Your Etiquette Guide to Pittsburgh Farmers Markets

The Bloomfield Saturday Market is back this weekend! And in addition to being a go-to spot for fresh produce, fancy cheese, homemade pies, and more, it’s also a resource for customers and vendors at any bustling market to learn how to be a good neighbor and get the most from your selling and shopping experience. The City Cast team is asking all your burning questions: Is there a right way to walk through it? Is it appropriate to ask vendors for recipes? Should you haggle for your tomato? Christina Howell, executive director of the Bloomfield Development Corporation and former market manager, is here to share some farmers market etiquette ahead of opening day.

The Bloomfield Saturday Market happens weekly May 4 through November 16, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Here’s a full list of vendors. Find more about market season elsewhere in the city here.

**This episode originally published on May 4, 2023.

Learn more about our sponsor, the Pittsburgh Opera. They’re presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson through May 5 at the Byham Theater.

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May 2nd, 2024 2:00am

Cicada Myths, Free Museum Tix & Kennywood Lawsuit

Kennywood is open, and it might be in legal trouble. We’re digging into the new lawsuit from a disgruntled season passholder. Host Megan Harris explains why we don’t need to worry about trillions of cicadas – or their zombies – in our area, but we do need to watch for lanternflies. Plus, producer Sophia Lo shares fun new ways to enjoy a bunch of shows and museums for free all summer long.

We always cite our sources:

• The NFL Draft always features fun videos of students celebrating, and occasionally lamenting, their new employers. Philly’s WTTW Podcast shared a particularly funny one this year.
• Someone’s suing Kennywood over the Steel Curtain’s closure, and his lawyer argues that people aren’t getting their season pass value if this major roller coaster isn’t running.
• Two broods of periodic cicadas are coming above ground this year, but you won’t see them in Pittsburgh. 
• Learn more about a fungus affecting periodical cicada broods all over the nation. Scientists from our region were hopeful some of that fungus could be useful for pharmaceuticals someday!
• Them reported it like this: “A Sexually Transmitted Fungus Is Making Trillions of Cicadas Hypersexual and Gay”
• It’s almost spotted lanternfly season, but you can squash egg masses before the bugs hatch.
• RAD is launching a summer staycation program where you can book free tickets to some of Pittsburgh’s museums starting May 1.
• Pittsburgh CLO’s summer shows and schedules have been announced.
• The student-led Gaza solidarity encampment is coming to a close, but organizers still plan to pressure the university to divest from Israel.

Learn more about our sponsor, the Pittsburgh Opera. They’re presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh!

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April 30th, 2024 2:00am

Uncommitted Votes, Low Turnout & More Election Takeaways

It’s the Friday news roundup, election edition! City Cast contributor Natalie Bencivenga joins host Megan Harris to talk about the winners and losers, what a few of those victories may tell us about what’s coming in November, and why we should be paying attention to all those write-ins, even if we never get a full or complete accounting of everything they said.

We always cite our sources:

• Allegheny County election results
• SpotlightPA has great info on the candidates for attorney general.
• More than 60,000 voters statewide chose the write-in option in the Democratic presidential primary, but we may not get a complete count of how many people voted “uncommitted” because of the way Philadelphia tallies write-ins.

Learn more about our sponsors: 

• City of Asylum is hosting International Jazz Poetry Month from May 2 – 23 at Alphabet City. 
• The Pittsburgh Opera is presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

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April 26th, 2024 2:00am

Where to Go Camping In and Around Pittsburgh

If you want to go camping, where should you start? We’re back with Marcus Shoffner, founder of the Outdoor Inclusion Coalition, talking about favorite destinations in and around the city, his tips and tricks for a good experience, ways to borrow and learn how to use the right gear, and other low-stress ideas to get you started. Plus, an update on the overnight camping pilot he started in Riverview Park!

Want to hear more about inclusivity in outdoor spaces? Check out our previous conversation with Marcus.

Learn more about our sponsors: 

• City of Asylum is hosting International Jazz Poetry Month from May 2 – 23 at Alphabet City. 
• The Pittsburgh Opera is presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? 

• Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
• We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh.
• Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

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April 24th, 2024 2:00am

County Exec Sara Innamorato on Tiny Homes, Flooding & Property Reassessments

Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato just marked one hundred days in office – and released a massive, 91-point plan for the county in the coming years. She joins us to talk about her main priorities, from affordable housing to a green economy. We also discuss the school district’s lawsuit against her office seeking a countywide property reassessment, and what she’s watching for in tomorrow’s primary election.

You can read Innamorato’s plan and the results of her countywide survey here.

