Thursday, December 29, 2011

Noon Year Celebration at the Zoo!

Welcome in the New Year with your family and a big group of animal friends at the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium’s
Noon Year Celebration!  
Count down as the ball drops at noon, sign the New Year’s ReZOOlution banner, and dance to live entertainment provided by Radio Disney.  Afterwards, take a walk around the zoo to wish the animals a Happy New Year!  Don’t forget the penguins.  There will be no trouble staying up for this celebration!


December 31, 2011
11a.m. - 1 p.m.


Free with general admission: Adults $10, children 2-13 $9, under 2 free!
For directions and more information, visit the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium Website.

RE/MAX Realty Brokers


Saturday, December 24, 2011

Holiday Rainbow


It’s not often we see a double rainbow in Pittsburgh.  Wendy at Moop caught this beautiful photo after the thunderstorm on Wednesday.  If we can’t have snow for the holidays, at least we have rainbows!
Happy Holidays from everyone at RE/MAX Realty Brokers!!


Check out Moop’s website to see all of their wonderful bags designed and handmade here in Pittsburgh.

Thursday, December 22, 2011

First Night – A Celebration of Pittsburgh

There’s something for everyone at Pittsburgh’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration.  Live music, dance, theater, games, activities, fireworks and a parade will keep the Cultural District hopping to welcome in the New Year.  The festivities begin with fireworks at 6 pm, followed by a parade at 8 and more fireworks at midnight.  The city’s favorite musicians, dancers, magicians, and many more will be performing at various venues throughout the evening and there will be numerous stations for children’s activities and games.

 All-Access Buttons are only $8 if purchased in advance, $10 the night of the party.  See the First Night Website for all the details.



Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Little Italy Days

Friday, September 23 through Sunday, September 25


One weekend each year Bloomfield invites the world to join in as it proudly proclaims its Italian heritage.  Little Italy Days finds Bloomfield streets animated with mouth watering delicacies, Old World charm and Italian-American spirit.  Festive red and white striped tents house local vendors selling everything from pasta and pastries to Italian pottery and t-shirts.

The family-friendly celebration of Italian-American heritage and culture features live music, entertainment acts, strolling musicians, a bocce tournament, children’s activities, dancing, and a cornucopia of tasty food offerings.  The lively three-day festival culminates on Sunday with a spectacular and dazzling Madonna della Civita procession along Bloomfield’s Liberty Avenue commercial district.  The spirited parade begins at Immaculate Conception Church on Friendship Avenue and winds through the neighborhood to culminate at Saint Joseph Church on Liberty Avenue.

Free Parking! Free Admission!
Little Italy Days features free parking in all metered spaces and metered lots in Bloomfield throughout the weekend.  The festival starts at 11am on Friday and ends at 7pm on Sunday.  Visit Bloomfield Now for a detailed schedule of events.


Thursday, September 8, 2011

Dragon Boat Festival

Come experience the tenth Pittsburgh Dragon Boat Festival, a celebration of Asian cultures in the Pittsburgh region, at South Side Riverfront Park, Saturday, September 17 from 11am to 7pm.  All events are free and open to everyone.


Dragon Boating is an ancient Chinese tradition dating back 2,400 years.  Known for its color and excitement, dragon boat racing is one of the earliest forms of boat competition.  Each ornately-carved boat is 44 feet long and features brightly-painted dragon heads and tails that loom ominously at the fore and aft of each craft.  Festival visitors will have a unique opportunity to try their hand at Dragon Boating.

The Festival also features traditional Asian music, dance, and food, arts and crafts for children, Asian art, clothing, jewelry, and much more.  Experience demonstrations of martial arts, Chinese yo-yo and tai chi, get a temporary tattoo or learn to use chopsticks.  Performances throughout the day will offer traditional dances and music from local community groups.



Saturday, September 3, 2011

Alphabet Trail and Tales

Take a walk with the Alphabet in Frick Park!  Interactive, larger-than-life story sets along the park trails will serve as a backdrop for a day of reading and fun as stories come to life from A to Z.

Frick Park
Saturday, September 10, 2011
10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Come into the park at the Beechwood Boulevard & Nicholson Street entrance.

