Get Away From It All... In the Square

Okay, we know that gas prices now are a real pain in the pump — especially with the summer travel season just around the corner. So if you canceled that family outing to the shore or cabin during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, we've got a budget-minded travel tip on a visit to one of the trendiest destinations around — Downtown Pittsburgh.

These days, just about any time you open a newspaper or magazine or turn on the TV or Internet, Pittsburgh is picking up another accolade, from the nation's most livable city to the safest place for pedestrians to get around town. And we couldn't agree more. Which is why we're posting a few ideas on how to plan a little Downtown Weekend Getaway — this weekend or any other.

Of course, we think every journey should start in this blog's favorite Downtown spot — Market Square. After you lace up those walking shoes, you might want to make a fast pit stop at Bruegger's Bagels or Dunkin Donuts to load up on the calories you'll need to burn as you discover the ins and outs of Downtown. And for some extra energy, stop by Nicholas Coffee and order one of their freshly brewed specialty java drinks. Now that your tank is full — at prices far below what OPEC charges — it's time to get this weekend jaunt on the road.

By now you know that the Square is the historic heart of the city.  While we're talking about history, there's no better way to explore many of the city's wonders than on a self-guided Pittsburgh History & Landmarks walking tour or the Art In Public Places walk, sponsored by the Office of Public Art. Whatever direction you take, you'll discover some of the oldest buildings and the coolest art you'll find outside of a museum. In the case of inclemnet weather, stop into the Fort Pitt Museum at Point State Park. At only $5 you won't even miss the fuel perks!

With a chunk of art, architecture and history smarts under your belt, you might want to relax with a bit of a shopping spree. We suggest that you head back to where this all started, where you could spend nearly a whole day — and a little bit of cash — at the shops in and around the Square. From the oh-so-hip stylings at Serendipity to the well-heeled footware at the Nettleton Shop, the Square is fast becoming a shopper's oasis. For the coolest looks in sunglasses and other accessories, stop in at WEAR and Heinz-Healy's for casual men's wear. And just around the corner, on tony Fifth Avenue, there's even more at Larrimor's and the newly opened Joseph A. Banks stores.

If you don't know where to go or what to do, a weekend Downtown could seem long.  Fortunately, you've got us as your secreate weapon!  After all that shopping you might want to give your credit card a break, so why not enjoy the city from a different point of view. We think one of the best ways to make a splash Downtown is to dip your oar in one of Pittsburgh three rivers in a kayak. To put your best Lewis and Clark navigation skills to the test, Kayak Pittsburgh rents one and two person craft May through October. We certainly don't believe in corporal punishment, but this is one form of paddling that everyone deserves. If you're not looking to get your feet wet but still want to cruise the waterways, the Just Ducky and Gateway Clipper launch from Station Square, just across the Smithfield Street Bridge. For a unique view of why the three rivers make our city special, take a few moment to watch a special video produced by Riverlife.

With more than 25 miles of trails that follow the city's rivers, hiking, walking and biking have never been easier in Pittsburgh. With the opening of a new section of trail near the Convention Center, bikers can pedal from the McKees Rocks Bridge to the 40th Street Bridge to 21st Street in the Strip to the Steelers training facility near the SouthSide Works. With all the outdoor cafes throughout Downtown, you can roll up put a quick hurt on that hunger and keep rolling. And if you don't own a bike, you can rent a set of wheels at Golden Triangle Bike Rental, near the PNC Bank Firstside facility, just off Grant Street. 

Just about now, it might be time to start thinking about a bite to eat. And, that means it's time to head back to the Square. Maybe you want to go old school with a hefty meal at the Oyster House or Primanti's. Of perhaps it's a spicy specialty from Chipotle or Moe's Southwest. For something a little more upscale, try Bella Sera, urban tratoria of the Canonsburg venue of the same name.  And for some bon temps gourmet at NOLA, where the tastes of New Orleans flavor the menu. Or comfort food with a twist at Winghart's Burgers. Best of all, if the sun is shining, almost every eatery in the Square now offers al fresco dining. From Italian to All-American, there's something for every palette in the Square.

