Nom-Noms For Everyone

Going off of my last post, I found another way for all of you to cool off from this weather.  In the historical train station there is a quick little gelateria called Sugar & Cream. Here you can find different flavors of gelato and easy to-go meals.  Sugar & Cream is said to be the only place in Westmoreland County were people can get true gelato.

Make sure to stop down to the train station to grab a cup (or cone) of gelato and cool off!  Click here for more information and a full item list from their menu.  Plus who says a little sugar and cream isn't good for you ;)

Nugget Dawgs

I don't know about all of you bloggers out there, but I am definitely loving this weather Greensburg has been having lately.  I love when the sun comes out because it brings all of the people outside!  There's no better feeling then walking outside and seeing people everywhere (whether you're on campus or even downtown).

Anyways, the sun also brings out these small concession stands all around town.  So far I've seen two consistent ones.  One by the YMCA and the other across the street from the BP gas station on East Pittsburgh Street.  I checked out the one by the BP and it was called Nugget Dawgs.  I thought it was pretty clever because I just love the word nugget.  I call everything and everyone a nugget (which is where I got the name for that puppy in my post about the Animals Friends of Westmoreland).  But, I think these little stands around town are the best idea.  You can grab water or something else to drink along with a quick snack while walking past, while on a break from school or work, or simply because you're hungry.

At any rate make sure to check them out when you see them!

(A fantastic painting I found online, enjoy!)

Do You Know Oliver?

Of course Oliver isn't a real person, but it is the name of a fantastic bar and restaurant in downtown Greensburg.

Oliver's hasn't been around too long, but is definitely gaining a fantastic reputation for their food and service.  I personally enjoy their salads and homemade potato chips.  Oliver's also collaborates with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Laurel Region to host Guest Bartender Nights.  The next one is coming up on Wednesday, May 9th from 5-8pm.  Most definitely stop by if you have not tried eating there before.  If you do stop down on May 9th you can also learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Laurel Region and more of their upcoming events!  Now that's what I call hitting two birds with one stone ;)

Come And Get It!

So I've been asking a lot of students that I interact with what their favorite place around town is to grab a bite to eat.  I've come up with a list of places, some that were mentioned repeatedly and others that aren't as well-known.  Well here goes:

1. Chipotle 

2. Panera

3. The Red Brick

4. Texas Roadhouse

5. Primanti Bros.

6. Fortune Cookie

7. Pizza Siena

8. I-Hop

9. The Headkeeper

10. Sunset Cafe

I didn't put them in any particular order, but these are the top ten I heard about from students.  All of them are fast, easy, and affordable for students.  Check them out and tell me what you think! If your favorite isn't on the list, please share :)

Calling All Shoppers

There seems to be a slight change up with the shopping in downtown Greensburg.  Nothing too drastic, but it may throw you off.  If you happen to visit West Second Street expecting to find Katwalk Shoes & Accessories think again!  Owners have relocated the store to 100 South Pennsylvania Avenue.  Still in downtown Greensburg, just a few blocks down.  I caught wind of the news and just had to share it with all of you shopping bloggers out there!

I hear the move gave the store more room, which means more shoes and accessories ;) (winks to all of you fashionistas).  I hope you all check out the new location or try their FaceBook Page for more information.

Hello Friday!

Happy Friday bloggers!  I found something fun for all of you to do today, well only if you're interested.  For those of you who enjoy "cropping" or scrapbooking listen up.  Every Friday night the Crop Shop has time set aside where people can come in and work on their materials.  All of the stores equipment is open to the public including idea books, computer stations, and various punches.  Look at these women having a blast...

You know you want to join in, so click here to learn how you can participate or for more information on the Crop Shop!

The Biggest Fair Of All

One place that Greensburg is very well-known for is the Westmoreland Fair Grounds.  Multiple events take place here all year around.  Some of these include concerts, demolition derbies, tractor pulls, motocross racing, auctions, and car shows.  However, the most important event that is held annually is of course the Westmoreland Fair.  This year marks the 58th anniversary of the event and will take place August 17-25th.  You can expect vast amounts of food, people, and all sorts of entertainment... So without hesitation, mark your calendars!

For more information click here!