A free literacy event sponsored by Citiparks.  For more information, please visit Citiparks website or call the Community Enrichment Program Office at 412-665-3665.

RE/MAX Realty Brokers

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

The Merry Wives of Windsor

Pittsburgh Shakespeare in the Parks is presenting their production of Shakespeare’s comedy The Merry Wives of Windsor at a different Pittsburgh park each weekend in September.  Merry Wives hilariously explores the themes of marriage, cuckoldry, jealousy and revenge as only Shakespeare can.  The company uses the natural setting of each park as their stage, inviting the audience to share in their performance space.  Family members of all ages are welcome to enjoy the show, which runs about 1:45 without an intermission.

Opening day is Saturday, September 3 at Frick Park, Squirrel Hill.
Curtain time for all performances is 2 pm.
Performance Dates (Saturday and Sunday):

September 3 and 4
   Frick Park at the Blue Slide Playground
   Beechwood Blvd. and Nicholson Street, Squirrel Hill

September 10 and 11
   Allegheny Commons West Park
   West North Ave. and Brighton Road, Northside

September 17 and 18
   Arsenal Park
   39th and Butler Streets, Lawrenceville

September 24 and 25
   Frick Park at the Blue Slide Playground
   Beechwood Blvd. and Nicholson Street, Squirrel Hill

The Sunday September 18 performance in Arsenal Park, Lawrenceville will be an ASL interpreted performance for the hearing impaired, signed by Heather Gray.

All shows are free to the public with donations greatly appreciated.   Bring a blanket or chair and a warm drink and join in the festivities!


Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Forest Hills Charm

A charming community nestled in the eastern suburbs of Pittsburgh, Forest Hills offers intimate neighborhood living with all the advantages of a major metropolitan area. Covering only 1.5 square miles, the Borough is just 7 miles east of downtown Pittsburgh, PA, offering quick and easy access by car or public transportation to both downtown Pittsburgh and the hospitals and universities of Oakland.  Nearby are the shops and restaurants of Regent Square.  A short trip in the opposite direction leads to Monroeville, providing a myriad of options for shopping and recreation.
 
Founded in 1919, Forest Hills Borough boasts many well-established, family-friendly neighborhoods with beautiful tree-lined streets and convenient local recreational opportunities.  The Borough has strived to maintain its natural assets, dedicating almost one quarter of its land area to public parks.  This has prompted recognition by the National Arbor Day Foundation, which has honored Forest Hills as a “Tree City USA” community for over 20 years.
 
Citizens of Forest Hills enjoy year-round recreational opportunities.  Throughout the summer, the Recreation Department offers swim classes, water aerobics and opportunities for young people to join swimming and tennis teams and community soccer and baseball leagues.  Numerous activities keep community residents connected, among them the 4th of July Community Day, neighborhood block parties, volleyball games, pool parties, Concerts in the Park, a Fall Hayride and Light-Up Night.  Forest Hills residents are never lacking for something to do.


The Tudor-style home at 715 Cascade Road epitomizes the best of Forest Hills living. This spacious and well-maintained 4 bedroom, 2 ½ bath home is located in a charming neighborhood on a great street. Great features include a living room with a side porch, perfect for entertaining, and a kitchen/family room with vaulted ceilings, skylights, and French doors leading out to a large 12x24 foot deck.  Enjoy outdoor living without leaving home, or take a walk to one of Forest Hills many municipal parks.  To learn more, see the virtual tour or contact Marianne DiPlacido at 412-613-8100 for a private showing.


Borough of Forest Hills

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Red, Ripe & Roasted: Tomato & Garlic Festival

Sunday August 28, 2011
11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Come celebrate the bounty of summer at Phipps' Seventh Annual Tomato & Garlic Festival, highlighting two of summer's tastiest crops.  Enjoy an afternoon of tastings, live cooking demonstrations and kid’s activities.  Shop the Farmer’s Market and see what’s available at the Gardener’s Seed Swap.   All at the historic front lawn and Outdoor Garden of Phipps Conservatory in Oakland.

Bring a donation for the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and receive free admission to the festival and to the Conservatory during Festival hours.

