Lace up your ice skates one last time this winter!

The Schenley Park Skating Rink – one of only four outdoor rinks located in Allegheny County and the only regulation size rink in the City of Pittsburgh – is open for a few more days before closing on March 17, 2010, after the afternoon skating session.

"The Schenley Park Skating Rink remains an extremely popular destination each winter," according to Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. "Nothing compares with skating outside in the elements, and Schenley Park offers a beautiful tree-lined setting, great music and a spectacular view of the downtown Pittsburgh skyline."

Throughout the winter the rink operated daily and offered a variety of public sessions and special sessions such as "family night," "adults only nights" and "college ID discount sessions." The facility hosted three successful special events: "Skate with Santa" in December, "Mascot Skate" in January and "Valentines on Ice" in February.

RINK'S PARTY ROOM AVAILABLE FOR RENTAL YEAR ROUND

The Schenley Park Skating Rink features a party room with kitchen available for rental year round. The meeting/banquet room serves as an ideal setting for graduation parties, weddings, birthday parties and other occasions. Call 412-422-6523 for details and pricing information.

Citiparks "Valentines on Ice" at Schenley Park Skating Rink

Enjoy a very special opportunity to skate with your sweetie on Valentine's Day.

Romance will fill the air at the Schenley Park Skating Rink on Sunday, Feb. 14, from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. at "Valentines On Ice." A view of the sparkling Downtown Pittsburgh skyline will serve as the backdrop for this magical night of outdoor ice skating presented by Citiparks and Star 100.7 and sponsored by UPMC Health Plan.

"Nothing compares with skating outdoors, especially on a beautiful winter evening here in Pittsburgh," said Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. "Schenley Park offers a beautiful tree-lined setting and a spectacular view of the downtown Pittsburgh skyline."

The first 250 couples will receive a rose compliments of Alex's Flowers in Oakland and sweets from Betsy Ann Chocolates.

Skate to romantic music under the stars…win raffle prizes throughout the evening and top prizes by entering the "Go for the Heart" puck shooting contest…and pose for a keepsake photo with your sweetheart.

Then warm up inside by sipping hot beverages compliments of Coffee Tree Roasters of Shadyside and enjoying a mini-massage from Massage Envy of Squirrel Hill. Take to the dance floor with your sweetie for dance lessons by Salsa Pittsburgh.

Take advantage of the special two-for-one admission price. Admission is $4 per adult couple – or $3 per student couple (with college IDs). (Skate rental is $2.50, and skate sharpening is $3.50.)

"Valentines on Ice" is presented by Citiparks and Star 100.7 and is sponsored by UPMC Health Plan, Betsy Ann Chocolates, Alex's Flowers of Oakland, Massage Envy of Squirrel Hill, Salsa Pittsburgh and Coffee Tree Roasters of Shadyside.

For more information, call 412-255-2493.

In conjunction with the month-long "History in the Making" exhibit, Citiparks and the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will host a series of lectures at community sites throughout the month.

The free events will provide an opportunity for many of the exhibit honorees to share their success stories and to inspire others to leave their mark on the greater Pittsburgh community.

The three-week lecture series will kick off the week of February 8:

Monday, February 8, 6:30 p.m.
Arlington Recreation Center, 2201 Salisbury St., South Side, 412-488-8397
Speaker: La'Tasha Mayes (honoree for Politics)

Tuesday, February 9, 5:00 p.m.
Magee Recreation Center, 745 Greenfield Ave., Greenfield, 412-422-6548
Speaker: Paul Ellis Jr., Esq. (honoree for Civil Rights/Community Action)

Wednesday, February 10, 4:00 p.m.
Homewood North Community Center, 10 Albertice St., Homewood
Speaker: Monté Robinson (honoree for Health & Wellness)

Thursday, February 11, 5:00 p.m.
Brookline Recreation Center, 1400 Oakridge St., Brookline, 412-571-3222
Speaker: to be announced

For more information, call Citiparks at 412-255-8976.

Black History Month Exhibit begins February 3rd

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Citiparks will honor 10 local young African American leaders in a Black History Month tribute to be displayed in the lobby of the City-County Building in downtown Pittsburgh. "History in the Making: Honoring Our Young African American Leaders of Today" kicks off Wednesday, February 3 at 6:00 p.m., and then runs weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Friday, February 26.

"The City's 2010 Black History Month exhibit pays tribute to an extraordinary group of young individuals who represent the efforts of many others who share their commitment to serving our community," said Ravenstahl. "We're proud to present this impressive exhibit that inspires as well as educates."

The exhibit showcases the accomplishments and contributions of these 10 outstanding individuals, as well as their plans for the future. Honorees were chosen in the fields of arts and entertainment, business/finance, civil rights/community action, education, health and wellness, military/law enforcement, politics, religion, science and technology, and social services.

The public is invited to attend the exhibit's opening reception on Wednesday, February 3, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. in the lobby of the City-County Building, 414 Grant Street in downtown Pittsburgh. The ceremony will include remarks by Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and community leaders as well as refreshments and entertainment.

Throughout the month of February, residents will have an opportunity to hear many of the honorees speak at a series of lectures sponsored by the City of Pittsburgh Department of Parks and Recreation. Citiparks community recreation centers and Housing Authority of Pittsburgh sites will host events to showcase the individuals honored in the month-long exhibit.

For more information, call Citiparks at 412-255-8976 or visit www.Citiparks.net.

The City of Pittsburgh's celebration of Black History Month is presented by Citiparks and is sponsored by Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh, 96.1 KISS and Penn Brewery.

