media and Hill, with whom Ethan continually engages in philosophical battles about campaign strategy, to distance himself from J.J., but Ethan is convinced that his friend is innocent. Complicating matters is a long-held secret that Sydney, Ethan’s wife, reveals to him. He is faced with a daunting choice: does he abandon J.J. and focus on winning the election, or does he jeopardize the campaign by supporting his friend. The play ultimately centers around the decision Ethan makes and its consequences. ‘The Bloodless Jungle’ is a two-act drama with a diverse cast: six men and two women; five African-American, two European-American and one Latino actor(s).” https://www.duqredmasquers.com/current-production

“Pittsburgh: The Comics Memoir: Release Party with Frank Santoro”, Saturday, October 5, 6PM-9PM, Copacetic Comics, 3138 Dobson St., 3rd Floor, Pittsburgh. “Please join us on Saturday, October 5, from 6pm to 9pm, as we welcome Frank Santoro to celebrate the release of his masterful, one-of-a-kind comics memoir, PITTSBURGH! This book has taken quite a circuitous route to finally be celebrated here in the city of its making: initially published to much fanfare in France, in the summer of 2018, it was another year until its September 17 release by the esteemed publisher, New York Review Comics, since which date Frank has been touring fall festivals supporting its release. Now, at last, we can join Frank and celebrate it here in Pittsburgh. We hope you can make it!” https://www.facebook.com/events/3307245762633757/

“Historic Pittsburgh Fair”, Saturday, October 5, 1PM-4PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “The Historic Pittsburgh Fair will features exhibits from local libraries and archives, an in-depth look at some of Carnegie Library’s special collection materials, historical tours of Main, hands-on activities and speakers focused on various aspects of Pittsburgh’s history. Explore historical collections from libraries, archives, and historical societies throughout Allegheny County. Learn about how Pittsburgh’s economic past shapes its future with a talk by Christopher Briem from the University of Pittsburgh at 1 pm. Discover how to preserve your family and historical materials. Consult with an archivist to get your family treasures ready for digitization (appointments needed). Learn what research resources are available for genealogy, local history, house histories, and more on the Historic Pittsburgh website. Take a free historical tour of Main Library at 2 pm, 2:30 pm, and 3 pm. Get a closer look at the REcollection Studio, the library’s DIY digitization lab. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public.” https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/historic-pittsburgh-fair/

“Beaver Valley Para-Con”, Saturday, October 5, 10AM-5PM, Rochester Borough Building, 350 Adams St., Rochester. $10. “Paranormal conference covering everything from UFOs, Bigfoot, ghosts and more. Speakers, vendors, and food. Portion of the proceeds benefit the Rochester Area Heritage Museum and Model Railroad.” https://www.facebook.com/events/536760326848326/

“Doors Open Pittsburgh”, Saturday, October 5 and Sunday, October 6, 10AM-4PM. “Doors Open Pittsburgh believes that everyone should be able to see and experience the beauty of our city. So we open the doors to dozens of buildings to hear the stories they tell us about our past, present, and future. During the Doors Open Pittsburgh 2019 annual event, you will go behind-the-scenes, or have the opportunity to explore and experience inside a diverse collection of iconic and newly designed buildings. Explore a vault. Stand on a theater stage. Experience an amazing view.” Complete details and tickets here: https://www.doorsopenpgh.org

“History Hike”, Saturday, October 5, 10AM-11AM, Canoe Creek State Park, Wentz Education Center. “Take a walk back in time to the limekilns of a bygone era. Learn the process of making quicklime and what it was used for. See the area through the eyes of an immigrant worker and discover what it took to work the limekilns.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/history_hike_6453#.XZI96C3Myi4

“Mushroom Walk at Chatham’s Eden Hall”, Saturday, October 5, 10AM-1PM, Chatham University Eden Hall Farm, Gibsonia. Free. “Join Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club Mycologist La Monte Yarroll for this walk sponsored by Chatham University at their farm in Gibsonia. This is always a lovely walk and we expect some Chatham students.” https://wpamushroomclub.org/events/chathams-eden-hall/

“Nature Sketch Journaling”, Saturday, October 5, 10:30AM-2:30PM, Succop Nature Park. $75, or $50 for members of Audubon Society of Western PA. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8751 “In this class we will journey into nature and record our observations with sketches and descriptions of what we are experiencing. As we journal, it will help us connect with how we view and interpret the nature that surrounds us. Supplies to bring: sketch book, pencils, eraser. You can also work in markers and watercolor. $50 member; $75 nonmember. Contact Chris Kubiak at ckubiak@aswp.org for more information.” 

Exhibit, “Mummies of the World”, Saturday, October 5 through Sunday, April 19, 2020, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. “Explore 125 real mummies and related artifacts from across the globe in Mummies of the World: The Exhibition, on display at Carnegie Science Center’s PPG Science Pavilion Oct. 5, 2019–April 19, 2020. Only in Pittsburgh for a limited time, this blockbuster exhibition provides a window into the lives of ancient people from every region of the world including Europe, South America, and Ancient Egypt, offering unprecedented insights into past cultures and civilizations. The exhibition enthralls guests with dramatic displays of the mummies and their personal stories, as well as state-of-the-art multimedia stations that take visitors on a 4,500-year journey to explore the mummies’ history and origins as well as how they were created, both naturally and intentionally.” http://carnegiesciencecenter.org/exhibits/mummies-of-the-world

“Building Alliances for Tomorrow’s Workforce: New Voices, Technology, and Ideas”, Saturday, October 5, 2PM, Historic Pump House, 880 E. Waterfront Dr., Munhall. Free. “Are there jobs today that pay a living wage with benefits, provide a decent retirement, and don’t require a college education? Yes! Come hear Union apprentice program leaders (Carpenters, Bricklayers) and other new workforce job educators and their star students-in-training talk about the challenges and prospects for lifetime careers in the skilled union trades, no college needed. Learn how training programs today use the latest technology to meet industry’s needs.” https://battleofhomestead.org/bhf/event/building-alliances-for-tomorrows-workforce-new-voices-technology-and-ideas/

“Pittsburgh Drone Film Festival”, Saturday, October 5, 3PM-5PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $9.95 adults, $7.95 for members. “The Rangos Giant Cinema is thrilled to host its first-ever Pittsburgh Drone Film Festival in partnership with Drone Addiction, PITTROTORcross and the Pittsburgh Drone Masters. Watch a series of short films produced by Pittsburgh-area drone pilots on the City’s largest screen and root for your favorite! This is a chance to see an up-and-coming filmmaking method in action on a Certified Giant Screen. For information on how to submit an entry, contact Daniel Calig at dcalig@gmail.com. Deadline for submissions is Mon., Sept. 30 at midnight. Entrants receive free event admission for themselves and one guest.” http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/rangos-giant-cinema/pittsburgh-drone-film-festival/

“The Hydref Fall Festival and Market Faire”, Saturday, October 5, 11AM-4PM, Depreciation Lands Museum, 4743 S. Pioneer Rd, Allison Park. $5 adults, $3 children. “Rain or Shine - there will be plenty to see and activities for everyone! See you there! Traditionally the entire town and countryside turned out for the annual Market Faire. You will meet skilled 18th c crafts people, re-enactors, and ‘sutlers’, purveyors of 18th c goods. Enjoy entertainment, demonstrations, live music, great food and activities for the children - you will find it all here at the Hydref! Children's contest! - Make an Apple Head doll at home and bring it to Hydref for the Best Apple-Head Contest! Awards in two categories, ages 5-9 and 10-17. All! - purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win a lovely woolen scarf, hand spun and hand woven right here at DLM! The winners of the contest and the raffle will be announced at 2 pm. Hydref, which means "autumn", in Welsh, was named to commemorate the Welsh heritage of some of our early settlers. Come to shop, come to enjoy the 18th century village in real life! You will be glad you came to the Hydref!” http://www.depreciationlandsmuseum.org/upcoming.Hydref.shtml

“SkyWatch”, Saturday, October 5, 7PM and 9PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $4, or $2 for members or an add-on to general admission. Free for anyone bringing a telescope to share. “Visitors are invited to come to SkyWatch at the Henry Buhl, Jr. Planetarium and Observatory and get up-close and personal with amazing celestial objects. SkyWatch happens rain or shine. The evening begins with a virtual tour of the night sky in Buhl Planetarium. Afterward, visitors are welcome to enjoy additional planetarium programs, and if the skies are clear, head up to our observatory! Spot Saturn’s rings or details on the lunar surface through our 16-inch Meade LX200 Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, and chat with our team of expert stargazers. On evenings that SkyWatch is presented, we offer the program twice. Come early, or come late, as your schedule permits.”  http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/planetarium/buhl-planetarium-skywatch/ 

“Erntedankfest: A Harvest Festival”, Saturday, October 5, 10AM-5PM, and Sunday, October 6, 12PM-5PM, Old Economy Village, 270 16th St., Ambridge. $10 adults, $9 seniors, $6 ages 3-12, free admission for children 2 and under, and active military. “This event celebrates the fall harvest and many of the tasks done to prepare for winter. Artisans will be cooking, baking and demonstrating many different crafts and skills. Music, food and activities for the whole family make this a great fall tradition! There will be a variety of vendors selling their wares, everything from soap to pottery as well as food and drink among other things. Musical acts will be performing throughout the two days, There will be activities for the young as well as the young at heart!” http://oldeconomyvillage.org/visit/calendar/

“Pig Lady Festival 2019”, Saturday, October 5, 6PM-10PM, Darlington Township Community Building, 3590 Darlington Rd., Darlington. “Family friendly games and food. Bonfire and ghost tales. Big screen movie (bring your blankets and lawn chairs). Halloween didn’t exist when young Barbara Davidson attended neighborhood harvest festivals, but being Scotch Irish (her maiden name was McCaskey), Barbara almost certainly celebrated Halloween’s predecessor holiday, Samhain. Samhain means 'end of summer' and it was traditionally commemorated with games, bonfires and ghost stories. We're going to recreate this celebration with some old Irish games like bobbing for apples, a costume contest, a bonfire with local ghost stories told by special guest Tony Lavorgne and a movie about a spooky Little Beaver Creek legend.” Schedule here: https://thesocialvoiceproject.org/pig-lady-festival/

“Tree Identification Walk”, Saturday, October 5, 9AM-11AM, Westinghouse Park, North Point Breeze. $10. Ages 16 and up. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.treepittsburgh.org/resource/educational-offerings/ “Want to know more about the trees around you? Learn basic tree identification skills with Tree Pittsburgh’s Certified Arborists. Discover trees during every season: Flowers in spring, summer leaves, seeds, nuts, and fruits of fall (as well as beautiful color), and the bark, buds, and branch structure of winter. Hikes are not appropriate for small children and include walking up hills in parks and cemeteries off pavement.” 

“Guided Tour: Clash of Empires”, Saturday, October 5, 11AM, and Saturday, October 26, 1PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Included with museum admission. “Join a History Center docent to explore the key role that Western Pennsylvania played in the global conflict that was the French and Indian War. Hear the stories of George Washington’s early missteps, the British and the French victories and defeats, and the important alliances that were formed and tested throughout the War.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events

“Guided Tour: Pittsburgh’s Attic from Glass to Ketchup”, Saturday, October 5, 1PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Included with museum admission. “Join a History Center docent for a tour where you’re guaranteed to see something new. This guided tour will take you to three exhibits: Special Collections, Glass: Shattering Notions, and Heinz. We’ll bring out objects that you can see and touch in this special tour.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/guided-tour-pittsburghs-attic-oct-5

“Growing Old Garden Roses in Colder Climates”, Saturday, October 5, 1PM-4PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. “Old Garden Roses are by definition roses bred prior to 1867. They are renowned for many reasons, including their fragrance and resistance to disease. Perhaps the most interesting class of roses but clouded in mystery: how are they grown, what’s the good and bad of their performance, and where do you buy them? As part of the program a review of proper winterizing techniques for all classes of roses will be discussed. Presenter: David McKibben, American Rose Society Consulting Rosarian.” 

“Archaeology Day”, Saturday, October 5, 11AM-5PM, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, 401 Meadowcroft Rd. Avella. Included with Meadowcroft admission. “As part of Pennsylvania Archaeology Month, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village will partner with the Society for Pennsylvania Archaeology for a day-long event for archaeology-lovers everywhere. Attend presentations to discover how archaeologists use cutting-edge technology to learn about the lives of prehistoric people. Have an artifact you’d like professionally identified? Bring your American Indian artifacts for identification and analysis by experts with a combined 50+ years of archaeological experience. Plus, learn about flint knapping from an expert flintknapper and prehistoric food processing using experimental technology. Throughout the day, visitors can explore 19,000 years of history at Meadowcroft, a National Historic Landmark. Guests can step inside a wigwam and try their hand at the atlatl (a spear-thrower used by prehistoric hunters) in the 16th century Eastern Woodland Indian Village. In Meadowcroft’s 19th century Upper Ohio Valley Village, visitors can experience elements of everyday family life, watch a blacksmith forge red-hot iron, and enjoy a lesson in a one-room schoolhouse.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/archaeology-day-at-meadowcroft-oct-5

“Antarctica, the Frozen Continent and The Golden Age of British Antarctic Exploration”, Saturday, October 5, 10AM-12PM, Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, 7370 Baker St., Pittsburgh. $38, which includes a full English breakfast. Preregistration required; register online: https://bacpgh.z2systems.com/np/clients/bacpgh/event.jsp;jsessionid=F13348C91526D34EB213DAF9038C3816-n1?event=1041 “This multi-faceted program will feature talks on the geography of what famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton termed the “region of ice and snow;” the history of the Golden Age of British Antarctic Exploration in the early 20th century (Scott and Shackleton expeditions); the experiences of contemporary travelers and explorers; and a wildlife component about some of the species who make their home in the Frozen Continent. Speakers will include Sally Wiggin, retired WTAE anchor, whose travels have included South Georgia Island, where Shackleton is buried; Kim Szczypinski of Britsburgh's History Society and Duquesne University; and award-winning Pittsburgh filmmaker Keith Reimink, who spent a year working at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, where he filmed his award-winning documentary No Horizon Anymore. And you won’t want to miss the included traditional full English breakfast followed by a visit to some of the native residents of Antarctica in the PPG Aquarium! Best suited for ages 16 and up. Proceeds of this event will be shared by Britsburgh and the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.” 

“Creepshow Craft Lab for Teens”, Saturday, October 5, 1PM-2PM, Sewickley Library. Grades 6-12. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/S/SEWICKLEY/EK.cfm?zeeOrg=SEWICKLEY “It’s Halloween month! Time to make some creepy crafts. Join us to make one, two, or all three Halloween crafts while watching classic Creepshow cartoons.” 

“Pittsburgh Dragon Boat Festival” Saturday, October 5, 8:30AM-3PM, North Park Lake, 10301 Pearce Mill Rd., Allison Park. Free. “Join us at the Pittsburgh Dragon Boat Festival on October 5, 2019 for a day of fun at North Park Lake! Watch exciting races or form your own dragon boat and compete against other community teams for medals and awards. Cultural demonstrations, food, marketplace and other activities will be available, so bring the whole family to this FREE event. I Made It! Market will also participate in our festival!” http://www.pghdragonboatfestival.org 

“Wood Working with the Band Saw”, Saturday, October 5, 10AM-12PM, University of Pittsburgh Manufacturing Assistance Center, 7800 Susquehanna St., Pittsburgh. $10, or free for Homewood and Wilkinsburg residents. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wood-working-with-the-band-saw-tickets-71737251049?aff=efbeventtix “Learn the art of box making at the bandsaw with instructor Alexis Rosa Caldero. Alexis Rosa Caldero is a craftsperson, art director, and educator living in Pittsburgh. Through the use of wood, her work strives to evoke beauty, unearth story, and build connections. Alexis holds a B.F.A. in Industrial Design from Carnegie Mellon University and spent four years designing furniture for Mira Nakashima.” 

“Teen Anime Club”, Saturday, October 5, 3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland; and Saturday, October 12, 3PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Hazelwood. “Explore new anime and express your fandom at Teen Anime Club! We’ll watch anime, explore Japanese culture and enjoy a fun snack.” 

“Murder Mystery Evenings”, Saturday, October 5 and Saturday, October 12, 6PM-10PM, Old Bedford Village, 220 Sawblade Rd., Bedford. $10 adults, $8 children, free for ages 5 and under. “There’s been a terrible murder in the Village! You are the detective. Interactive. 6 pm to 10 pm. Please bring a flashlight and a pencil. After a brief orientation, you will be free to interview the suspects in their cabins at your own pace. Please plan to arrive by 7:30 to ensure that you have plenty of time to question all of the suspects and solve the mystery.” http://oldbedfordvillage.com/events.php

“Portersville Steam Show Fall Fling”, Saturday, October 5 and Sunday, October 6, 9AM-4PM, Portersville Steam Show, 1512 Perry Highway, Portersville. $5 adults and free for kids 11 and under. Apple butter and apple cider being made there for sale. Tons of cool antique technology demos. See complete details here: http://portersvillesteamshow.org/Fall_Fling.php

“Star Parties”, at sunset, Saturday, October 5, and Saturday, October 19 at Wagman Observatory, 225 Kurn Rd., Tarentum; and Saturday, October 19 and Friday, October 25 at Mingo Observatory, Mingo Creek Park, 1 Shelter 10 Rd., Finleyville. 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/

“Walks in Penn’s Woods”, always the first Sunday in October, a day dedicated to Pennsylvanians joining guided walks to explore our beautiful forests. A long list of walks statewide is here: https://sites.psu.edu/walkinpennswoods/where-are-the-walks-happening/ 

Film Screening, "On the Way Up: City Steps, City Immigrants”, Sunday, October 6, 1PM-3PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh South Side. “Steppin Stanzas, a grant-awarded poetry project celebrating Pittsburgh’s public stairways, has produced a video, 'On the Way Up: City Steps, City Immigrants', which honors early immigrants who built the city’s public stairways, those who care for them, and new immigrants to Pittsburgh who have made the city their home. After the screening, Steppin Stanzas will hold a panel discussion with several guest speakers who appear in the video, such as author Bob Regan and neighborhood steps activist, Joe Balaban.” 