Directions and more at Phipps Conservatory’s website.

Friday, August 19, 2011

Community Heritage Market at the Historic Pump House

Sponsored by Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area, the Community Heritage Market at the Pump House is a weekly Sunday market running through September.  Vendors include local artisans, farmers and businesses.  Many Sundays also feature musicians, lectures and special events.  Visit the market website for details.  While there, visit the Historic Pump House, site of the 1892 confrontation between striking workers from the Homestead Works and Pinkerton guards representing Carnegie Steel.
 
Market hours are Sundays, 11 am to 3 pm. Located at the Historic Pump House, 880 East Waterfront Drive, just past Lowe’s at the Waterfront Shopping Complex in Homestead.

For more about the Historic Pump House visit:
Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area
Battle of Homestead Foundation

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Come Out to Play!

On August 27-28th, the Steel City Games Fest will return with 24 hours of new and original games.  No computers or play stations, these are real games
– sports, street games, parlor and board games –
played with real people.  Suitable for adults and kids alike, games will be held from noon Saturday to noon Sunday at various venues throughout East Liberty and the surrounding parks and recreation areas. 

Register at the Shadow Lounge, 5972 Baum Boulevard, from noon to 7pm on Saturday.  The $5 registration fee provides admission to all of the festival's games and activities.   According to the festival organizers “games are the social grease that allow strangers to have very real interactions with each other, and the spatial glue that helps people form lasting connections to their space.”  Check the Steel City Games Fest Website for details of games and venues, then come out to connect!

RE/MAX Realty Brokers

Monday, August 15, 2011

2nd Annual Bocce Tournament and Festival

Bocce and Italian Festivals are natural companions.  Saturday, August 20, more than 25 four-person teams will showcase their bocce skills at the Heinz History Center, while visitors enjoy Italian food and beverages provided by the Common Plea.  Events begin at 1pm and continue until dusk.  Starting at 3pm, spectators can try their hand playing bocce on two public courts in the Smallman and 12th Street parking lot, located directly across the street from the History Center.

Live entertainment throughout the day will feature Pure Gold, Vito DiSalvo & Daniella Pasquini and Jimmy Sapienza’s Five Guys Named Moe. Event proceeds benefit the Italian American Endowed Fund, dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Italian Americans in Western Pennsylvania.

Admission is free for spectators.  Get more information at the Heinz History Center Website.


Sunday, August 14, 2011

At Home in Regent Square

Mature trees and quiet brick-paved streets are hallmarks of the East End neighborhood of Regent Square, located along both sides of Braddock Avenue between the Parkway East and Forbes Avenue.  Scenic 550-acre Frick Park borders the western edge, offering a plethora of recreational opportunities and giving a unique character to the neighborhood.  Homes with porches close to the tree-lined sidewalks help to promote a sense of community and the feeling of living in a village.

An active community association contributes to the appeal of the neighborhood.  The Regent Square Civic Association sponsors many events and offers both a newsletter and a website, encouraging and supporting participation in community life.   Community events include an Annual House Tour, a marathon Run Around the Square, Easter egg hunts, Halloween parties, a Holiday Lighting Contest, the Regent Square Flea Market and numerous civic and social events and seminars.

A clever mural depicting parts of Regent Square and Frick Park, a project of the Civic Association, is a highlight in the heart of the business district, a unique shopping area comprised mostly of family and independently owned businesses. A surprising variety of restaurants, goods and services are offered in this small but vibrant shopping community.

Built from 1830 through the early part of the 20th century, Regent Square’s homes are a mixture of architectural styles, ranging from smaller middle class homes to large homes built for 19th century businessmen and their families.  Current residents range from university students and singles to professionals and retirees.  Access to the Parkway and public transportation allow for an easy commute to downtown Pittsburgh, the cultural district and the universities and hospitals of Oakland.

901 South Braddock is a stately home located in the heart of Regent Square, close to shops and transportation.  Like many of the areas larger homes, it’s been converted to a duplex, but retains its original charm, including stained glass in the entry and lovely woodwork throughout.  Ideal for an owner who wishes to live in one apartment and rent the other, it could also be easily reconverted to a fabulous single family home.  Just steps from the greenery of Frick Park, this home also has its own beautiful back and front yards.  To learn more, contact Smadar Blumenthal at 412-414-5479.