Learn more about our sponsors: 

• The Pittsburgh Opera is presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater.
• City of Asylum is hosting International Jazz Poetry Month from May 2 through 23 at Alphabet City. 

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? 

• Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
• We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh.
• Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

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April 22nd, 2024 2:00am

How and Where to Forage Mushrooms in Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania is the No. 1 cultivator of mushrooms in the country, but you can also find all sorts of fungi foraging in the woods. Spring and summer are a great time to look for mushrooms, and Esperanzo Wilcox, founder of the PA Mushroom Company, is here to share his tips for finding and identifying a few more coveted edible delicacies.

Check out our website to see pictures of Espo’s favorite mushrooms, plus more resources for beginners.

Learn more about our sponsor, the Pittsburgh Opera, presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? 

• Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
• We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh.
• Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

April 18th, 2024 2:00am

Your 2024 PA Primary Guide

It’s a Presidential election year, and there are a bunch of state and local elections to watch for, too. But before November, we need to get through the primary on April 23! City Cast’s Megan Harris & Mallory Falk are talking through a few key races, plus what’s at stake next week. 

Check your polling place here, and learn more about the candidates via our Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. Take Spotlight PA’s candidate quiz, and watch WPXI’s debate between Summer Lee and Bhavini Patel for more on their stances on what’s happening in Gaza. A special shout out to WESA’s Chris Potter for his coverage of all these races, too.

Learn more about our sponsor, the Pittsburgh Opera, presenting The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, April 27 through May 5, at the Byham Theater.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? 

• Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
• We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh.
• Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

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April 16th, 2024 2:00am

Bowhunting, Bathtub Cleanup and a New PPS Lawsuit

It’s the Friday news roundup! Pittsburgh Public Schools is suing Allegheny County to try and force a countywide property reassessment, and we’re breaking down why. The city’s expanding its deer management program, so look out for a call for more archers. Plus, the team’s talking about all the effort that goes into flood clean-up and sharing a couple ways to celebrate 412 Day.

Have any questions about property reassessments? Let us know, and your question might get answered in an upcoming episode. Call or text us at 412-212-8893.

We always cite our sources:

•  Friends of the Riverfront has a map on their website where you can check on alerts and detours for riverfront trails – and look for bathrooms!
• Pittsburgh Public Schools is suing Allegheny County and seeking a countywide property reassessment
• The move comes as the district stands to lose tax revenue from some of the city’s most iconic skyscrapers
• The City of Pittsburgh released their results for the deer management pilot program, and they’re planning to expand the program into more parks.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

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April 12th, 2024 2:00am

Repairing McKnightmare & Other PennDOT Projects

Will construction ruin your commute? PennDOT recently announced new projects in the Pittsburgh area, and the City Cast Pittsburgh team is breaking down what improvements are coming to our roads and bridges. Plus, we’ve got updates on how to get around now that the Mon Incline is closed – again. 

We always cite our sources:

• PennDOT listed what construction projects are coming up and what projects are wrapping up in the Pittsburgh region.
• The Pittsburgh Union Progress reporter Ed Blazina wrote about PennDOT’s projects and what to expect from the Commercial Street Bridge replacement.
• Check out what the Commercial Street Bridge will look like once it’s completed and painted in Greenfield Green!
• Improvements are also coming to other parts of the Parkway East and McKnight Road. 
• Sidewalk repairs are coming to the Hill District and Larimer.
• The Monongahela Incline’s closed again, and this time, PRT is planning for an independent review of the system.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? 

• Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
• We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh.
• Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

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April 10th, 2024 2:00am

Why Gray Homes Are Red Flags & More Pgh Homebuying Tips

We’re heading into peak real estate season at a time when interest rates are really high – so what does that mean for homebuyers in Pittsburgh? Local real estate broker Jessica Baker joins us to share tips for buyers and sellers and talk about which pockets of the city are still somewhat affordable. Plus, host Megan Harris puts Jessica to the test and sees how she would describe some zanier home features…as seen on Zillow.

Check out our previous conversation with Jessica to learn whether Pittsburgh potties count as half-baths.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? 

• Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
• We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh.
• Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

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April 8th, 2024 2:00am

How to Get Free Food on Your Birthday in Pittsburgh

It is Producer Sophia Lo’s birthday! To celebrate, we’re rounding up some of the best birthday freebies and discounts in Pittsburgh, from sweet treats to full meals.

Have a favorite local freebie that we didn’t mention? Let us know, and your answer might be featured on the show! Call or text us at 412-212-8893.