“Stone to Steel”, Sunday, October 6, 1PM-3PM, Keystone State Park, Pavilion 2. “Join Todd 'Ghost in the Head' Johnson for an immersive storytelling experience in the Native American Tradition. Mr. Johnson will highlight and demonstrate the evolution of tools, agriculture, and weapons and the influence that European settlement had on that evolution. Mr. Johnson will don traditional Native American Garb and will display various weapons and tools that were utilized in the time period.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/stone_to_steel#.XZI4mC3Myi4

“Forest County Walk in Penn’s Woods”, Sunday, October 6, 1PM-3PM, Cook Forest State Park, Birch Trail. “ 100 SR 36, Cooksburg, the trail head is next to the driveway of the Cook Forest State Park Office, meet at the front of the office. Join the Friends of Cook Forest on a 2-mile section of the Birch Trail that goes along a ridge above Tom’s Run in Cook Forest State Park. The State Park just leveled and smoothed the trail, so it should be pretty easy for walking. We will also cross a couple bridges over Tom’s Run throughout the loop. Birch Trail runs through part of the ancient Forest of Cook Forest State Park. The trail is dominated by ancient Eastern hemlocks, white pine, beech, maple trees and ferns. People-friendly leashed pets are allowed; owner must clean up after their pets. This is not a wheelchair and stroller friendly walk.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/2019_forest_county_walk_in_penns_woods_-_birch_trail#.XZI7wy3Myi5

“Guided Walk: Clouds and Weather”, Sunday, October 6, 2PM-3PM, South Park, Gazebo parking lot on Maple Springs Dr. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/sp-guided-walk-clouds-and-weather/4732 “This walk will be approximately 1.5 miles on a paved path with mild elevation changes.” 

“Pittsburgh Reptile Show and Sale”, Sunday, October 6, 9AM-3PM, Harmar House, 1321 Freeport Rd., Cheswick. $5 per person, free for kids 3 and under. “Thousands of animals and supplies all under one roof! Bring the family and don’t forget the camera! Buy direct and save, wholesale pricing!” http://pghreptileshow.com

“Letterpress Demo Days”, Sundays in October, 1PM-3PM, University of Pittsburgh, University Store on Fifth, Center for Creativity: The Workshop, 4000 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. “Letterpress was the main form of printing text for 500 years, starting from its invention in the 15th century. If you're interested in learning to tell your chase from your forme, how to hand-set type (including a cool font from 1898), and how to combine words and images into one unique print, drop by any Sunday in October between 1-3 p.m. Erik Schuckers, manager of The C4C Workshop, will be working on small letterpress projects, and you're welcome to observe, ask questions, and maybe even try your hand at part of the process. Please note: this is not a guided workshop that takes you from beginning to end on a single project. Instead, it's a chance to see and explore different parts of the printing process.” https://calendar.pitt.edu/event/letterpress_demo_day#.XZAtDi3Myi4

“Calvary Episcopal Church: Architectural Tour and Choral Evensong”, Sunday, October 6, 4PM-6PM, Calvary Episcopal Church, 315 Shady Avenue, Pittsburgh. $20. Reservations are not needed. “Members of Calvary’s Architectural History Committee will lead tours of the church beginning at 4:00 p.m. The Calvary Choir will perform the brief service of Choral Evensong at 5:00 p.m., illustrating what Cram called ‘the greatest artistic achievement’. Dr. Alan Lewis, Director of Music, will perform a composition by Bach on the organ at 5:45 p.m. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.” https://phlf.org/events/

“Harrison Hills Bird Hike”, Sunday, October 6, 8AM-12PM, Harrison Hills Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8743 “Join us at Harrison Hills Park, one of the region’s most popular places to bird. We will meet in the parking lot at the Environmental Learning Center and bird some of the surrounding trails. Free.” 

“A Walk in Penn’s Woods”, Sunday, October 6, 10AM-12:30PM, Raccoon Creek State Park Wildflower Reserve, 525 Lincoln Highway, Clinton. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/a_walk_in_penns_woods_9350#.XZIuHS3Myi4 Ages 8 and up. “Join the park naturalist for a walk in Penn's Woods. We will be meeting at the Wildflower Reserve nature center at 10:00AM. Please bring a water bottle and dress for the weather. We will be walking over rough, uneven terrain so please dress appropriately.” 

“A Walk in Penn’s Woods with Mosses and Liverworts “, Sunday, October 6, 1PM-4PM, McConnells Mill State Park, Kildoo Picnic Area. “What’s all that soft green stuff growing on the boulders? Now is your chance to find out! It turns out that mosses and liverworts have unique roles in our environment and tremendous diversity in the Slippery Rock Gorge. Join Western Pennsylvania Conservancy Bryophyte Specialist Scott Schuette for a hike among the moss. Moderate hiking, about two miles. Wear sturdy shoes or boots, bring water, and dress for the outdoors.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/a_walk_in_penns_woods_5182#.XZI3WS3Myi4

“Words and Pictures: Jewell Parker Rhodes”, Sunday, October 6, 2:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Lecture Hall. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://pittsburghlectures.org/lectures/jewell-parker-rhodes/ “Jewell Parker Rhodes has always loved reading and writing stories. Born and raised in Manchester, a largely African-American neighborhood on the North Side of Pittsburgh, she was a voracious reader as a child. She began college as a dance major, but when she discovered there were novels by African Americans, for African Americans, she knew she wanted to be an author. She wrote six novels for adults, two writing guides, and a memoir, but writing for children remained her dream. Now Jewell has published five children’s books: the Louisiana Girls Trilogy (Ninth Ward, Sugar, and Bayou Magic), Towers Falling, and most recently the New York Times bestseller and #1 Kids’ Indie Next Pick Ghost Boys.” 

“MasterChef Junior Live”, Sunday, October 6, 7PM, Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Pittsburgh. “Something tasty is heading to your hometown! Don’t miss this year’s newest hit tour – MasterChef Junior Live! This all-new production brings the culinary hit TV show MasterChef Junior directly to you LIVE! Featuring head-to-head cooking competitions with past MasterChef Junior all-stars and fan favorites, Q/A sessions, and an overall immersive audience experience fun for all ages. Bring the whole family to see MasterChef Junior Live! It’s a recipe guaranteed for a good time!” https://www.trustarts.org/production/65597/masterchef-junior-live

“Italian Heritage Day”, Sunday, October 6, 10AM-3PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Included with adult admission and free for ages 17 and under. “Tu e la tua famiglia are cordially invited to commemorate your italianità at the History Center with a fun day of interactive activities designed with families in mind. To kick off Italian Heritage Month, the History Center’s Italian American Program will present its sixth annual Italian Heritage Day. Learn how to play bocce, enjoy live cooking demos, explore your family tree, and more. Activities are conceived in a manner that will allow all members of the family to work together to learn about Italian American history and culture. Intergenerational participation is encouraged, so bring tua madre, tuo padre, tua nonna, tuo nonno, tua zia, tuo zio, e tutti i tuoi fratelli, sorelle e cugini.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/italian-heritage-day

“Walk in Penn’s Woods”, Sunday, October 6, 1PM-5PM, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, 401 Meadowcroft Rd., Avella. “Visit Meadowcroft for beautiful fall foliage and outdoor adventure this fall! Meadowcroft will host a day of educational woodland walks and programs highlighting Pennsylvania’s forest and wildlife resources from prehistory to modern day. This program is presented in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Forestry Association, Penn State, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and others across the state.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/walk-in-penns-woods-oct-6

“REI Outdoor School: Backcountry Navigation”, Sunday, October 6, 9AM-2PM, Frick Park, and Sunday, October 27, 9AM-2PM, Montour Woods Conservation Area. $80, or $60 for REI members. Ages 12- adult. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.rei.com/events/p/us-pa-pittsburg “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.” 

“Apple Cider Festival”, Sunday, October 6, 9AM-5PM, Prince Gallitzin State Park, Muskrat Beach #2. “Join us for the annual Apple Cider Festival and craft show at Muskrat Beach 2. The festival features over 100 vendors of handmade crafts, food vendors, cider pressing demonstrations, live music, environmental education programs, chainsaw carving, hay rides, pony rides, and much more! Parking and admission are free with donations collected by the Friends of Prince Gallitzin to help with park improvement projects.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/apple_cider_festival_2778#.XZI_yS3Myi4

“Life After High School: Art Journaling with the Mattress Factory”, Mondays in October, 3PM-4PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Woods Run. “Make your own personalized journal with watercolors, stencils, and multi-material collage. Express yourself with words and pictures to create a world within the pages. We will be led by a teaching artist from the Mattress Factory, a contemporary art museum and experimental art installation lab.” 

“New and Noted: Stephen Chbosky”, Monday, October 7, 7PM-8PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. $10. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/new-noted-stephen-chbosky/ “Stephen Chbosky is the author of the multi-million-copy bestselling debut novel The Perks of Being a Wallflower. After focusing on film, including directing and writing the adaptation of the well-loved Perks, Chbosky returns to Pittsburgh with 'Imaginary Friend', his long-awaited second novel. The epic work of literary horror begins with seven year old Christopher. Christopher goes missing in the woods of his new home in Mill Grove, Pennsylvania. Christopher emerges unharmed, but not alone. He returns with an imaginary friend and a mission only he can complete: Build a treehouse in the woods by Christmas, or his mother and everyone in the town will never be the same again. A book signing will follow the lecture. Imaginary Friend will be available for sale from Mystery Lovers Bookshop.” 

“Shiitake Mushroom Growers School with Penn State Extension”, Monday, October 7, 9AM-12PM, North Park, Devil’s Elbow 1 and Devil’s Elbow 2. $85. Preregistration required; register online: https://extension.psu.edu/shiitake-mushroom-growers-school “This hands-on school will cover the primary information needed to grow Shiitake mushrooms on natural logs.” 

“Drawing from Observation Outdoors”, Monday, October 7, 10AM-12PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. $5. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “*Weather permitting, class will spend a portion of class outdoors. Using the natural spaces surrounding the library as subject and inspiration, students will use the gestural drawing method to capture the form and movement of landscape en plein air. Jena Schieb created programming for children, teens, families and adults at Pittsburgh Filmmakers/Pittsburgh Center for the Arts as Director of Studio Arts for six years. She is a teaching artist with a Master's Degree in Education, providing art education for students at every age and level in schools and community and cultural organizations like the Carnegie Museum of Art. Registration required. Ages 11 to adult. Materials provided. $5 suggested donation.” 

“The Paleopathology of South American Mummies”, Monday, October 7, 7PM-9PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Parking is $5. Preregistration required; register online: http://carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/adult-programs-cafe-sci/ “Paleopathology — the study of ancient diseases — provides us with a better understanding of how our ancestors lived and what caused them to die. Some of the best paleopathological investigations have resulted from the discovery of mummified remains associated with pre-Columbian Andean cultures in southern Peru and northern Chile. The vast majority of these naturally dried bodies are complete, and in many cases the internal organs are intact. Dr. Peter Gerszten has been fascinated with paleopathology from an early age, often accompanying his father Dr. Enrique Gerszten (a pioneer in the field) to South America to conduct field work. His interest in skulls, including deformation and trephination, ultimately led him to pursue the field of neurosurgery. Dr. Gerszten first came to Pittsburgh complete a residency in Neurological Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, where he now serves as the Peter E. Sheptak Professor of Neurological Surgery. This talk will introduce the field of paleopathology, the methods employed to study the diseases of ancient remains, and the medical findings of those who lived thousands of years ago in South America.” 

“Slovak Heritage”, Monday, October 7, 7PM-9PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. “Discover your Slovak heritage at the library! Open to everyone interested in learning more about Slovak culture. Lisa Alzo, an expert in Slovak genealogy will discuss time-saving tips for researching your Slovak ancestors.” 

“Excel Basics”, Monday, October 7, 5:45PM-7:45PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Job and Career Education Center. “Learn the basics of making an organized and readable spreadsheet including formula construction and basic worksheet formatting. Please call 412-622-3133 to register.” 

“Family History Month: Preserving Your Family’s Treasures”, Tuesday, October 8, 11AM-1PM and 5PM-7PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, 3rd Floor Conference Room. Preregistration required; call 412-622-3154 to register. “Learn the best way to take care of family photographs, documents, or other heirlooms with one-on-one help from the Library’s Preservation Department. Bring up to three items for consultation and advice on caring for, and storing, these items for the long term. Carnegie Library does not appraise the financial value of personal materials. This session is free and open to the public. Registration is requested, along with the type of items you plan to bring, so the Preservation Librarians can prepare suggestions specific to the type of items you bring.” 

“RADical Days Owl Prowl”, Tuesday, October 8, 7PM-8:30PM, Beechwood Farms Nature Preserve. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8793 “Join us for a nighttime owl prowl. This free event, part of RADical Days, has a maximum attendance of 50 people.” 

“STEM Adventures: Hair Samples”, Tuesday, October 8, 3:30PM-4:30PM, Castle Shannon Library, Pittsburgh. Ages 10-18. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=CASTSHAN&curMode=LOGIN&curHelp=&curMonth=10&curYear=2019 “This week we will learn all about how hair samples are used in forensic science, and how DNA can be helpful in solving crimes. We will examine hair samples under the microscope and do a forensic science hair sample activity.” 

“Genealogy Family History Intro and Basics”, Tuesday, October 8, 6PM-7:30PM, Cranberry Library. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.cranberrytownship.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=15063&month=10&year=2019&day=24&calType=0 “Participants should bring their own laptop or technology to the program so they can participate in hands on searching and learning. Class is being taught by local genealogist, Sue Ennis. All ages and skill levels welcome.” 

“Get in Tune with Nature: Animals, from Cockroach to Chinchilla”, Tuesday, October 8, 1:30PM-3:30PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. Ages 14 to adult. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/S/SHALER/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=SHALER “Join Master Naturalists (in training) and retired educators Pat Milliken and Gil Pielin for our third series of interactive workshops! Through hands-on activities you’ll learn about the animals and wildlife of Pennsylvania, how to understand behavior, identify predators vs. prey, and more!” 

“Cooking Classes with Chef Carol”, October 8, and November 12, Northern Tier Library. Glenshaw. $40 each Preregistration required; call 724-449-2665. “Join Northern Tier Library and Chef Carol Nardello this fall for a new series of cooking classes, Tuesdays at 6:00 PM! Chef Carol Nardello has worked in restaurants, owned a catering business, collaborated on three cookbooks, and taught at three cooking schools. Most recently, while living in Hawaii, she worked as a Chef Instructor at the Culinary Institute of the Pacific. She and her husband now live in Wexford.” See calendar for complete menus for each class: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/N/NTRL/EK.cfm?zeeOrg=NTRL

“Draconids Meteor Shower”, Tuesday, October 8 and Wednesday, October 9, nightfall and evening. “The radiant point for the Draconid meteor shower almost coincides with the head of the constellation Draco the Dragon in the northern sky. That’s why the Draconids are best viewed from the Northern Hemisphere. The Draconid shower is a real oddity, in that the radiant point stands highest in the sky as darkness falls. That means that, unlike many meteor showers, more Draconids are likely to fly in the evening hours than in the morning hours after midnight. This shower is usually a sleeper, producing only a handful of languid meteors per hour in most years. But watch out if the Dragon awakes! In rare instances, fiery Draco has been known to spew forth many hundreds of meteors in a single hour. In 2019, watch the Draconid meteors at nightfall and early evening on October 8. Try the nights of October 7 and 9, too. Unfortunately, the bright waxing gibbous moon is sure to intrude on this year’s production.” https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/everything-you-need-to-know-draconid-meteor-shower

“Are UFOs Out There?", Tuesday, October 8, 5PM-7PM, Mars Area Library. Preregistration required; register online: 724-625-9048.“We will examine all aspects of the UFO phenomenon. All ages welcome. Presented by Fred Saluga, Director of PA and WV MUFON.” 

“Maps at Carnegie Library and Using Maps in Genealogical Research”, Wednesday, October 9, 6PM-7PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, South Wing Reading Room. “Are you interested in maps? Please join us for a presentation about different kinds of historic maps at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, view maps that show how the city developed over time, and learn how these maps can be a useful tool for Genealogy research. This presentation is free and open to the public.” 

“Dish! A Cookbook Club”, Wednesday, October 9, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Woods Run. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/dish-giadas-italy-by-giada-de-laurentis/ “Join us for Dish!, a cookbook club with the Library. Foodies unite at various CLP locations and out in the community to talk cookbooks, share stories and cultures, and explore all things culinary. Come ready to discuss the recipes you tried and sample a dish prepared by staff. This month we will be discussing Giada’s Italy by Giada de Laurentis.” 

“Teen Anime Club”, Wednesday, October 9, and Wednesday, October 23, 3:30PM-4:30PM, Monroeville Library. “Are you a fan of anime? Manga? Looking for someone to share your favorite animes and mangas with? Look no further than MPL's anime and manga club! We'll watch new and classic anime, make crafts, and discuss your favorite characters. Snacks provided! Free! No registration required. Open to grades 7 -11!” 

“Ghost Stories of our Region”, Wednesday, October 9, 7PM-8:30PM, Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. Free and open to the public. “Come and join us as we delve into the spookier side of our region. From the ghosts of area cemeteries to Bigfoot sightings, our region is alive with legends and folklore! Presented by author and podcast host, Tony Lavorgne, an expert on Western Pennsylvania legends. 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_ghost_stories_of_the_state_parks#.XZI2Ly3Myi4

“City of Pittsburgh Digital Applications Info Session”, Thursday, October 10, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh East Liberty. “This information session will cover City of Pittsburgh community engagement applications and digital resources such as Burgh’s Eye View, the Western Pennsylvania Regional Data Center, and 311 app My Burgh, and NextDoor. A brief demo of the digital applications will be provided and there will be room for questions and answers.” 