We like to think that the nighttime is the right time to be in the city. Well, we actually think anytime is a great time to be Downtown. But when the sun sets on the city, the highlights continue to shine. Whether it's a Broadway show at the Benedum, the world-class Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra at Heinz Hall, a stage play at the Public Theater or a jazz ensemble at the Fairmont Hotel, nightlife is certainly alive Downtown. If you want something more interactive, we've got salsa dancing every Friday and Saturday night. And keep in mind that the Bucs play ball all summer long at PNC Park, the best diamond any girl or guy could want. To check out all the "after-dark" happenings Downtown, be sure to click on the Downtown Pittsburgh Partnership Events Calendar. And just in case you need a spot to refuel after a big day in the city, Market Square is the perfect rest stop with a restaurants and bars for just about every taste.  With so many hotels in walking distance (Fairmont, Renaissance, and Wyndham are the closest) you've never had such an easy time getting "home."

So if a "staycation" is on the books for you this summer, you can get away yard work, bills and all those everyday routines and be a tourist in your own hometown when you visit Downtown Pittsburgh.

Reading, Riding and Caring

Okay, maybe the marathon is over. But you still might want to run over to Market Square this week to catch up on a good read or two when the Carnegie Reading Room returns to open a new chapter on one of last year's most successful programs. In fact, the Reading Room cart will park itself in the Square every Tuesday this year — starting this week — instead of every other week. From May 17 (that's tomorrow, you know) until October 11, the Reading Room is the perfect place to release the inner bookworm in you from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.. It's also great for the lunch crowd that wants to lose itself in a good mystery or history book under one of the Square's trees while sipping sip a cool, refreshing beverage or munching on delectable edibles from one of the many fine eateries that surround the Square.

Now along with picking up a best-selling novel or can't-put-it-down self-help book, everything at the Reading Room is on sale for prices that are a bargain you won't find anywhere else in town at just a buck for hardcovers and paperbacks at only 50 cents. Best of all, every book you buy will help support one of Pittsburgh's greatest assets — the free Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh system. And if you're looking to clear some space on your home bookshelf for your new purchases, you can donate your previously read volumes to the Downtown Library on Smithfield Street so that other can enjoy them. Be sure to remember to bookmark this one for every Tuesday on your calendar.

One thing we can tell you is that people around here are ready to roll up their sleeves when it comes to helping out. If you've been looking for that perfect time and opportunity to give something back to the town you call home, stop by the Square Tuesday (same day as the Reading Room) to visit the Pittsburgh Cares staff. Starting today, they'll help you get involved in HandsOn Pittsburgh, a special two-day event this May 20 and 21 to pitch in with your time and talents with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy and other area non-profits that are making the region even more livable for everyone. You can get involved individually or with a team of co-workers or friends and family. Either way, you'll being doing a good deed. On top of all that, you'll get a free T-shirt for participating and a special discounts at local restaurants. With those kind of incentives, this is one opportunity you'll want to get your hands on.

Get ready for a doubleheader this Wednesday, with two events sharing the Square. The Higher Education Information Fair  might not have carnival rides, but if you're looking to increase your worth on the job market this might be the ticket for you. Hosted by CEA/PA, the Continuing Education Association of PA, the fair gives you the chance to speak one-on-one with admissions representatives from nearly 20 institutions of higher  learning and discover how earning a degree or advanced degree can make you more attractive to potential employers.

Across the Square the United Way of Allegheny County and The Pittsburgh Foundation ask the question, "Why Cut What Works?"  Starting at 11:30 a.m. Bob Nelkin, President and CEO of United Way and Grant Oliphant, President and CEO of The Pittsburgh Foundation, along with other nonprofit and community leaders address spending cuts for nonprofits, especially those serving the human services sector. But these folks are thinking big picture, too, and to talk about "the social compact" – the idea that together we work to safeguard the well-being of communities for ALL citizens. It's a complicated topic so get out there, listen to all sides of the debate and become part of the conversation. After all, that's what a town square like Market Square is for!

