Become Your Healthiest Self: Fitness Options in Shadyside

Taking part in regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do to ensure you remain your healthiest self. Not only does exercise help control your weight and strengthen your muscles, it also improves your overall mood and mental health.

Shadyside offers a wide range of fitness options such as CrossFit, barre, pilates and so much more. No matter your current experience level, or fitness goals, there is something for you.

X Shadyside

Tight schedule? No problem. X Shadyside is a 24-hour health and fitness facility conveniently located on Walnut Street. This family-owned gym features 400 pieces of equipment, a variety of group fitness classes, personal trainers, massage therapy and other additional services. X Shadyside is sure to have something for everyone.

Renegade Training

Renegade’s the name, CrossFit’s the game. Renegade Training is located right on South Graham Street and delivers a variety of CrossFit and fitness classes that are broad, general, and inclusive. Their programs are shorter in length but high in intensity. They also offer prep courses for those new to the CrossFit world.

Pure Barre

Pure Barre is a total body workout that uses a ballet barre to perform small, isometric movements, which burn fat, sculpt muscles and create long, lean physiques. The Centre Avenue studio prides itself in upholding a sense of community that is inspired and empowered by each others’ fitness and lifestyle goals.

Club One

Rows of fitness machines, weight training equipment, an indoor track, two fabulous pools both indoor and outdoor, sauna and group fitness studios allow you to personalize your fitness journey at Club One Fitness. This full-service fitness club is located on Penn Avenue and offers a convenient location for anyone working or living on the east side of Pittsburgh.

These are only a handful of Shadyside’s quality fitness options. There is truly a place for everybody. Many gyms also offer discounted, or even free trials to new and prospective clients. So what are you still waiting for?

Get going!

Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Apartment Cool this Summer

At Franklin West, apartment living is our bread and butter. We value making sure residents are able to comfortably call our apartments home.

Though occasionally, the sunny season throws a few curve balls in apartment life. Today, we’re arming you with convenient, easy, and life-changing tips so you can get back to enjoying Pittsburgh’s summer activities.

Curtain and Fan Tricks

Summertime in city apartments can get a little too roasty toasty for comfort. Your home should bring cool relief after working all day. We rounded up nifty little tricks to help you stay cool without having the AC on high.

  • Keep curtains closed during the day. Up to 30% of unwanted heat comes from your windows, simply closing and covering the windows can dramatically impact indoor temperatures.
  • Spray ice water on your curtains! When a breeze comes, your curtains become a homemade air conditioner.
  • Toss a water bottle or two in the freezer during the day so by bedtime, you have an ice pack to keep your bed chilled.  
  • Consider replacing your flannel sheets with lighter, cooler alternatives. Pillows, too, like natural buckwheat hull, are actually designed to keep heat away from your head while you sleep.
  • Place fans strategically around your apartment to circulate the air and create the perfect cross breeze. Go old school by placing a shallow bowl filled with ice in front of a fan for a nice cool mist.
  • If you have ceiling fans in your apartment, set them to rotate counter-clockwise during the summer. If you do not know how to do this or if they are out of your reach, please call our office and one of our maintenance technicians would be glad to do it for you.

Appliances that Generate Heat

  • Save on your electric bill by keeping lights turned off when not in use.
  • Your stove, oven, and dishwasher create more heat when in use. So, avoid using these during the day.
  • Do laundry in the evening. Generating a lot of heat and humidity, whether you have your own washer or dryer or shared laundry in the building, remember that heat rises. Your upper floors neighbors will thank you!
  • Exhaust fans aren’t just for smells. When cooking, use the exhaust fan to draw out excess steam and humidity. The same goes for the bathroom. Without it, all of the humidity that builds up will leak out making your apartment feel a lot warmer.  
  • Have an overabundance of electronics? Even when not in use, computers and televisions generate heat. When these items are not in use, consider unplugging them. Doing this will help your electric bill, too!
  • Close off the rooms/areas you are not using so that the cold air stays where you want it to be and doesn’t go where you don’t want it.

Air Conditioning Tips and Maintenance

  • If your apartment has central air conditioning, set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible. The more cooling you do with your central or room air conditioner, the higher your electric bill will be.
  • Setting the thermostat to a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner won’t cool things down any faster, and if you forget, you’ll end up paying for it when the bill comes.  
  • Also, don’t place large appliances near your thermostat. These emit heat and can cause your central AC to run longer than necessary.
  • If your apartment has wall-unit air conditioning, only turn it on in the room(s) you want to have cooled and turn it off if you are no longer using that room.
  • Whether you have central air-conditioning, wall-unit or window air conditioning, make sure that your registers and filters are clean and that they are not being blocked by furniture or other items.