HISTORY IN THE MAKING:
HONORING OUR YOUNG AFRICAN AMERICAN LEADERS OF TODAY
2010 HONOREES

• Major Lisa Bellamy, United States Army - MILITARY/LAW ENFORCEMENT
• Charles Chapman, The L.I.V.I.N.G. Ministry - RELIGION
• Paul Ellis Jr., Esq. - CIVIL RIGHTS/COMMUNITY ACTION
• Constance F. Horton, MSW, LSW; executive director, FAME - SOCIAL SERVICE
• Greer Reed-Jones, education director, Pittsburgh Dance Alloy - ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
• La'Tasha Mayes, New Voices Pittsburgh - POLITICS
• Jamilla Rice, teacher and acting curriculum director, Northside Urban Pathways Charter School - EDUCATION
• Monte Robinson, football coach, ACMFA/Westinghouse High School - HEALTH AND WELLNESS
• Rob Wilson, financial advisor, Blazer Capitol Management - BUSINESS/FINANCE
• Dr. Barrett Woods, orthopaedic surgeon - SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Rink to add extra sessions during holiday season

Extra days off school and work during the holiday season mean more time to ice skate in the beautiful outdoor setting of Schenley Park!

The Schenley Park Skating Rink – one of only four outdoor rinks located in Allegheny County and the only regulation size rink in the City of Pittsburgh – will offer additional public sessions during the last week of December.

Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for seniors (60 and older) and youth (17 and younger). Skate rental is $2.50, and skate sharpening is $3.50. For more information, call 412-422-6547 or visit www.SchenleyRink.com.

For information concerning the outdoor Schenley Park Skating Rink, call 412-422-6523 or visit www.SchenleyRink.com.

Thursday, December 24
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
rink closes early (no evening sessions)

Friday, December 25
rink closed Christmas Day

Saturday, December 26
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
4 – 6:30 p.m.
7 – 9 p.m.
9:30 – 11:30 p.m. (adults only session)

Sunday, December 27
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
4 – 6:30 p.m.
7 – 9 p.m.

Monday, December 28
1:30 – 3:30 p.m. (additional session)
4 – 6:30 p.m.
7 – 9 p.m. (additional session)

Tuesday, December 29
1:30 – 3:30 p.m. (additional session)
4 – 6:30 p.m. (additional session)
7 – 9 p.m.
9:30 – 11:30 p.m. (adults only session)

Wednesday, December 30
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
4 – 6:30 p.m. (additional session)
7 – 9 p.m. (additional session)

Thursday, December 31
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
rink close early (no evening sessions)

Friday, January 1 – OPEN NEW YEAR'S DAY
1:30 – 3:30 p.m. (additional session)
4 – 6:30 p.m. (additional session)
7 – 9 p.m.
9:30 – 11:30 p.m. (adults only session)

Saturday, January 2
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
4 – 6:30 p.m.
7 – 9 p.m.
9:30 – 11:30 p.m. (adults only session)

PERFECT "STOCKING STUFFER" FOR HOLIDAY SEASON: SCHENLEY PARK SKATING RINK GIFT CARD

Looking for the perfect "stocking stuffer" for a skating enthusiast? Stop by the Schenley Park Skating Rink throughout the month of December to purchase a holiday gift card – and discover a special savings for yourself! The holiday gift cards – available for adults as well as youth/seniors – offer five admissions for the price of four:

• ADULT GIFT CARD – $16 for five admissions (savings of $4)
• YOUTH (17 and younger) and SENIOR (60 and older) GIFT CARD $12 for five admissions (savings of $3)

Tree Lighting flyer

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl will officially kick off the City of Pittsburgh's holiday festivities by lighting the holiday tree at 12:35 p.m. on Friday, November 20th on the Grant Street Portico of the City-County Building.

"We're excited to kick off an entire day of holiday celebrations happening downtown for Light Up Night," said Ravenstahl. "The noontime tree lighting is an extraordinary event filled with holiday cheer, entertainment, mascots, free refreshments, and even an opportunity to donate to the Salvation Army."

The Salvation Army Ensemble will begin performing on the Portico at 11:10 a.m. Throughout the celebration, individuals will have an opportunity to donate new and gently used toys, as well as non-perishable food items, to the Salvation Army Food & Toy Drive. Individuals may drop donations into the World's Largest Kettle - a 1,125-gallon, 2,800-pound Salvation Army kettle that is approximately 5'8" tall and 8' in diameter at the lid.

At noon, the Point Park University Singers will entertain the crowd. Festivities will include an opportunity to meet and greet Santa Claus, Mr. McFeely from Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, characters from the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre's performance of "The Nutcracker," and numerous mascots including Kenny Kangaroo and the Pennsylvania Resources Council Litterbug.

At 12:35 p.m., Mayor Ravenstahl will lead the countdown to illuminate the decorated holiday tree - a 40-foot Colorado blue spruce donated by a City resident.

"Seasons Greenings" is the theme for this year's holiday celebration. "The theme serves as an extension of the City's ongoing commitment to practicing environmental stewardship," said Ravenstahl.

Citiparks once again sponsored an ornament competition for school students in kindergarten through high school, and all entries will hang on the holiday tree. Students from City public, private and parochial schools participated in the tree decorating project. Students were challenged to create ornaments from natural materials rather than plastic. Other ‘green' elements of the tree lighting event will include using compostable and recycled materials.

Following the lighting ceremony, the Point Park University Singers will resume performing holiday music until 1:00 p.m. All attending the gathering will enjoy cookies provided by the International Culinary Schools at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh as well as coffee compliments Mitchell's Restaurant and apple cider compliments of Giant Eagle.

For more information, contact Citiparks at 412-255-2493.

Now that cold weather has arrived, grab your skates and head to Schenley Park to enjoy another season of ice skating! The Schenley Park Skating Rink - one of only four outdoor rinks located in Allegheny County and the only regulation size rink in the City of Pittsburgh - is now open for the 2009-2010 season.

