Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:07 AM
We hope everyone has a safe and Happy New Year!
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:06 AM
We hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday!
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 10:20 AM
Do you love sugar cookies? Perfecting the best recipe might be a challenge for you. Here is a great sugar cookie cut out recipe that will produce beautiful and tasty sugar cookies. You can learn more at The Kitchn.
Best Cut-Out Sugar Cookies
2 to 3 dozen cookies, depending on size
1 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature for 1 hour
2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon lemon zest
3 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
In the bowl of a stand mixer (or in a large bowl, using a hand mixer), cream the butter and cream cheese with the sugar. Beat for several minutes, or until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla and almond extracts, and lemon zest.
Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl then gradually add to the butter and sugar mixture until fully incorporated and a soft dough is formed.
At this point the dough can, and should be, chilled or frozen. If making cookies in the near future, divide the dough into 2 balls and roll each out to 1/4 to 1/8-inch thickness between large pieces of parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Or freeze the dough balls, wrapped in plastic wrap and a freezer bag, for up to 1 month. To thaw, leave in the refrigerator overnight then proceed with the recipe.
To bake the cookies, preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment or a Silpat. Cut cookies out of the rolled dough and place on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake cookies for 8 to 12 minutes, depending on thickness. Let cool for 5 minutes on the cookie sheet, then remove to a wire rack.
Cool completely before icing or decorating, and store in a tightly covered container.
Best Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (Large Batch) 8 to 12 dozen, depending on size
3 cups unsalted butter, softened at room temperature for 1 hour
6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
3 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 teaspoons lemon zest
9 cups flour
4 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
In the bowl of a stand mixer (or in a large bowl, using a hand mixer), cream the butter and cream cheese with the sugar. Beat for several minutes, or until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla and almond extracts, and lemon zest.
Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl then gradually add to the butter and sugar mixture until fully incorporated and a soft dough is formed.
At this point the dough can, and should be, chilled or frozen. If making cookies in the near future, divide the dough into 2 balls and roll each out to 1/4 to 1/8-inch thickness between large pieces of parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Or freeze the dough balls, wrapped in plastic wrap and a freezer bag, for up to 1 month. To thaw, leave in the refrigerator overnight then proceed with the recipe.
To bake the cookies, preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment or a Silpat. Cut cookies out of the rolled dough and place on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake cookies for 8 to 12 minutes, depending on thickness. Let cool for 5 minutes on the cookie sheet, then remove to a wire rack.
Cool completely before icing or decorating, and store in a tightly covered container.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 10:20 AM
Are you looking for a new Christmas tree in your apartment? What about a book tree? These can be great decorations with meaning behind them. Keep reading and try to make your own book tree.
Apartment Therapy has great holiday ideas for every room in your home.
The talented ladies at my local public library created a few charming book trees out of a seldom-used set of reference books, a string of lights, and an old, unreadable book. Perhaps you have similar supplies around the house?
Your collection of Babysitters' Club book would make a perky, pastel tree, while the complete works of James Patterson would create a huge and darkly dramatic tree, full of ominous titles such as 1st To Die and Cross Fire. Bonus points for Merry Christmas, Alex Cross! A set of leatherbound books with gold writing would make for a particularly rich and glamorous tree.
Simply arrange a layer of books in a rough circle, and build from there, staggering the books across the gaps in each previous layer, and moving inward as you work. It may take a few attempts (or a particularly analytical mind) to figure out how big to make each layer, but it's a mess-free low-stress sort of problem to figure out. Once the books are stacked to your liking, drape sparkly lights around the whole thing.
If you'd like to take the theme even further, use an unwanted book to create a book tree topper- a tutorial can be found at Creative "Try"als. You could also use any paper that matches your color scheme to craft a folded paper tree to put on top - Julep and Madame Bonbon have tutorials.
If you do create a book tree, please show off a photo!
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:04 AM
Are you a cookie fan? Check out the Joy of Cookies Tour in Lawrenceville! The event will be held from December 5th-December 8th. The stores in Lawrenceville will be passing out tasty treats while showcasing their stores. You can learn more at Living Pittsburgh.
The 13th annual Joy of Cookies Cookie Tour will once again offer yummy samples to shopping cookie connoisseurs this holiday season.
From Thursday, December 5 through Sunday, December 8, 2013, over 30
participating stores in Lawrenceville’s Business District will be
serving up tasty treats while showcasing the many fabulous independently
owned shops, galleries and boutiques Lawrenceville offers.
Rides from Molly’s Trolleys will be available to take people between stops on Saturday from noon to 6pm.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 8:42 AM
How are you spending your Thanksgiving? We hope you have a happy and safe holiday!