We want to make sure our properties are a haven from the summer heat. Residents are encouraged to call right away if you find that your air conditioning unit is not functioning properly.

For best service, report air conditioning problems early in the workday. This way our maintenance technicians will have sufficient time to diagnose the problem, can purchase any parts that may be needed, and then fix the system for you.

 

There you have it. All the do it yourself tips and old school tricks to keep you and your family cooler than cucumbers. Besides, if all else fails, we hear homemade popsicles become a wonderful family activity and a perfect remedy for any summer heat!

Celebrate Fourth of July Pittsburgh Style


If there’s one thing we can say about Pittsburgh, it’s that we know how to throw an Independence Day celebration. Our city, businesses, and locals all come together to celebrate freedom during this patriotic holiday.

Flashes of Freedom

Enjoy Independence Day, start to end, with a bang! Pittsburgh’s Flashes of Freedom celebration is a free, must-go experience. You can expect patriotic ceremonies, re-enactments, children’s activities such as patriotic crafts and animal balloons, food vendors, live music, and so much more. Don’t even get us started on the fireworks. Pittsburgh won’t leave you disappointed.

Point State Park may only be 20-minutes from our Shadyside apartments, but that’s no reason to deal with the hassles of parking downtown. Residents can conveniently take the PAT bus lines straight into downtown.

For a schedule of events, and further detail visit: EQT’s Celebrate America

Fourth of July at The Frick

Looking for something in walking distance? The Frick Pittsburgh is hosting their own Fourth of July celebration including an outdoor hot dog bar at the Cafe with gourmet toppings and refreshments. Plus, Christopher Mark Jones & The Roots Ensemble will play live folk, blues, and Americana music on the lawn from 12 to 2 pm.

Grab the kids, a blanket, and stop by The Frick for a wonderful afternoon.

Hosting Your Own Celebration?

Add a little piece of Pittsburgh to your party! Here are five ways to turn that gathering into a yinzsplosion.

  1. For porch decor, pair the red, white, and blue with the old black and yellow. Have those two flags waving side by side in the wind for a beautiful, vision of ‘burgh pride.
  2. Hot dogs are good, but any Pittsburgher will explain kielbasa is better. Top it off with a shamefully large amount of sauerkraut and Heinz Ketchup and you have yourself one patriotic sandwich.
  3. Pittsburgh snacks are simple. All you need for an Independence Day party are 5 bags of freeze pops and one impressive red, white, and blue cookie table. Believe us, there won’t be any complaining kiddies with those treats!

Bonus: Did you know you can fish anywhere in PA without a license on Wednesday, July 4? Your whole family can enjoy the natural outdoors and bring home the supper! Even out of state visitors can join in on the fun. We highly suggest visiting Highland Park in the East End of Pittsburgh. The incredibly lush park will have you fishing for hours without care.  

See details of the first Youth Fishing Derby this Saturday, July 7th, at Highland Park’s Lake Carnegie.

Wherever your plans take you this 4th of July, we are wishing our Pittsburgh family one exciting and safe holiday!   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Header image from Celebrate America PGH Facebook page

10 Ways to Improve Apartment Life in Shadyside

Summer in Pittsburgh is in full swing bringing gorgeous sunny days. Here at Franklin West, we pride ourselves on providing a superior living. The best thing about apartment living is its cost-efficiency! We want to help you spruce things up in apartment living and maybe help take care of a few pesky issues.

Get Help From Nature

The movement of wall gardens and leafy centerpieces isn’t just a decor statement. Plants are extremely useful for repelling pests, cleaning the air, and everyday uses you didn’t even realize could help. Here’s our list of must-have plants.

  1. Lavender – repels moths, fleas, flies, and mosquitos
  2. Peppermint – repels spiders, mosquitos, and ants
  3. Peace Lily – can improve your home’s air quality.
  4. Snake plants – extremely effective at removing toxins in the air.
  5. Aloe – helps you out during sunny days at the pool

BONUS: Herbs – for cooking, of course.

As an added bonus, certain sun-seeking indoor plants help keep the air around them cool. Plants rely on photosynthesis in order to survive, a process in which they consume water and sunlight to create their own food. This process also causes plants to take in energy, in this case, heat.