"The Schenley Park Skating Rink remains one of Pittsburghers' favorite winter attractions, and this winter we're excited to celebrate the rink's 35th anniversary season," according to Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. "Nothing compares with skating outside in the elements, and our rink offers a beautiful tree-lined setting, great music and a view of the downtown Pittsburgh skyline."

The rink operates seven days a week and offer a variety of public sessions and lessons, including:

• FAMILY NIGHT - Thursdays from 7 - 9 p.m.
  One child free with each paying adult (adult admission $4).
  All children must be accompanied by paying adults.
• COLLEGE ID SESSIONS - Tuesdays from 9:30 - 11:30 p.m.;
  Wednesdays from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.; and Sundays from 7 - 9 p.m.
  Present a valid college ID and save one dollar on admisstion (college student admission $3 during these sessions).
• ADULTS ONLY SESSIONS - Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 9:30 - 11:30 p.m.
  During these late evening sessions, only adults 18 years and older can enjoy this special ice time.

Over the winter, the rink will host several special events including:

• SKATE WITH SANTA, Sunday, December 13 (1:30 - 3:30 p.m.)
• 22nd ANNUAL MASCOT SKATE, Saturday, January 16 (1:30 - 3:30 p.m.)
• VALENTINES ON ICE, Sunday, February 14 (7:30 - 11 p.m.)

The facility includes a party room with kitchen available for rental year round for graduation parties, weddings, birthday parties and other occasions. The room is available for rental seven days a week (11 a.m. to 11 p.m.) and can accommodate up to 125 guests.

Admission to the Schenley Park Skating Rink is $4 for adults and $3 for seniors (60 and older) and youth (17 and younger). Skate rental is $2.50, and skate sharpening is $3.50. For more information, contact Citiparks at 412-422-6523 or visit Schenleyrink.com.

THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED

Thursday, November 26 - RINK CLOSED - Thanksgiving Day

Friday, November 27
1:30 - 3:30 p.m. (additional session); 4 - 6:30 p.m. (additional session); 7 - 9 p.m.; 9:30 - 11:30 p.m. (adults only)

Saturday, November 28
1:30 - 3:30 p.m.; 4 - 6:30 p.m.; 7 - 9 p.m.; 9:30 - 11:30 p.m. (adults only)

Sunday, November 29
1:30 - 3:30 p.m.; 4 - 6:30 p.m.; 7 - 9 p.m.

Expanded green activities in 2009 result in higher yields of material to recycle and compost

For a second year, The Great Race - which attracted a field of 12,788 registered runners and walkers - placed a top priority on practicing environmental stewardship, and the results topped totals from the inaugural year.

Race organizers and the City's Recycling Division once again partnered with the Pennsylvania Resources Council to create a "Green Team" presence at the Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race on September 27, as well as the Dollar Bank Junior Great Race, which attracted 700+ children and their families and officially kicked off "Great Race Week" on September 20.

"Our green initiative involved everything from collecting orange peels and pasta containers at the finish line to encouraging race participants to register online and car pool on race day," said Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. "The Great Race remains Pennsylvania's largest 10K, so we look to set an excellent example for all races in the Commonwealth."

According to final figures compiled by the Pennsylvania Resources Council (PRC) and City of Pittsburgh Recycling Division, the expanded efforts resulted in a significant increase in materials collected.

"This year we collected more than 6,000 pounds of material to compost, nearly seven times the amount we collected last year," said PRC Regional Director Dave Mazza. "At the finish line we continued to collect orange and banana peels and introduced compostable containers, forks and napkins for the pasta salad served. A major reason for such a significant increase was the introduction of compostable cups at all water stops along the course route."

According to Race Director Mike Radley, organizers expanded the focus of green activities this year. "Last year we focused our attention primarily on collecting materials at Point State Park since it serves as the finish line and gathering space for both The Great Race and the Junior Great Race. But this year we expanded the green focus to include water stops along the course and an educational display and recycling/composting station at the two-day expo."

This year the "Green Team" doubled it's collection of cardboard - the majority from boxes used to deliver refreshments or items for the runners' packets - from 1,000 pounds in 2008 to more than 2,600 pounds in 2009.

Other "green" efforts included using recyclable cups at the start and finish lines; collecting leftover print materials for recycling; printing race applications on recycled paper using soy inks; using shuttle buses to transport runners and walkers to the start lines; and encouraging online registration.

"We were very pleased with this year's efforts," said Radley, "and we will once again plant trees along the Eliza Furnace Trail as an ongoing reminder of The Great Race's commitment to the environment."

Citywide efforts to increase neighborhood curbside recycling have also improved.

"Residents can now place all recycling items together in blue bags, instead of having to separate bottles with bottles and paper with paper like before," City Recycling Coordinator Shawn Wigle said. "By moving to single-stream recycling, we've made it easier for residents to recycle and have increased curbside tonnages by nearly 30 percent."

In addition to presenting sponsor Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, 2009 Great Race sponsors are Dollar Bank, Allegheny General Hospital, Dick's Sporting Goods, Del Monte Foods, KDKA-TV, Q92.9, 96.9 BOB FM, Pittsburgh magazine, Port Authority, Southwest Airlines and ARAD.

Gather your family, scout troop or youth group for an enjoyable celebration of autumn - "Bump in the Night" - at the Frick Environmental Center in Squirrel Hill.

This year's autumn celebration will take place completely outdoors (participants should dress for the weather) from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. on the following dates:

• Friday and Saturday, October 16 & 17
• Friday and Saturday, October 23 & 24

"Bump in the Night" encourages children to enjoy - rather than fear - the night. Families, scouting troops and youth organizations enjoy storytelling around a campfire, a sing-along, a walk on the trails, an opportunity to meet a nocturnal mammal and other related activities.