Way Up High

While browsing the internet today I found this picture that shows almost all of Greensburg.  I thought it was pretty cool because you can see the heart of downtown.  But, you can also see the farmlands of Greensburg  as the picture goes further back.  That is where I got the pictures for my previous post The Rural Side Of Things.  Sometimes for me Greensburg seems pretty big, but maybe that's just because when I am out and about I am mostly walking everywhere.  This picture makes it seem so teeny-tiny!

Sweet Tooth

I got wind that there was a small store in downtown Greensburg that sold cupcakes, so I thought I would check it out.  Well, The Cupcake Shoppe is located on West Second Street and the people of Greensburg were right.  This place is truly terrific!

Who can tell me a small treat like this wouldn't brighten up your day?!  Each day there are a different selection of flavors.  When I stopped past I tried a Snickerdootle cupcake...

Just know it was heavenly.  The Cupcake Shoppe makes cupcakes for every occasion: an everyday snack, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, showers, and more.  This place is definitely worth checking out.  So go ahead and fix that sweet tooth!  Enjoy :)

Writer's Week At UPG

Starting today at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg a writers festival is being sponsored by the Pitt-Greensburg Written/Spoken Series.  This event is a time where best-selling authors, as well as up-and-coming authors can be featured, recognized, and share their work with the public.  Starting today, April 9, 2012 through Thursday, April 12, 2012, the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg is excited to welcome all of the campus and surrounding communities to these readings and workshops.


Please visit the Pitt-Greensburg Writers Festival information page to see who is coming when and what you can expect when you get there!  This event is going to be fun, interactive, and a chance for all of you to meet writers and authors who will be reading their work.  We look forward to you stopping by!


We start off tonight in the Village Hall Coffeehouse at 7:30pm with the launch of "Route 30."  This is an anthology featuring different pieces of work written by previous University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg students who participated in the university's writing program.  There will be alumni who are featured within the anthology, as well as faculty writers who will present some of their work.  See you all there!

An Early Easter Celebration

As we all know Easter is almost here!  Lots of chocolates, marshmallow peeps, and bunny anything and everything everywhere.  Wow, that's hard to say out loud.  Everyone is getting into the festivities... my roommates, neighbors, and even the mall!

The mall is decorated with about fifty bunnies, I don't know how you can top that.  Of course they are all very cute and festive, but there is only one bunny in particular that has the spotlight around this time of year.

This big guy right here is the bunny of the hour.  However, there is one thing I can't quite figure out.  I want to know how this bunny can make any little kid cry within five seconds, but is perceived as the nicest and sweetest thing around.  I don't know, maybe the oversized head and the fact it's voiceless has something to do with it.  Just a guess.  Anyways, whatever the reason, parents please save your kids the tears and don't make them take pictures if they don't want to.  It's not very nice.  And we all know what happens if you aren't nice... no Easter basket for you!

Everyone's Favorite

I have yet to meet someone who does not love, adore, and drool over girl scout cookies.  I'm one of those people so I could never turn down a box of those bad boys.  Well it turns out it's that time of year again to stock up on as many boxes as you can!  The signs don't lie...

Probably one of the best things you can see, huh?  A little birdie told me that you can head down to the Girl Scout building on East Otterman Street to submit an order.  I don't know about you, but I'm definitely there!

A Little Tip

I had to park Downtown today and of course I had to pay.... no fun.  But, just like you shop the shelves of a grocery store for the best deals you got to surf the parking meters as well!  Here's an example...

Okay so here's a good old parking meter than swallows all of your quarters, dimes and nickels.  But, if you pay closer attention...

Excuse the glare, but you can see that the meter on the left still has almost three hours on it (that's THREE bucks!) and the meter on the right only has seventeen minutes.  Be smart and save your coins!  Take a look around at the meters in the lot and score the best one before someone else does... at the end of the day, coins are money too!

The Rural Side Of Things

The one unique thing about Greensburg and many parts of Westmoreland County for that matter is that it has the ability to have a vibrant and lively city atmosphere and also have a calm and peaceful rural area.  I think it’s pretty cool how Greensburg can provide this type of contrast.  I’ve posted multiple times about places or things around more “city” oriented things or aspects so this post is all about showing some love to the country side of Greenburg.  Here are some photos I snapped the other day.  It’s fascinating to me that there are still people who own and operate farms around this area, but with all of the beautiful land that surrounds us it only seems appropriate.  Hmm, maybe that's something I should invest in.  Anyways, enjoy :)

When All Else Fails...