Ease the Noisy Fanfare

From sounds of the streets to hearing your roommate’s sandals flopping on the hardwood floors in the other room, apartments are a little noisy. We rounded up a few ways to soundproof your apartment.

  • Easy to install yourself, use a draft blocker (DIY or store-bought) to keep out dust, bugs, drafts, moisture and most importantly, noise.
  • Stuck hearing outdoor racket when trying to sleep? Look into getting a white noise machine or shop around for different mobile apps.
  • Canvas art (home created or store-bought) can actually help soundproof your home, just don’t forget to attach acoustic tile to the back.  
  • Noise bounces off of glassware and ceramics, so tuck away these items.
  • Rugs are your friend. Use multiple, crazy patterned rugs or just one large one to absorb echoes and other loud noises. A thick carpet pad works well if you love the pattern of a fairly thin rug.

These tips are alternatives to minimal issues. If you’re experiencing major problems concerning the mentioned topics, reach out to our main office for assistance. Enjoy apartment living during any season!   

Fill Your Calendar With These Shadyside Summer Activities!

After enduring second and third winter, plus the endless bounds of rain for the first couple months of the year, Pittsburghers welcome the sunny season with open arms. We have the details of Shadyside’s summer events. As the most friendly, and very walkable place in Pittsburgh, Shadyside erupts with exciting and affordable experiences! 

This isn’t the time to just work on a tan. The warmest season of the year means enjoying all of the unique activities the area has to offer. From weekly outdoor movies to the musical block parties that benefit our city’s pups.

There are so many places to see and things to do in Pittsburgh this season, many of them are even free! Here are the plans you need to mark in your calendar.

Thanks to Dollar Bank, Pittsburghers are able to bask in the warm weather and enjoy the latest movies for free! Make it quality time with family, a friends night out, or even a date to remember. Any local will say movies in the park are one of the most enjoyable events that happen in the Burgh.

Playing every Sunday in Schenley Plaza and Wednesdays at Schenley Park on Flagstaff Hill. Movies begin at dusk so grab the popcorn and we’ll see you there!

Each Friday from June 15 to August 31, The Frick will be featuring a variety of outdoor performances, family-friendly activities, and dining options. The north lawn will have games fit for every member of the family.

Also, the first floor of the Clayton mansion will be open to tour at your own pace, free of charge. You won’t want to miss a chance to see the rooms of this historic home in the summer evening light.

Feel free to bring your own blanket and picnic basket, choose to stop in The Café, to grab a bite to eat, a glass of wine, or a beer, or explore a variety of local food trucks. Performances begin every Friday at 6:30 p.m.

To see a complete schedule click here.

The annual Jam on Walnut outdoor concerts is a Shadyside favorite. Explore the multitude of Shadyside’s local bars and restaurants or come early and do some shopping.

Not only are these performances full of fun and great music, they’re also the perfect way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. The five outdoor concerts all benefit Humane Animal Rescue and will be held on June 23, July 21, August 18, September 22, and October 20.

Want to know who’s performing? Go to Jam on Walnut 2018 Facebook page.

It may be open 365 days a year, but summer is simply more special. From bringing dinosaurs back to the Festival of color, The Pittsburgh Zoo is an awesome place for families.

There are new adventures every weekend. For a half hour, the wild animal encounters gives you the opportunity to play zookeeper with animals like the rare and endangered red panda. Plus, have you heard about the new Zipline? At the highest point of the Zoo, coast through diverse ecosystems and a lush jungle just below your feet!

Situated right in Shadyside, Mellon Park is the ideal location to relax, read a book, catch up on some work or enjoy a picnic.

The hidden sanctuary is rich in history and known for its Walled Garden located right behind the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts building and the Phipps Garden Center.

Mellon Park is home to many wonderful, family friendly events like Bach, Beethoven and Brunch! Also, stop by the park to find the freshest local produce and baked goods at the weekly farmers market, held every Friday afternoon.

 

As you can see, summer activities don’t have to break the bank, many things are even free for the public. Before we know it Pittsburgh will be back to snow and ice so don’t pass up the chance to enjoy the sun and warm weather at all of the outdoor Pittsburgh events this summer.

We hope this list inspires you to get outside and try new things, venture to a new place and meet someone you otherwise wouldn’t have, or commit to taking yourself out of your everyday routine to mix things up. Make this summer one to remember.