The cost is $10 for adults (ages 12 and up) and $8 for children (ages 3 - 11). Space is limited, so reservations are required. Visit www.Citiparks.net for a registration form.

The Frick Environmental Center is located at 2005 Beechwood Blvd. in Squirrel Hill. In addition to conducting environmental education programs, the Center is responsible for maintaining a 151-acre urban nature reserve.

VOLUNTEER TO "GET READY FOR 'BUMP'"

Families are invited to assist the Frick Environmental Center staff with preparations for "Bump in the Night." Stop by on Tuesday, October 13, and/or Tuesday, October 20, from 4 - 8 p.m. to carve pumpkins and make decorations for the festivities.

For more information about volunteering, call 412-422-6538.

26 runners maintain perfect record of running all 32 races

Thousands of racers - including 26 "Perfect Great Racers" - took to the streets of Pittsburgh on Sunday for the 32nd running of the Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race.

The 26 men have participated in - and finished - every Great Race, starting back on Sept. 25, 1977.

The order of finish for this group of 26 "Perfect Great Racers" was Costello…and Abbott (Bob Costello at 42:53 and Tom Abbott at 43:19)

The following 26 individuals have participated in - and finished - The Great Race for each of the past 32 years (1977 - 2009)*.

* 2003 race cancelled

On Sunday, September 27, thousands of runners and walkers took to the streets of Pittsburgh for the 32nd running of the Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. A total of 12,788 individuals registered for the race - 8,292 for the10K run and 4,496 registered for the 5K run/walk - making it the second largest field in the race's history. (Record of 12,807 set in 1987).

In the 10K open division, Andrew Carnes, 22, of Canton, Ohio, was the winner in the men's competition with a time of 30:35. Mary Gill, 29, of Carrboro, North Carolina, was the winner in the women's competition with a time of 35:59.

In the 5K competition, Ryan Anderson, 22, of Orchard Park, New York, won the male division with a time of 15:06. Stephanie Sproule, 42, of Wexford, Pennsylvania, won the female division with a time of 18:28.

In addition to presenting sponsor Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, 2009 Great Race sponsors are Dollar Bank, Allegheny General Hospital, Dick's Sporting Goods, Del Monte Foods, KDKA-TV, Q92.9, 96.9 BOB FM, Pittsburgh magazine, Port Authority, Southwest Airlines and ARAD.

For additional race details, visit www.RunGreatRace.com.

Again this year, The Great Race - taking place on Sunday, September 27 - is placing a top priority on practicing environmental stewardship and expanding its effort to "grow greener."

"The Great Race remains Pennsylvania's largest 10K, so we look to set an excellent example for all races in the Commonwealth," said Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. "Our green initiative involves everything from collecting plastic containers and orange peels at the finish line to encouraging race participants to car pool. We were extremely pleased with the outcome of our efforts in 2008, and we're expanding our ‘green' initiative this year."

Last year the Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield - which attracted more than 11,500 participants - partnered with the Pennsylvania Resources Council and City of Pittsburgh Recycling Division to create a "Green Team" presence. The "Green Team" gathered more than 900 pounds of orange and banana peels to become compost and collected more than 8,000 plastic water bottles. The team also collected 10 cubic yards of cardboard - the majority from boxes used to deliver refreshments or items for the runners' packets. Other effort also included printing race applications on recycled paper using soy inks and recycling all leftover print materials.

In addition to repeating all "green" activities initiated last year, race organizers are introducing the following new activities in 2009:

• Installing a recycling station at the two-day Great Race Expo (collecting materials on site as well as educating participants about recycling/composting activities at Point State Park)
• Using compostable cups at all water stops along the 6.2-mile course route and recyclable cups at the start and finish lines
• Composting thousands of pasta salad containers/napkins/forks at finish line
• Substantially reducing the quantity of applications printed and increasing promotion of online registration (replaced early bird application with "save the date" postcard and decreased quantity of other print materials)

"While 2008 marked the first year for a partnership with PRC, The Great Race has always focused on the environment by doing things such as using shuttle buses to transport runners and walkers to the start line and encouraging online registration," said Race Director Mike Radley. "We're pleased to expand our efforts in 2009, and once again in the spring we'll plant trees along the Eliza Furnace Trail as an ongoing reminder of The Great Race's commitment to the environment."

In an effort to include and educate Pittsburgh youth in the upcoming G-20 Economic Summit being hosted in the City this week, Citiparks presents the G-20 International Children's Flag Project and Essay Contest. The Flag Project is a tool to help connect area students to this historic event as well as to enlarge their knowledge of our world neighbors.

The Flag Project can be downloaded from the Citiparks website, www.citiparks.net. The project consists of a coloring book with the flags of all 20 countries participating in the summit and educates participants on interesting facts about each country. Students are encouraged to observe the uniqueness and design of the flags, as they are meaningful to the countries that they represent.

The optional essay portion of the project asks how children would respond to the challenge of global poverty. Essays will be judged in three categories based upon grade level and is open to all City residents. Winning essayists will see their essays posted on the Citiparks website and will receive prizes including Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium passes, Schenley Park Skating Rink passes and Mellon Park Tennis Center gift certificates. All winners will receive a certificate of achievement.

Entries for the essay contest will be accepted through September 30, 2009 and can be submitted through the Citiparks website or mailed to:

Citiparks Office of Special Programs
City-County Building Room 462
414 Grant Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Winners will be notified within two weeks of the contest deadline.

For more information contact the Citiparks Community Enrichment Program office at 412-665-3665.

###

On Sunday morning, September 27, thousands of runners and walkers will take to the streets of Pittsburgh for the 32nd running of the Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.