At least Greensburg can get your child on track.

Literally.

Fish, Fish, And More Fish

Since today is Friday and of course it's Lent I thought I would throw together a list of some Fish Fry's that have been recommended throughout the Westmoreland County area.  Here goes...

1. St Bruno Parish - South Greensburg
2. Our Lady of Grace Parish - Greensburg
3. Midway St. Clair VFD - Greensburg
4. Sacred Heart Church - Jeannette
5. Madison VFD - Westmoreland County
6. Mount Saint Peter Parish - New Kensington
7. Lloydsville VFD - Westmoreland County
8. High Park VFD - Jeannette
9. Crabtree VFD - Westmoreland County
10. New Kensington Fire Department #4 - New Kensington

... Or of course you could just visit Long John Silver's on Route 30!

At any rate, enjoy your Friday! And more importantly, enjoy that fish!

Let's Bowl!

Okay everyone you still have time to register for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Laurel Region's Bowl For Kids' Sake! This Sunday at Hillview Lanes in Greensburg at 12pm and 3pm you can come out and bowl for a great cause.  Tons of prizes and raffles will take place and there will be plenty of opportunities for everyone to win!  However, the best part of all will be all of the children that will benefit from this wonderful event.

You can call Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Laurel Region at 724-837-6198 for more information or visit their website to learn how you can get involved with not only Bowl For Kids' Sake, but their mentoring programs and other events as well.  We look forward to seeing you this Sunday!! :)

For A Great Cause

First and foremost if you have not already educated yourself about the crisis and recent news involving Joseph Kony and the Invisible Children, Inc please do so.  You can start by watching this YouTube video by Jason Russel.

Tomorrow March 29, 2012 at 8pm the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg will be holding a "Pie A Teacher In The Face" fundraiser.  For only $1 you can pie a teacher in the face and all of the proceeds are going directly to the Invisible Children, Inc.  Everyone is welcome to attend the event.  Here is some more information.  It's for a great cause, and every pie or donation will make a difference.  Please help us out!!

Be the change you want to see in the World - Mahatma Gandhi

Better Late Than Never

I kept hearing talk about a beautiful memorial for a Quartermaster Detachment something or other.  Well, I finally got my hands on a newspaper from a few weeks ago and did a little research to learn more about what all the buzz was about.  Let me tell you, I'm so happy I did.  The 14th Quartermaster Detachment Memorial located right across from Greensburg Central Catholic High School is one of the most beautiful sights I have seen.

If you haven't read up on the water purification unit that is from Greensburg that lost its members in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia over 21 years ago, please do.  Visit here to learn more!

Hurrayy For Monday!!

Today is such a great day for two reasons.... Number 1, today is my birthday!!  I'm very excited, but even more excited for reason number 2...

Douglas has been found and rescued!  He is now back at the shelter, all cleaned up, and happy as happy can be!  The Animal Friends of Westmoreland is thankful for everyone's help and even more thankful that this little pup is safe and sound!  I just had to keep all of you updated!  Now we just have to find this little guy a permanent home :)

Attention: Your Help Is Needed!

A Pleasant Surprise

One thing I love about Greensburg is that you can find the most unexpected things in the most unexpected places.  Today I was driving down Brinkerton Road and came across this amazing landscape.  I've never noticed it before, maybe it was just the skies tonight.  Where are some places where you've found the best views or have gotten the most surprising photographs??  Please share :)

Timmmmmber!

Driving down East Pittsburgh Street I came across this demolition derby! I was curious to find out what was going on so I thought I would turn to you guys... Any clue??

The Day Has Finally Come...

... for FREE RITA'S! Yes, Happy Spring everyone!! Not only is the sun shining and your skin feels like it could melt off, but you still have time to make it down to Rita's Italian Ice to get your free cup of whatever your little heart desires.  I chose the cherry ice, and let me tell you it tasted heavenly... I'm not sure if that's because it was free, really hot out or simply because it's Rita's.

At any rate, hurry down before the line gets to long!!

Confession Part 2?