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:22 AM
This week we are giving you an idea for a new Thanksgiving side dish to try this year. Have you ever thought about adding asparagus to your meal. It is a pretty easy recipe, and it tastes delicious. Keep reading and check out
My Recipes for more information.
Ingredients
-
3 pounds
fresh asparagus
$
-
2 tablespoons
olive oil
$
-
3
garlic cloves, minced
-
3/4 teaspoon
salt
-
1/2 teaspoon
freshly ground black pepper
-
1/2 cup
slivered almonds, toasted
Preparation
- Snap off and discard tough ends of asparagus; place asparagus on
a lightly greased baking sheet. Drizzle evenly with olive oil; sprinkle
evenly with garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Bake at 350° for 10 minutes or to desired degree of tenderness. Transfer asparagus to a serving dish; sprinkle with almonds.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:08 AM
We would like to take a moment to thank all of our veterans past and present that have served this country!
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 10:48 AM
Are you looking for something to do after all the Halloween parties? Check out this great list of events happening throughout the city this week. These events are free or discounted, and they are great for all ages. You can learn more below or at
Living Pittsburgh.
The following list is a compilation of many free and affordable weekly,
monthly, annual, and one-time events in and around Pittsburgh. Be sure
to check out the rest of the site for great deals on food & drink,
daily activities, products and services.
Friday, November 1
2013 Pittsburgh Pet Expo - FREE – $8
Good Fridays at The Andy Warhol Museum – 1/2 priced admission
Observatory SkyWatch at the Science Center – $1
Storytimes Around the City – FREE
Friday Night Improv at Studio Theater – $3
Salsa Fridays at Cabaret at Theater Square – $5
Kinder Klimb at REI – FREE with $20 LIFETIME membership
Line Dancing lessons at Saddle Ridge – FREE
Cheap Burgers in the ‘Burgh on Friday – $3 or less
Friday Wing Deals – wing specials in the ‘Burgh on Fridays
Saturday, November 2
2013 Pittsburgh Pet Expo - FREE – $8
Family Fiesta: A Remembrance of the Dead and a Celebration for the Living - FREE (donations being accepted)
Saturday Nights at Swing City – $10-12
Saturday Light Brigade Radio Show – FREE
Sunday, November 3
2013 Pittsburgh Pet Expo - FREE – $8
Free Sunday Afternoons at the Carnegie Library – FREE
Fifty Cent Sundaze at Arsenal Bowling Lanes – $6 plus .50 cent games, shoe rental and hot dogs
Starving Artist Sunday Supper at Brillobox - $6
Sunday Brunch Deals – affordable local brunches
Sunday Wing Deals – wing specials in the ‘Burgh on Sundays
Cheap Burgers in the ‘Burgh on Sunday – $3 or less
Sunday Bloody Mary Specials in Pittsburgh – ‘Mary specials in the ‘Burgh on Sundays
Monday, November 4
AcoustiCafe – FREE admission and drink specials
Totally Free Mondays at Steel City Improv Theater – FREE
Affordable Monday at South Side Works – Around $35 for two people
Salsa Mondays at Seviche – FREE, no cover
Storytimes Around the City – FREE
Cheap Movie Deals Around the ‘Burgh on Mondays – discounted movies on Mondays
Monday Wing Deals – wing specials in the ‘Burgh on Mondays
Cheap Burgers in the ‘Burgh on Monday – $3 or less
Cheap Monday Taco Days – taco specials in the ‘Burgh on Mondays
Tuesday, November 5
Registration for Ice Skating Lessons at North & South Park Rinks - FREE
1/2 Off Tuesdays at The Mattress Factory - FREE – $7.50
2 for 1 admission to the Clayton – purchase one admission, get another FREE
Two for Tuesday at Color Me Mine – two paint for the price of one
Ceili Dance Lessons – FREE
JazzLive at the Backstage Bar – FREE
Tiny Tots at Romp N Roll Skating Rink – $5.00 for food, skating and skates
Storytimes Around the City – FREE
Terrific Tuesday in the Cultural District - Around $30-$35 for two people
Cheap Movie Deals Around the ‘Burgh on Tuesdays – discounted movies on Tuesdays
Tot Tuesdays at The Aviary - 1/2 off admission for children 5 and under w/ paying adult
Tuesday Wing Deals – wing specials in the ‘Burgh on Tuesdays
Cheap Burgers in the ‘Burgh on Tuesday – $3 or less
1/2 off Wine on Tuesday – 1/2 price wine by the bottle or glass