The 10K run - which will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Beechwood Blvd. in Frick Park - will follow a predominantly downhill course along Fifth Avenue and the Blvd. of the Allies to Point State Park in downtown Pittsburgh. A 5K run and walk - beginning at 8:30 a.m. - will start at Fifth Avenue and Atwood Street in Oakland and follow the same route as the 10K to the finish line.

Race organizers have announced the following schedule of street closings for Sunday morning, September 27:

ZONE A
Start Line at Beechwood Blvd. to Forbes and Morewood avenues will close to traffic at 8:30 a.m. and open at approximately 9:45 a.m.

ZONE B
Forbes and Morewood avenues to Fifth Avenue and Bigelow Blvd. will close to traffic at 8:30 a.m. and open at approximately 10:30 a.m.

ZONE C
Fifth Avenue and Bigelow Blvd. to Fifth Avenue at Boulevard of the Allies Slip Ramp will close to traffic at 7:00 a.m. and open at approximately 10:30 a.m.

ZONE D
Boulevard of the Allies to Wood Street to Ft. Pitt Blvd. to Commonwealth Place will close to traffic at 7:00 a.m. and open at approximately 11 a.m.

FINISH LINE
Commonwealth Place Curb Lane (southbound lane closest to the park between Liberty Ave. and Ft. Duquesne Blvd.) will close to traffic at 7 p.m. on Friday, September 25, and reopen at 3 p.m. on Sunday, September 27. Total southbound lane closure to begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, and end at 3 p.m. on Sunday, September 27.

PLEASE NOTE:
"Great Race Week" will kick off on Sunday, September 20, with the Dollar Bank Junior Great Race in Point State Park. As a result, Ft. Duquesne Blvd. (between Commonwealth Place and Sixth Street) and Commonwealth Place (between Liberty Ave. and Ft. Duquesne Blvd.) will be closed to traffic on Sunday, September 20, between 11:55 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Citiparks State Games participants received individual proclamations on September 10, 2009.

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that the City's Department of Parks and Recreation (Citiparks) has added the Child and Adult Care Afterschool Feeding Program (CACFP) to its 10 Community Recreation Centers located throughout the greater Pittsburgh area. Beginning September 8, 2009, each of the qualified sites will provide a free and healthy, hot meal to school age children (kindergarten up to 18 years old). The meals will be available at the centers between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. [ Mayor's Press Release ]

On Sunday, September 20, hundreds of children will enjoy the experience of a true "road race" through the streets of Pittsburgh - while younger children participate in a "diaper dash" and "tot trot" in Point State Park - at the 14th annual Dollar Bank Junior Great Race.

"The Junior Great Race is undeniably one of the most entertaining, non-competitive races for Pittsburgh's kids," according to Great Race Director Mike Radley. "It's a perfect family activity that combines health, fitness and fun...and the event officially kicks off 'Great Race Week' each September."

Beginning at noon on September 20, children ages 12 and under will take off for the One Mile Family Fun Run, which begins and ends in Point State Park. The runners (and their parents) will travel along Ft. Duquesne Boulevard - overlooking the Allegheny River and PNC Park - before turning around at a water stop near the Clemente Bridge at Sixth Street.

In the park, younger children will participate by running in the 50 Yard Tot Trot or crawling the Diaper Dash in a grassy area.

All registered children will receive an official Junior Great Race T-shirt and Junior Great Race medal for their efforts. All participants will receive a goodie bag and have a chance to win prizes in the post-race raffle.

The festivities will feature mascots, face painters, other fun activities and free snacks and beverages. Each child will receive a special treat from The Spaghetti Warehouse, and Smiley's Cruiser will distribute scrumptious Smiley Cookies courtesy of Eat 'n Park.

The registration fee for the Junior Great Race is $5 in advance or $7 on the day of the event. Applications are available at Dollar Bank, by calling 412-255-2493 or by visiting The Great Race Web site, www.RunGreatRace.com.

"Again this year we're encouraging people to take advantage of the convenience of registering online," said Radley. "Those visiting the Web site will find no service free for online registration."

Packet pick-up and late registration for the Dollar Bank Junior Great Race will take place on Sunday, September 20, from 10:30 - 11:45 a.m. in Point State Park.

The 32nd running of the Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race - founded as a 10K road race in 1977 by the late mayor of Pittsburgh, Richard S. Caliguiri - will take place on Sunday, September 27. Over the years, more than a quarter million individuals have taken part in the event, which has grown to include a 5K race, 5K walk and children's race. Since Mayor Caliguiri's death in 1988, a portion of the proceeds have been donated to the Richard S. Caliguiri Amyloidosis Fund, which benefits research to find a cure for the disease that claimed his life.

The Dollar Bank Junior Great Race is sponsored by Dollar Bank, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Allegheny General Hospital, Dick's Sporting Goods, Del Monte Foods, KDKA-TV, Q92.9, 96.9 BOB FM, Pittsburgh magazine, Port Authority, Southwest Airlines, Wise Snacks and ARAD.

Whether you're looking for the challenge of a 5K run or walk - or just a one-mile fun run - the "Brookline Breeze" will offer a perfect opportunity to enjoy a Saturday morning outing when the starting gun sounds on August 8.

Citiparks and the Brookline Breeze Committee will host the 28th running of the Brookline Breeze 5K Run & Fitness Walk, which begins at 9:00 a.m. at the Brookline Community Recreation Center located at 1400 Brookline Boulevard. The non-competitive one-mile "Mini Breeze" fun run will begin at 8:35 a.m. at the same location.

"Community footraces showcase the best of Pittsburgh neighborhoods," according to Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. "Each year the organizers of the Brookline Breeze take it one step further by starting the day with the footrace and then continuing with a community festival featuring free family activities and entertainment."