“Contemporary Choreographers”, Thursday, October 10 through Sunday, October 13, Point Park University, George Rowland White Performance Studio, Pittsburgh. Campus map here: https://www.pointpark.edu/About/media/About/CampusMap/campusmap.pdf “A creatively energizing collection of works from some of the leading female innovators in dance, including Yin Yue, The Pillow Project, Martha Nichols, and Amy Hall Garner. An unforgettable, edge of your seat evening of dance, featuring a compelling line up of pieces from sophisticated and unique contemporary, multimedia modern, eclectic jazz to a fresh approach to ballet, this is a concert not to be missed.” http://www.pittsburghplayhouse.com/current-season/conservatory-dance-company/contemporary-choregraphers

“Growing Up in the Real Mister Rogers Neighborhood - Book Signing and Discussion”, Thursday, October 10, 7PM-8PM, Riverstone Books, 8850 Covenant Ave., Pittsburgh. “Pittsburgh author Chris Rodell comes to Riverstone with his newest book, Growing Up in the Real Mister Rogers Neighborhood: Life Lessons from the Heart of Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Part history, part biography, the book has previously untold stories of Rogers being a life-saving superhero and of him being perfectly human. In a world that cries out for civility and healing, it’s the only book about Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood by an author who actually lives there.” https://www.riverstonebookstore.com/events/growing-up-in-the-real-mister-rogers-neighborhood-book-signing-and-discusion

“YA Book Club”, Thursday, October 10, 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 Serpent and Dove, a story about witchcraft and the perils of forbidden love. Plus, get a coupon for $2 Teavana teas (Café stores only).” 

“A Soldier's Life in World War I”, Thursday, October 10, 6PM-8PM, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum, 4141 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. “This presentation will focus on a soldier’s life in World War I. Artifacts from the museum’s collection will be examined during the presentation including the uniforms and basic equipment used by a soldier during World War I. This will be a hands-on experience as the audience will be allowed to pass around and handle the artifacts. Soldiers and Sailors volunteer, Russ Raisig, will present this program.” https://soldiersandsailorshall.org/event/spotlight-on-a-soldiers-life-in-world-war-i/

Screening, “Fahrenheit 11/9”, Thursday, October 10, 7PM, Historic Pump House, 880 E. Waterfront Dr., Munhall. Free. “In this excellent moving film, Michael Moore takes on the task of examining the serious class, ethnic, racial, and other divisions that exist today in the U.S. Unlike so many political experts, he had correctly predicted that Donald Trump would win the 2016 presidential election. Not only had he known Trump for years, as the cameras reveal, but more importantly, he understands working people and other voters who were not happy with the status quo. He gave them a voice and, in his own unique way, respected what they said. Moore traveled across the country interviewing various Americans to discern the impact of Trump’s election. Interviews are not all Moore does. He also cites historical facts and current data in interesting ways, explores the role of the media, analyzes the effects of the Electoral College on elections, and examines the U.S. government’s agenda. Moore does not hesitate to ask embarrassing questions about U.S. conduct or policies. Indeed, his film helps viewers to better understand how we got into the current dire political situation and what needs to be done if true change and true democracy can prevail. It is not a sentimental movie or a diatribe but an intelligent, balanced, thoughtful and entertaining presentation that no other film seen matches.” https://battleofhomestead.org/bhf/event/fahrenheit-11-9-film/ 

“All for All Summit”, Thursday, October 10 through Saturday, October 12, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/all-for-all-summit-2019/ “Spanning three days from October 10th through the 12th, this year’s All for All Summit features community tours to help us go deeper in experiencing the real Pittsburgh, a daylong interactive forum on immigrant inclusion, and a block party with local and international performers to celebrate our multicultural roots. Day 1: On Thursday, October 10th from 2:00pm – 5:00pm, hop on a trolley for a deep dive into Pittsburgh through the lens of immigrants, Black Americans, and youth on the intersection of economic development, community-building, and the arts. You can expect to visit community organizations and cultural landmarks and hear from local business owners, community leaders, and cultural creators on their Pittsburgh experience. The tours are curated in partnership with The Global Switchboard. Day 2: On Friday October 11th from 8:00am – 3:00pm, we are hosting a day-long gathering on the role of immigrants in our community and local economy, as well as the intersection of immigrant inclusion in the arts, community-building, and economic development. Featuring a fireside chat between Manchester Bidwell Corporation CEO Bill Strickland in conversation with Kelly Strayhorn Theater Executive Director janera solomon. Social entrepreneur and Founder of Yummiholic Jasmine Cho will serve as Emcee for the day. Day 3: On Saturday, October 12th, 3:00pm – 10:00pm: Dance to live music performed by local and international artists, including RAM, Mourning [A] BLKstar, and Cumbia River Band. Eat delicious food from around the world. Check out work made by local artisans. Presented in partnership with Pete Spynda of Pandemic and Pittonkatonk, and Kelly Strayhorn Theater.” 

“Catapult: The Amazing Magic of Shadow and Dance”, Thursday, October 10, 7:30PM, Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Pittsburgh. “Catapult is, technically, a shadow dance company. What it really is: a theatrical art form that is an amazingly imaginative combination of dance, story-telling, and sculpture. Founded in 2009, by Adam Battlestein (choreographer, Creative Director and Master Teaching Artist for Pilobolus Dance Theatre for 19 years), Catapult catapulted to fame on Season 8 of America’s Got Talent, earning their way to the finals of the NBC-TV hit show.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/66712/catapult-the-amazing-magic-of-shadow-and-dance

“Everyday Radioactive Life in Semipalatinsk, Kazakhstan”, Thursday, October 10, 4PM-5:30PM, University of Pittsburgh, Wesley W. Posvar Hall 4130, 230 S. Bouquet St., Pittsburgh. “From 1949 to 1989, the Soviet Union conducted 456 nuclear tests at Semipalatinsk nuclear test site in Kazakhstan. Despite decades of nuclear fallout, Kazakh rural communities inhabit the area around the site. How has living around a nuclear test site shaped those communities and their post-Soviet experience? This live interview with Magdalena Stawkowski will discuss her ethnographic work and the ways the Semipalatinsk test site still shapes economy, environment and subjectivities.” https://calendar.pitt.edu/event/everyday_radioactive_life_in_semipalatinsk_kazakhstan#.XZAt5i3Myi4

“Faculty Book Talk: Histories of the Transgender Child”, Thursday, October 10, 4:30PM-5:30PM, University of Pittsburgh, Hillman Library, Thornburgh Room, 1st Floor, 3960 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. “Jules Gill-Peterson presents ‘Histories of the Transgender Child’. The Library invites you to join Pitt faculty authors from various disciplines as they share their research and discuss their recently published books. Q/A will follow. The pervasive myth still exists that today's transgender children are a brand new generation - pioneers in a field of new obstacles and hurdles. ‘Histories of the Transgender Child’ shatters this myth, uncovering a previously unknown twentieth-century history when transgender children not only existed, but preexisted the term transgender and its predecessors.” https://calendar.pitt.edu/event/faculty_book_talk_histories_of_the_transgender_child#.XZAuUy3Myi4

“English Style Teas”, Thursday, October 10, 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

“We Count: Pennsylvanians with Disabilities and the Right to Vote”, Thursday, October 10, 1PM-4PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free. “Join the Heinz History Center, the Western Pennsylvania Disability History and Action Consortium, Disability Rights Pennsylvania, and Disability Voting Coalition for an important non-partisan, cross-disability event on voting. National speakers include Maria Town, President and CEO of the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)’s REV UP: Register, Educate, Vote Use your Power campaign, and Gregg Beratan of #CripTheVote: Our Voices, Our Vote. Learn about the significant role Western Pennsylvanians Rachel Freund and Paul O’Hanlon played in efforts to ensure voting access for people with disabilities across the state. Panel discussions on voting barriers and solutions. Key individuals and organizations will share information on how to join the voting effort for Pennsylvanians with disabilities.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/count-pennsylvanians-disabilities-right-vote

“Real ID in Pennsylvania”, Thursday, October 10, 6PM, South Park Township Library. Preregistration required; call 412-833-5585 to register. “A representative from PA State Rep. Mike Puskaric’s office will be here to discuss REAL ID. This act is a federal law that affects how state-issued driver’s license and ID cards will be accepted for federal purposes such as boarding a domestic flight or entering a military base or federal building.” 

“Charcuterie Board”, Thursday, October 10, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Northern Tier Library, Gibsonia. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/N/NTRL/EK.cfm?zeeOrg=NTRL “Chef Mike from the Market District in Wexford will prepare a cheese/charcuterie board. Participants will have an opportunity to mingle and sample the assortment. Registration is required.” 

“Birds and Nature in Southern Texas”, Thursday, October 10, 7:30PM, Fern Hollow Nature Center, 1901 Glen Mitchell Rd., Sewickley. Free and open to the public. “Mike Fialkovich will present ‘Birds and Nature in Southern Texas’. In November, 2018, Mike joined an Audubon Society of W. Pennsylvania tour to the Lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas to see the area’s famed birds, Mike will share his photographs of the birds, other wildlife and plants that the group experienced during the trip.”  http://www.wissahickonnatureclub.com

“Otaku Lebo”, Thursday, October 10, 3PM-4:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. “Share your love for all things manga and anime! For ages 12-18.” 

“Teen Writer’s Club”, Thursday, October 10, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Cranberry Library, Franklin Station North. “Do you like to write short stories, poetry or prose? Come share your work and get feedback from other writers like you. There will be optional writing prompts and activities and snacks will be provided. For teens in grades 6-12.” 

“Women in the Marines”, Thursday, October 10, 6PM, West Newton Library; Monday, October 14, 6:30PM, Murrysville Library; and Sunday, October 20, 2PM, Ligonier Valley Library. “Join retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel Nancy Anderson as she discusses her new book, The Very Few, The Proud: Women in the Marines.” 

“Tree Identification Walk”, Thursday, October 10, 5:15PM-6:30PM, meeting at Bird Park main entrance off Cedar Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. “Joe Stavish from Tree Pittsburgh will be conducting a tree identification walk in Bird Park.” Organized with the Mt. Lebanon Library: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/ekp.cfm?curOrg=MTLEB&ref=EK&refNote=TaF#10/10/2019

“Baldwin Community Star Party”, Friday, October 11, 7PM-8:30PM, Baldwin Borough Library, Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/B/BALDWIN/EK.cfm?zeeOrg=BALDWIN “All ages are welcome to join us as the Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh presents a short astronomy overview followed by a guided viewing of the wonders of the night sky through telescopes. Please bring along your own binoculars if you have them!” 

“Critical Hit- Dungeons and Dragons”, Friday, October 11 and Friday, October 25, 6PM-8PM, Whitehall Library Pittsburgh. Teens ages 13-20. “IT'S BACK! -- Whitehall Public Library has brought back its tabletop gaming program called Critical Hit. The program features gameplay and campaigns from Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition books. Welcome back travelers it has been awhile. Have you completed your own quests? Travel around once again with your old friends in groups of 4-8. Dive back in to those tricky mazes filled with jelly monsters and sand dragons. Tackle the horrors of archery contests and ski ball tournaments. Continue exploring the abandoned house filled with scurrying creatures and queens. The world you started awaits your return. Bring your dice, your friends and your trusty DM (Dungeon Master) and prepare for things to get a dicey all over again.” 

“Fall Foliage for Beginners”, Friday, October 11, 5:30PM-7PM, Forbes State Forest. “Take in the fresh, crisp air and beautiful scenery of the autumn forest with a 1 mile, family-friendly hike to Beam Rocks. Learn about the unique characteristics of the Laurel Ridge that create distinctly, colorful foliage. Program is free but registration is required. Register by contacting rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/fall_foliage_for_beginners_1803#.XZI5fi3Myi4

“ShopBot 101”, Friday, October 11, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Do computers belong in the woodshop? We know they do! During this two-part course, you will learn how to design for and use the ShopBot; a computer numerically controlled milling machine. This course will give you the foundation to create anything from frames to furniture, all while using a computer! For safety reasons, this workshop is open to ages 14 and up. Participants 16 years old or younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.” 

Beethoven “Eroica”, Friday, October 11 through Sunday, October 13, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Experience one of Beethoven’s towering achievements, the mighty Symphony Number Three, the ‘Eroica’, under Manfred Honeck. The New York Times hailed their recording of the work: ‘The most interesting and innovative Beethoven recording since these forces set down the Fifth and Seventh Symphonies’. And the rich baritone of Matthias Goerne fills Heinz Hall in poignant songs of Schubert and Richard Strauss.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/62255/beethoven-eroica

“Fort Ligonier Days”, Friday, October 11 through Sunday, October 13, 9:30AM-5PM, Fort Ligonier, 200 S. Market St., Ligonier. “Dramatic battle reenactments, artillery demonstrations, and reenactors (Sat. and Sun.) to commemorate the pivotal October 12, 1758 French and Indian War Battle at Fort Ligonier. See the historic battle that made Pittsburgh possible! Meet more than 175 British, French, and Native American Indian troops encamped throughout the Fort. Come early! Gate to Fort closes 10 minutes prior to reenactment for guests’ safety.” Complete details here: http://fortligonierdays.com 

“Family Separations: Short and Long-term Effects on Children”, Friday, October 11, 2PM-4PM, University of Pittsburgh, Public Health Lecture Hall, 130 Desoto St., Pittsburgh. Free and open to the public. “Family separations have been a crisis at the U.S. Southern Border. These separations are an adverse childhood event, one that most likely will produce trauma with lifelong consequences. Hear experts and those working in the community to share their perspectives, engage in discussion, and answer questions. In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15) and presented by the Center for Health Equity. Panelists: Dr. Todd Bear, assistant professor, BCHS, Daniela Garcia, MSW, licensed social worker working as a bilingual therapist in Pittsburgh, Claudia Melendez Ardiles, behavioral therapist for Children's Community Pediatrics, and Dr. Robin Meja (Statistics and Human Rights Program Manager, CMU).” https://calendar.pitt.edu/event/family_separations_short_and_long-term_effect_on_children#.XZAvJy3Myi4

“Campfire with a Park Ranger”, Friday, October 11, 7PM-8PM, Boyce Park, Four Seasons Activity Center; and Friday, October 18, 7PM-8PM, Deer Lakes Park, Pike 1. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search “Join the Park Rangers around a crackling fire for an evening of programming. Topics may include nature, history, or campfire stories. Come early and bring a camp chair to get set up around the fire.” 

“Home School Days”, Friday, October 11, and Wednesday, October 16, 1:30PM-3:30PM, Old Economy Village, 270 16th St., Ambridge. “You must register for one of these dates by Wednesday, October 9. Please contact David Miller, museum educator, at davmiller@pa.gov or call 724-266-4500 ext.110. We will be offering two Home School Days this fall. The first one will be on Friday, October 11 from 1:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. The second one will be Wednesday, October 16 from 1:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. This event will allow home school families to explore the village at a special educational rate of $5 per child and per parent or guardian. Students will get a chance to visit the buildings, try some hands on activities, see demonstrations and learn about life in the 1830s. Old Economy Village was founded in 1824 by a German Pietistic Christian Communal Society called the Harmonists. They built their town 17 miles north of Pittsburgh on the Ohio River in modern day Ambridge.” http://oldeconomyvillage.org/visit/calendar/

“70s Supernatural Cinema: An Evening with Bigfoot and Friends”, Friday, October 11, 7PM-10PM, Glitter Box Theater, 460 Melwood Ave., Pittsburgh. $7. “Jump Cut has been possessed by something strange...out of this world...supernatural! Join us as we look back at a different era of "fake news" with an evening of 1970s pseudo-science on film and canvas. Our feature presentation will be 1976 cryptozoology classic The Mysterious Monsters. In this seldom-screened horror docudrama, see and hear PROOF of the existence of Bigfoot, Nessy, and other mythical monsters. If you're a fan of The Legend of Boggy Creek, you've got to see this! The feature will be preceded by a secret concoction of other 1970s depictions of the supernatural. Everything (including Mysterious Monsters) will be presented on beautiful 16mm courtesy of Flea Market Films! Arrive early for a special pop-up art exhibit of the work of one of Jump Cut's favorite local artists, Bob Jakub. Bob's inspired paintings capture cryptids in their natural habitat. All artwork is one-of-a-kind original and priced to move right off the wall and into your house! If you're into Sasquatch, UFOs or menacing robots painted on the backtrop of ‘bad art’, this artwork is for YOU!” https://www.facebook.com/events/426150931614687/ 

Pittsburgh Savoyards Present Gilbert and Sullivan’s “Ruddigore, or the Witch’s Curse”, Friday, October 11 through Sunday, October 20, Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall, 300 Beechwood Ave., Carnegie. “A satirical take on the Victorian Melodrama genre, Ruddigore, or the Witch’s Curse, has a zany plot with it all—ghosts, witches, curses, disguises, and even a wicked villain who tries to make off with the fair maiden. All of the Baronets of the locale of Ruddigore are under a terrible curse enacted by a witch long ago—each of the successive Baronets must commit some kind of a crime every single day, or else they will die in terrible agony. Robin Oakapple has been living as a farmer for years, working up the courage to ask the beautiful village maiden Rose Maybud for her hand, but he is hiding a secret: he is actually Sir Ruthven, the Baronet of Ruddigore, and has been hiding in disguise while his younger brother Despard assumed the title—and the curse. Betrayed by his foster-brother Richard, Robin is discovered and must take on the responsibility of committing a crime every day in order to appease the curse—and the ghosts of all his ancestors past, who are none too happy with his attempt to shirk his title. Robin must somehow find a way to lead the honest life he loves… but how?” https://www.pittsburghsavoyards.org/wordpress/ruddigore-october-2019/

“Guided Tour: From Slavery to Freedom”, Saturday, October 12, 11AM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Included with museum admission. “Join a History Center docent for a closer look into the history of slavery, abolition, and civil rights in the Pittsburgh region. This guided tour of the From Slavery to Freedom exhibition will include hands-on objects.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/guided-tour-from-slavery-to-freedom-oct-12

“Sound Series: Helado Negro with special guest Zenizen”, Saturday, October 12, 8PM, Andy Warhol Museum, The Warhol Theater, 117 Sandusky St., Pittsburgh. $18 adults, $15 students and members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.warhol.org/event/sound-series-helado-negro/ “We welcome multidisciplinary artist, Roberto Carlos Lange (aka Helado Negro), on a tour supporting his latest album, This is How You Smile, on RVNG Intl. A South Florida native, born to Ecuadorian immigrants and based in Brooklyn, his upbringing provides essential elements to his songwriting, including his consistently bilingual lyrics in English and Spanish. Helado Negro, beyond the persona, serves as a platform for a nexus of sound, performance, and video that create his unique sensibility that blends experimental ambient composition and melodic hooks into a hypnotic avant-pop experience. Lange was also recently awarded a United States Artists Fellow in Music and he’s recipient of a Grants to Artists award in Music from the Foundation for Contemporary Arts. Brooklyn-based singer and producer, Zenizen (aka Opal Hoyt), opens the show.” 