First and foremost I hope all of you out there had a great St. Patty's Day!  How ironic that you could celebrate a holiday all about green in a city named GREENsburg :)

Anyways, last week I did a writing exercise in class about different obsessions I have had over the years.  I know, I know... this has absolutely nothing to do with Greensburg, but it's fun!  The first part of the exercise was to note five obsessions from before the age of ten, then add five obsessions within the past few years.  The final step was to pick one of each and write a few sentences about how each went together.

Well, the two obsessions that came out of my stack of notecards were Mexican food and bad breath… yes bad breath.  It would seem weird that these two would be paired together, maybe more so ironic.  Anyways, when I was little I would not speak nor look at you if you had bad breath.  I’d simply tell you and then walk away.  Welp, now every time I eat Mexican food I’m the one who has bad breath.  Over the years I’ve convinced myself that it’s okay for me, and only me to have bad breath when I feel like it.  Especially after I eat my new found love: burritos, chips and salsa, and taco salads.  I win, so go eat a piece of gum.

If you're in the area stop past Cozumel's on East Pittsburgh Street!  Check out their website to view their menu, locations, and much more.  Yum, yum, yum!!  And don't forget that gum :)

Poor Little Kids

I was shopping today at Westmoreland Mall.  It's a really nice mall, but I only have one complaint.  There is a projector screen placed on the floor near the center of the mall that has moving images.  The images move when they are touched, for example balls will bounce when walked on or bubbles will pop when stepped on.  Well today there was a Nemo fish...

When you touch the fish, which isn't Nemo but will do, it would stir up currents in the water.  This isn't my complaint.  My complaint starts with that little girl you can see in the top of the picture.  I made sure her face was cut off because this isn't her fault.  See that leg on the right, yeah that's her dad and it's all his fault.  I didn't show his face for ethical reasons.

I cannot seem to figure out why parents think it's cute when their kids jump onto this screen and touch their nose to it, put there hands on it and then lick them, or spin in circles either on their butt or stomach.  It gives me the chills because it's still a FLOOR.  People walk on it, and God only knows what's on the bottom of their shoes... Gross.

Anyways, parents don't normally let there kids play on the floor of public places so this screen, although very cool, shouldn't be any different.  Parents, please tell your kids it's for feet only.  Thank you.

And thanks to all of you for reading this rant :)

Who Rescued Who?

I was driving around today and got stuck at a red light... how inconvenient.  The SUV in front of me had a bumper sticker that is the inspiration for this post... which is very convenient.  A small magnetic paw print with the phrase "Who rescued who?" centered perfectly was stuck to the left of their license plate.  I couldn't get my phone camera to load quick enough to take a picture, but it immediately made me think of a place that holds a special place in my heart.

The Animal Friends of Westmoreland is a no kill animal shelter that takes in as many dogs and cats as they can.  When they have no more room left, they make room so that animals won't be put down.

This shelter resides in Youngwood (gasssssp, I broke my rule about Greensburg but this place is worth it!!)  I started volunteering at the shelter this past fall and can truly say is has changed my life.  I guess this is where that bumper sticker struck home for me.  I've worked with multiple animals and all have impacted me differently.  How can you deny these faces...

Ray Ray

Casey

Phoebe (ironic, right?)

I referred to this little guy as Nugget 

Shane

Bubba

Each of these pups has a story and being able to learn about them and with them has changed me for the better.  I guess you can say they have all rescued me.  I encourage all of you to stop down some day, I ensure you you will be wearing a smile the whole time.  I know I do :)

 Be a voice for those that cannot speak.

Hmm, Here's Some Personal Advice

I had an epiphany today. It's really common sense to me and I don't know why it took so long to hit me.  Anyways, I guess I just thought it could serve as some advice to you guys... Okay, it's time to get serious...

If there is anything in life that you want to learn about, whether it be something big or small, DO IT!  Who cares if people watch, stare, creep, criticize, or make fun.  At the end of the day you're only bettering yourself by making yourself happy... And that's all that matters!

Catch That Sunlight!

I don't know about you, but this Greensburg weather is keeping an extra large smile on my face!  My car thermometer said it was about 75 degrees today and all sunshine.  Downtown Greensburg, as well as the Pitt-Greensburg campus was buzzing with all kinds of people outside having lunch, chatting with friends, throwing frisbee, and most of all just soaking up the sun.  Speaking of which, these little guys in my front yard were not about to get gypped on their fair share...