Now, what are you still waiting for… go celebrate!

When all else fails… call Dad!

Fathers have always been there to pick us up when we’re down. They somehow always know the right thing to say. They’re the best at telling jokes… even though sometimes they’re really not that funny (sorry dad!). They’re always ready to come to the rescue. At the end of the day, they never ask for anything in return.

This Father’s day is the perfect day to show your father how much you truly appreciate all of the things he’s done for you, along with all of the laughs and advice he’s given you over the years.

Father’s Day Brunch

Girasole –  Filled with rustic Italian dishes and stonewalls, Girasole is the perfect place to celebrate Father’s Day. The traditional yet fun atmosphere pairs perfectly with the seasonal, modern-Italian, menu based on the freshest and highest quality products. Come hungry.  

Explore the menu

Stack’dBurgers and beer, what more could a dad want? This restaurant allows you to perfectly customize your meal with anything you could possibly imagine from fritos all the way to a fried banana. They will also be featuring $2 Mimosas & Bloody Mary’s from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Father’s Day.

See how the food stacks up

Shady GroveLooking for a restaurant that will satisfy everyone’s cravings? Shady Grove offers a wide variety of foods and daily specials, there’s sure to be something for everybody. You can also enjoy a signature Adult Capris Sun for only $5.

Check out what’s for brunch

Gifts worth giving

Evolve Wellness Spa – Give your father the gift of relaxation with a massage, facial, or beard facial at Evolve. Now offering special rates for Father’s Day.

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium – Looking for a day full of adventures for the whole family? Fathers of all generations will receive free admission to the Pittsburgh Zoo when accompanied by one or more of their children.

Frick Environmental Center – If you’re looking for a way to keep active and enjoy the outdoors with your father, this is just for you. Sign up for a free Father’s Day hike with a naturalist educator and experience bursts of color while you learn about the many plants and insects at work.

 

Make this a Father’s Day to remember for the ones you love most.

 

Happy Father’s Day!

Franklin West Adapts to Mandatory All-In-One Recycling

We get it. Recycling sometimes seems like a chore rather than doing a good deed. Having to sort and keep trash separate can become a tedious task for life in an apartment. Not to mention, finding the space to keep the trash separate. Next thing you know, the mail and milk cartons are stacking up at your apartment door because you forgot to take them out with the regular trash.

Republic Services, the company contracted to haul waste from many of Franklin West apartment buildings, wants to take the difficulty out of recycling. At the beginning of 2018, Republic Services introduced mandatory All-In-One Recycling. This means using one container! With no more sorting, you will be reaping the many benefits of doing your part to save the world while saving time and space.

Each ton of recycled paper can save:

  • 17 Trees
  • 380 Gallons of Oil
  • 3 Cubic Yards of Landfill Space
  • 4,000 Kilowatts of Energy
  • 7,000 Gallons of Water

Here’s a refresher on what you can and can not put in your apartment building’s recycling container.

Do Recycle

  • Metal: Aluminum, Bi-Metal, Steel Food Cans (Don’t forget to rinse first!)
  • Plastics: #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #7 (Click here for further definition of plastic criteria)
  • Glass: Clear, Green, & Brown Glass Containers
  • Paper: Magazines, Advertising Inserts, Junk Mail, Phone Books, Newspaper, Envelopes, Catalogs, Paperback Books, Coupons/Receipts, Computer Paper
  • Paperboard Boxes: Cereal, Juice, and Tissue Boxes
  • Cardboard & Cardboard Boxes: Just toss it in the bin!
  • Cartons: Milk, Almond/Soy Milk, Cream and Orange Juice Cartons

Don’t Recycle

  • NO Garbage, Food Waste, or Hazardous Waste
  • NO #6 Plastics (Polystyrene or more commonly styrofoam containers or packing peanuts)
  • NO Styrofoam or Fast Food Wrappers
  • NO Pizza Boxes
  • NO Lids – Plastic or Metal
  • NO Pie Pans – Aluminum or Foil
  • NO Paper Towel Rolls or Toilet Paper Rolls
  • NO Shredded Paper
  • NO Ceramics
  • NO Light Bulbs or Ceramics
  • NO Tempered or Plate Glass
  • NO Plastic Bags (not even the blue ones from the grocery store!)
    • Use Grocery Store Drop-Off Area for these Bags

 

This move to All-In-One Recycling stems from a global effort to dispose of waste more efficiently. The New York Times reported a worldwide backup in disposal efforts when China announced just last year that it would severely limit the amount and types of waste that is brought into the country.