“Youth Author Series”, Saturday, October 12, 3PM-4:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 West North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/youth-author-series-kate-schatz/ “Join us for a reading with author Kate Schatz who will present various stories from her many books, plus sneak peeks of her forthcoming middle grade novel, Rad American History A-Z. Her reading will be followed by a Q/A conversation. Rad American History A-Z, an illustrated collection of radical and transformative political, social, and cultural movements in American history. In Rad American History A-Z, each letter of the alphabet tells the story of a significant moment in America’s progressive history–one that isn’t always covered in history classes: A is for Alcatraz, and the Native American occupation of 1969; C is for the Combahee River Raid, a Civil War action planned in part by Union spy Harriet Tubman; Z is for Zuccotti Park, and the Occupy movement that briefly took over the world. There are radical librarians, Supreme Court cases, courageous youth, punk rocker grrrls, Southern quilts, modern witches, mass marches, and much more!” 

“Ukrainian Fall Food Festival”, Saturday, October 12, 11AM-4PM, St. Vladimir’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 73 S. 18th St., Pittsburgh. “Stop by for delicious Ukrainian foods, baked goods, a basket raffle and more!" https://www.facebook.com/events/378664003058432/ 

“Muddy Creek Oil Well Living History Tour”, Saturday, October 12, 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#.XZI13y3Myi4

“Halloween Night Hike”, Saturday, October 12, 7PM-8:30PM, Raccoon Creek State Park, Recreation Hall. Free. “Join us as we venture along the dark and spooky trails around the Rec Hall as we listen and strain to see the creatures of the night. We'll also learn about the nightlife in the park associated with Halloween and tell a few ghost stories about the park. After the hike, we will be handing out candy at the historic CCC cabins for the kids, and roasting marshmallow around the fire. Remember to bring a flashlight and a friend! This hike is about 1 mile and slower paced to be family friendly. No registration needed just show up. Free Program.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/halloween_night_hike_4606#.XZIuoi3Myi4 

“Campfire Ghost Stories”, Saturday, October 12, 7PM-8PM, Deer Lakes Park, Carp 1 and Carp 2; Sunday, October 13, 7PM-8PM, White Oak Park, Chestnut; Saturday, October 19, 7PM-8PM, Harrison Hills Park, Yakaon; Sunday, October 20, 7PM-8PM, Boyce Park, Four Seasons Activity Center; and Sunday, October 27, 7PM-8PM, Hartwood Acres Park, Mansion, Terrace and Hemlock Court. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search “Description: Gather 'round a campfire and listen to spooky stories and songs! Wear a Halloween costume for a chance to win prizes!” 

“Spotlight Series: Anna Thorvaldsdottir”, Saturday, October 12, 7:30PM, New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square East, Pittsburgh. $17.55 adults, $6.94 students. “Contemporary music ensemble NAT 28 will kick off its fourth season of programming with Spotlight Series: Anna Thorvaldsdottir. The chamber ensemble will present a representative sampling of music by the Icelandic composer, including One for pianist and percussionist performing together on one grand piano, Transitions for solo cello, and Ró for large ensemble. The music will be accompanied by original video art by David Bernabo. The concert furthers NAT 28’s mission of amplifying works by extraordinary living composers through multimedia performance.” https://newhazletttheater.org

“Forbes Fall Foliage”, Saturday, October 12, 11AM-2PM, Forbes State Forest. “Explore Wolf Rocks during this moderately paced, 4.5 mile hike. Learn about the seasonal changes that occur during fall and enjoy a scenic vista along the way. Program is FREE but registration is required. Register by contacting rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/forbes_fall_foliage#.XZI6ri3Myi4 

“Sketch Crawl”, Saturday, October 12, 1PM, Trust Arts Education Center, 807 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “Go on an art-filled journey through the Cultural District, stopping and sketching in response to what you see all along the way. Bring a sketch-book, your favorite drawing medium, and a chair.” https://www.trustarts.org/event/18396-2019/sketch-crawl

“Guided Tour: Sports Museum”, Saturday, October 12, 1PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Included with museum admission. “The story of sports in Pittsburgh covers all the bases! Join a History Center docent on this sports-centric tour of the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum. In this guided tour, visitors will explore the stories behind big game day wins, hometown heroes, and local sporting traditions.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/guided-tour-sports-museum-oct-12

”Learn to Program with Python”, Saturday, October 12, 10AM-12PM, University of Pittsburgh Manufacturing Assistance Center, 7800 Susquehanna St., Pittsburgh. $10, or free for Homewood and Wilkinsburg residents. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/learn-to-program-with-python-tickets-71102151449?aff=efbeventtix “Python is a general-purpose, versatile and popular programming language. Learn the basics of programming with Python in this beginner workshop.” 

“Don Giovanni”, Saturday, October 12 through Sunday, October 20, Benedum Center, 7th St. and Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Charming nobleman. Serial womanizer. Sexual predator. Don Giovanni is all these and more. As the list of people out to get him grows longer, eventually his misdeeds catch up with him. Don Giovanni leaves a trail of broken hearts, and worse, wherever he goes. He has his servant, the reluctant doormat Leporello, keep a journal of Don Giovanni’s many conquests. Completely without morals or a conscience, Don Giovanni sexually assaults Donna Anna, then kills her father the Commendatore, who had tried to come to her defense. He seduces young Zerlina on her wedding day. But all actions have consequences, as Don Giovanni is soon to learn. An irresistible classic, Mozart’s Don Giovanni seamlessly combines comedy and tragedy with one of the great musical scores of all time to create one of the world’s favorite operas.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/61901/don-giovanni

“Anything But Clothes: Costume Making”, Saturday, October 12, 5PM, Trust Arts Education Center, 807 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “What do bubble wrap, duct tape, and swim noodles all have in common? They are just some of the fun, fantastic supplies you might use when you create an original costume that will most certainly be anything but clothes.” https://www.trustarts.org/event/18518-2019/anything-but-clothes-costume-making

“Genetic Genealogy and Criminal Cold Case Investigations”, Saturday, October 12, 10:30AM-12PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, South Wing Reading Room. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/western-pennsylvania-genealogical-society-genetic-genealogy-criminal-cold-case-investigations/ “Since April of 2018, genetic genealogy has been thrust into the media spotlight over reports on how law enforcement utilized genetic genealogy sites to identify the suspect in the Golden State Killer cold case. The use of genetic genealogy in criminal cold case investigations is both an innovative example of genetic genealogy research and a source of controversy over privacy concerns. The expansive use of genetic genealogy in law enforcement has implications for a wide range of stakeholders, including those of us who use genetic genealogy for our family history research. This program is free and open to the public.” 

“Pittsburgh Pogo Meetups”, Saturday, October 12, and Saturday. October 26, 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, October 12, 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

“Chinese Calligraphy”, Saturday, October 12, 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.” 

Exhibit, "This Skin of Ours", Saturday, October 12 through November 17, with an opening reception on Friday, October 11, 6PM-8PM, Miller Institute for Contemporary Art, Carnegie Mellon University, Purnell Center for the Arts, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Campus map here: https://www.cmu.edu/assets/pdfs/campus-map-2019-8.5x11.pdf “We sense the world through this skin of ours. It is the surface that brokers our relationship to external forces and translates them as pain or pleasure. This organ gives each of us an identifiable shape, on which accrues a lifetime of experiences. With its distinct tone and texture, the skin is perhaps where we most frequently deposit ideas of the self and the other. We test the limits of our physical selves through contact—violence and intimacy both necessitate that our skins touch and communicate. If the skin is a site of injuries and insults that each body has had to bear, it is also a site of potential repair. A scar suggests both past violence and the body’s capacity to enclose the lips of a wound. The skin is also a site of a formal investigation. It is a medium—an elastic and responsive layer—through which the artists grouped here explore pain and hurt, redemptive possibilities of healing, and the meeting of private and public lives. Imagine that the works in the exhibition comprise a collective sensing organ, pulsing with colors and texture. Imagine also this organ’s capacity to feel and empathize the pain of others as well as the pleasure from tender touch. This is a proposal to collectively feel our way through this world where we will inevitably emerge scarred, but in the shared experiences that allow for a deeper understanding of the other.” More about the exhibit here: https://miller-ica.cmu.edu/exhibitions/#429/this-skin-of-ours

“East Liberty Walking Tour”, Saturday, October 12, 1:30PM-3:30PM, meeting at Trade Street in front of Motor Square Garden [5900 Baum Boulevard, Pittsburgh). $20. Preregistration required; contact Mary Lu Denny: 412-471-5808, ext. 527; marylu@phlf.org. “Explore the heart of the East Liberty Commercial Historic District with a PHLF docent. On this tour you’ll learn the history of the neighborhood that was once considered Pittsburgh’s “second downtown.” You’ll see sites such as the sole surviving historic theater in what used to be an entertainment district with seven movie houses. You’ll find traces of the city’s largest urban renewal project during the Pittsburgh Renaissance in the 1960s, when almost a third of the commercial core was demolished to make way for an outdoor pedestrian mall. This tour will show that today, East Liberty is once again experiencing change as new development is evident around every corner. Come explore the visible layers of history in this resilient neighborhood and discover how old buildings are being creatively reused for new purposes.” https://phlf.org/events/

“A Spooky Hike at North Park’s Haunted Blue Mist Road”, Saturday, October 12 and Friday, October 25, 6PM-8PM, North Park, corner of Babcock Blvd. and Pearce Mill Rd., Gibsonia. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/1000001727 “Join us as we explore the haunted Blue Mist Road trail - a section steeped in urban legends and paranormal mysteries. Please make sure you wear appropriate hiking clothing, waterproof footwear (if possible) and dress for the weather (layers; no cotton). Please bring a small daypack with extra clothes, snacks, water, two sources of light (headlamp and flashlight recommended) and any personal medications you may need. Ages 8 and up are welcome. Hope to see you on this spooky trail hike!” 

“The Battle of Point Pleasant to the Treaty of Camp Charlotte”, Saturday, October 12, 11AM-1PM, Fort Pitt Museum, Point State Park, 601 Commonwealth Pl., Pittsburgh. $15 adults, $10 students and History Center members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/fort-pitt-museum-battle-of-point-pleasant “Join the Fort Pitt Museum to commemorate the 245th Anniversary of the Battle of Point Pleasant and the end of Lord Dunmore’s War with guest speaker Dr. Glenn Williams. After a brief discussion of the causes and course of this last conflict of America’s colonial era, Williams’ talk will examine the decisive battle and diplomatic conclusion of Dunmore’s War. He will pay special attention to the role of Fort Pitt, the engagement known as the Battle of Point Pleasant, the military stand-off at Pickaway Plains, and the Treaty of Camp Charlotte that brought the war to an end, as well as the surprisingly lenient peace terms.” 

“Insider Tour of Meadowcroft Rockshelter”, Sunday, October 13, 1PM-4PM, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, 401 Meadowcroft Rd., Avella. $30, or $15 for Heinz History Center members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/insider-tour-meadowcroft-rockshelter-october-2019 “Enjoy an exclusive Insider Tour of Meadowcroft Rockshelter with James M. Adovasio, Ph.D., who achieved international acclaim with his archeological excavation of the Rockshelter in 1973. Dr. Adovasio will present a lecture and lead a special tour of the site. Meadowcroft Rockshelter, the oldest site of human habitation in North America, is located in Avella, Pa., 35 miles southwest of Pittsburgh. The National Historic Landmark features a massive, 19,000-year-old rock overhang used by the region’s earliest inhabitants for shelter and was named one of the “Five Great Places to See Evidence of First Americans” by Smithsonian magazine. Dr. Adovasio’s presentation begins at 1PM in the visitor’s center with tours of the Rockshelter to immediately follow.” 

“Guided Nature Night Hike”, Sunday, October 13, 8PM-10PM, Boyce Park, Patrol. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/bp-guided-nature-hike-night-hike/4679 “Approximately 2 miles with moderate elevation changes. Please bring a flashlight.” 

Concert, “Around Another Europe”, Sunday, October 13, 3PM, Heinz Chapel, University of Pittsburgh, 4200 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “On tour in the United States, Giorgio Revelli, organist and choirmaster of the Cathedral of Imperia in Italy and artistic director of the International Organ Festival "Serate Organistiche Leonardiane" at the Cathedral of Imperia Porto Maurizio, presents a virtuosic program for pipe organ designed to transport the listener to Europe. Works by Langlais and Vierne as well as lesser-known (but equally authoritative and virtuosic) composers will be featured.” https://www.heinzchapel.pitt.edu/events/around-another-europe

“A Living Museum: A History of the Land at Powdermill ”, Sunday, October 13, 2PM, Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector. Free. “The land at Powdermill has a long history even before the establishment of the nature reserve in 1956. Pamela Curtin, Education Coordinator at the Westmoreland Historical Society, will share an historical overview of Powdermill and how people have used the landscape over time. Whether using its natural resources for agriculture, logging, or mining, or by studying its flora and fauna to understand and conserve the natural environment, people have changed the land, and some remnants of these changes are visible today. The effects of human activity are both unique to the area and reflective of larger historical trends and challenges that the state and region have faced. This research uses a blend of historical documents, such as written records and images, as well as modern GIS technologies to understand both past and present at Powdermill. After the lecture, please join us for a short hike to find evidence of human impact on the land.” https://www.facebook.com/events/2518010374954536/

“Mazeroski Day in Schenley Plaza”, Sunday, October 13, 12PM-3PM, Schenley Plaza, 4100 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. The Forbes Field Outfield Wall is located just south of Roberto Clemente Dr. between Schenley Dr. and S. Bouquet St. “Join Pirates fans of all ages as we listen to the original 1960 World Series radio broadcast! Celebrate this big Pirates win against the Yankees starting at 12:15pm at the Forbes Field Wall near Schenley Plaza.” https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events

“Full Moon Hike”, Sunday, October 13, 8PM-9PM, 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.” 

“Night Hike with a Park Ranger”, Sunday, October 13, 8PM-10PM, Hartwood Acres Park, Middle Road Site. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/ha-night-hike-with-a-park-ranger/4704 “Hike will be Approximately 2 miles with moderate elevation changes. Please bring a flashlight.” 

“Full Moon Hike”, Monday, October 14, 6:30PM-8PM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.rei.com/events/80948/pittsburgh-parks-full-moon-hike/260100 “Come join an REI Outdoor School Instructor for a guided night hike at one of the area's local hiking trails. Night hiking under a full moon is a unique experience that everyone should try. The sparkling stars and landscape are a perfect complement to each other. Allow us to make sure you have the most enjoyable and educational outing possible.” 

”What’s Cooking? for Teens”, Monday, October 14, 1PM-3PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Hazelwood; Thursday, October 24, 4PM-6PM Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Beechview; and Friday, October 25, 3PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland (Tacos: “Join us for a delicious fiesta of flavors as we make tacos, hard and soft, using a variety of tasty ingredients.”) “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.” 

“Lower Rio Grande Valley Texas Birding and Conservation Hotspot”, Monday, October 14, 7PM, Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. Free and open to the public. “Come on down via color photographs to the LRGV of Texas and enjoy 1 of the top 5 U.S. birdwatcher’s paradises. See colorful Green Jays and Altamira Orioles representing just 2 of nearly 400 avian species sharing the wildlife refuges in the valley. This 65-mile-long system provides safe passage for all wildlife but especially for the endangered Ocelot and Jaguarundis. Learn from afar how you can help conserve this unique U.S.-Mexico borderland. Dr. Gene Wilhelm and Martin Carlin will be the presenters of their experiences and photos of their recent trip to southwest Texas.” https://www.bartramianaudubonsociety.org/meetings

“Sophie: The Incredible Mayor Masloff”, Monday, October 14, 7PM-8:45PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. “Dr. Burstin will discuss her new book, Sophie: The Incredible Mayor Masloff. Sophie Masloff (December 23rd, 1917 - August 17th, 2014) served as the Mayor of Pittsburgh from 1988 to 1994. She was the first woman and the first Jew to hold the office.” 

“YA Book Club”, Monday, October 14, 6PM-7PM, Panera Bread, 1025 Washington Pike, Bridgeville. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=BRIDGEVL#6077066 “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 The Rest of Us Just Live Here by Patrick Ness.” 

“College Financing Seminar”, Tuesday, October 15, 6:30PM-8PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/S/SHALER/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=SHALER “A session to help students and their families understand the path to college financing. Brought to you by your local Citizens Bank representatives. What exactly is financial aid? How do I start the process of applying? My FAFSA is complete, what's next? I received all the free money I can, how do I fill the gap?” 

“STEM Adventures: Handwriting Analysis”, Tuesday, October 15, 3:30PM-4:30PM, Castle Shannon Library, Pittsburgh. Ages 10-18. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=CASTSHAN&curMode=LOGIN&curHelp=&curMonth=10&curYear=2019 “This week we will explore handwriting analysis and how the process can be helpful in solving crimes. We will build personality profiles by analyzing our own handwriting.” 