Once again organizers are offering a special incentive for entire families to run or walk the racecourse. Enter your immediate family (up to 5 runners/walkers) in the Brookline Breeze 5K Race for only $28.00! Participants must complete individual applications and be pre-registered in the race to qualify for this special offer.

A daylong community festival on Saturday, August 8, will begin with the Mini-Breeze starting gun at 8:35 a.m. and continue through 2 p.m. Activities at Brookline Memorial Park will include a petting zoo, pony rides, balloon sculptor, moonwalk ping pong, face painting and climbing wall. Steel Hollow will perform live music.

"Our goal is to encourage the community to join us for the race and stay to enjoy the live music and kids activities." according to Debbie Brust of Brookline, who serves as the race's co-director along with Eileen Papale.

Brookline Breeze "early bird" entry fee is $12 for 5K race; $9 for 5K walk; and $6 for one-mile "Mini Breeze" fun run. Online registration is available at www.brooklinebreeze.com. Any entry form postmarked after July 28 should add $3 to registration fee.

All registered runners and walkers will receive a t-shirt and are eligible to win $1,000 in prizes and gift certificates at the post-race raffle.

For registration and race information, call 412-571-3222 or visit www.brooklinebreeze.com.

The Brookline Breeze is sponsored by Allegheny General Hospital, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Dollar Bank, Wise Snacks, Froggy Radio, Sam's Club, Castriota Chevrolet, Moonlite Care, Venture Outdoors, Elite Runners & Walkers, Brookline Medicine Shoppe, South Pittsburgh Development Corp. and Wal-Mart.

This charity event benefits the Brookline Christian Food Pantry, Brookline Meals on Wheels, Brookline Recreation Programs and BRC School.

Youth encouraged to run or walk in upcoming community footraces

Every child and teen participating in the "On Your Mark with Highmark Youth Challenge" this summer is a winner!

This popular fitness program encourages children to take part in community footraces- by either running or walking the 5K distance. Each child age 6 to 12* who completes one community footrace - or each youth age 13 to 18* who completes two community footraces - receives free registration to The Great Race courtesy of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. (* age as of June 1, 2009)

Then after completing The Great Race (5K or 10K division) on September 27, each youth will receive a personalized certificate recognizing the achievement. And since this is not a competitive activity, everyone is a victor for simply taking on the challenge!

Upcoming Citiparks footraces in August are:

"Brookline Breeze 5k Run & Fitness Walk" Saturday, August 8
"Run Around The Square" Saturday, August 22

For more information, visit www.RunGreatRace.com or call The Great Race hotline at 412-255-2493.

Runners - and walkers - will take to the streets of Pittsburgh on Sunday, September 27, for the 32nd running of the Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.

"The Great Race remains Pennsylvania's largest 10K race - but it isn't just for serious runners," according to Race Director Mike Radley. "The 5K run/walk continues to grow in popularity, so we're inviting all runners, walkers, families and teams to join us on the last Sunday of September."

The Great Race, established as a 10K race by the late Mayor Richard S. Caliguiri, has grown to include the 5K run/walk, running clinic, two-day exposition and children's race. More than 11,000 individuals take part in these various activities annually.

The 2009 Great Race-related activities include:

• Allegheny General Hospital Running Clinic
  Saturday, August 15, 8 a.m. - noon,
  Federal North Building, 1307 Federal Street, North Side
  Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities will learn about injury assessment and prevention, nutrition, training programs and much more. Advance registration is required for this free screening program. Call 1-877-284-2000.
• Dollar Bank Junior Great Race
  Sunday, September 20, noon,
  Point State Park
  Children 12 years and younger will enjoy a One Mile Fun Run, 50 Yard Tot Trot and Diaper Dash. This popular event features mascots, face painters and refreshments. Registration $5 in advance; $7 day or event.
• Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Great Race Expo
  Friday, September 25. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  Saturday, September 26, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  The Circuit Centre (formerly IBEW Conference Centre), Hot Metal Street, South Side
  The Expo will include product sampling, health screenings, demonstrations and discounted sporting goods. The two-day event will provide an opportunity to register for the race and/or pick up packets.
• Great Race Pasta Party - event returns in 2009
  Saturday, September 26, 4 - 10 p.m.
  The Spaghetti Warehouse, 2601 Smallman Steet, Strip District
  Gather the evening before the race for a delicious meal of pasta, salad, rolls and beverage for $10 per person ($5 per child 10 years and younger). To purchase tickets, call The Spaghetti Warehouse at 412-261-6511.
• Dick's Sporting Goods Team Competition
  Great Race Sunday
  Groups of three to five runners will compete in the 10K in numerous categories such as running clubs, students, business/industry and civic organizations. Register online or call 412-255-2493 for an application.

In addition to the Return Of The Great Race Pasta Party, other highlights in 2009 include:

• New Website - The race's redesigned website - www.RunGreatRace.com - offers expanded content and photos as well as online volunteer registration.
• Great Race Grows Greener - Last year, Great Race "Green Team" members collected and recycled more than 8,000 plastic water bottles and composted 900 lbs. of orange and banana peels. Other successful "greening" efforts included planting tress along the Eliza Furnace Trail and printing race applications on recycled paper using soy-based ink. Race organizers have again partnered with the Pennsylvania Resources Council to expand the green initiative in 2009.
• Early Bird Discount - Register two runners or walkers for $30 (a savings of up to $20/pair). To take advantage of this "early bird discount," register two individuals together by September 4.
• On Your Mark With Highmark Youth Challenge - This popular fitness program encourages children to take part in Citiparks community footraces...by either running or walking the 5K distance. Each child age 6 to 12 who completes one Citiparks community footrace or each youth age 13 to 18 who completes two Citiparks community footraces receives free registration to The Great Race courtesy of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.