Cheap Tuesday Taco Days – taco specials in the ‘Burgh on Tuesdays
Wednesday, November 6
Community Night at the Union Project - Donation based
Ceramics Open Studio at the Union Project - $10
Yoga on Centre Pay-What-You-Can yoga classes – pay what you can
$1 Night at North Versailles Bowling Center – $1 games, food, drink & shoe rental specials
Pittsburgh Banjo Club Open Rehearsal – FREE
Mommy & Me Wednesdays at My Little Outback – $2 discount
Bluegrass Night at the Park House – FREE Bluegrass music
Dave & Buster’s 1/2 off game day – 1/2 priced games all day
Storytimes Around the City – FREE
Cheap Movie Deals Around the ‘Burgh on Wednesdays – discounted movies on Wednesdays
Wednesday Wing Deals – wing specials in the ‘Burgh on Wednesdays
Cheap Burgers in the ‘Burgh on Wednesday – $3 or less
1/2 off Wine on Wednesday – 1/2 price wine by the bottle or glass
Cheap Wednesday Taco Days – taco specials in the ‘Burgh on Wednesdays
Thursday, November 7
Registration for Ice Skating Lessons at North & South Park Rinks - FREE
Play Date on Ice - $4.25
Entrepreneurial Thursdays at Little E’s – $5
Senior discount admission at Clayton – $5 instead of $12
Thursday Matinee at the Harris Theater – $5.00
offCenter at the August Wilson Center – FREE
1/2 off Wine on Thursdays – 1/2 price wine by the bottle or glass
Storytimes Around the City – FREE
Salsa Thursdays at Bossa Nova – FREE, no cover
Pittsburgh Improv Jam Comedy Show - $3 plus $2.50 craft beer special
Thursday Funday Downtown – $20 to $25 per person for an ENTIRE evening out
Cheap Movie Deals Around the ‘Burgh on Thursdays – discounted movies on Thursdays
Cheap Burgers in the ‘Burgh on Thursdays – $3 or less
Thursday Wing Nights – wing specials in the ‘Burgh on Thursdays
Cheap Thursday Taco Days – taco specials in the ‘Burgh on Thursdays
Friday, November 8
Good Fridays at The Andy Warhol Museum – 1/2 priced admission
Observatory SkyWatch at the Science Center – $1
Storytimes Around the City – FREE
Friday Night Improv at Studio Theater – $3
Salsa Fridays at Cabaret at Theater Square – $5
Kinder Klimb at REI – FREE with $20 LIFETIME membership
Line Dancing lessons at Saddle Ridge – FREE
Cheap Burgers in the ‘Burgh on Friday – $3 or less
Friday Wing Deals – wing specials in the ‘Burgh on Fridays
Saturday, November 9
Designer Days 2013 - FREE admission
Saturday Nights at Swing City – $10-12
Saturday Light Brigade Radio Show – FREE
Sunday, November 10
Free Admission to the Zoo and PPG Aquarium - FREE
Designer Days 2013 - FREE admission
Free Sunday Afternoons at the Carnegie Library – FREE
Fifty Cent Sundaze at Arsenal Bowling Lanes – $6 plus .50 cent games, shoe rental and hot dogs
Starving Artist Sunday Supper at Brillobox - $6
Sunday Brunch Deals – affordable local brunches
Sunday Wing Deals – wing specials in the ‘Burgh on Sundays
Cheap Burgers in the ‘Burgh on Sunday – $3 or less
Sunday Bloody Mary Specials in Pittsburgh – ‘Mary specials in the ‘Burgh on Sundays
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 10:48 AM
What are you being this year? We hope everyone has a fun and happy Halloween at Encore on 7th!
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 10:35 AM
Are you ready for Trick or Treat in two weeks? Check out the trick or
treat times for your neighborhood below! You can find out more at
WTAE.
City of Pittsburgh (all neighborhoods)
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Other areas listed in alphabetical order:
- Avalon 6 to 8 p.m.
- Baldwin Borough 6 to 8 p.m.
- Baldwin Township 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
- Beaver 6 to 8 p.m.
- Bellevue 6 to 8 p.m.
- Brentwood 6 to 8 p.m.
- Bridgeville 6 to 8 p.m.
- Butler City 6 to 7 p.m.
- Canonsburg 6 to 8 p.m.
- Canton Township 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Carnegie 6 to 8 p.m.
- Castle Shannon 6 to 8 p.m.
- Cecil Township 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Center Township (Butler) 6 to 7 p.m.
- Charleroi 6 to 7 p.m. (Oct. 30)
- Cheswick 6 to 8 p.m.
- Churchill 6 to 8 p.m.
- Collier Township 6 to 8 p.m.
- Connellsville 4 to 6 p.m. (Oct. 27)
- Crafton 6 to 8 p.m.
- Cranberry Township 6 to 8 p.m.
- Crescent Township 6:30 to 8 p.m.
- Dravosburg 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- East McKeesport 6 to 8 p.m.