“John Vercher Book Signing and Discussion”, Tuesday, October 15, 7PM-8PM, Riverstone Books, 8850 Covenant Ave., Pittsburgh. “Riverstone is delighted to welcome John Vercher back to Pittsburgh with his stunning debut novel, Three-Fifths. A compelling and timely novel from an assured new voice: Three-Fifths is about a biracial black man, passing for white, who is forced to confront the lies of his past while facing the truth of his present when his best friend, just released from prison, involves him in a hate crime set in Pittsburgh, 1995. Three-Fifths is a story of secrets, identity, violence and obsession with a tragic conclusion that leaves all involved questioning the measure of a man, and was inspired by the author’s own experiences with identity as a biracial man during his time as a student in Pittsburgh amidst the simmering racial tension produced by the L.A. Riots and the O.J. Simpson trial in the mid-nineties.” https://www.riverstonebookstore.com/events/john-vecher-book-signing-and-discussion 

“Getting Started with Ancestry.com”, Wednesday, October 16, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Job and Career Education Center. Preregistration required; call 412-622-3154 to register. “Ancestry.com is arguably the best-known online tool for family history research. Start your investigation into your family’s past with this introductory workshop. Find out where your ancestors were born, where they lived, and the families they created.” 

“How to Prevent Aches While Reading”, Wednesday, October 16, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Northern Tier Library, Gibsonia. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/N/NTRL/EK.cfm?zeeOrg=NTRL “If you get aches, pains, or headaches while reading, then this program is for you! Join us as Dr. Jordan Rozich from Richland Chiropractic Center discusses and demonstrates the importance of proper reading ergonomics. This program will include ergonomic and postural tips to prevent aches and pains as well as ways you can minimize discomfort if it does occur. Registration is required.” 

“Spooky Nights Author Event”, Wednesday, October 16, 5PM-7PM, Barnes and Noble, 800 Settlers Ridge Center Dr., Pittsburgh. “Authors Chuck Beard, Abandoned Pittsburgh, Len Barcousky, Hidden History of Pittsburgh, and Joshua David Bellin, Survival Colony 9, will discuss and sign their books. ALL of the authors are local to Pittsburgh!” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062086848-0

“Land Snails as Paleoclinate Proxies: From Local to Global Scales”, Wednesday, October 16, 7:30PM, Cefalo’s Banquet and Event Center, 428 Washington Ave., Carnegie. Presented by Dr. Yurena Yanes, Fenneman Assistant Research Professor, Dept. of Geology, University of Cincinnati. This is a monthly meeting of the Pittsburgh Geological Society, and if you only want to hear the speaker, it’s free and open to the public. Members and nonmembers alike can come earlier for a catered meal, and teachers can receive a certificate for continuing education credits, but both require additional costs. Details here: https://pittsburghgeologicalsociety.org/index.html

“Filling out FAFSA”, Wednesday, October 16, 7PM-8PM, Monroeville Library, Yolanda’s Room. “FAFSA stands for "Free Application for Federal Student Aid." This is how students and families apply for financial aid through the federal government. Join Tyler Cuddeback from Let's Go to College to learn the ins and outs of filling out your FAFSA application.” 

“Mummies of the World”, Wednesday, October 16, 7PM, South Park Township Library. Preregistration required; call 412-833-5585 to register. “A representative from the Carnegie Science Center will be here to discuss their new exhibition “Mummies of the World”--the largest exhibition of mummies ever assembled. This presentation will provide a window into the lives of ancient people from every region of the world including Europe, South America, and Ancient Egypt, offering unprecedented insights into past cultures and civilization.” 

“How to Take Better Photos with your DSLR”, series of 4 Thursdays, October 17 and 24, and November 14 and 21, 7PM-8:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. $10. Payment is due in advance. Registration opens Tuesday, September 3rd. Attendees must register in person at the Circulation Desk. Payments can be made with cash or credit card. “How to Take Better Photos with your DSLR: a four-week course for beginner/intermediate level photographers (Oct. 17th, Oct. 24th, Nov. 14th, Nov. 21st) with the Photo Section Photography Club. Registrants should attend all four sessions.” 

“If I Don't Make It, I Love You - Reading, Signing and Discussion”, Thursday, October 17, 7PM-8PM, Riverstone Books, 8850 Covenant Ave., Pittsburgh. “Amye Archer and Loren Kleinman have gathered letters, essays, and stories into the book If I Don't Make It, I Love You; a powerful look back at over 50 years of school shootings. I Don’t Make It, I Love You collects more than sixty narratives from school shooting survivors, family members, and community leaders covering shootings in America, from the 1966 UT-Austin Tower shooting through May 2018’s Santa Fe shooting. Join us for a discussion on the impact of gun violence by hearing the voices of those most directly affected by the school shootings: the survivors. Their words will be read aloud by local high school drama students.” https://www.riverstonebookstore.com/events/if-i-dont-make-it-i-love-you-reading-signing-amp-discussion

“Author Night”, Thursday, October 17, 7PM-9PM, Northern Tier Library, Gibsonia. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/N/NTRL/EK.cfm?zeeOrg=NTRL “The Friends of the Northern Tier Library are proud to present their annual Authors Night. The evening will feature four local authors: Abigail Drake writes women's fiction, young adult fiction, and blogs about her naughty Labrador, Capone. Her newest book, Love, Chocolate, and a Dog Named Al Capone, is set in Beaver. Donald Firesmith lives in Crafton, Pennsylvania and writes modern paranormal fantasy and apocalyptic science fiction. He has authored seven technical books, but his foray into fiction includes The Secrets of Hawthorne House. Kathleen George is a professor of theatre and writing at the University of Pittsburgh. She has a series of procedural thrillers set in Pittsburgh, as well as The Johnstown Girls, her historical fiction novel about the Johnstown Flood. Michael Meyer teaches nonfiction writing at the University of Pittsburgh and spends the off-season in Singapore. He first went to China in 1995 with the Peace Corps, and is the author of the acclaimed The Last Days of Old Beijing. This program will be about an hour long, followed by a question and answer session with refreshments. The authors will have copies of their books for sale and available to sign. Registration is required.” 

“Spooky Nights Author Event”, Thursday, October 17, 5PM-7PM, Barnes and Noble, 800 Settlers Ridge Center Dr., Pittsburgh. “Join us for Spooky Nights from 5PM-7PM. Authors Katie Blanchard, ‘Dear Anna’ and ‘Pressing Flowers’, both psychological thrillers and Paul McFall, ‘Anubis’ a story of ancient horror, will be discussing and signing their books in the store. All authors are local!” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062086849-0

“Atoms and Aliens in Eurasian Science Fiction”, Thursday, October 17, 4PM-5:30PM, University of Pittsburgh, Wesley W. Posvar Hall 4217, 230 S. Bouquet St., Pittsburgh. “Since the mid-20th century, science fiction ahs shaped our view of the nuclear. The possibilities and horror of the nuclear has had a comparable impact on utopian and dystopian science fiction. American science fiction fans are well versed in the tropes. What was the relationship between the atom and Soviet/Post-Soviet science fiction? In this live interview, Anindita Banerjee will discuss the imagination of the nuclear in Soviet and post-Soviet science fiction.” https://calendar.pitt.edu/event/atoms_and_aliens_in_eurasian_science_fiction#.XZAwiC3Myi4

“A Fire on Venus”, Thursday, October 17 and Friday, October 18, 8PM, New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square East, Pittsburgh. $25 adults, $15 students. “Hip hop artist Brittney Chantele performs her recently released album A Fire on Venus. The album focuses on the moments of happiness, pain, excitement, and sadness of being in love. More than a concert, the production is rich with visual art, and energized by the choreography of Kaylin Horgan.” https://newhazletttheater.org/event/a-fire-on-venus/

“TRUTHSayers: April Ryan”, Thursday, October 17, 7PM, August Wilson Cultural Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “White House Correspondent April Ryan has a unique vantage point as the only black female reporter covering urban issues from the White House – a position she has held since the Clinton era. On behalf of the American Urban Radio Networks, and through her ‘Fabric of America’ news blog, she delivers her readership and listeners (millions of African Americans and close to 300 radio affiliates) a ‘unique urban and minority perspective in news’. Her position as a White House Correspondent has afforded her unusual insight into the racial sensitivities, issues, and attendant political struggles of our nation’s last presidents.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/66271/truthsayers-april-ryan

“PA Association of Numismatists Fall Coin Show”, Thursday, October 17, 12PM-6PM, Friday, October 18, 10AM-6PM, and Saturday, October 19, 10AM-4PM, Monroeville Convention Center, 209 Mall Blvd., Monroeville. Free admission. A Ben Franklin reenactor will be there on Friday and Saturday. https://pancoins.org

“Jekyll and Hyde the Musical”, Thursday, October 17 and Friday, October 18, 8PM, and Saturday, October 19, 2PM, Greensburg Garden and Civic Center, 951 Old Salem Rd., Greensburg. “Murder and chaos are pitted against love and virtue in this sweeping gothic musical based on the classic Robert Louis Stevenson story and featuring a thrilling score of pop rock hits.” https://www.thepalacetheatre.org/concerts-events/

“2019 Fall Exposition and Swap Meet”, Thursday, October 17 through Saturday, October 19, 7AM-8PM, Coolspring Power Museum, 179 Coolspring Rd., Coolspring. $8 adults, $16 for 3-day admission pass, 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

“Ghosts of Washington Haunted History Walking Tours”, Friday, October 18, Saturday, October 19, Friday, October 25, and Saturday, October 26, with tours leaving every 30 minutes from 6PM-9PM, meeting at the Bradford House, 175 S. Main St., Washington. $15. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.bradfordhouse.org/events/ “Hear ghastly tales and stories of the macabre! Learn of strange happenings and ghosts that haunt the streets of Washington. New for this year, visitors will hear stories in the Lemoyne House, Washington’s most haunted house!” 

“Spooky Nights Author Event”, Friday, October 18, 5PM-7PM, Barnes and Noble, 800 Settlers Ridge Center Dr., Pittsburgh. “Join us for authors Thomas White, "Legends and Lore of Western Pennsylvania," and "Witches of Pennsylvania: Occult History and Lore," and James Titus, "Supernatural Pittsburgh and Its Suburbs," and Tony LaVorgne," Astonishing Tales of Pennsylvania" for a panel discussion and book signing from 5PM until 7PM in store. All authors are local!” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062086850-0

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Presents “From Pittsburgh to Europe”, Friday, October 18 through Sunday, October 20, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Each day features a different concert. “This was the sound of an orchestra secure in its own identity’, raved the Financial Times of London. ‘The sheer force was startling’. Critics cheered the Pittsburgh Symphony and Manfred Honeck across Europe in 2017. Their fall 2019 return is among the most anticipated events of Europe’s musical season. Cheer first at Heinz Hall what Berlin, Vienna, Paris and other capitals will hear: Mozart, Bruckner and Shostakovich.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/62256/from-pittsburgh-to-europe

“Laser Cutting 101”, Friday, October 18, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to use the 40W laser at Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center to safely cut and etch your own designs! This introductory class is required in order to use the laser cutter during any Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.” 

New Horizon Theater Presents “Cowboy”, Friday, October 18 through Sunday, October 20, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/new-horizon-theater-cowboy/ “The powerful story of Bass Reeves, a freed slave who protected the Wild West as the first African-American United States Deputy Marshal. Bass is said to have arrested more than 3,000 outlaws without sustaining a single gun wound. Many people said he inspired the Lone Ranger character. 'Cowboy' is set in a saloon in the Indian Territory 1888. A tornado is slowly approaching as Bass and his Indian partner find themselves stuck inside with a group of outlaws, one for which he has a death warrant.” 

“Star Party at Hillman State Park”, Friday, October 18, 6:45PM-10PM, Hillman State Park, model airplane field. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/star_party_at_hillman_state_park_2448#.XZFw_i3Myi4 “As the sky begins to darken and the stars come out, join the Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh (AAAP) to learn about and see some of the amazing celestial objects in the night sky. Following a short presentation (45 minutes), we will head out and look at some of the items in the night sky with a variety of telescopes (basic and advanced models), and you may stay as long as you like for the stargazing part. We will be ending at 12:00am. Please note this program is weather permitting, so if the sky is overcast or rain is forecasted, the program will be rescheduled. If the sky is clear or a few scattered clouds, the Star Party is a go. You may bring your telescope to use or look through one set up by the AAAP. Please remember to bring extra layers of clothing for program since it can get quite cool at night. To fully enjoy the night sky and faint objects in telescopes, the use of use cell phones, white lights or flashlights, glow sticks, and flash photography are not permitted.” More details about the event here: https://3ap.org/calendar-of-events/

“5th Annual Bulgarian Folk Festival Na Megdana”, Friday, October 18 and Saturday, October 19, West Mifflin Middle School, 81 Commonwealth Ave., West Mifflin. “Join us for masterful performances of authentic Bulgarian folklore on October 19 at West Mifflin Middle School. Enjoy Vecherinka parties with live music and homemade Bulgarian food on both days! The food menu includes roasted lamb, hand-stuffed karnacheta (Bulgarian spiral sausage), pumpkin and cheese banitsa (Bulgarian pastries), salads and appetizers.” Complete details here: http://bmnecc.org/bulgarian-folk-festival-na-megdana/

“Mountain Mysteries Hike”, Friday, October 18, 7PM-9PM, Forbes State Forest. “Explore the forest in the dark on a guided night hike on Laurel Mountain, and learn about the odd and mysterious past of the Laurel Highlands. S’mores will be provided after the hike. Program is FREE but registration is required. Register by contacting rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/mountain_mysteries_hike_8003#.XZI66C3Myi4

“Public Sky Watch”, Friday, October 18, 6PM-9PM, Canoe Creek State Park, Main parking lots. “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_4565#.XZI-IS3Myi4

“Wildflowers, Wildlife Habitats and Meadows”, Friday, October 18, 2PM-4PM, Boyce Park Nature Center. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/bp-wildflowers-wildlife-habitats-meadows/4407 “Native wildflowers are the favorite food and refuge plant for indigenous wildlife. Experience a conservation/restoration opportunity as we garden for wildlife using bird/pollinator seeds and beneficial perennial varieties. We will work to create a balance of sustainable, functional ecosystems for our interactive, helpful, and diverse plant/animal attracted species near the Cucumber Trail entrance.” 

“Good Grief”, Friday, October 18 through Sunday, October 27, Pittsburgh Playhouse, Rauh Theatre, 350 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. “A story of love, loss and friendship, Good Grief focuses on a young woman, Nkechi, grieving the loss of her longtime friend and almost lover, MJ. While the story opens with Nkechi taking a sabbatical from her med-school program, she soon learns that her friend was in a terrible car crash. Good Grief takes place between 1992 and 2005 in a Pennsylvania suburb as Nkechi recalls memories and events from her life with MJ.” http://www.pittsburghplayhouse.com/current-season/conservatory-theatre-company/good-grief

Screening, “The Great Hack”, Saturday, October 19, 1:30PM-4:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “A screening of the 2019 documentary ‘The Great Hack’, which explores how a data company named Cambridge Analytica came to symbolize the dark side of social media in the wake of the 2016 U.S. presidential election, as uncovered by journalist Carole Cadwalladr. The movie is 2 hours long and an informal discussion will follow the movie.” 

“Mushroom Walk at Murrysville Community Park”, Saturday, October 19, 10AM-1PM, Murrysville Community Park, 4056 Wiestertown Rd., Export. Free. “Join Friends of Murrysville Parks and Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club for a walk at Murrysville Community Park. Meeting point is the parking lot by the back baseball field.” https://wpamushroomclub.org/events/murrysville-community-park/

“Wayne Hoffman: Mind Candy”, Saturday, October 19, 7:30PM, Hillman Center for the Performing Arts, Shady Side Academy Senior School, 423 Fox Chapel Rd., Pittsburgh. “Witness the impossible as illusionist and mentalist Wayne Hoffman reads the minds of audience members, demonstrates seemingly psychic phenomena, predicts the future and travels through time. Mind Candy is a crazy melting pot of serious mind reading, hilarious laugh-out-loud comedy and unbelievable mysteries that will have you on the edge of your seat!” https://www.thehillman.org/shows/hillman-performing-arts-series/wayne-hoffman

“Spooky Nights Author Event”, Saturday, October 19, 5PM-7PM, Barnes and Noble, 800 Settlers Ridge Center Dr., Pittsburgh. “Join us for a panel discussion and book signing by authors Matt Lake, 'Weird Pennsylvania', a book about weird and unusual things around Pennsylvania; Mord McGhee, 'Ghosts of the Golden Triangle' a fictional tale of horror, and Rebecca Drake, 'Just Between Us', and 'Only Ever You', both psychological thrillers. All authors are local!” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062086851-0

“Native Seed Collection Workshop”, Saturday, October 19, 10AM-12PM, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. $5. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8737 “Learn how to harvest native seed while you help the Audubon Center for Native Plants replenish its stocks and add to your own plant collection. Participants will get hands on experience collecting, cleaning and sowing a variety of native plant seed. Free to ASWP members and to members of the Fox Chapel Garden Club. $5 for nonmembers. Special thanks to the Fox Chapel Garden Club for underwriting this event.” 

“4th Annual Punkin Chunkin”, Saturday, October 19, 11AM-2PM, Hartwood Acres Park, Middle Road Site. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/ha-4th-annual-punkin-chunkin/4362 “Join Allegheny County Parks and SHARP Robotics from the Sarah Heinz House as we launch pumpkins across the amphitheater field. Enjoy crafts, games, activities and family fun. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from local food trucks and Hop Farm Brewing Company.” 