The very familiar “blue” plastic grocery bags not only interfere with the ability to process and sort recycling efficiently, but they are among the items specifically being targeted by China’s new ban. In short, many materials that were once deemed recyclable, no longer are. With this ban, many municipalities where Franklin West properties are located are now having to quickly revise their guidelines in response. Once revised municipal guidelines are published in response to these new rules, we will certainly let you know.

Efforts in protecting the environment don’t just lie with you. This is a global stand to maintain a safe environment for generations to come. With the help of Republic Services easy All-In-One Recycling system, you too can help paint the bigger picture.

Where to Spend Quality Time with Mom on her Big Day

Mothers dedicate every waking second to the happiness of their family. They were up at the crack of dawn to make sure you got on the yellow school bus and had their phones ready in case you had an emergency while in college. They cut the crusts off your sandwiches when you were five, and still at your side twenty years later to help move you into your first place.  

Essentially, you’re a functioning human-being because of your momma so she deserves a day commemorating her life’s work.

It’s time to stray from giving the same old $20 gift card. Here’s a list of activities you can do or buy for your mom this Mother’s Day.

Mother’s Day Brunch

Paris 66

Called the most delicious, authentic French cuisine by Pittsburgh locals for seven years in a row, Paris 66 will give your best gal a taste of France without getting on a plane. Last year, Paris 66 was honored as 2018’s Best French Restaurant and Best Restaurant Desserts!

A charming ambiance, this bistro is hosting a Mother’s Day Brunch from 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday, May 12th. See the special Mother’s Day menu here.

photo by Paris 66 via Instagram

Cashbah

With a warm and cozy atmosphere, Cashbah offers a unique dining experience with a year-round garden patio. To help you celebrate the lovely lady in your life, Cashbah is extending their brunch hours from 11 am to 2 pm.

photo by Cashbah via Instagram

Acorn Pittsburgh

This local hotspot has a regularly changing menu that focuses on clean flavors, regional sourcing, and one deliciously fresh perspective! Acorn Pittsburgh is open for brunch starting at 10 am and would be a wonderful choice to celebrate Mother’s Day.

photo from Acorn Pgh via Instagram

 

 Mansions on Fifth and The Whitfield are two honorable mentions that may not have a Mother’s Day menus, but the food genuinely speaks for itself. 

Shop for Timeless Gifts

Anthropology

A portal of discovery, Anthropology offers a variety of women’s apparel and accessories, intimates, home furniture and décor, beauty, and gifts. Find gift inspiration especially made for your mom in mind on the official website. Plus, stop by the Penn Ave location for a Mother’s Day event from 12 to 5 pm with special treats, crafts for kids, and much, much more.

Williams Sonoma

Promising to nourish people’s lives, Williams Sonoma carries high-quality products for the everyday home. They have options for the baking mama, the gardening mama, and gift baskets for the mom who deserves some time to herself. Williams Sonoma can make personalized gifts too. Order before the end of Wednesday to get your gift in time for Sunday or just stop in the Shadyside store location.  

Four Winds Gallery

Why settle for any gift when you can give mom a unique one? Since the 70’s, the founders at Four Winds Gallery committed to bringing the Pittsburgh community extraordinary Native American jewelry and art. Though, slightly on the pricier side, the Mother’s Day jewelry collection from Four Winds Gallery is absolutely exotic and immersed in culture. Get some help finding a gift for mom from the Four Wind’s team at the Shadyside location.

photo from Four Winds Gallery via Instagram

Offering classic Mother’s Day gifts, check out these honorable mentions: Eureka! Chocolates & gifts and Alex’s East End Floral Shop.

Share an Experience with Mom

Ace Hotel – Mother’s Day DIY Party!

Whether you have tiny humans at home, a few fur-babies, or the mother of dragons, Ace Hotel wants to throw you a party on Sunday, May 12 from 2 to 5 pm.

Come hang out with other moms or spend time creating DIY masterpieces with your loved ones. You’ll be able to participate in these awesome activities:

  • Treat Yo Self station: Make your own bath scrubs, salts and an aromatherapy oil for yourself.
  • Art station: Create your own one of a kind block printed & framed art piece, tote bag or apron.
  • Plant station: Paint your own ceramic planter and create a succulent or plant scape inside with a variety or adorable little plants.
  • Floral station: Create your own Seasonal Summer Wreath with greens & flowers that will dry beautifully so it will last you all season.