- East Pittsburgh 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Economy 6 to 8 p.m.
- Elizabeth Borough 6 to 8 p.m.
- Evans City 6 to 8 p.m.
- Ford City 6 to 8 p.m. (Oct. 30)
- Forest Hills 6 to 8 p.m.
- Forward Township (Allegheny) 6 to 8 p.m.
- Fox Chapel 6 to 8 p.m.
- Franklin Park 6 to 8 p.m.
- McKeesport 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Monessen 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Oct. 26)
- Monroeville 6 to 8 p.m.
- Moon Township 6:30 to 8 p.m.
- Mt. Lebanon 6 to 8 p.m.
- Munhall 6 to 8 p.m.
- Murrysville 6 to 8 p.m.
- Pleasant Hills 6 to 8 p.m.
- Plum 6 to 8 p.m.
- Robinson Township (Allegheny) 6 to 8 p.m.
- Rostraver Township 3 to 6 p.m. (Oct. 26)
- Washington Township (Westmoreland County) 6 to 8 p.m.
- The Waterfront (Homestead/W. Homestead/Munhall) 6 to 8 p.m., Oct. 29
- Wilkins Township 6 to 8 p.m.
- Wilkinsburg 5 to 8 p.m.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 10:28 AM
Are you looking for a great night out, but you do not want to spend tons of money? Check out these great movie theater deals throughout the Pittsburgh area. There is something for you to do everyday of the week! You can find more great deals at
Living Pittsburgh.
If you want to catch a flick on the big screen in Pittsburgh without
breaking the bank, look no further. We’ve gathered some great movie
deals throughout the city most days of the week, and conveniently put
them in one place for you. So save a few bucks at the movies and enjoy
even more wonderful things that Pittsburgh has to offer with the money
you have left over!
*Note – most of these specials include an extra surcharge for 3D and Imax, and do not apply on holidays.
Monday Specials:
South Side Works Cinema
– $6 admission and concession specials. SONY pictures films are not
eligible for Bargain Monday pricing for the first 14 days of release.
Waterworks Cinema – $5 admission for Mighty Movie Mondays and a free popcorn, which you can refill for only $1 (3D movies $3 extra)
Tuesday Specials:
Cinemark Theaters-
Discount Tuesdays offers $5.50 admission at the Robinson Township
location, and $5 admission at the Galleria Pittsburgh Mills and Monaca
locations.
Destinta Theaters in North Versailles and Bridgeville – Tuesday Bargain with $6.50 admission.
The Oaks Theater in Oakmont – $5 admission and discounted concessions.
Thursday:
Harris Theater – $5 admission to the 5:30 matinees.
Every Day
Cinemark Theaters
– Early bird 1st matinee showings are $5.75 admission seven days a week
at their Robinson location. The same showing at Cinemark Theaters in
Monaca and Tarentum are $5.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 10:38 AM
What are you doing this Saturday? Check out the Columbus Day Parade in Bloomfield! The parade starts at 11am and lasts approx. two hours. Keep reading and check out
Living Pittsburgh for more awesome weekend events.
Event: Columbus Day Parade
Location: Liberty Avenue from Baum Boulevard to the Bloomfield Bridge in Bloomfield, Pittsburgh PA
Date: Saturday, October 12, 2013
Time: Starts at 11 am (lasts approximately 2 hours)
Cost: Free
Description: Celebrate Columbus Day weekend with Bloomfield’s
annual Columbus Day parade on Liberty Avenue. The parade begins at 11
am. Great FREE family activity. The parade, will follow Liberty Avenue
from Baum Boulevard to the Bloomfield Bridge.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:00 AM
The Pittsburgh Pirates are in the playoffs for the first time in 21
years. Tonight is a big night for the city and everyone will be
watching, even the big rubber duck. Check out these predictions for
tonight's game along with five wild card questions about the Reds vs the
Pirates.
The Reds and Pirates have been playing each other since 1882; Chester Arthur was the president then.
NL Wild Card: Reds at Pirates
They have played each other five times in the postseason: 1970, '72, '75, '79 and '90; the '72 National League Championship Series was one of the best.
Now they will play one game: The winner advances and the loser goes home. It will be the first postseason game for the Pirates since 1992. PNC Park will be rocking. It can't get much better than this.
Here are five questions.
How ready is Johnny Cueto for this start?
Cueto was on the disabled list for 10 weeks with a pulled muscle in his side. It was so bad, by late August, Reds manager Dusty Baker said the best-case scenario was that Cueto would pitch out of the bullpen in the postseason. Instead, he made it back for two starts in September. He pitched 12 innings, while allowing eight hits and one earned run.
"I saw one of those starts," one scout said. "He looked good, not like a guy who had been hurt."