Anyone who's paying attention knows that the price of a gallon of gas is soaring and burning a big hole in your pocket. One of the cheapest — and healthiest — alternatives to the budget-busting cost of fuel is to pedal your way to work Downtown. And since this is National Bike to Work Week, there's no better time to get rolling. Just in case you're wondering, both Bicycling magazine and the League of American Bicyclists named our favorite city one of the most bike friendly towns in the U.S.A.


If you're looking to plan your ride route, you can get a downloadable trail map from the good folks at Bike Pittsburgh, who also offer a few tips about commuting to and from your job and biking around town in general.  You might be surprised to find out that along with an extensive network of well-maintained trails up and down the three rivers, there are more than 25 miles of designated bike lanes on city streets. What's that you say? You don't have a bike. Well, just about wherever you look these days in the city, another new cycle shop seems to be opening for business. So there's no shortage of options for getting yourself a new set of wheels. If you're not sure about spending a few hundred dollars for a new two-wheeler, Golden Triangle Bike Rentals is the place to go for a test ride or two. Finally, you'll not only save gas money, bike parking in many Downtown garages costs less than a can of soda from the lunchroom vending machine — and you might just be eligible for a commuter tax break from Uncle Sam. That's what we call a wheel deal.

If you've been keeping current on your Market Square blog reading, you know that the Square once was better known as "The Diamond." Well, this coming Saturday — May 21, to be exact — one lucky person will take home a real diamond during the 2nd Annual Henne Jeweler's Diamond Dash.  About 500 participants in teams of two will compete to win a diamond engagement ring valued at $15,000.  Dazzle your partner with your brilliant knowledge of the city and overall smarts. It's free to join in the fun. And even if you don't take home a really nice piece of "ice," you'll dig exploring the city in your quest to grab the diamond ring.   So, sign up today, come early and caffinate up at a Market Square coffee shop so you are at your sparkling best and let the games begin!

And before we sign off, don't forget the Farmers Market this Thursday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Last week's opening day was a big success with most vendors selling out their bounty of organically grown veggies and homemade foods and other goods. Don't forget your cooler so you can take home some of the frozen meats and eggs that are new this year. 

So unless you're afraid of melting in the rain, we'll see you in the Square for an amazing week of events!

The Farmers Market Returns

Just in case you don't have May 12 — that's tomorrow, by the way — circled on your calendar, now's the time to grab that Sharpie and make a few rings around the date. That just happens to be the day that the Farmers Market returns to Market Square and the kickoff of our Thursdays in Market Square events. Now, we all know it's been a long, cool wet spring. But every time we stroll around the Market in the Square, we feel like we're walking on sunshine every Thursday from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. until November.

Of course, a lot of perennial favorites will set up tables and shop their wares tomorrow. It's kind of like getting back together with old friends or a high school reunion. We know that there are plenty of old acquaintances that we're looking forward to renewing — and getting to know even better in the weeks ahead. And if you look at the list below, you'll probably notice a smile stretching across your face as you spot a few of your favorite vendors:

• Sand Hill Berries — Stop by for some of the tastiest fruit pies in town, or fruits to make your own

• Greendance Winery — Take home a perfect bottle of vino for sipping with dinner
• Cinco de Mayo — It's always hot, hot, hot with these homemade salsas and prepared vegetables
• Gosia's Pierogies — Pittsburgh's favorite food in a pouch, ready to eat in the Square or to make at home

• Evelyn's Elegant Edibles — Accent your purchases with gourmet seasonings, rubs and ready-to-go sides

• Harvest Valley Farms — Your pick of 50 varieties of fresh produce (returning early June with their strawberry crop)
• Little Athens — Of course it's all Greek to us... food that is, and desserts too.
• Colaizzi Brothers — Satisfy your sweet tooth with speciality cakes and chocolates

• Rise Above Bakery — Buy a loaf of your daily bread, or scone, or cookie...