Learn more about our sponsor, Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh-Oakland, and their upcoming Comedy Showcase in the Jones & Laughlin Ballroom. Tickets for Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. are on sale now on Facebook at Facebook.com/HotelindigoPTC.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

April 4th, 2024 2:00am

Pittsburgh Pranks, Plastic Bag Bans & More Doulas

Have businesses actually stopped giving out plastic bags since a citywide ban went into effect? A new report from PennEnvironment provides a first look at compliance rates. Plus, a new documentary looks at the Black birthing experience in Pittsburgh – at the same time the state is expanding access to doulas. And it turns out our city has a high percentage of pranksters (at least according to one study).

We always cite our sources:

• Pittsburgh was rated the top Prankster City in the U.S. by casino.org
• PennEnvironment studied whether businesses are complying with Pittsburgh’s plastic bag ban
• TribLive looked into the ban’s rollout and enforcement
• We discussed the plastic bag ban – and the effectiveness of similar measures – on City Cast Pittsburgh
• WESA reported on state efforts to expand doula access
• Learn more about PA’s Momnibus Package
• Get tickets to Her Dreams: A Story of the Future of Black Birth this Friday at 5:30 p.m. at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater.

Learn more about our sponsor, Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh-Oakland, and their upcoming Comedy Showcase in the Jones & Laughlin Ballroom. Tickets for Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. are on sale now on Facebook at Facebook.com/HotelindigoPTC.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

April 2nd, 2024 2:00am

Medical Dramas, Tax Exemptions & Why Barges Can’t Hurt A Pgh Bridge

It’s the Friday news roundup! A bridge collapsed in Baltimore — could something similar play out here? Mayor Ed Gainey’s trying, once again, to generate taxes from UPMC and other tax-exempt properties. And a new Pittsburgh-based medical drama called “The Pitt” is in the works. Plus, we’ve got some fun Easter news, a comprehensive plan update, and a very happy groundhog arrival. 

What very Pittsburgh storyline would you love to see from Max’s new show? Call or text us at 412-212-8893.

We always cite our sources:

• Pittsburgh was named one of the best places to celebrate Easter.
• Mayor Ed Gainey is challenging the tax exempt status of more than 100 more city properties.
• The Trib wrote about the bridge collapse in Baltimore and how the circumstances compare to what happens along Pittsburgh waterways.
• Learn more about our river traffic from City Paper’s “Where the Heck are Pittsburgh’s River Barges Going?”
• PublicSource has a great story about how the city basically ignored warnings about Fern Hollow for years.
• Max (new HBO) is launching a new medical drama called “The Pitt,” which will be set in Pittsburgh. Check out Reddit’s ideas for some very Steel City storylines. The executive producer, John Wells, graduated from CMU. The Pittsburgh Film Office says it’s not expected to be filmed here.
• Punxsutawney Phil and his groundhog wife Phyllis welcomed two healthy pups this week.
• Did you know Phil lives forever? Here are four fun “Phil phacts” from the Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
• Here’s how you can get involved with the city’s first ever Comprehensive Plan process.

Learn more about our sponsor, the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh and their Racial Justice Challenge, at ywcapgh.org.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh!

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

March 29th, 2024 2:00am

Why Is Your Bus Late? It's Complicated

Have you ever been frustrated by a PRT bus or train showing up late – or not showing up at all? Could new state funding lead to a stronger local transit system? We’re sitting down with Katharine Kellerman, CEO of Pittsburgh Regional Transit, to talk about plans for a bus line redesign, her goal to get more drivers behind the wheel, and what’s really going on that local buses are late one-third of the time.

Learn more about our sponsor, the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh and their Racial Justice Challenge, at ywcapgh.org

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? 

• Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
• We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh.
• Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

March 27th, 2024 2:00am

Why the White House Cares About US Steel

Late last year, the Japanese company Nippon Steel announced plans to acquire an iconic Pittsburgh brand, U.S. Steel, for a staggering amount of money: nearly $15 billion. But since then, there’s been a lot of criticism – from the local steelworkers union all the way up to the White House. So what’s behind the pushback, and what’s next for U.S. Steel? 

Thanks to our guest, Chris Briem. Chris is a regional economist with the Urban & Regional Analysis program at the University of Pittsburgh’s University Center for Social and Urban Research. Check out some of his recent work:

• Medium, on his hopes for a former steel town: Clairton is dead, long live Clairton
• Medium (this is the one Megan mentions at the end!): When Pittsburgh said no
• PublicSource: U.S. Steel’s acquisition will end a difficult marriage that forged — and constrained — Pittsburgh’s identity

And read more about the latest on the deal and the federal review process via Bloomberg, plus the position of Pennsvlania’s two U.S. Senators and commonwealth-native President Joe Biden in the Pittsburgh Business Times.

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

Want more Pittsburgh news? 

• Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter.
• We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh.
• Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.

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March 25th, 2024 2:00am