The Reds had planned on starting Mat Latos in this game, but an elbow injury kept him out. Cueto is the Reds' best pitcher when he is healthy, but is he strong enough having thrown just 12 innings since late June?
What should be expect from Pirates starter Francisco Liriano?
We're never quite sure, but he was far less erratic than in the last few years: 16-8, 3.02 ERA and a .224 batting average against made him Pittsburgh's best pitcher this year.
He got this assignment, in part because he is devastating against left-handed hitters: a .131 batting average, and only two extra-base hits (no homers), in 130 at-bats this season.
Three of the Reds' best hitters, Joey Votto, Jay Bruce and Shin-Soo Choo, bat left-handed. Votto and Bruce do well against lefties, but Choo hit only .215 and slugged .265 (no homers) against lefties. Choo is the guy who makes things go at the top of the Reds' order.
What does momentum mean at this time of year?
The Pirates won five of their last six games -- they allowed a total of 11 runs in those games -- and swept the Reds in Cincinnati the final weekend of the season to secure home-field advantage for the wild-card game.
The Reds lost their final five games of the season, scoring a total of eight runs. One scout said the series last weekend in Cincinnati "looked like two teams going in opposite directions. But things can change fast in October." Just ask the Reds. Last year, they won the first two games of the division series against the Giants in San Francisco, then lost three straight at home to get eliminated.
What are the Reds' plans for Billy Hamilton?
His speed is a weapon that other teams don't have.
Hamilton
He went 7-for-19 at the plate in September and stole 13 bases in 14 tries. Teams usually win in October because they have a strong bullpen and a strong bench; bringing Hamilton off the bench to pinch-run and steal a base could steal the Reds a victory.
Hamilton might not be ready to play center field every day, and he's still learning to switch-hit, but no other team in the playoffs will have anyone quite like him coming off the bench in the late innings.
What is the status of Pirates closer Jason Grilli?
All good. He missed six weeks with a forearm injury, but he returned Sept. 4 and has been impressive since.
Grilli
He saved three games during the final week of the regular season -- running his total to 33 for the season -- giving the Pirates 55 saves this year, most in the NL.
With Grilli, the Pirates' bullpen is loaded; Mark Melancon, who did a nice job filling in for Grilli, can return to his role as the eight-inning setup guy. Only the Braves had a better bullpen ERA than the Pirates (2.89) this year. And now it appears the Pirates' pen is at full capacity.
The pick: Pirates win.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 10:43 AM
A giant rubber duck is coming to Pittsburgh as part of the Festival of Firsts. However, everyone that floats on the river needs a party. Check out the Rubber Duck Bridge Party this Friday with special hosts Mikey and Big Bob.
Launching the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts
Sixth Street Bridge
Friday, September 27, starting at 5:30pm
To launch the Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust will be closing the Sixth Street Bridge to welcome The Rubber Duck to Pittsburgh and to the United States for the first time. Festivities for the evening include the appearance of the 4-story high, three-story wide Rubber Duck, Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership’s Night Market on the bridge with food and art vendors, and special guest appearances that are to be announced. Opening the event will be hosts Mikey and Big Bob from KISS FM with DJ Scottro playing tunes into the evening.
The Rubber Duck Bridge Party will run in tandem with the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Fall Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District - a free quarterly showcase of art and entertainment. For more information regarding the Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts, visit TrustArts.org/First.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:19 AM
Everybody has seen Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. You can not miss the bright yellow seats when you are driving over the Fort Pitt Bridge. However, have you really ever "seen" Heinz Field? Check out these great behind the scenes tours that are offered at the stadium. You can learn more at
Living Pittsburgh.
Tours
of Heinz Field provide guests with a behind-the-scenes look into the
Great Hall, Clubs, Luxury Suites, Press Box, Field, South Plaza, and
much more! Get up close and personal with this famous Pittsburgh
landmark, and it’s affordable too! The tour is about 90 minutes long.
Walk-Up Tours
For Heinz Field walk-up tours you do not need to make a
reservation in advance. The walk-up tour is designed for groups of less
than 10 people.
September and October – Mondays and Fridays – 10 am only
Blocked off tour dates include August 29-30 due to the Rib Festival and September 2nd due to Labor Day.
Tour prices are the same for walk-up and group tours. We do not have any group rates or discounted rates.
Adults = $7.00
Students/Children (ages 18 and under) = $5.00
Senior Citizens (ages 55 and up) = $5.00
** School groups only will receive one free adult chaperone for every 10 students you bring.
** Please note: If your bus driver(s) or school nurse(s) plan on taking the tour, you must include them in your total count.