There’s still more going on during this event. Find out the details here and don’t forget to purchase your ticket soon!

Evolve Wellness Spa

Celebrate Mother’s Day by enjoying “mom and me” time at Evolve Wellness Spa. Spend quality time with your mom in the most relaxing way. Click the link above for all the info you need to know.

Steel City Improv

A massage might not do the trick, but maybe laughter will. After all, the best form of medicine comes from a chuckle or two. Take your mom out for a few laughs at Steel City Improv. Just know that shows are only Friday and Saturday nights, so plan wisely!

The Frick Pittsburgh

Looking for something to do for the majority of Sunday? Spend a couple of hours at The Frick! Explore historically and art focused exhibits, stroll through the scenic gardens, and enjoy a Mother’s Day brunch.

 

There you have it. Your mom has been there for the good, the bad, the smelly, and for all the excitement life has to offer. So, why not go above the norm this year and show your mom how genuinely grateful you are.

 

Happy Mother’s Day!

PGH Marathon 2018: 3 Need-to-Know Events in Shadyside.

May 6th rings in the 10th anniversary of the DICK’S  Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. The city illuminates with excitement as runners begin the final stages of prep for Sunday’s long run.

Residents in Shadyside will get a front-row view of marathon runners and we’re ready to cheer them on! Besides overwhelming support from our neck of the woods, runners will be relieved to find a flat, charming pathway they can enjoy. 

There’s no need to feel left out if you’re not participating in the marathon. Join the spectating crowd on race day to support those in their running shoes.  

Mile Markers Near You

  • Mile 13 – Halfway point marked between Pitt and Carnegie Museums & Library
  • Mile 14 – Corner of Fifth Avenue and St. James Street, Shadyside
  • Mile 15 – Fifth Avenue at Mellon Park prior to Penn Ave.
  • Mile 16 – Penn Ave, Point Breeze

Help encourage those powering through the marathon. Last year, marathon supporters made some exceptionally creative signs. We’re challenging you to do better!

Use #GoShadySideRunners to share your awesome signs with us on Instagram!

3 Ways to Take Part in the Fun

At the corner of Bellefonte and Walnut street root for the runners and enjoy all the festivities! Plus, Tim Vitullo and his band will be performing for the duration of the Pittsburgh Marathon at the corner of Walnut Street and Ivy Street in Shadyside.

Relay runners, attempting the 26.2 miles as a team, will have their third exchange at mile 15.6 near Mellon Park between Fifth and Penn avenues.  

This one is for the athletes who ran in the marathon. Lululemon in Shadyside teamed up with Sports Performance + Spine to offer runners an evening of soft tissue recovery after Sunday’s race. It will be held on Tuesday, May 8th at 6 pm. Click the link above for details.

 

It’s almost time to take your marks, runners, we’ll be cheering for you!

 

 

Header image by DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Facebook

3 Ways to Make a Difference on Earth Day 2018

Sunday, April 22 marks the day when people from all over the world focus on moving toward a healthy, sustainable environment. According to Earth Day’s official organization, “Earth Day has reached into its current status as the largest secular observance in the world, celebrated by more than a billion people every year, and a day of action that changes human behavior and provokes policy changes.”

Like all movements, environmental awareness had to start somewhere.

It was started in the 1970’s by US Senator, Gaylord Nelson. For the US, the Vietnam War was an uproar, young people protested, and air pollution policy didn’t exist as industries spewed smoke and smog.

With that said, the goal became to push environmental protections into a political agenda. Nelson partnered with Pete McCloskey and recruited Denis Hayes to spearhead the mission. Soon their staff grew to 85 members and by April 22nd, 1970, 20 million American citizens demonstrated for environmental action.

All of which led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts.  

Learn more about the history of Earth Day here.

Taking Action in the ‘Burgh

Let the Earth Day Festivities begin! Join many from our Pittsburgh community in celebration and learn how you can make an impact toward environmental sustainability on April 20th through April 21st.

Click here for more events happening in Pittsburgh.

The motivation behind Earth Day came from the relentless determination of students who fought for change. Want to put in your two cents into the world? Give back to the earth and future generations with your time. What kind of Earth do you want to have in fifty years? Because the time to do something is now.