"We encourage runners and walkers to visit Dollar Bank branches, Dick Sporting Goods stores and other locations to pick up application forms," said Radley. "This year we're once again encouraging people to take advantage of the convenience of registering online by visiting www.RunGreatRace.com."

Individuals returning the registration form - or registering online at www.RunGreatRace.com - by Friday, September 4, will pay the early registration fee of $18 - or 2 for $30. All signing up between September 5 and 26 will pay the standard registration fee of $25 per person.

In addition to presenting sponsor Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, 2009 Great Race sponsors are Dollar Bank, Allegheny General Hospital, Dick's Sporting Goods, Del Monte Foods, KDKA-TV, Q92.9, 96.9 BOB FM, Pittsburgh magazine, Port Authority, Southwest Airlines and ARAD.

For more information, visit www.citiparks.net or call 412-255-2493.

Whether you're an experienced dancer or just a novice on the dance floor, step out to an area park for Citiparks "Summer Soul Line Dancing."

Instructor Roland Ford incorporates R&B music in classes that begin with basic steps and finish with more advanced moves.

Fifth Avenue at Beechwood Boulevard, Shadyside

• Saturday, June 13, 4 - 7 p.m.

Overlook Drive, Oakland

• Thursday, June 18, 6:30 - 9 p.m.
• Thursday, July 9, 6:30 - 9 p.m.

Highland Avenue and Reservoir Drive, Highland Park
begins at 7 p.m. (following Reservoir of Jazz concerts)

• Sunday, August 2
• Sunday, August 9
• Sunday, August 16
• Sunday, August 23
• Sunday, August 30

For more information, visit www.citiparks.net or call 412-255-9190.

Start your Sunday mornings off on the right note at the Citiparks "Bach, Beethoven and Brunch" concert series starting on June 21.

Satisfy your appetite for classical music by treating yourself to a special Sunday morning on the lawn of the Mellon Park rose garden from 10:30 a.m. - noon. Don't miss the "Best Brunch" competition during intermission - the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts will award prizes!

For more information, visit www.Citiparks.net or call Citiparks at 412-255-8975.

Bach, Beethoven and Brunch is sponsored by Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition, State Representative Dan Frankel, State Senator Jay Costa, WQED-FM 89.3, Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, Music Performance Trust Fund and Starbucks Coffee,

• June 21 The Pittsburgh Philharmonic
• June 28 IonSound Project
• July 5 Three Rivers Saxophone Quartet
• July 12 Cincopation
• July 19 The Ortner-Roberts Trio presents a Yiddish/Creole Fusion (presented by MCG Jazz)
• July 26 Allegheny Brass Band
• August 2 Cellofourte
• August 9 Carnegie Brass
• August 16 Renaissance City Winds

Beat the summer heat with cool jazz at Citiparks "Stars at Riverview Jazz Series" each Saturday evening at Riverview Park.

Bring a lawn chair or a blanket to spread on Observatory Hill and enjoy an evening of free music played by many of Pittsburgh's premier jazz musicians.

On Saturday, June 13, The Phoenix Jazz Project will open the Citiparks summer concert series. Free concerts continue each Saturday evening from 7 - 8:30 p.m. through August 22.

And after the concerts, stick around for Dollar Bank Cinema in the Park, featuring free movies the whole family will enjoy. Movies begin at dusk. "Kung Fu Panda" is the featured movie on June 13.

The Stars at Riverview Jazz Series is sponsored by BNY Mellon, DUQ 90.5 FM, and New Pittsburgh Courier.

• June 13 The Phoenix Jazz Project
• June 20 Jay Ashby Quartet (presented by MCG Jazz)
• June 27 Patrick Arena
• July 11 Antoinette Manganas
• July 18 Tony Campbell
• July 25 Kenny Blake
• August 1 Carolyn Perteete
• August 8 Dwayne Dolphin
• August 15 Kenia
• August 22 Kevin Howard

For information, call 412-422-6426 or visit www.Citiparks.net.

On Saturday, June 13, Citiparks will open 18 outdoor swimming pools for the summer season.

"The City's outdoor swimming pools provide unlimited recreational opportunities throughout the summer months," according to Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. "Neighborhood pools allow City residents to join a water aerobics class, enjoy a community water carnival, compete in a championship meet as part of a neighborhood swim team or learn swimming skills."

Individuals can purchase pool tags for year-round admission to Citiparks outdoor pools and the Oliver Bath House, which operates in the off season, at the following locations:

BEGINNING JUNE 1 (continuing throughout summer)
Citiparks Office
City-County Building, Fourth Floor
414 Grant Street, Downtown Pittsburgh

JUNE 1 - JUNE 12
Oliver Bath House
38 S. 10th Street, South Side

SUNDAY, JUNE 7, 1 - 6 p.m.
tags will be sold in advance of the pool opening at Citiparks pool locations

JUNE 8 - JUNE 12, 4 - 8 p.m.
tags will be sold in advance of the pool opening at Citiparks pool locations

BEGINNING JUNE 13 (and continuing throughout the summer season)
tags will be available at Citiparks pools during operating hours

Cost of pool tags for City residents are: $60 - family of four; $10 - each additional family member; $30 - adult (16 years or older); $15 - youth (3 - 15 years old); free - child (2 and younger). For non-City residents the cost is $45 for adult or youth.

Those interested in purchasing daily admission can do so at any pool beginning on June 13. Cost is $3 for children ages 3 - 15 and $4 for individuals 16 and older.

For City residents who are disabled veterans and families of active duty military and activated reservist/guard members, pool tags are available at no cost. Proper ID is required.