For additional information, please visit the Steelers website.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:28 AM
The Steelers game was rough on Sunday. The team has lost a few players for the season, but they are already looking for the future. Resigning Dwyer is the first step in a successful season. Keep reading to learn more about the Steelers season, and their hopes to be successful despite the challenges they face. You can learn more at
NFL.com.
One week ago, the Pittsburgh Steelers wanted nothing more to do with Jonathan Dwyer, but the events on Sunday changed all that.
NFL Media's Steve Wyche reported Monday that the running back was expected to re-sign with the Steelers, according to a source with knowledge of the developments, after the team lost LaRod Stephens-Howling for the season with a torn ACL.
Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette first reported the news.
Pittsburgh was victimized by a string of injuries in a 16-9 defeat to the Tennessee Titans. Pro Bowl center Maurkice Pouncey (torn ACL) and linebacker Larry Foote (ruptured biceps) both are expected to miss the season, and Stephens-Howling's loss leaves the Steelers paper-thin in the backfield.
Isaac Redman and Felix Jones are the only healthy ball carriers on the roster until rookie Le'Veon Bell's foot is full-go. Redman struggled against the Titans defense, rushing eight times for 9 yards with a fumble before he was benched in the second half. Jones barely played.
Dwyer is a known commodity, something the Steelers value. What they reportedly weren't excited about was his work ethic, but in a time of need, he'll be given another chance. At least until Bell is ready to make his debut.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 10:34 AM
Wake up. Shower. Get dressed. Get moving! If your mornings are a
hectic blur of hustling to get out the door then we've got something for
you. Shave some minutes off your morning routine with "Recipe: Frozen
Single-Serve Oatmeal with Almonds & Dried Cherries" to make your
food grab-and-go!
Frozen Single-Serve Oatmeal with Almonds & Dried Cherries
Makes about twelve 1/3-cup pucks (4 to 6 servings)
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
3 1/2 cups water
1/8 teaspoon salt
Honey, brown sugar, agave or other sweetener, to taste (optional)
1/2 cup dried cherries
1/3 cup almonds, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
Lightly grease a standard muffin pan and set aside. (No need to grease if you are using a nonstick pan.)
Combine the oats, water and salt in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
Cook, stirring frequently, until soft and ready to eat, 3 to 5 minutes.
Mix in sweetener of choice, if using. Divide the oatmeal evenly into the
cups of the muffin pan. Top with the cherries, almonds and pumpkin
seeds, pressing lightly to make sure they are embedded in the oatmeal.
Place the muffin pan in the freezer until oatmeal is fully frozen, at
least 3 hours. Remove and allow to thaw slightly, until the oatmeal can
be popped out of the pan with an offset spatula or a thin butter knife.
(You can dip the bottom of the pan in warm water to speed the process.)
Wrap the oatmeal in freezer-safe packaging and freeze.
To eat, remove the desired number of pucks and warm in a bowl in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes.
Recipe Notes
- Steel cut oats can be used in place of rolled oats. Adjust the amount of water and cooking time according to package directions.
- Any combination of nuts, dried fruit or seeds can be used on top of the oatmeal.
Original Article Here:
http://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-frozen-singleserve-oatmeal-recipes-from-the-kitchn-193961
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:14 AM
It will soon be time to switch over to fall and winter clothes. Check out this great 30 second closet organization tip from
Apartment Therapy. This will help you get rid of items in your closet, and keep it current and neat.
Over the years we've featured plenty of tips on Apartment Therapy on how to cut the clutter in your closet, from utilizing the hanger trick to organizing just one category at a time. But this quick tip uses logic that's so, well, logical, it deserves to be called out.
Here's a novel idea from our friends at Lifehacker: the next time you're trying to clean out your closet, ask yourself: Would I buy this today if I were out shopping?
Oftentimes
your style changes, but you find yourself unable to let go of items you
never wear anymore, simply because they still fit (or might fit
again one day), were given as gifts, cost a lot of money, have emotional
value, etc. But let's face it: If you wouldn't be comfortable buying
those same items again, it's a good sign you don't have a use for them
now, or in the future. Time to purge!
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 10:53 AM
Do you know anyone that is starting school this week? Check out this great recipe to make for them after school! It is also just a great cookie recipe to make for company or for fun. You can find more great recipes at
The Kitchn.
M&M'S® Cookiesmakes about 36 cookies
1 1/3 cups packed brown sugar
3/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cup M&M'S® Milk Chocolate Candies
Preheat oven to 350°F.
In a mixing bowl, mix sugar, butter, vanilla and eggs until well blended. Stir in the remaining ingredients.
Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto a lightly greased cookie sheet, about 3 inches apart. Press 3 or 4 additional M&M'S® Milk Chocolate Candies into each cookie. (Or, if you like, create a smiley-face or your child's initials using M&M'S® MINIS Chocolate Candies.)