“Family Lantern Tours”, Saturday, October 19 and Saturday, October 26, with tours ongoing 6PM-9PM, Depreciation Lands Museum, 4743 S. Pioneer Rd, Allison Park. $7 adults, $5 ages 11 and under. “Enjoy a family friendly guided tour of the Museum and cemetery by lantern light. You will be treated to tall tales, superstitions and customs from the past. Mary Bliss Parsons has been accused of Witchcraft! In each building throughout the Village, you will hear our residents' tales and opinions on the subject. After a tour through the cemetery, you will head to the Deacon's Tavern to cast your vote for Mary Parsons guilt or innocence as a witch. While you enjoy hot cider and cookies, resident fiddler, Andrew, will entertain and Granny will have one more tale for your entertainment. The Deacon, our resident, benevolent ghost, just may be out this night also. You just may catch a glimpse of him as he wanders the grounds. Arrive anytime between 6pm and 9pm (no reservations). Tours depart every 10 minutes; allow 1 hour for your tour. Tours continue regardless of weather. Enjoyed most by adults and children 7 and older.” http://www.depreciationlandsmuseum.org/upcoming.Halloween.shtml

“Exploring Owls: Live Owl Encounter and Owl Prowl”, Saturday, October 19, 6PM-8:30PM, Round Hill Farm, Visitor Center. $10. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/rh-exploring-owls-live-owl-encounter-owl-prowl/4720 “Approximately 1 mile with moderate elevation changes. Join the Allegheny County Park Rangers and the Humane Animal Rescue Wildlife Center for a night of owl exploration. After an educational session including an appearance by a live owl, we will spend about an hour and a half exploring the woods looking for owls. Children 4 years and younger are Free!” 

“Hometown-Homegrown: Heinz 150”, Saturday, October 19, 10AM-3PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Included with museum admission. “This year, the tastiest food expo in Pittsburgh will mark the 150th anniversary of the H.J. Heinz Company with Heinz-inspired food samples, cooking demonstrations, special giveaways, and other Heinz-filled surprises. Come hungry for delicious samples from more than 40 of Pittsburgh’s finest food vendors, from long-time Pittsburgh staples to emerging local businesses. Learn new Heinz-themed recipes at special cooking demonstrations in the History Center’s Weisbrod Kitchen Classroom, featuring some of the best chefs in Western Pa.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/hometown-homegrown

“Exiled Voices: City of Asylum Resident Writer Reunion”, Saturday, October 19, 3PM-4:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 West North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/exiled-voices-city-of-asylum-resident-writer-reunion/ “Celebrate 15 years of sanctuary with a reading from City of Asylum’s former Writers-in-Residence! ‘We had no idea that a program providing sanctuary to endangered, exiled writers would resonate so deeply in the community. We only thought about the writers and making a new home for them, and then we discovered that our own neighborhood was being transformed in the process. Looking forward we hope our neighborhood will be an inspiring community to live in, where art and the imagination are central’. – Henry Reese, City of Asylum co-founder. Our 15th anniversary celebration begins with a special reading by five former City of Asylum Exiled Writers-in-Residence. This one-night-only event is an opportunity for the writers to reconnect with one another and, more importantly, to reunite with the people of Pittsburgh in a neighborhood they continue to transform.” 

“October Brown Bag Concert”, Saturday, October 19, 12PM-1PM, Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters, 2425 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “You're invited to our free October Brown Bag concert! See the 2019-20 Pittsburgh Opera Resident Artists up-close in the George R. White studio at Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters, 2425 Liberty Avenue in the Strip. It's free and open to everyone. Bring a friend and bring a lunch! Meet the Resident Artists afterward in an informal reception.” https://www.pittsburghopera.org/calendar/detail/october-brown-bag-concert4

“Fall Foliage Hike”, Saturday, October 19, 4PM-5:30PM, McConnells Mill State Park, Kildoo Picnic Area. “As daylight shortens and temperatures begin to drop the long days of summer become just a distant memory and slowly give way to fall. In what seems in a blink of an eye, Pennsylvania forests burst into flame. Colors of red, orange and yellow show their dominance over the landscape. Join the park naturalist to learn about the colors of fall on this fun interpretive hike. Fun for the whole family.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/fall_foliage_hike_8376#.XZI3sS3Myi4

“East Liberty Walking Tour”, Saturday, October 19, 2PM-4PM, meeting at 220 Third Street (Third Street at Third Avenue, across from Third Street Gallery), Carnegie. $20. Preregistration required; contact Mary Lu Denny: 412-471-5808, ext. 527; marylu@phlf.org. “Carnegie is located approximately seven miles west of Pittsburgh and ten miles east of the Pittsburgh International Airport. Now considered a suburb of Pittsburgh, the Allegheny County borough often makes news headlines because of the special events at the recently restored Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall and the impressive selection of restaurants and shops along Main Street. Historically, though, from 1890 to 1960, Carnegie was a commercial center for the surrounding farming villages and coal-mining camp towns such as Moon Run, Imperial, Oakdale, Kirwan Heights, Sygan, Cecil, and Muse. Explore the Main Street area with docents from PHLF and hear about the community’s resurgence, as well as the early settlers, the notable residents (including baseball hero Honus Wagner), the mills, railroads, commerce, floods, and library––the only one of several thousand permitted to use Andrew’s first and last name.” https://phlf.org/events/

“Haunted History Hayride”, Saturday, October 19, 7PM-10PM, Bushy Run Battlefield, 1253 Bushy Run Rd., Jeanette. $10 adults, $5 ages 4-12. Ages 3 and under not permitted. Preregistration required; register online: https://bushyrunbattlefield.com/news-events/ “Experience the battlefield from an entirely new perspective at night! Guided hay wagons will take visitors back in time as they stop along the trail where reenactors will portray the story of the Battle of Bushy Run. But beware! Ghosts and goblins are lurking in the woods and are too scary for those children under the age of 4. Admission includes entry to the Visitor Center and Museum. There will be concessions available as well as ghost stories and children activities in the Stone Room. Remember to bring a flashlight to help navigate your way in the dark! The rain date for this event is set for Saturday, October 26th.” 

“Applebutter Fest”, Saturday, October 19, 10AM-5PM, William Vicary Mansion, 1253 3rd Ave., Freedom. Free. “Join us for some fresh applebutter and bread from our outdoor bake oven! Take a few jars home from our Mansion Store! Featured program: 19th Century Weapons. Our event takes place rain or shine! Come see apple butter made in a copper kettle over a wood fire. It’s available for purchase in pint jars. It will be made using locally grown apples, donated by our friends at McConnells’ Farm and Market, Aliquippa. Tour our perennial and herb gardens. Tour the mansion, and our two archives rooms will be open.” http://bchrlf.org/events/applebutter-fest/

“Pittsburgh Author Sci/Fi Panel”, Saturday, October 19, 7PM, Barnes and Noble, 700 Mall Circle Dr., Monroeville. “Join us on October 19th at 7PM for a panel of Pittsburgh's best Science Fiction Writers! Authors will be holding a discussion panel, reading from their books and signing copies.” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062088428-0

“Creative Practice: Kim Beck Drawing Workshop”, Saturday, October 19, 10:30AM-12PM, Carnegie Museum of Art, Forum Gallery, 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. $10 adults, $5 students, free or members. Preregistration required; register online: https://cmoa.org/event/kim-beck-drawing-workshop/ “Practice the art of close observation in this interactive drawing workshop led by Kim Beck, Associate Professor of Art at Carnegie Mellon University. Hone your skills and reflect on Margaret Honda’s enigmatic frog sculpture in the Forum Gallery through drawing activities that bring the artwork to life. Drawing materials are provided and scholarships are available.” 

“Embroidery Series II: Bargello”, Sunday, October 20, 2PM-3:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room B. $5. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “Raven Fagelson, a graduate of the Royal School of Needlework's certificate program, will teach an embroidery class on Bargello, a form of canvaswork that was used in colonial America. Prerequisite: previous embroidery experience (cross stitch and needlepoint allowed.) Registration required and limited. Please bring small embroidery scissors. Students must bring any magnification that they need. All other supplies provided. $5 suggested donation.” 

“South Side Walking Tour”, Sunday, October 20, 12PM-1:30PM, meeting at Cindy Esser Plaza, 12th Street and East Carson Street, Pittsburgh. $20. Preregistration required; contact Mary Lu Denny: 412-471-5808, ext. 527; marylu@phlf.org. “Stroll through the commercial and residential heart of Pittsburgh’s South Side, between 12th Street and 18th Street, and admire this City Historic District. PHLF docents will share stories about the colorful, adaptable commercial and residential buildings bordering East Carson Street and several side streets. You’ll see religious structures, too, that are a testament to the diverse immigrant population that was attracted to the South Side when glass, iron, and steel factories operated on riverfront land. There will be much to see and enjoy on this stroll through one of Pittsburgh’s most popular neighborhoods.” https://phlf.org/events/

“Club Loose”, Sunday, October 20, 10AM-5PM, Pittsburgh International Race Complex, 201 Penndale Rd., Wampum. $5 to spectate. This is a drifting event. I hear it’s very fun to watch. https://pittrace.com/event/club-loose/

“Nature Navigation”, Sunday, October 20, 11AM-1PM, Forbes State Forest. “In the age of GPS it’s easy to overlook the map and compass. This beginner orienteering workshop will equip participants with the compass and map-reading skills to navigate throughout an orienteering course. Program is recommended for ages 8+. Program is FREE but registration is required. Register by contacting rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/nature_navigation#.XZI7MC3Myi4 

“Harvest Festival”, Sunday, October 20, 1:30PM-4:30PM, Oliver Miller Homestead, 1 Stone Manse Dr., South Park. $2. “Children can try their hand at 18th century games and crafts such as tin punch, corn crafts, doll making, butter churning, writing with a quill, bobbing for apples, sack racing and more. You are encouraged to come early in order to experience all the activities and take time to play in the giant leaf pile.” http://olivermillerhomestead.org/special-events/

“Halloween Hauntings Storytelling Tours”, Sunday, October 20, Saturday, October 26 and Sunday, October 27, 6PM-9PM, Compass Inn, 1382 Route 30 East, Laughlintown. $9 ages 13-61, $8 for seniors, $7 ages 5-12, free for ages 4 and under. Preregistration required; contact Amanda at 724-238-4983 or aseim@compassinn.org. “The waning autumn sun sets over Compass Inn Museum. Torches and newly- carved Jack-O-Lanterns illuminate the walkways leading to the dimly lit rooms of this once bustling stop. A cold breeze cuts through the air, rattling the dead leaves still clinging to the old maple tree. Compass Inn Museum's Annual Halloween Hauntings Tours have begun! As visitors begin to file up the gravel sidewalks, a figure steps out of the inn, approaching the excited patrons. A woman dressed in white. She beckons them to follow her into the comfort of the main room. The guests eagerly follow, hoping to catch a glimpse of an 18th-century apparition. As they enter the warmth of the room, the ghostly-figure in white fades away into the darkness. That's right! It's almost that time of year. Compass Inn Museum's Annual Halloween Hauntings begin Saturday, October 19th, and continue on Saturday, October 26th and Sunday, October 27th, from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. Tour the historic grounds and Compass Inn Museum, as the docents guide you through the past, immersing you in the eerie fables of those that lived, worked, and stopped at early 19th-century Compass Inn. Halloween Hauntings will have two different experiences for visitors to choose from. Starting at 6:00 pm (with the last tour at 7:15 pm), stories will be geared towards families with children. From 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm (with the last tour leaving at 8:30 pm), the stories are designed for more mature audiences. Amanda Seim, Compass Inn Museum Program Coordinator says, ‘The inn will be lighted by candlelight and fireplaces, so it'll be a spooky setting to listen to ghost stories. Visitors will get a great value since admission includes the tour as well as some refreshments. On October 26th and 27th we'll be featuring reenactor Joanne Shelby-Klein, who will be portraying a Civil War widow in mourning’." http://www.compassinn.com/news.asp

“Build Solidarity to Fight Anti-Semitism and Racism: An Attack on One is an Attack on All”, Sunday, October 20, 2PM, Historic Pump House, 880 E. Waterfront Dr., Munhall. Free. “The Tree of Life Synagogue Massacre on October 27, 2018 has cast an indelible stain on the history of Pittsburgh. Its first anniversary is marked with this panel discussion by historians and activists reviewing both our country’s tainted history and effective community responses to race-bating, hate-mongering, and systematic discrimination. How are we to understand this upsurge of murderous hatred against Jewish people and against people of color? What can and must be done? These questions will be addressed by a panel of Pittsburghers who have collectively spent decades studying and fighting Antisemitism and Racism. Following their presentations, the floor will be open for discussion.” https://battleofhomestead.org/bhf/event/build-solidarity-to-fight-anti-semitism-and-racism-an-attack-on-one-is-an-attack-on-all/

“Spooky Nights Author Event”, Sunday, October 20, 5PM-7PM, Barnes and Noble, 800 Settlers Ridge Center Dr., Pittsburgh. “Join four authors, Tony Lavorgne, Astonishing Tales of Pennsylvania, and Tim Murray, Michelle Smith and Haydn Thomas, Haunted Pittsburgh, for tales of ghostly, weird, strange and unusual happenings around our hometown of Pittsburgh. The authors will be holding a panel discussion from 5PM until 7PM and signing books as well. All authors are local!” https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062086852-0

“Air Force One: An Honor, Privilege, and Pleasure to Serve”, Monday, October 21. 7PM-8:30PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/P/PTLIB/ek.cfm “Join John L. Haigh as he talks about his 12 plus years serving as a crew member aboard the Air Force One flight crew; where 5 of those years were spent as the Chief Steward. Learn about his service to Presidents Jimmy Carter, Ronald Regan, and George H.W. Bush, the things that he learned, and stories he has to tell.” 

“Mixed Media Drawing”, Monday, October 21, 10AM-12PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. $5. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “Students will learn to create a successful composition using a variety of drawing materials. Using experimentation, students will play with solvency, learn the unique qualities of materials, and capture unexpected results. Jena Schieb created programming for children, teens, families and adults at Pittsburgh Filmmakers/Pittsburgh Center for the Arts as Director of Studio Arts for six years. She is a teaching artist with a Master's Degree in Education, providing art education for students at every age and level in schools and community and cultural organizations like the Carnegie Museum of Art. Registration required. Ages 11 to adult. Materials provided. $5 suggested donation.” 

“The History of Pennsylvania as Told Through PA Books”, Monday, October 21, 6:30PM-8PM, Northern Tier Library, Gibsonia. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/N/NTRL/EK.cfm?zeeOrg=NTRL “Brian Lockman, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Cable Network, has hosted more than 800 episodes of PCN's popular television show, PA Books. For over 20 years, authors have appeared on the program to discuss their books covering the state's history, people, and culture. Starting with the first humans who lived here 16,000 years ago, to the New Sweden colony, through the American Revolution, to Gettysburg, to the Industrial Revolution and up to the present, Pennsylvania's rich story has been told by some of today's most prominent historians. Please join Brian at Northern Tier Library as he shares some of his favorite books and stories from his 20 years of talking with authors. Attendees will get to hear about some lesser-known scenes from Pennsylvania's history.” 

“Fake News and Information Literacy, Teen Workshop”, Monday, October 21, 3:30PM-5PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/teens-fake-news-and-information-literacy-workshop-tickets-67114143209 “In today's world, the phrase ‘fake news’ gets thrown around a lot. But what does that mean? Who creates it and how does it spread? How can you know what you're hearing and reading is accurate and true? From Soviet propaganda to message boards like 4chan, this class will take teens inside the wild, devious world of fake news, of present and past, and give you the tools you need to fight it. Presented by the Allegheny Library Association and Public Source.” 

“Author Talk with Daniel Lowe”, Monday, October 21, 6:30PM, Brentwood Library, Pittsburgh. “Join us Monday evening, October 21st to listen to local author, Daniel Lowe, discuss his debut novel 'All that's Left To Tell', a psychological thriller. Every night, Marc Laurent, an American taken hostage in Pakistan, is bound and blindfolded. And every night, a woman he knows only as Josephine visits his cell. At first, her questions are mercenary: is there anyone back home who will pay the ransom? But when Marc can offer no name, she asks him a question about his daughter that is even more terrifying than his captivity. And so begins a strange yet increasingly comforting ritual, in which Josephine and Marc tell each other stories.” 

“Orionids Meteor Shower”, Monday, October 21 and Tuesday, October 22, just before dawn. “On a dark, moonless night, the Orionids exhibit a maximum of about 10 to 20 meteors per hour. More meteors tend to fly after midnight, and the Orionids are typically at their best in the wee hours before dawn. These fast-moving meteors occasionally leave persistent trains. The Orionids sometimes produce bright fireballs, which can overcome some moonlight in years when the moon intrudes. If you trace these meteors backward, they seem to come from the Club of the famous constellation Orion the Hunter. In 2019, the moon is just past last quarter and will interfere with the Orionids. Try in the wee hours before dawn on October 21 and 22, in the light of the waning moon.” https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/everything-you-need-to-know-orionid-meteor-shower

“Meet the Author: Kate Hope Day”, Tuesday, October 22, 6:30PM-7:45PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh East Liberty. “Join the Library in conjunction with the University of Pittsburgh’s Humanities Center for an evening with author Kate Hope Day as she discusses her debut work, ‘If, Then’. Day will give a reading from her book followed by a discussion and Q/A session. The event will also be recorded for the Humanities Center’s podcast series Being Human.” “In the mountain haven of Clearing, Oregon, four neighbors find their lives upended when they begin to see themselves in a parallel reality.” https://www.katehopeday.com/

“Write or Die: Halloween Reading Event!”, Tuesday, October 22, 6PM-8:55PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. “Announcing the 6th annual, Write or Die, Halloween Reading event! Our theme this year is ‘Harvest’. All the stories written and read by our Write or Die authors will correlate with the theme. Join us for masses of readings to feed your nightmares, bountiful door prizes, and refreshments to satiate even the most stuffed scarecrows. The event is FREE to attend! We hope all souls will join us on this special night, as we celebrate the craft of writing during this fantastically frightening Halloween season. 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.” 