• Billy's County Smokehouse — Sausages, bacon, salmon, jerky and other meats smoked to perfection

• Ridgeview Acres Farms — Add a splash of color to your home or office with flowers both familiar and unusual

And as much as we love all our old friends, we're always excited about introducing new faces in the Square. This year's crop of newcomers includes:

• Uncle Fester's Favorites — Sample homemade mustards, barbecue sauces, pickled vegetables, peanut butter, jams and more

• Clarion River Organics — Stop by and say hello to a cooperative of six farming families selling organic produce, meats, dairy, grains and kombucha, a fermented homemade herbal tea
• As I Am Naturals — Pamper yourself with artisan soaps and skincare products

Keep your eyes open for other new additions to the Farmers Market, such as an on-site market manager to help keep things going smoothly, samplings from local chefs, seasonal recipes and some social media fun happenings.

Speaking of fun, City Paper is bringing you Thursdays Noontime Concerts take the stage again, starting in June. We think this year's lineup of musical talent will strike the perfect chord as you dance to the music all summer long in the Square.

Remember, the Farmers Market sets up in the Square every Thursday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., May 12 to November 17. Whether you're looking to pick a peck of peppers — pickled or otherwise — or just want to relax with some great food and tunes, we'll see you at the Market in the Square.

Note: If you miss our market tomorrow, or you just can't get enough of markets, the one at the City-County Building has its first day on Friday so you can stop by and say hi to them too!

Market Square — Then and Now

Just about every time we step into Market Square, it's like taking a time machine trip back to the earliest days of Pittsburgh. Maybe it's the Belgian block that paved the way for the city's first "modern" streets. Or maybe it's the fried-fish aroma wafting from the Square's oldest business Original Oyster House. And you could just say that it's the wide-open plaza of the "new" Square that hearkens to the original design of the space old-time Pittsburghers called "The Diamond" because its of its orientation to the four compass points. But the truth is, just about whatever direction you cast a glance, you're looking at a building linked to the city's past. And to show you what we mean, we put together a mini-photo album of "then and now" images of the Square not-so recent bygone days.

You don't have to be a historian to recognize the familiar name in the photo above. When that black-and-white shot was snapped nearly 50 years ago, Nicholas Coffee was freshly roasting the beans that helped perk up the morning for drowsy Downtown workers as they started another day at the office. Of course, a half-century can make a difference in any building's appearance. But if you check out the image to the right, we think you'll agree that the Square's favorite purveyor of coffee and tea looks pretty good with its Chippendale makeover in place of the building's 1940s decor.  And we're willing to bet that  Deifbaugh's Cafe served up some hearty old-time fare, but NOLA definitely adds some new spice to the Square with its bon temps roulet infused New Orleans style cuisine.


Now, if you execute a 180-degree spin, you'll be facing the corner of the-soon-to-be reopened Las Velas Mexican cantina and an under-construction new restaurant owned by the Primanti's proprietors. We love the all-glass facade of the upper floor of the building. And we have it on good word that the ground-level restaurant will provide an open-air atmosphere that will help bring the Square right into the dining area.  If you peer down Market toward Fifth Avenue, you can see the front of Prantl's and Mancini's new location, the freshly renovated blue and cream terra cotta Buhl Building and the luxe Fairmont Hotel. It's a diverse group, indeed.

But turn back the clock and that same stretch of street mixed up produce and poultry with jewelry and fancy footwear. Whether it was fresh fruit or a perfectly plucked chicken, this corner of commerce enjoyed a steady stream of potential customers looking for something to put on the dinner table. On the other hand, a different clientele might be looking to impress a certain special woman in his life with a sparkling bauble or two and maybe a new pair of shoes for himself. Coincidentally, the Nettleton Shop sits across the street today, selling some of the finest shoes around. Some things don't change all that much.

Our trip down memory lane takes a southern detour as we head to the spot where McMasters Way and Forbes Avenue meet. These days, if you look past Moe's Southwest, you'll spy Winghart's Burger and Whisky Bar, La Gondola pizzeria, Subway and Primanti's. But if you stood on that same corner in the early 1960s — a few years after the demolition of the market house that occupied what's now the Square's terrazzo plaza — the view would be a bit different, at least on the surface.