For more information, call the Citiparks Aquatics Division at 412-323-7928 or visit www.Citiparks.net.

Satisfy your appetite for fresh-picked fruits and vegetables throughout the next six months by visiting Citiparks Farmers' Markets, which will open six locations the week of May 11. The seventh location - a new market in Beechview - will open in mid June.

All markets will sell farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheese and baked goods, while several locations will also sell flowers, small gifts and gardening items.

"Thanks to farmers' markets, you never need to leave the city limits to by farm-fresh fruits and vegetables," according to Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. "Citiparks operates farmers' markets every weekend spring through fall, and this year we're excited to introduce a new market location in Beechview."

For more information, call Citiparks at 412-422-6523 or visit www.citiparks.net.

Get ready to run The Great Race - or a footrace in a City park or neighborhood!

Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race

presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

Date:	Sunday, September 27
Type:	10K race; 5K run/fitness walk
5K run/walk start time/place:	8:30 a.m. Atwood Street at Fifth Avenue, Oakland
10K run start time/place:	9:30 a.m. Beechwood Boulevard, Frick Park
Race Information:	The Great Race Hotline (412) 255-2493 or visit www.RunGreatRace.com
Benefits:	A portion of each entry fee benefits the Richard S. Caliguiri Amyloidosis Fund

Dollar Bank Junior Great Race

Date:	Sunday, September 20
Type:	Diaper Dash; 50-Yard Tot Trot; 1-mile Fun Run
Start time/place:	Noon, Point State Park, Downtown Pittsburgh
Race Information:	Call Citiparks at (412) 255-2493 or visit www.RunGreatRace.com

Greenfield Glide 5K Run & Walk

Date:	Sunday, June 7
Type:	5K run/fitness walk
Start time/place:	8:30 a.m. Schenley Park Overlook
Race Information:	(412) 422-8885 or www.greenfieldglide.com

Riverview Park 5K Run & Fitness Walk

Date:	Friday, June 12
Type:	5K run; 5K walk
Start time/place:	7:00 p.m. Riverview Park Activities Building
Race Information:	(412) 255-2493 or www.riverview5k.com

Brookline Breeze 5K Run & Fitness Walk

Date:	Saturday, August 8
Type:	5K run/fitness walk; one-mile fun run
Fun Run Start time/place:	8:35 a.m. "Mini Breeze" (one-mile fun run course) at Brookline Community Center
5K Start time/place:	9:00 a.m. 5K run/walk at Brookline Community Center
Race Information:	(412) 571-3222 or www.brooklinebreeze.com

Run Around the Square

Date:	Saturday, August 22
Type:	5K run/walk; 1.5-mile fun run/walk
1.5-mile run/walk start time/place:	8:15 a.m. Henrietta and Milton avenues
5K run/walk start time/place:	9:00 a.m. Henrietta and Milton avenues
Race Information:	(412) 422-6562 or www.runaroundthesquare.com

The Ammon Community Center, located at 2217 Bedford Avenue, officially re-opened on April 28, 2009.

Citiparks festivities offer a chance to learn...explore...and enjoy

The entire family will enjoy celebrating Earth Day surrounded by the beauty of nature at the Frick Environmental Center on Saturday, April 18, from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Nature lovers of all ages will enjoy a full day of free activities, including:

• BIRD, BOTANY & BUG HIKES through the center's grounds
• "GEOCACHING" - a treasure hunt using GPS
• FLOWERBED PLANTING at the center's entrance
• NATURE CRAFTS for children of all ages.
• "ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS" with owls, bees and stream critters
• MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT ranging from steel drums to bluegrass
• ENERGY AUDITS by West Penn Energy Solutions

"The Frick Woods Nature Reserve is one of the most beautiful spots in the City of Pittsburgh, and I look forward to attending the Earth Day celebration each year," said Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. "It offers an extensive trail system and a wide array of habitats filled with Pennsylvania's native plants."

At 1 p.m. Mayor Ravenstahl will join the festivities by planting a flowering dogwood tree at the entrance of the woodland area.

Groups and families will have a chance to leave a lasting legacy by sponsoring and planting a woodland shrub at Frick Environmental Center for a $50 donation.

Earth Day at Frick Environmental Center is presented by Citiparks and is sponsored by 91.3 fm WYEP, AD Consultants, The Square Café, Funari Architecture, Wise Snacks and many families in our community.

For more information, visit www.citiparks.net or call 412-422-6538.

• 11 a.m. The Regent Squares (acoustic music)
• noon Miller African-Centered Academy (African singing, drumming and dancing)
• 1 p.m. Mon River Ramblers (bluegrass music)
• 2 p.m. Zany Umbrella Circus - "My Grandfather's Circus"
• 3 p.m. "Sounds of Steel" from Northside Urban Pathways Charter School (steel drum band)

• 11:30 a.m. botany hike and geocaching (treasure hunt using GPS)
• 12:30 p.m. bird hike (bring binoculars and a field guide) and geocaching
• 1:30 p.m. botany hike, bug hike and geocaching
• 2:30 p.m. wild edibles and geocaching

• Mayor Ravenstahl Plants Tree - 1 p.m.
• Energy Audits By West Penn Energy Solutions - noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m.
• Yoga Classes - noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m.
• Zany Umbrella Circus Workshop - 3 p.m.

(taking place throughout the day)

• Tree Climbing
• Nature Exploration
• Crafts
• Rangoll Creation (traditional folk art from India)
• Building Fairy Homes

(taking place throughout the day) Learn about sustainable living practices

• Rain barrel information
• Permeable surfaces
• Green cleaning
• Native plants
• Energy audits
• Healthy living
• Green construction
• Therapeutic massage