“If Only I Knew: Financial Lessons to My Younger Self”, Tuesday, October 22, 7PM, University of Pittsburgh, Alumni Hall, 7th Floor Auditorium, 4227 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. “Patrice Washington shares her experiences and observations on her journey from debt-laden 18-year-old to bestselling author, radio host and leading authority on personal finance and success.” https://calendar.pitt.edu/event/if_only_i_knew_financial_lessons_to_my_younger_self#.XZAxxy3Myi4

“Ancestry DNA”, Tuesday, October 22, 6PM-7:30PM, Butler Area Library. Preregistration required; register by emailing mhewitt@bcfls.org or signing up at the front desk. “What do Ancestry DNA's test results actually mean? Discover new Ancestry features, online tools, and research strategies to look beyond the ethnicity pie chart and make the most of your results.” 

“Artist Lecture: Kalup Linzy”, Tuesday, October 22, 6:30PM-8PM, Carnegie Mellon University, Kresge Theater, College of fine Arts Building, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Free and open to the public. Campus map here: https://www.cmu.edu/assets/pdfs/campus-map-2019-8.5x11.pdf “School of Art Associate Professor Jongwoo Jeremy Kim, PhD, is a specialist of modern and contemporary art addressing issues concerning gender, race, and sexuality. Kim is the author of Painted Men in Britain, 1868-1918: Royal Academicians and Masculinities and is co-editor of the interdisciplinary anthology Queer Difficulty in Art and Poetry: Rethinking the Sexed Body in Verse and Visual Culture. He is currently at work on his next book, Male Bodies Unmade: Picturing Queer Selfhood.” http://www.art.cmu.edu/event/lecture-series-jongwoo-jeremy-kim/

“This Could Be Important: Book Talk and Signing with Author Pamela McCorduck”, Tuesday, October 22, 6:30PM-8PM, Carnegie Mellon University, Hunt Library, IDeATe Studio A, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. All attendees will receive a copy of the book. Preregistration required; register online: https://cmu.libcal.com/calendar/events/this-could-be-important Campus map here: https://www.cmu.edu/assets/pdfs/campus-map-2019-8.5x11.pdf “The University Libraries and ETC Press present a book talk and signing with author Pamela McCorduck for her latest book ‘This Could Be Important: My Life and Times with the Artificial Intelligentsia’. Pamela McCorduck didn’t just have a front row seat to computer science history, she wrote the book on it. An author of influential books – such as ‘Machines Who Think’, the first modern history of artificial intelligence, and ‘The Fifth Generation’, co-authored with Ed Feigenbaum – her writings have influenced a generation of computer scientists. McCorduck’s latest book ‘This Could Be Important: My Life and Times with the Artificial Intelligentsia’ is one part memoir, one part social history, and one part group biography, drawing personal portraits of the four founding fathers of AI, Allen Newell, Herbert Simon, Marvin Minsky and John McCarthy. This is a story nobody else could tell.” 

“The Courthouse and City-County Building In-Depth Walking Tour”, Tuesday, October 22, 10AM-11:30AM, meeting at Grant Street, Pittsburgh PA 15219 (City-County Building steps, near statue of Mayor Richard Caliguiri). $20. Preregistration required; contact marylu@phlf.org or 412-471-5808 x527. “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-2/

“STEM Adventures: Eyewitness Testimony”, Tuesday, October 22, 3:30PM-4:30PM, Castle Shannon Library, Pittsburgh. Ages 10-18. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=CASTSHAN&curMode=LOGIN&curHelp=&curMonth=10&curYear=2019 “This week we will learn about the process of eyewitness testimony and how it is helpful (or harmful) for solving crimes. We will do a series of activities based on eyewitness testimony.” 

“College Prep: Finding your Best Fit Campus”, Wednesday, October 23, 7PM-8PM, Monroeville Library, Yolanda’s Room. “There are over 3,000 colleges and universities across the US. How do you pick the best college for you? Join Tyler Cuddeback from Let's Go to College to learn how to find your ‘best fit’ campus.” 

“The Power of the Pen”, Wednesday, October 23, 7PM-8:30PM, Castle Shannon Library, Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-power-of-the-pen-getting-public-attention-on-your-issues-tickets-67118714883?aff=efbeventtix “This workshop will teach you about storytelling in the digital age. Get tips for composing powerful narratives from stories and data. Practice pitching a story for media attention!” 

“Excel Beyond the Basics”, Wednesday, October 23, 5:45PM-7:45PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Job and Career Education Center. “Develop your Excel skills beyond basic spreadsheets and formulas. Learn how to sort data, turn your data list into a table, assign a workbook password, create charts and more. Prerequisite: Excel Basics or previous Excel experience. Please call 412-622-3133 to register.” 

“Teen Special Effects Make-Up Workshop with Tolin FX”, Wednesday, October 23, 3:15PM-4:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “Get in the Halloween makeup spirit with Tolin FX's SFX workshop w/ makeup transfers! Tolin FX is an award-winning Special FX Makeup Studio, serving the art and entertainment industries for over 20 years. Tolin FX has a reputation for outstanding professionalism, detail-oriented design, precise fabrication, and a passion for creating.” 

“The Poetry Project: Master of the Macabre, Edgar Allen Poe”, Wednesday, October 23 through Friday, October 25, Trust Arts Education Center, 907 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Matinees recommended for grades 9-12. “Volume 1 of the Poetry Project explores 12 poems from Edgar Allan Poe, the master of the macabre. Experience his poems in an entirely new way in this interactive, multi-media production. Take a deep dive into the horror and the beauty of Poe’s writing and the women in his life through the creation of music, light, sound, and movement. Move from passive to active as you become a creator of content and play a part in curating your own experience during the performance. The Poetry Project works with a collection of poetry and a group of interdisciplinary artists to create a 90 minute theatrical experience. Participants have a chance to curate their own interpretations of the text before watching a new show that utilizes the works of the selected poet.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/67035/the-poetry-project-master-of-the-macabre-edgar-allen-poe 

“Lee Terbisuc in the Life and Death of Harry Houdini”, Wednesday, October 23 through Sunday, November 3, Liberty Magic, 811 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. "Harry Houdini died on Halloween night in 1926. Join Lee Terbosic, widely considered one of the foremost magical experts on Houdini, as he explores the mysteries surrounding Houdini's astonishing life and death. It seems quite appropriate that the world's most famous magician should pass away on the year's most ‘magical’ day. Even more intriguing, Houdini was 52 years old when he died, the exact number of playing cards in a deck. Further, he was born 26 years before the start of the new century, and died 26 years into the next one- as if his ‘life's deck’ had been deftly cut in half by Fate, the ultimate magician. For a full ten years after Houdini's death, his wife Bess conducted a séance on October 31. These séances were always attended by the top names in magic, as well as personal friends of the great magician. Houdini had told Bess that if it were possible, he would send a message to her ‘from beyond’, in secret code. Lee Terbosic is an internationally touring magician, comedian, actor, daredevil and entertainer from Pittsburgh, PA who is proving that anything is possible. Lee is the co-star of Discovery Science Channel’s recent smash Houdini’s Last Secrets, a four-part TV docuseries that uncovers incredible secrets about Harry Houdini’s life, family, magic and science behind some of his biggest stunts and escapes. In this special limited engagement event, Lee will lead audiences through an exploration of some of Houdini's most magical moments. The 75-minute performance, part lecture, part Q/A, part demo, and all magic- will leave you wondering if there was something more sinister afoot on the night of Houdini's passing 93 years ago.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/65683/liberty-magic-lee-terbosic-in-the-life-and-death-of-harry-houdini 

“Science Fiction Book Discussion Group”, Wednesday, October 23, 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: “Artemis” by Andy Wier. Short Fiction: “Elvis at the White House” by Kristine Kathryn Rusch, and “Bring the Kids and Revisit the Past at the Traveling Retro Funfair” by Seanan McGuire. 

“Tarot 101”, Wednesday, October 23, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Beechview. “Try your hand at tarot in this introductory workshop, led by local expert tarot reader Rebecca Bloom. We’ll learn what tarot is, how tarot can be used, ways to interpret the cards, and how to do your own reading.” 

“Genealogy Club: Digging Deep with Wills and Estates”, Wednesday, October 23, 6:30PM, Cranberry Library. “Wills and estate files can hold valuable clues for your genealogy research. Many helpful facts can be recorded in these papers, including dates of death, family members, married names for women, affiliations, occupations, and more. Learn more about finding and using these unique records.” 

“Carnegie Library’s Depository Collection”, Thursday, October 24, 6PM-7PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Please join us for a look at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s Depository collection. You will have a chance to learn about what type of books, magazines, and journals make up this historical collection, and view some unique reference items that preserve the heritage of the Western Pennsylvania region, as well as the nation. This presentation is free and open to the public.” 

“Owl Prowl”, Thursday, October 24, 7PM-8:30PM, Irwin Run Conservation Area, and Wednesday, October 30, 7PM-8:30PM, Olympia Park in Emerald View Park. $10. Preregistration required; call the National Aviary at 412-258-9463 to register. “Join National Aviary Ornithologist Bob Mulvihill for a guided, after-dark nature walk to look and listen for owls in Pittsburgh’s parks. Bob will lead you into the woods as you search the treetops for Eastern Screech Owls, Great Horned Owls, and Barred Owls. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a flashlight for this nighttime adventure!” https://www.aviary.org/special-events/owl-prowl

“Jurassic World Live”, Thursday, October 24 through Sunday, October 27, PPG Paints Arena, 1001 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. “Jurassic World comes to life for the first time in a touring arena show! Your trip to Isla Nublar takes a terrifying turn after the Indominus rex escapes and causes chaos in the park! The adventure continues as you join forces with a team of scientists to unravel a corrupt plan and save Jeanie, an all-new dinosaur, from a terrible fate. Along the way, experience some of Jurassic World’s most iconic dinosaurs including Blue the Raptor, Triceratops, Pteranodons and the mighty T. rex!” https://www.jurassicworldlivetour.com

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, Thursday, October 24 through Sunday, October 27, Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Pittsburgh. “The irresistible family musical about the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son. One of the most enduring shows of all time, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers and the coat of many colors. The magical musical is full of catchy songs in a variety of styles, from a parody of French ballads (‘Those Canaan Days’), to country-western (‘One More Angel in Heaven’) and calypso (‘Benjamin Calypso’), along with the unforgettable classics ‘Any Dream Will Do’ and ‘Close Every Door.’ Joseph... is a special presentation by the students of the Richard E. Rauh Conservatory, backed by the talented CAPA Orchestra, and fully produced by the professional artists of Pittsburgh Musical Theater.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/66255/joseph-and-the-amazing-technicolor-dreamcoat

“The Art and Stories of Ghost Hunting”, Thursday, October 24, 7PM-8PM, South Park Township Library. Ages 14 to adult. Preregistration required; call 412-833-5585 to register. “Ghosts? Spirits? Do you believe? Do you have any ghost stories to share? Ken Smith has some REAL stories to share. Let’s talk about it! Ken is a paranormal investigator with 10 years of experience. Join him in a paranormal discussion. There will also be equipment used in actual investigations. Ken will discuss how and why investigators believe spirits communicate through these devices. This is sure to be a fun and spooky evening!” 

“MLK Day Writing Awards Fall Speaker Series: Sarah Valentine”, Thursday, October 24, 4:30PM-5:30PM, Carnegie Mellon University, Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion, Cohon University Center lower level, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Campus map here: https://www.cmu.edu/assets/pdfs/campus-map-2019-8.5x11.pdf “Writer Sarah Valentine will give a reading of her new novel ‘When I Was White’, as part of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Writing Awards Fall Speaker Series at Carnegie Mellon University. A 2000 alumna of Carnegie Mellon, Valentine is a widely published author and translator. Valentine’s acclaimed new memoir ‘When I Was White’ recounts Valentine’s upbringing in Pittsburgh as a mixed-race African American in a white family. Publishers Weekly calls the memoir ‘fervent and heartfelt… a disturbing and engrossing tale of deep family secrets’. It is based on Valentine’s award-winning essay of the same name, which was first published in ‘The Chronicle of Higher Education’. A 2013 Lannan Fellow, Valentine has taught literature and creative writing at Princeton University; University of California, Los Angeles; University of California-Riverside; and Northwestern University.” https://www.cmu.edu/dietrich/english/mlk/speaker-series.html

“College Essay Workshop”, Thursday, October 24, 12:30PM-3:30PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/P/PTLIB/ek.cfm “Instructor: Mr. Chris Hitchens, College Admissions Consultant. The goal of this workshop is for high school students to leave with a strong first draft of their Common App Personal Statement. Students will be led through a number of exercises that will allow them to develop topics, integrate proper structure, and self-edit an essay that leaves a strong, positive impression on college admissions officers. 

“Moving Forward Together”, Thursday, October 24, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Squirrel Hill. “Join us for an evening of listening and sharing through theatre. Pittsburgh Playback Theatre will be performing your stories at the Squirrel Hill Library to commemorate the one year anniversary of the shooting at Tree of Life * Or L’Simcha, Dor Hadash and New Light. Marking the passage of time is important in healing and building community resiliency. While Pittsburgh and Squirrel Hill have been showered with love and support from around the world in the wake of the horrific events of 10/27/18, where are we one year later? This event is open to community members of all ages. We especially want to welcome teens and adults. Participants are not required to share.” 

“Bigfoot in Pennsylvania”, Thursday, October 24, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Cranberry Library, Franklin Station South. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.cranberrytownship.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=14953&month=10&year=2019&day=27&calType=0 “Brian Seech is a researcher and investigator of the unexplained and founder of two research groups, Center for Unexplained Events (CUE) and Center for Cryptozoological Studies (CCS). Brian has been researching the unexplained since 1986. He has appeared on Monsters and Mysteries in America on Destination America, a national cable channel. He also co-wrote articles for the Creature Chronicles column in the Hancock County Courier in WV from August – November 2013. Brian was a co-instructor for the first ever cryptozoology class at Eastern Gateway College in Steubenville, OH in 2013 and 2015. He will be giving a presentation entitled “Bigfoot in Pennsylvania”. Learn about the history and local sightings of this mysterious creature, Afterwards, there will be a question and answer session and eyewitnesses can come forward with their sightings.” 

“Rainbow Reading Group: An LGBTQIA+ Book Discussion Group”, Thursday, October 24, 6:30PM-8PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Director’s Conference Room. “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. October’s book selection is 'Tomorrow Will Be Different: Love, Loss, and the Fight for Trans Equality' by Sarah McBride – The national press secretary for the Human Rights Campaign presents a timely memoir about her struggles with gender identity and relationships against a backdrop of the transgender equality movement.” 

“Unlock Your History”, Thursday, October 24, 9AM-1:30PM, Old Economy Village, 270 16th St., Ambridge. $15. Preregistration required; register by October 18 by contacting Jason Weber at 724-266-4500 x 101 or at c-jaweber@pa.gov. “On Thursday, October 24, 2019 Old Economy Village welcomes presenters from 'Unlock Your History', an affiliate member/program from the Heinz History Center. Museum professionals and experts in history, hand-written documents, and preservation, along with those in attendance, will explore and discuss how heirlooms, genealogy, translation, and history all come together to demonstrate the importance of your personal story. Your story matters! Learn about the documents that might be in your attic, and how you can better understand their contents. The presenters will discuss how anyone can decipher clues hidden within documents, and they will provide guidance about when to get more help. You will also hear about options available to care for your personal artifacts. The workshop will include an offering of free, brief reviews of your Germanic and Scandinavian family letters, postcards, and other documents. If you think you have something written in German, Danish, Dutch, Swedish, or Norwegian, now is your chance to discover what they are all about. Be sure to bring a sample for a quick review at the end of the session. The cost is $15.00 per person. The workshop will start at 9:00 a.m. and go until 1:30 p.m. The presenters will be available after the workshop to answer your questions and to look over your documents. Lunch is included, and attendees are welcomed to tour the site after the workshop has ended.” http://oldeconomyvillage.org/visit/calendar/

“Graphic Novel Book Club”, Thursday, October 24, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Woods Run. “Join us once a month to discuss graphic novels and comics, whether you are new to the format or a lifelong fan! The club will read a variety of genres. October’s selection is 'Batman: the Long Halloween' by Jeff Loeb.” 

“Living as if We Have a Future on this Earth”, Friday, October 25, 3PM-4PM, University of Pittsburgh, Thaw Hall 102, 3943 O’Hara St., Pittsburgh. Distinguished Alumni Lecture: Dr. Penny Sackett (Former Chief Scientist of Australia). “We are living in the Anthropocene. Recent research shows that humans are — on many fronts — pushing the Earth beyond its “planetary boundaries” to sustain the environment in which we have thrived. A possible outcome is the crossing of “tipping points” in the Earth System. Anthropogenic climate change is a particularly alarming case in point. Global warming and its effects are accelerating non-linearly, with the consequence that the risk of crossing a fundamental tipping is now non-neglible.” https://calendar.pitt.edu/event/distinguished_alumni_lecture_dr_penny_sackett_former_chief_scientist_of_australia#.XZAyhi3Myi4

“Giselle with the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Orchestra”, Friday, October 25 through Sunday, October 27, Benedum Center, 7th St. and Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Hope, heartache and betrayal cast their haze on one of the most breathtaking ballets of the Romantic period in Giselle with the PBT Orchestra. A village girl is doomed by a lover’s deceit to a ghostly sisterhood of spurned maidens intent on revenge in what the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette calls a ‘bewitching and beguiling dance with death’. Audiences will lose themselves among the mist and supernatural beauty of the fascinating scenery, story and score by Adolphe Adam.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/61980/highmark-presents-giselle-with-the-pbt-orchestra

“Vinyl Cutting 101”, Friday, October 25, 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 computer controlled vinyl cutter in Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center. This introductory class is required in order to use the vinyl cutter during Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.” 

“Night Sky Exploration and Hike”, Friday, October 25, 8PM-10PM, Harrison Hills Park, Environmental Learning Center. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/hh-night-sky-exploration-and-hike/4698 “Come explore the mythology, science and beauty of the night sky. Be prepared to hike approximately 1 mile.” 

“Origami Paper Crafts Workshop”, Saturday, October 26, 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.” 