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until light brown. Cool slightly and remove to wire rack. Enjoy!
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:16 AM
Check out these great summer concerts on Walnut Street in Shadyside. It is one of the biggest block parties in the city during the summer. It is free or two dollars for a wristband if you choose to drink. Keep reading for more information.
2013 Summer Jams on Walnut
Event: Summer Jams on Walnut
Location: 5442 Walnut St. in Shadyside
Date: Saturday June 29, July 27 & August 17, 2013
Time: 7-11pm
Description: Summer Jams on Walnut Street are Shadyside’s biggest block parties. It’s a great way to join the community in the fight against cystic fibrosis while partying it up with the latest local bands. The best part? It’s FREE, and runs all summer long, although it’s only $2 if you want a wristband to drink and the proceeds go to a great cause. The stage is located outside of where Doc’s Place used to be in Shadyside.
Bands this year are:
June 29, 2013 @ 7:00pm
Dancing Queen
Kelsey Friday
July 27, 2013 @ 7:00pm
Radio Tokyo
Donora
August 17, 2013 @ 7:00pm
Chris Higbee
Abacus Jones Find out more details
here.
Posted by The Encore on 7th on 11:32 AM
Make sure to check out the Summer Living Guide from
Living Pittsburgh.
This blog below has some great summer events that are happening
throughout the city. There is something almost everyday, and there are
things for all ages. Keep reading to learn more.
Summer is
here and you won’t believe how many things there are to do, see, and
enjoy around Pittsburgh and Allegheny County….without needing to spend a
dime! To make things easy for you, we’ve put together this handy-dandy
“Free Summer Fun Guide” filled with some of Living Pittsburgh.com’s
FREE fun picks for this summer in the ‘Burgh. And keep in mind, this is
just the free stuff! There’s plenty more low cost events and activities
to do this summer, so be sure to check out our Events Listing for even more summer fun on a budget.
Keep
checking back though (this guide included), because we add new free
& affordable events, deals & bargains EVERY DAY during the week.
If you’re new to Living Pittsburgh, here are some suggestions so you
get the most out of the site and don’t miss a thing! The best way to
keep current is to sign up for our daily emails (enter your email
address to the right of this page, right below our Events Listing box),
like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and sign up for our weekly LP Newsletter.
Now, on with the summer fun!
Live Music
Deutschtown Music Festival - 40+ bands will rock Pittsburgh’s Northside at this FREE all day event!
Southside Works Summer Concerts – Enjoy free live music outside at South Side Works’ Town square this summer, going on now through September.
Mellon Square Summer Concert Series - Free noon concerts at Mellon Square to enjoy during your lunch hour downtown this summer. More info coming soon!
JazzLive at Katz Plaza – This fun free jazz concert series take place outside on Katz Plaza downtown throughout the summer months.
Reservoir of Jazz Series – Enjoy live jazz music in Highland Park this August. More info coming soon!
WYEP Summer Music Festival - Free summer music concert at Schenley Plaza, complete with kids activities and an indie craft marketplace.
Lunchtime Music Series at Schenley Plaza - Free lunchtime entertainment can be found multiple times per week at Schenley Plaza.
Bach, Beethoven and Brunch – You can pack your brunch and enjoy free classical concerts every Sunday morning at Mellon Park. More info coming soon!
Allegheny County Summer Concerts - Take advantage of free live music at Hartwood Acres and South Park all summer long.
Stars at Riverview – You can enjoy free live jazz concerts in Riverview Park throughout the warm summer months.
WYEP Final Fridays – Even more FREE live music this summer at Schenley Plaza! More info coming soon!
Monroeville Summer Concert Series – This find includes free live music, followed by a free movies in Monroeville Community Park.
Summer Jams on Walnut – These free annual block parties include loads of local live bands!
The Arts
Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District – The Gallery Crawl is a quarterly free showcase of art and entertainment.
Unblurred: First Fridays on Penn
– The First Friday of each month, various galleries in the Penn Avenue
Arts District showcase a variety of artwork and performances to view for
free.
Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival - This premiere Pittsburgh event features free activities for the whole family, live music, art exhibits and so much more.
Taming of the Shrew presented by Poor Yorick’s Players
– Bring a blanket, chair, or even a picnic to see Poor Yorick’s Players
return in 2013 with their seventh season: All is fair in love and war!
Squonk
Opera’s Go Roadshow - An amazing and spectacular performance unlike any
other! Think circus meets performance art meets holiday parade – all
for FREE! More info coming soon!
Dancing
Summer Soul Line Dance Classes - Experience not required for these free fun outdoor dance lessons.
Free Dance Lessons at Saddle Ridge - You’ll find complimentary line dancing lessons at Saddle Ridge on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Salsa Around the City - Salsa Pittsburgh offers Salsa dancing lessons all around Pittsburgh, many of which are absolutely free.