Back in 1962, a variety of business operated at street level of the Civil War era building that now houses Primanti's. Aside from a roof job and a new coat of paint, the former warehouse looks just about the same today. We can't say for sure, but we think the front of Bubble's Bar pretty much did double duty as the establishment's large-print menu for it's near-sighted patrons. And you don't have to be a surveyor to figure out that the Square's sidewalks had to be smaller back then. How else could you park cars on both sides of the street? And eagle-eyed readers will note that the upper right corner reveals a few structures that are long gone. But the PPG Place complex is welcome addition that will be around for a few years.

What makes for a truly amazing history walk is that so many of the buildings around the Square can trace their roots as far back as the 1860s. Which means that the past is always present when you're in Market Square.

The More The Merrier In The Square

The countdown is on. That's right, just 2 1/2 more days until the Merry Month of May blossoms in Market Square — and we're not just talking about the lovely daffodils and other fantastic flowers planted around the Square by the wonderful Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, who are all joyfully green thumbs. The blooms we're waiting for are the many perennial events that will open in the Square during May. In fact, the Square events calendar is just about ready to burst with the weekly Farmers' Market, the Carnegie Library Reading Room and other welcome favorites. So, until we turn the calendar page to May, we're giving you a bit of a sneak peek.

Now during just the very first week of the fifth month of the year on the fifth day of May, we'll all be taking a virtual trip South of the Border for Cinco de Mayo, a festive celebration of Mexico's victory over the French army in 1862. Instead of battlefield recreations, you'll enjoy some muy caliente cuisine at one of the Square's Mexican style eateries, such as Moe's Southwest Grill or Chipotle — even Bruegger's will be serving a spicy jalapeno bagel and Southwest breakfast sandwich. And, though they won't be ready for Cinco, Las Velas is scheduled to open its doors very, very soon. Watch this space for more news about this much anticipated return on the Square.

No other event in the Square attracts as many people as the weekly Farmers Market. After all, it's hard to resist the tasty temptation of fresh from the field goodies delivered right to the heart of Downtown. Along with nature's best veggies and fruits, the Farmers' Market serves up hot lunches, desserts, flowers and more treats. The Market sets up every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., starting May 12. Let's just say that we're planting a seed so that you don't forget about this popular attraction.

You could say that May really gets off and running when the starting gun goes off for the beginning of the Pittsburgh Marathon. If you're in the running, then you already know that you'll need to have your Nikes laced up and ready to go at the starting line, which just happens to be at the intersection of Liberty Avenue and Sixth Street at 7 a.m. this year. One of nation's top long-distance races, the 26.2-mile course winds its way all over the city, across three rivers and up and down more than a few hills before coming to an end near Heinz Field on the North Side.  For those watching the race, Downtown is the perfect spot for viewing.  The full and half marathons cross through Downtown several times and while waiting for runners to loop back, what better place than Downtown to grab a coffee or other breakfast treat?  A quick walk over to the Northside and you're at the finish line celebration!

Of course, there's more than fun and games to what goes on in the Square. And what better what to show that Pittsburgh cares than donate a little elbow grease during HandsOn Pittsburgh 2011, May 20-21. Sponsored by Pittsburgh Cares, caring folks of all ages will volunteer their time to make our town an even better place through a variety community service opportunities. To catch the civic spirit, check out Pittsburgh Cares when they are in the Square the week of May 16.

If you want to get a good read on, then there's obviously no place better than Market Square. And if you really want to get a good read for the commute home on the bus or to escape during lunch, then make sure you bookmark this page for the return of the Carnegie Library's Reading Room, which opens a new chapter starting May 17.  This al fresco library pitches its tent in the Square this year, with a surprise twist. Instead of last year's every other week schedule, the Reading Room is open for business in the Square every Tuesday this year from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. You also can purchase the volumes of your choice — paperbacks 50 cents, hardcovers $1— and  the proceeds help support the library system.