A family friendly neighborhood, convenient location, active business district and access to all that Frick Park has to offer, Regent Square offers something for everyone.  Check it out today!


RE/MAX Realty Brokers

Friday, August 12, 2011

BikeFest 2011

Friday, August 12 through Sunday, August 21

Sponsored by Bike Pittsburgh, BikeFest is an annual 10-day celebration of bicycling in the city of Pittsburgh.  Almost 70 bike-themed events have been organized by various businesses, individuals and organizations, showcasing the beauty and wonder of our area.  Most events are free or very affordable.  Casual rider or bike enthusiast, BikeFest has an event for you!

Visit the Bike Pittsburgh website for a complete online calendar of events, including a downloadable, printable calendar for planning your week.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

New on the Market

A sampling of the properties our agents have listed in the past few weeks:

Bigelow Heights
Wonderfully updated home close to everything.   New front porch and step, French doors leading from dining room to a new patio.
Contact:  Nancy Wright  412-508-0040  nancywright@remax.net






Mt. Oliver
Totally redone with bright open floor plan, gleaming hardwood floors, new kitchen and new bath.  Minutes to South Side and close to downtown, universities and hospitals.
Contact:  Esther Jarrett  412-889-8684  ekjarrett@yahoo.com




Squirrel Hill
Spacious 5 bedroom townhome, just steps from Schenley Park and close to universities, hospitals and shopping.  High ceilings, updated baths, hardwood floors, and much more.
Contact:  Kitty Onufer  412-480-3351  konufer@comcast.net




Oakland
2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in University Square, convenient to everything in Oakland.
Contact:  Jill Portland  412-521-1000  jillportland@remax.net






Lovely one bedroom, one bath condo unit in Park Plaza.  Original hardwood floors, secure and well-maintained building.
Contact:  Jill Portland  412-521-1000  jillportland@remax.net





Monday, August 1, 2011

August Neighborhood Festivals

August offers many opportunities to explore the diverse heritage, food and character of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods at local community festivals.  Come out to see what our neighborhoods have to offer!

For more information, call 412-422-6426 or visit the City of Pittsburgh’s Community Festival Website.






August 1
Lincoln Place
Monday 6–8:30 p.m.
5800 Buttermilk Hollow Road parking lot

August 2
Hill District
Tuesday 6 p.m.–9 p.m.
Dinwiddie Street

August 2
California-Kirkbride
Tuesday 4-8:30 p.m.
1800 Block of Brighton Place

August 6
Banksville
Saturday 2-9 p.m.
Banksville Park

August 12
Bedford Dwellings
Friday 12-4 p.m.
Somers Drive parking lot

August 13
Brookline
Saturday 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Brookline Recreation Center

August 19
Homewood North
Friday 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Ferris Court

August 20
Carrick
Saturday 12-6 p.m.
Phillips Park

August 20
East Carnegie
Saturday 12–7 p.m.
East Carnegie Parklet

August 26
Northview Heights
Friday 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Northview Heights Playground

August 27
Uptown
Saturday 1–5 p.m.
Gist Street

August 28
Garfield
Sunday 1–7 p.m.
St. Lawrence O’Toole Gym

RE/MAX Realty Brokers

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Island Life

Island living in the heart of Pittsburgh? 

As urban living goes, Washington’s Landing is something truly unique.  This 42-acre island in the Allegheny River, less than 2 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, is one of our area’s premier riverfront developments.  Waterfront housing, public parks, trails and recreational facilities share space with commercial buildings, a full-service marina and restaurant, the Three Rivers Rowing Association Boathouse and the Pittsburgh headquarters of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.  All this plus spectacular views of the river and Pittsburgh skyline.

The refurbished 31st Street Bridge provides a beautiful entrance to the island, offering easy access to downtown Pittsburgh. Riverfront trails, attractive streets and well-defined access points to the river encourage pedestrian traffic. A rehabilitated railroad bridge links the island trails to the area’s ever expanding bike and pedestrian trail system.