Movies
Cinema in the Parks – TONS of free outdoor movies in Pittsburgh’s local parks this summer.
Summer Movie Clubhouse – Not free, but for as little as 50 cents per movie, it’s pretty darn close!
Movies by Moonlight - Free flicks at the Tall Trees Amphitheater in Monroeville
Denis Theatre’s Last Saturday Cinema -
Last Saturday Cinema is a FREE outdoor film series. Come experience
great movies while surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants – just a
few steps from the historic Denis Theatre.
Festivals
Pittsburgh Neighborhood Community Festivals - Various neighborhoods in Pittsburgh hold FREE festivals throughout the 2011 Summer and Fall season.
African Arts in the Park – Free cultural event at Point State Park this August. More info coming soon!
Lawrenceville Garden Tour - Find out how gardens grow on this FREE annual garden tour in Lawrenceville!
Three Rivers Regatta - This is the largest inland regatta event in the United States, and ALL activites and performances are free to attend.
Wings
Over Pittsburgh – Celebrate patriotism, and enjoy this spectacular
September show for free, oh- and parking is free too. More info coming
soon!
A
Fair in the Park - A Fair in the Park is an annual contemporary craft
festival held in early September, presented by The Craftsmen’s Guild of
Pittsburgh. The fair features high quality art and craft displays and
demonstrations ,a concert weekend, a children’s activity and project
area and a variety of Pittsburgh’s fabulous foods. More info coming
soon!
South Side Works Exposed – This annual event has free live music, food vendors & lots of family fun activities.
Red,
Ripe & Roasted: Tomato & Garlic Festival - Enjoy free admission
to this yummy summer food festival AND Phipps Conservatory with your
fresh produce donation this August. More info coming soon!
WYEP Summer Music Festival - Free summer music concert at Schenley Plaza, complete with kids activities and an indie craft marketplace.
Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix – check out the largest road race in the United States this summer… for free!
Family & Kids
Pittsburgh Spray Parks - Cool down this summer with these free city spray parks - no swimming required!
Roving Art Cart - Kiddos take can take advantage of free arts & crafts… in various locations around the ‘Burgh.
Blue Slide Park - Be sure to check out this great freebie for kids, as well as some of our other great free finds!
Reading Room at Market Square - Books aren’t free, but browsing is… and books are just $1-$2.
KidsPlay at Market Square - Free stories, crafts, treats, and special guests for kiddos at Market Square in Downtown Pittsburgh.
Mini Golf at Schenley Park - Play a round of mini-golf at Schenley Park’s ice skating rink, for a very affordable price!
Learn-to-Swim Camp - Free swimming lessons at select City of Pittsburgh pools this summer.
Swim Lessons at Allegheny County Pools - FREE swimming lessons for kids ages 5 and older. No pre-registration required!
Allegheny Observatory – Take a FREE tour of the Allegheny Observatory this summer and learn about celestial objects & more.
Sports & Fitness
Pirate $10 discount - Use your GE advantage card for $10 Pirates Sunday home games this summer.
Fish for Free - No fishing license required to enjoy fishing on these two specially designated days of the year.
Free Kayak and Stand Up Paddle Board Demos - Enjoy this free demo opportunity for a brief paddle on the Irwin Run Pond (Lagoon) of North Park Lake.
Yoga in the Park- Free Yoga for the fitness enthusiast, starting in June.
Tai Chi in the Park - Reduce stress and gain focus before the work week starts with FREE Tai Chi at Schenley Plaza
The 13th annual Joy of Cookies Cookie Tour will once again offer yummy samples to shopping cookie connoisseurs this holiday season.
Observatory SkyWatch at the Science Center – $1 
Everybody has seen Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. You can not miss the bright yellow seats when you are driving over the Fort Pitt Bridge. However, have you really ever "seen" Heinz Field? Check out these great behind the scenes tours that are offered at the stadium. You can learn more at Living Pittsburgh.
Reservoir of Jazz Series – Enjoy live jazz music in Highland Park this August. More info coming soon! 
African Arts in the Park – Free cultural event at Point State Park this August. More info coming soon! 
A
Fair in the Park - A Fair in the Park is an annual contemporary craft
festival held in early September, presented by The Craftsmen’s Guild of
Pittsburgh. The fair features high quality art and craft displays and
demonstrations ,a concert weekend, a children’s activity and project
area and a variety of Pittsburgh’s fabulous foods. More info coming
soon! 
Red,
Ripe & Roasted: Tomato & Garlic Festival - Enjoy free admission
to this yummy summer food festival AND Phipps Conservatory with your
fresh produce donation this August. More info coming soon! 
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