Everyone knows that all roads lead to Market Square — well, at least we think they do. But did you know that many of the region's urban trails actually do take you to Downtown? Well, there's no better time than National Bike to Work Day to put your mettle to the pedal and spin your two-wheeler to Market Square to support the most fuel-efficient form of transportation around. We're looking forward to seeing more folk pedaling around town — but don't forget your helmet!

Other events to look forward to:
National Day of Prayer - May 5
A religious presentation - May 6
T-Mobile store event May 11
CEA/PA Continuing Education Fair May 18
Henne Diamond Dash May 21

For the most up-to-date info, check out the Market Square Events Calendar.


Let's hope that April's end also brings a close to month of showers — and a sunnier, even merrier month of May in Market Square.

Keeping the Faith in Lunch

This week two of the world's major religions mark major holy days during Passover and the last week of Lent leading up to Easter. And while followers observe the end of each period with bountiful feasts with families and friends, many of the faithful follow strict dietary restrictions until then. Now even if most of the culinary delights in the Square aren't exactly Kosher, there are plenty of dietary choices for true believers looking for a midday or afterwork bite to eat.

For starters, salads in the Square certainly don't break any culinary commandments. And good grazing abounds around the Square, from Moe's Southwest and Chipotle to NOLA and Fat Tommy's. For a heartier non-meat alternative, plant yourself in front of a Wingheart's Beretta Veggie Burger — a juicy portabella mushroom topped with spinach, arugula, artichoke spread and lots of other garden goodies.  For those seeking the unleavened, let your burrito go naked without a tortilla, or the NOLA salad is a refreshing change with sweet potato chips and the option to add blackened redfish on top.

Of course, during this special week, many believers give up a little more than usual as a sign of devotion. If fasting is part of your religious menu, you'll be pleasantly surprised to discover that many of the Square's eateries are ready to serve made to order smaller portions. Now, most days at the Original Oyster House, it seems that the miracle of the loaves and fishes is on constant replay. However, the Square's oldest restaurant also dishes out a mini-fish sandwich. And if that's pushing the limit, a breaded oyster or two should help keep the observant within the gustatory guidelines. For even lighter fare, the vegetarian and fish soups at Bella Sera, NOLA or Bruegger's will do, or pick a basic flatbread from the menu at Dunkin Donuts. And for the real saints in the crowd, a single fish taco from Moe's might even push the limits!

Now, all this fasting can be a bit taxing. But now that we can all quit thinking about the IRS, why not not take a spring shopping break at the many shops in and around the Square? With the warmer weather here to stay, we're seeing more and more Dapper Dans dashing around town. Which means there's no better time to give your feet a treat with a new pair of kicks from the Nettleton Shoes. Put that tax refund to good use!  And why not top off that head to toe makeover with a sporty chapeau from Heinz Healy's. Even if Pittsburgh doesn't have an Easter parade, ladies, there's no reason why you can't stroll down Fifth Avenue in a fabulous little print dress from Larrimor's, which can be nicely accessorized with up-to-the-minute handbags and jewelry from Serendipity and an oh-so-cool pair of shades from WEAR in the Square.

However you might count your blessings at this special time of the year, we're sure you'll find a way to keep the faith in the Square.

The Square Route to Freedom

These days, you don't need to rely on the North Star to chart a course to Market Square. But in the years before the Civil War erupted 150 years ago between the North and South, runaway slaves looked to the heavens above to find their way to the North on the Underground Railroad. Which is why Mayor Luke Ravenstahl led other dignitaries in the Square to unveil a commemorative plaque honoring Pittsburgh's proud past in helping African-American citizens escape bondage and live as free men and women.

Now, even though we're going to mix a little astronomy and history here for a moment or two, you don't need to worry since there's no test at the end. Still, we really want to invite everyone who visits the Square to take a moment or two to see the plaque — and the special LED Big and Little Dippers embedded in the center of the Square— to understand and appreciate the courage of African Americans seeking their freedom and the many brave Pittsburghers who helped them on their way.