The spacious end unit townhome at 21 Overlook Court is a perfect place to enjoy all that Washington’s Landing has to offer.  Only steps from the marina restaurant, this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom 3 ½ bath home is virtually carefree.  Although only 14 years old, it’s been newly updated with fresh paint, carpet and ceramic floors, new kitchen countertops, lighting and stainless appliances.  No weekends spent laboring in the yard, as all exterior maintenance is taken care of by the homeowners association, including not just landscaping, but roofs, porches, decks and snow removal right up to the front door.

Inside there’s a spacious open kitchen and breakfast room with floor to ceiling windows.  French doors in the living room open to a rear deck with a view of the river.  Second floor bedrooms have gigantic walk in closets and a sumptuous master bath with an oversized double-headed steam shower and granite vanity.  Encompassing the entire third floor is a spectacular bedroom suite with a private bath, sitting area and vaulted ceiling.  Topping it all off, a spiral staircase leads to the cupola and fabulous views of the river and the Pittsburgh skyline. 

It’s said that George Washington slept on the island after his raft capsized while crossing the river.  This little island has come a long way since then.  Extraordinary views, proximity to workplaces and the amenities of the city and an easy lifestyle with an emphasis on recreation have made Washington’s Landing a premier residential community.




Take a virtual tour to see everything this great home has to offer.

Friday, July 15, 2011

2011 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix


2011 marks the 29th consecutive year the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix has been run at Pittsburgh’s beautiful Schenley Park.  Held July 15 - 24th, the Vintage Grand Prix is America’s largest vintage race and the only one run on city streets. The week-long events benefit charity as well as celebrating vintage cars. Funds raised will go towards programs for autistic and developmentally disabled individuals in the greater Pittsburgh area through the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and Allegheny Valley School.

The races at Schenley Park mark the end of a 10-day Race Week.  While many events have admission fees for participants, most of the events listed below are FREE to spectators, or request only a small donation.

Friday, July 15
Test & Tune at BeaveRun
Drivers tune their racers and practice on the BeaveRun MotorSports Complex. Free to the viewing public.

Saturday & Sunday, July 16-17, 9 am-5 pm
Historic Races at BeaveRun
Racing and related activities at BeaveRun MotorSports Complex in Beaver Falls, PA.
$15 per day or $25 for the weekend, kids under 12 are free. Proceeds benefit charity.

Monday, July 18, 5-9 pm
Invitational Car Show on Walnut Street
Rare, classic and exotic cars along Walnut Street in Shadyside.  Free to spectators.

Tuesday, July 19, 5-9 pm
Waterfront Car Cruise
Over 500 cars on display at the Waterfront in Homestead. $5 donation is requested.

Wednesday, July 20, 10:30 am-2pm
Downtown Race Car Parade & Display
50 cars will motor from the Spaghetti Warehouse in the Strip District through downtown Pittsburgh on their way to displays at the U.S. Steel Tower, PPG Place and Market Square.

Wednesday, July 20, 6-9 pm
Grand Prix Tune-Up at Bossa Nova
Benefit happy hour at Bossa Nova on 7th Street downtown. Live entertainment and silent auction.
$35 per person at the door includes tapas and two complimentary cocktails.

Saturday & Sunday, July 23-24
International Car Shows & British Car Day
Saturday, 11 am-4 pm, Sunday 9:30am-4pm
Over 2,000 classic, antique, and exotic vehicles at theSchenley Park golf course.
Vintage Race Practice and Qualifying Heats
Saturday, 9 am-5pm, Sunday 8:15-10:15am
150 vintage racers will compete o to quality for Sunday's featured races.
Races at Schenley Park
Sunday, noon-5pm
The big event ending the week’s festivities!

Check the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Website for more information on all events and directions.

RE/MAX Realty Brokers

Monday, July 11, 2011

Kayaking and Art on the North Side

Kayak for free on Lake Elizabeth every Thursdays and Friday with Kayak Pittsburgh.   Located in Allegheny Commons on Pittsburgh’s North Side this shallow lake - only 3 feet deep - is the perfect safe place for beginners, children and hesitant swimmers to learn the art of kayaking.  Glide along the water and enjoy great views of downtown Pittsburgh in a lovely park setting.
Kayaks are available Thursday and Friday from 4 pm until dusk, free from now through Labor Day.. Boats are also available from 10 am to dusk on Saturday and Sunday for $5 per boat.