Anyways, hurry outside!!  You don't want to miss out :)

Let's Go Greenies!

Who the heck are the Greenies?  Well for all of you sports gooroos out there, the Greenies were Greensburg's own football team in the 1890's.  Who would have thought the City of Greensburg would have had their own football team.  It all started when the Greensburg Athletic Association formed a team in 1890.  They played other teams like the Latrobe Athletic Association.  Fun Fact: Latrobe was their biggest rival.  Anyway, the team fell apart in 1900 but left some pretty cool pieces of history to remain.  George Barclay played for the team and invented the first football helmet which looked something like this...

Not very supportive, huh?  There was also Charlie Atherton who invented the place kick, used for field goals and kick off.  Check out the Greensburg's Greenies!

The Munchkins Are Here!

Well everyone, I'm going on vacation for a few days but don't you worry I'll be back soon!  I wanted to leave you with some very exciting news though... The Dunkin' Donuts on Route 119 is now open for business!

So while I'm gone, eat all of the donuts, Munchkins, and muffins you can for me.  And don't forget to chug a handful of iced lattes and Coolattas, too.  ENJOY!

Greensburg Made It To YouTube!

A Little Side Conversation

I was walking downtown and overheard a group of friends talking about what a great lunch and coffee date they had.  I'm not going to lie, I was getting a little jealous so I asked what restaurant they were talking about.  It turns out this group was just leaving Caffe Barista on West Otterman Street.

Besides their compliments on the great mocha coffees and lunch specials, they filled me in on a second part of the cafe called The Side Bar.  A two-part cafe, pretty cool huh?  You can still eat there and get drink specials, but it's just a little something extra.  Kind of like a two-for-one!

Who knew eavesdropping could be such a good thing?? 

Sunset Fever?

I'm a big fan of outside artwork like murals or unique paintings.  I was driving home two days ago and decided to take a short cut that I normally never do, and look what I ran into...

I thought it was fun, festive, and of course very Italian-like.  It belongs to the Sunset Cafe on South Urania Avenue.  Have any of you tried out their food before?  I've heard good reviews, so I'll have to check it out and get back to you guys!

In the meantime, everybody say Happy Birthday to Justin Bieber and go crazy with your Bieber Fever!

My True Confession

Not only did I miss yesterday's blog post, I know gaspp, but I do have another confession to make to all of you guys.  It's something I do time and time again, sometimes I feel bad about it and other times I just don't care.

I. Stop. Traffic. Just. To. Take. Pictures.

All I can say is... oops.  Okay, okay, and I tend to make funny faces at bystanders who find it their responsibility to stop and stare while my flash goes off.  In my defense, they started it.

Phew, I feel better already :)

What's Up Dawg?!

I don't know about you, but anything convenient, fast, and easy I like.  A lot of my friends happen to be the same way.  So, when it comes time to make a quick run to grab a few "accessories" for a weekend night out there's only one place to go.

That would of course be Dawg's!  Please excuse the fact that my camera lens looks extremely dirty.  That shows no reflection of Dawg's, it's just a coincidence.  They're easy to find, and you can get in, get what you need, and get out.  And come on, who doesn't like saying Dawg?  But only say it if you can say what's up like these guys first.

A Quick Definition

As I was trying to think of a word to describe my blog in full, I just couldn't think of anything that fit perfectly.  So, I decided to make up my own.  One that would describe both my blog and Greensburg to a tee.  And, this is what I came up with... Drum roll please!

Gurbsnerge

Okay, okay so it doesn't look nor sound too cool, but it's all of the letters in Greensburg rearranged.  In my mind it stands for everything that Greensburg encompasses and stands for.  Literally, everything Greensburg.  I couldn't think of a word to describe Greensburg, and maybe it's just because Greensburg is simply Greensburg.  Indescribable, beautiful, and perfect just the way it is.

Tick Tock Goes The Clock

I don't think this was the clock that Kesha was referring to in her hit single... However, it is the clock that is known all around town.

Sitting on the corner of the busiest intersection of Greenburg, this clock stands almost as tall as the street lamps. But hey, it does come in handy quite often.  For example, for those who forget their watch, or phone, or those who forget to put in their contacts.

See, what a brilliant idea.  And remember, it always helps to know what time it is!