Okay, if you want to spot the North Star, all you have to do is stand at the plaque and tilt your head back a bit and peer into the skies just over the roof of the Camera Repair Service building. Yes, it works a whole lot better if you try this after dark. Now, the North Star is always in the same spot in the sky (polar North) and the other stars in the constellations rotate around it through the night.  The lights in the ground are arranged as the stars would have been seen at 8pm on June 2, 1835. The sun is setting later and later now that spring has sprung, but you might catch a glimmer at 8pm.  The 8pm arrangement honors the first recorded meeting of the Pittsburgh Anti-Slavery Society.  Although there were plenty of abolitionist activites in the Burgh before that date this meeting was actually advertised in the newspaper as an organized and public meeting — more than a quarter of a century before the first cannon shot fired at Ft. Sumter in South Carolina set off the War Between The States.  Incidentally, this week marks the 150th anniversary of that first shot.  The rebels opened fire on Fort Sumter on April 12 at 4:30am.  Today, April 14, marks the day the first union soldier died.

Of course, we like to think we're near know-it-alls when it comes to the Square's storied past.  But we know when to make way for the professionals... Dr. Kimberly Ellis — she's the executive director of the Historic Hill Institute — mentioned that business owners and waiters in and around the Square often hid runaway slaves during their passage through the city. And did you know that in 1850 about 75 percent of the city's African American citizens lived beside white neighbors? Well, you can learn this and more on one of theHistoric Hill Institute's two Underground Railroad tours.

At a spry 97-years-old, Virginia O'Connor still can't get enough of the City she loves.  Collecting, recording and researching since her birth in 1914, it was Virginia who brought about the deeper investigation into Market Square's history with the Underground Railroad when she sent some unique documents to the renovation team - information that did not exist in record anywhere else.  You could say that Virginia O'Connor really did her homework when it comes to Pittsburgh's role in the Underground Railroad.  With a dedication and determination that would outshine people a quarter of her age, Virgina's commitment to the cause is truly a reason to celebrate.  Special thanks to the team of historians that verified and supplemented the information from Virginia, Dr. Laurence Glasco, John L. Ford (seen in the photo above), Dr. Kimberly Ellis (also in the above photo), and Terri Blanchette.

Along with honoring the city's strong role as a hot bed of abolition activity, the gathering also officially opened the al fresco dining and fun season in the Square. On hand to help the mayor usher in the festivities were PDP board chair Rich Beynon, Lloyd Wright of Sen. Ferlo's office, representatives from the Urban Redevelopment Authority, John Rohe of Colcom Foundation, Zach Winghart of Winghart's Burger and Whiskey Bar, developer Lucas Piatt, Bella Sera chef Jason Capps other Square business owners and regulars.

You read it here. History happens in Market Square. Make sure you're there when it does.

Special thanks to: Dr. Laurence Glasco, University of Pittsburgh, Department of History; John Ford, Historian and Curator of Artifacts and Documents; Dr. Kimberly Ellis, Historic Hill Institute, Executive Director; Terri Blanchette, Heinz History Center, Director of Community Programs; Bomani Howze, instrumental in assembling the team of researchers; Virginia O’Connor, a private citizen who began the investigation by sharing family history; Dina Klavon and Associates, designers; Hal Hilbish, lighting; Wilbur Smith and Associates, engineers; A. Merante Constracting, construciton adn installation.

The Market Square renovation is a project of Mayor Ravenstahl and the City of Pittsburgh. It is the culmination of several years of public process and has been made possible through the leadership, vision and financial contributions of the City of Pittsburgh, Heinz Endowments, Richard King Mellon Foundation, Colcom Foundation and Hillman Foundation.

PS  Other reasons this week is cool:

“The municipality of Washington, D.C., celebrates April 16 as Emancipation Day. On that day in 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act for the release of certain persons held to service or labor in the District of Columbia.  The Act freed about 3,100 enslaved persons in the District of Columbia nine months before President Lincoln issued his famous Emancipation Proclamation. The District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act represents the only example of compensation by the federal government to former owners of emancipated slaves.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emancipation_Day

This is the reason tax day is not April 15 this year but was moved to April 18.  The IRS abides by D.C. holidays in addition to federal holidays.