Head out on a Thursday and you can also enjoy free hand-on art activities from 4 to 7 pm.  For more information call 412-231-3169 or visit The Mattress Factory website.

Lake Elizabeth is located inside the Allegheny Commons across the street from the National Aviary on the North Side. Parking is available around the Allegheny Commons on W North Avenue and Arch Street.  Check out Kayak Pittsburgh for more information.

Friday, July 8, 2011

New Listings!

Here are the latest listings from our outstanding agents!

Shadyside
New York Penthouse Style throughout this updated 4th floor unit.  Condo fee includes, heat, electric, taxes, insurance, landscaping, exterior maintenance, and maintenance staff.  Must see to truly appreciate the special excitement that this unit offers; watch a virtual tour here. . Big Apple style at every turn!!
Contact Dani Gundlach at  412-654-4749  or  danigundlach@me.com


Brick 3 unit home with 3 car detatched garage, separate electric and nice yard.  Long term tenant on first floor.  Great location close to busway, Giant Eagle, Bakery Square and Target.  Being sold at is.
Contact Jason Kaney at 412-956-4060.



Grand home is the best kept secret in west Shadyside.  Large rooms, original details, working fireplaces, even a state-of-the-art flat screen TV disguised as a mirror!  Huge flat backyard with trees and a 2 car tandem garage.  New roof and recently painted interior and exterior.  Great location!
Contact Pia Colucci at 412-401-4282 or piacolucci@gmail.com

Two bedroom townhome close to WholeFoods, TraderJoes and Target.  Chic, contemporary décor and lots of natural light.  Kitchen less than 2 yrs old!  Finished family room in lower level, plus a laundry area with commode and sink.  New central air,  lighting, front and rear doors and glass block.  See more here.  Don't hesitate - it's great!
Contact Pia Colucci at 412-401-4282 or piacolucci@gmail.com




Downtown
3 bedrooms, 1 ½ baths
Contact Charlene Haislip at MetroPittsburghRealEstate@gmail.com or 412-606-3556.

112 Washington Place
Great location in doorman building . One small dog or cat welcome for owners.   Condo fee includes heat, a/c, water, sewage and trash removal.
Unit 14H is a renovated one bedroom featuring stainless steel appliances, top of the line kitchen and bathroom fixtures, natural slate bathroom walls and an open floor plan.
Unit 5A is a large corner 2 bedroom with 2 baths and a city view. Remodeled baths and stainless steel appliances.
Contact Claire Schnur at claire.schnur@yahoo.com or 412-471-1045.


Lawrenceville
New construction in the heart of historic Lawrenceville.   Dramatic exterior of cedar, cement, metal, and glass.  Modern interiors with hardwood floors, open floor plans, and luxurious finishes.  Ask about 10 yr property tax abatement and special financing package! 

3647 Penn Avenue  2 bedrooms, 2 baths
3657 Penn Avenue  2 bedrooms, 1 ½ bath
3659 Penn Avenue  3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths
3661 Penn Avenue  3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths
Contact Holly Sisk at 412-377-0015 or holly@hollysisk.com


Carrick
Three bedroom in great location.  Needs some updating – perfect for first time buyer or investor.
Contact Roberta Allen at 412-287-4781 or wrallen423@verizon.net







Hempfield Township
Outstanding spacious home in a great neighborhood, completely updated and priced to sell. 6 yr old roof(30yr shingle and all new Pella windows.  Entire house rewired for cable, all new GFIs inside, new tankless water heater, furnace and a/c.  See more on the virtual tour.
Contact Esther Jarrett at ekjarrett@yahoo.com or 412-889-8684.





Baldwin Boro
Handyman Special!  Three bedrooms with 1 car detatched garage on a terrific huge lot.  Needs some TLC, but worth it!  All reasonable offers considered.
Contact Roberta Allen at 412-287-4781 or wrallen423@verizon.net