“Meadowcroft’s Fall Finale and Taffy Pull”, Saturday, October 26, 12PM-5PM, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, 401 Meadowcroft Rd. Avella. Regular admission applies, but the taffy pulls are $3 extra and reservations are required. “Spend an autumn afternoon outside celebrating the final day of Meadowcroft’s season! Join us for a day of special, fall-themed programming. Cooking demonstrations in the Hamilton Log House. Cornhusk crafting in 18th century frontier area. Atlatl throwing in Monongahela Indian Village. Bring your sweet tooth to Meadowcroft’s taffy pulling parties! Parties will be held on the half-hour at the King House. There is a $3 fee per participant in addition to regular admission. Space is limited, so please call 724-587-3412 to reserve your spot in a taffy-pulling party!” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/meadowcrofts-fall-finale-2019

“Guided Tour: A Tradition of Innovation”, Saturday, October 26, 11AM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Included with museum admission. “Discover the story of Pittsburgh’s past and future in this guided tour of the Pittsburgh: A Tradition of Innovation exhibit. A History Center docent will guide you through this exhibit and share stories and objects from Pittsburgh’s innovators throughout the ages. Whether you’re a life-long Pittsburgher or a brand-new visitor, you’ll discover something new about our city!” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/guided-tour-pittsburgh-tradition-of-innovation-oct-26

“Hauntings and Ghost Tales”, Saturday, October 26, 6:30PM-8:30PM, William Vicary Mansion, 1253 3rd Ave., Freedom. “Always some exciting and spooky tales and urban legends of Beaver County! The mansion is always decorated spectacularly!” Details TBA: http://bchrlf.org/events/hauntings-ghost-tales/

“Better Backyard Bird Feeding”, Saturday, October 26, 10AM at Beechwood Farms Nature Preserve, and 2PM at Todd Nature Store. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events “Ever want to attract more birds to yard? This program explains the dos and don’ts behind backyard bird feeding, and how the experts get more birds. Participants will also learn about Project Feeder Watch and how it helps scientists monitor bird populations. Appropriate for adults and interested youth. This event is free.” 

“Indigenous Woodland Walk, Harvest and Feast”, Saturday, October 26, 11AM-1PM, North Park, Latodami Nature Center. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/np-indigenous-woodland-walk-harvest-and-feast/4573 “Come along with Earl Dingus (Cherokee) and Lee Dingus (Seneca) for a walk through the fall bounty of North Park habitats as we identify wild edibles of the area. Later, enjoy sampling prepared native dishes.” 

“Owl Prowl with a Park Ranger”, Saturday, October 26, 6PM-8PM, Hartwood Acres Park, Middle Road Parking Lot. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/ha-owl-prowl-with-a-park-ranger/4705 “Whooo? Whooo? Whooooo is out there? Come explore the wonderful world of owls! After a brief discussion, we'll go searching for owls. Be sure to bring a flashlight and be ready for a hike in the woods. Children under age 4 are free!” 

“Opera Up Close – Florencia en el Amazonas”, Sunday, October 27, 2PM-3:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, North Wing Music Room, 2nd Floor. “Join Pittsburgh Opera Artistic Administrator Robert Boldin, cast members, and more, for a fun in-depth look at Florencia en el Amazonas. Special guest Alexandra B. Reznik, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Humanities at Chatham University, will delve into Gabriel García Márquez’s magical realism which inspired this opera.” 

“A Bump in the Night”, Sunday, October 27, 7PM-9PM, Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. When darkness envelops the landscape and human vision fails, the other four senses suddenly become alert. As imaginations run wild, night sounds often can send chills up the spine and start a heart pounding. Come to Jennings Environmental Education Center on Sunday, October 27 at 7:00 p.m. for a listen to these nocturnal noises and a look at what makes them. A brief indoor presentation will focus on the folklore, legends and stories that were created to give meaning to unfamiliar sounds, and to explain why some animals come out only at night. The presentation will be followed by an outdoor walk into the forest haunts of these nocturnal creatures to learn about their sensory adaptations and to experience how night affects our own five senses. (Pre-registration is not required for this free program, but do dress appropriately and plan to be outdoors in the dark forest for about an hour.) https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/a_bump_in_the_night#.XZI2si3Myi4

“2019 Pittsburgh Zine Fair”, Sunday, October 27, 12PM-6PM, Ace Hotel, 120 S. Whitfield St., Pittsburgh. “Since its debut at AIR: Artists Image Resource in 2011, the PZF has attracted a diverse group of artists, writers and activists from across the region whose content may vary but the format remains the same- the zine. An icon of DIY ethos and radical info sharing, the zine decentralizes media and vaults individual expression while remaining inexpensive.” https://www.facebook.com/events/650268678825850/

“Hike N Hammer”, Sunday, October 27, 10AM-3PM, Greene County. $30, or $25 for Venture Outdoors members, 75% off for Greene County residents. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/events/7520361/ “Step back in time to discover the artistry of 1900's blacksmithing. Hike 6 miles along the Greene County Trail to Rices Landing. There we'll find W.A Young and Sons Foundry and Machine Shop. Tour the centuries old blacksmith shop, pattern shop, hardware store, and foundry. Marvel as the machines are switched on for a live demonstration of W.A. Young’s line shaft driven technology. Wrap up with a hike back to the yacht club for snacks and drinks at Galley Restaurant. W.A Young and Sons Foundry and Machine Shop was founded in 1900 and operating until 1965, it is one of the best-preserved examples of an early 20th-century small industrial machine shop in the nation. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2016. Participants should pack a lunch. Snacks and drinks at the end of the outing are optional and not included in the registration price.” 

“The Queen’s Six” Sunday, October 27, 7:30PM, Slippery Rock University, University Union MPR. “Based at Windsor Castle, The Queen's Six are members of St. George's Chapel Choir, which performs at chapel services as well as private and state occasions and often before the royal family. These extraordinary singers perform a broad repertoire, from early chant, Renaissance polyphony, bawdy madrigals and haunting folk songs to upbeat jazz and pop arrangements.’ https://www.sru.edu/life-at-sru/arts-and-culture/performing-arts-series

Screening, “Chisholm ‘72”, Sunday, October 27, 6PM-7:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 West North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/sembene-film-festival-chisholm/ “CHISHOLM ’72: Unbought and unbossed (2005) is the definitive historical documentary on Brooklyn Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm and her campaign to become the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee in 1972. Following Chisholm from the announcement of her candidacy in January to the Democratic National Convention in Miami, Florida in July, the story is like her- fabulous, fierce, and fundamentally right on. Chisholm’s fight is for inclusion, as she writes in her book The Good Fight (1973) and encompasses all Americans who agree that the institutions of this country belong to all of the people who inhabit it. Shunned by the political establishment, Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm asks people of color, feminists and young voters for their support to reshape our society and take control of our destiny as we go down the Chisholm Trail in 1972. To the surprise of many, voters responded.” Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-uk2JuXZMwY

“Guided Nature Hike: Seasons and Cycles”, Sunday, October 27, 2PM-4PM, Settler’s Cabin Park, Tomahawk. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/sc-guided-nature-hike-seasons-and-cycles/4725 “This hike will be approximately 2 miles with moderate elevation changes.” 

“Guided Nature Hike: The End is Just the Beginning”, Sunday, October 27, 4PM-6PM, North Park, School House. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/np-guided-nature-hike-the-end-is-just-the-beginnig/4711 “This hike will be approximately 2 miles with moderate elevation changes. Explore the world of decomposition and discover life after death in the forest.” 

“After the Caliphate”, Monday, October 28, 7PM-8:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. “In 2014, the declaration of the Islamic State caliphate was hailed as a major victory by the global jihadist movement. But it was short-lived. Three years on, the caliphate was destroyed, leaving its surviving fighters – many of whom were foreign recruits – to retreat and scatter across the globe. So what happens now? Is this the beginning of the end of IS? Or can it adapt and regroup after the physical fall of the caliphate? In this timely analysis, terrorism expert Colin P. Clarke takes stock of IS – its roots, its evolution, and its monumental setbacks – to assess the road ahead.” 

“Witches of Pennsylvania: Occult History and Lore”, Tuesday, October 29, 6PM-7:30PM, Cranberry Library, Franklin Station South. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.cranberrytownship.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=15057&month=10&year=2019&day=27&calType=0 “Discover the strange but true history of witchcraft in Pennsylvania. Thomas White is the university archivist and curator of special collections at Duquesne University. He is also an adjunct lecturer in Duquesne’s History Department and an adjunct professor of history at La Roche College. Since William Penn presided over the state’s only official witch trial in 1684, witchcraft and folk magic have been a part of the history of the Keystone state. Come listen and learn.” 

“STEM Adventures: Halloween Crime Scene”, Tuesday, October 29, 3:30PM-4:30PM, Castle Shannon Library, Pittsburgh. Ages 10-18. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=CASTSHAN&curMode=LOGIN&curHelp=&curMonth=10&curYear=2019 “This week visit the library to solve the Halloween Crime Scene! We will use techniques and skills acquired at the last six STEM Adventures classes. However, you do not have to have attended any or all of the previous classes to come solve the crime scene. Who will be the quickest, most accurate detective on the case?” 

“Mean Girls”, Tuesday, October 29 through Sunday, November 3, Benedum Center, 7th St. and Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free party for teens at Trust Arts Education Center before the October 29th performance: https://www.trustarts.org/event/18559-2019/teen-night-on-broadway-mean-girls “Direct from Broadway, Mean Girls is the hilarious hit musical from an award-winning creative team, including book writer Tina Fey (‘30 Rock’), composer Jeff Richmond (‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’), lyricist Nell Benjamin (Legally Blonde) and director Casey Nicholaw (The Book of Mormon). Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. Soon, this naïve newbie falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting stung.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/63006/mean-girls 

“An Evening with Historical Fiction Author Sophie Perinot”, Tuesday, October 29, 7PM-8:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. “The Revolution was female. Sophie Perinot, one of 6 bestselling and award-winning authors behind ‘Ribbons of Scarlet: A Novel of the French Revolution’s Women’, speaks on the unforgettable women at the book’s center: a proponent of democracy and equal rights for women, a leader of the march on Versailles, a devote princess loyal to her brother the doomed French King, a politician’s wife with more political savvy than her husband, a pike-wielding revolutionary, an assassin, and a famous beauty who hopes to stop the Terror by influencing Robespierre. These women are part of a pattern of forgotten females in history, and Perinot suggests such omissions mistakenly cause us to think of women’s progress as linear.” 

"Understanding and Countering Russian Social Media Influence", Tuesday, October 29, 4:45PM-5:45PM, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Details TBD: https://www.cmu.edu/ir/cirp-policy-forum/fall-2019/oct-29-elizabeth-bodine-baron.html Presented by Elizabeth Bodine-Baron. “In January 2017, the US intelligence community released a public report detailing a Russian influence campaign, ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin, to disrupt the US presidential election. Part of a larger multifaceted approach, this campaign included social media-based disinformation spread by both automated bots and paid trolls. Russia's strategy was to push several conflicting narratives simultaneously, deepening existing divisions within American society and degrading trust in Western institutions and the democratic process. While it is unknown what impact the campaign might have had on the 2016 presidential election, or on individual opinions, it is clear that Russia's efforts reached many Americans through a variety of social media platforms, including Twitter and Facebook. The Russian "disinformation chain" that directs these campaigns starts from the very top — from Russian leadership, to Russian organs and proxies, through amplification channels such as social media platforms, and finally to US media consumers. This presentation will categorize and analyze different approaches and policy options to respond to the specific threat of Russian influence via disinformation spread on social media in the United States. Dr. Bodine-Baron will also present a method to map and assess the information environment, using a specific example of Russian propaganda in Eastern Europe.” 

“Sasha Velour’s Smoke and Mirrors”, Tuesday, October 29, 7:30PM, Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Pittsburgh. “Smoke and Mirrors, Sasha Velour's first one-queen theatre tour, is an effortless blend of drag, visual art, and magic. Velour introduces audiences to a whole new side of her artistry, through 13 dazzling and genre-busting lip-synch performances, all directed and choreographed by the queen herself. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as she explodes into rose petals, vanishes in a poof of smoke, saws herself in half, conjures a rainstorm, even transforms into a tree in front of your eyes (to name just a few). But the real magic is the way that these illusions and deceptions serve to unmask deeper truths, sparking fresh analysis of gender, fame, family, and the importance of dreaming big and living life over-the-top. Featuring the music of Annie Lennox, Whitney Houston, Shirley Bassey, Judy Garland, Celine Dion, Sia, Nina Simone, Le Tigre and more. Video created by Sasha Velour. Costumes designed by long-time collaborator Diego Montoya.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/67075/sasha-velours-smoke-and-mirrors 

“What is to Be Done to Combat Hate?”, Wednesday, October 30, 7PM-8:45PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room A. “October 27th, 2019 marks the one year anniversary of the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting where 11 people lost their lives. Join the Mt. Lebanon Historical Society and Rabbi Jessica Locketz from Temple Emanuel of South Hills to discuss local incidents fueled by hate and the community response to these challenges. The discussion will include a screening of a few short films and talking about personal and broader action plans.” 

“College Prep: A Winning College Application”, Wednesday, October 30, 7PM-8PM, Monroeville Library, Yolanda’s Room. “Every college has different requirements based on their individual ‘school profile’. However, every college looks for the same checkboxes to be marked off when looking at a college application. Join Tyler Cuddeback from Let's Go to College to learn how to present your best self when you apply to your dream school.” 

“CHUTZ-POW! Volume IV Kickoff”, Wednesday, October 30, 6PM-7:30PM, Chatham University, Mellon Ballroom, Woodland Rd., Pittsburgh; and Tuesday, November 19, 7PM-8:45PM, JCC South Hills, 345 Kane Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://hcofpgh.org/cp4kickoff/ “CHUTZ-POW! Superheroes of the Holocaust is an acclaimed and ongoing comic-book series created and published by The Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh that seeks, as its mission, to place stories of UpStanders’ courage, resilience, and sacrifice at the forefront of Holocaust awareness. Each volume is an anthology by award-winning creative collaborators, telling true-life stories of heroic survivors who brought light into some of the darkest recesses of World War II.” 

“Craftical: An Intense Crafting Competition”, Wednesday, October 30, 7PM-9PM, Ace Hotel, 120 S. Whitfield St., Pittsburgh. $20 to spectate or $25 to participate. Tickets include a drink from the bar, but nowhere does this event say it’s restricted to 21+, so I’m assuming minors can participate and receive a soft drink or nonalcoholic mocktail. “Get your craft on at the craft-off! Create the greatest/weirdest/bestest thing you possibly can in just 30 minutes and win awesome prizes! Craftical is an intense crafting challenge where participants have 30 minutes to create something from a big grab bag of crafty goodies from the Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse. This year’s theme is centered on appreciating the ocean and marine ecology. We are committed to sustainable practices that reduce plastic waste and creatively changing people’s thinking about consumption and reuse.” Tickets and details here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/craftical-an-intense-crafting-competition-tickets-71992915749

“2.5 Minute Ride”, Wednesday, October 30 through Sunday, November 30, Duquesne University, Genesius Theater, 1225 Seitz St., Pittsburgh. $20. Tickets here: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4388014 “Lisa Kron, the book and lyricist of the Tony Award Winning Fun Home, takes the audience on a 2.5 Minute Ride that switches back and forth between Kron's journey to Auschwitz with her elderly father; her Michigan family's annual pilgrimage to Cedar Point amusement park; and her brother's marriage to his Internet bride. By moving seamlessly between these three stories, Kron creates a complex and at times startling meditation on how human beings make sense of tragedy, grief, and everyday life.” 

“Forever Plaid”, Thursday, October 31 through Sunday, December 29, Greer Cabaret Theater, 655 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “The heavenly musical hit! We’re ringing in the 15th season of the CLO Cabaret with the first show we ever performed at this venue – Forever Plaid! This show is just as perfect a fit for our unique Cabaret space now as it was in our inaugural season. This New York musical comedy hit is the deliciously funny and charming story of ‘The Plaids,’ a classic 1950s all-male singing group, who were killed in a car crash on their way to their first big gig! Audiences will be rolling in the aisles and tapping their toes as ‘The Plaids’ are miraculously revived to perform the concert-that-never-was in this hilariously nostalgic musical! Performing precision harmonies and executing their delightfully outlandish choreography with over-zealous precision, ‘The Plaids’ perform some of the 1950s greatest hits: ‘Catch a Falling Star,’ ‘Three Coins in the Fountain,’ ‘Love Is a Many Splendored Thing’ and ‘Magic Moments’.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/66517/forever-plaid

“Cathedral by Candlelight”, Thursday, October 31, 7PM-9PM, Cook Forest State Park, Log Cabin Inn Environmental Learning Classroom. “Want to experience something different this year for Halloween instead of the standard “trick-or-treaters”? Walk back in time with us into the depths of the Forest Cathedral with an historical character from the past. Come view the ancient forest as we walk beneath the giants by candlelight. Either a French Marine from the 1750’s who saw these massive trees 250 years ago, or a lumberman from the 1800’s will be there to guide us. Candy and hot chocolate will be served at the Log Cabin Inn Environmental Learning Classroom. Bring your flashlights!” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/cathedral_by_candlelight_5171#.XZI88C3Myi4

Eastern PA: 

“Hawk Mountain Raptor Count”, daily now through 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

Ohio: 

“Woollybear Festival”, Sunday, October 6, 9AM-6PM, Vermillion, Ohio. Details here: https://vermilionohio.com/festivals/woolybear/

West Virginia: 

“Elk Management Tours”, October 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, 13, 17, 19, and 20, 5:30AM and 4PM, Chief Logan State Park, 1000 Conference Center Dr., Logan, WV. $30 adults and $27 youth under 15. Recommended for ages 12- adult. Preregistration required; call Chief Logan Lodge at 304-855-6100. Can be combined with overnight stay. “Elk Management Tours in West Virginia are designed to learn about and visit where the reintroduction of elk in the Mountain State occurred.” This looks super cool- get all the details here: https://wvstateparks.com/park/chief-logan-state-park/