Preservation Opportunities & Awards
Preservation Pittsburgh Event at Threadbare Cider
Please join us on Tuesday, November 13th from 6:00-9:00 pm at Threadbare Cider House & Meadery in Spring Garden on the Northside.
Threadbare opened in October 2017 in a 10,000 square foot former tannery. Their cider & mead business grew out of the family-owned Wigle Whiskey enterprise.
1291 Spring Garden Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
threadbarecider.com
Our members are invited to learn more about Preservation Pittsburgh projects and enjoy libations, tours, and remarks by our gracious hosts at Threadbare.
Light refreshments will be provided (pizza and one cider pour). There will be the option to purchase additional drinks and take-home bottles. A portion of sales will be donated to Preservation Pittsburgh.
Free parking is available in Threadbare’s lot and there is additional street parking on Voskamp.
The Annual Meeting is a member appreciation event and thus admission is complimentary for current Preservation Pittsburgh members. To join or renew online:
preservationpgh.org/membership
Non-members and guests of members are welcome with an admission charge of $15. To purchase tickets:
preservationpittsburghannualevent2018.eventbrite.com
For questions regarding membership status and to RSVP: mmcswigan@preservationpgh.org Advance reservations are required.
PHLF: Restoring Murals
Location: Landmarks Preservation Resource Center, 744 Rebecca Avenue
Date: Tuessday, September 25th
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Contact: marylu@phlf.org or (412) 471-5808 ext. 527
In this presentation, we consider art appreciation in regards to exterior and interior murals with an examination of the history of murals tracing it back to its origins. We consider the different approaches to commercial and artistic mural painting. This will include a look at examples of contemporary mural painting and its significance and the emotional impact considering the importance of proper choice of style and subject to support the architectural situation and enhance community life.
About the Presenter: Boris Brindar is a second-generation art conservator. He got his start in the field at a young age, working with his dad, then the Head of Conservation Labs at the Russian State Museum in Leningrad. Boris is a graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts in Leningrad where he received a degree in conservation and art history. He has more than 33 years of professional experience.
All events are free to PHLF members. Non-members: $10 RSVPs are appreciated: marylu@phlf.org or (412) 471-5808 ext. 527
Check out http://phlf.org/events/ for more PHLF tours and events.
PHLF: Glass Cutting and Window Re-Glazing
Location: Landmarks Preservation Resource Center, 744 Rebecca Avenue
Date: Thursday, September 20th
Time: 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Contact: marylu@phlf.org or (412) 471-5808 ext. 527
In this workshop, you will learn how to cut glass and reglaze panes and get some hands on experience. Find out about different kinds of glazing putty, how to get the old putty out without breaking the glass, and tools for putty and glass cutting, and perhaps some paint removal and wood repair if time allows.
About the Presenter: Regis Will is a woodworker, craftsman, and owner of Vesta Home Services, a consulting firm on house restoration and Do-it-Yourself projects. He blogs about his work at The New Yinzer Workshop.
All events are free to PHLF members. Non-members: $10 RSVPs are appreciated: marylu@phlf.org or (412) 471-5808 ext. 527
Check out http://phlf.org/events/ for more PHLF tours and events.
PHLF: Upcoming Walking Tours & Events
Participate in Our Free Friday Downtown Walking Tours and Neighborhood Tours
Hearing the history and the stories of the people who shaped the Schenley Farms neighborhood while walking around and looking at the buildings and houses was a great way to learn. It was interesting to see up close the architectural diversity and unity among the various houses in this planned community.
“I’m somewhat familiar with Oakland, but I learned a lot.” – Roberta Shope
- Grant Street (from Sixth to Fourth avenues): Fridays in May, 10:00 to 11:00 am
- Grant Street (from Sixth to Liberty avenues): Fridays in May, Noon to 1:00 pm
- Point Breeze: Saturday, June 2nd, 1:30 to 3:00 pm
- And the Jail Museum every Monday (except on court holidays): visit between 11:30 am and 1:00 pm
See the beauty and discover the stories of significant places in the Pittsburgh Region. Check out the many tours we have listed on our Calendar of Events and contact Mary Lu Denny (412) 471-5808 x 527 to make reservations.
You May Also Be Interested In…
Click here for our schedule of Neighborhood Walking Tours – new this year, thanks to our docents!
Click here for our schedule of Free Friday Downtown Walking Tours – back by popular demand and thanks to our docents and VisitPITTSBURGH.
Click here to read about Special Tours, including “Downtown’s Best” on Thursday mornings (June through August) and our “Greatest Saves” Bus Tour on September 30th, in celebration of our 54th birthday!
Lake Elizabeth Update and Call to Action
PWSA Director Bob Weimar and Chief of Operations Guy Costa from the City attended last night’s Allegheny Commons Initiative meeting. We discussed the history of the issues surrounding Lake Elizabeth and were brought up to speed on the latest discussions between DPW and PWSA for addressing the current lake concerns:
- PWSA is now subject to the PA Public Utilities Commission regulations, with their core responsibilities to provide safe and reliable drinking water, convey sewage and manage storm water. As a result, PWSA has very limited ability to expend funds that do not directly benefit their ratepayers and therefore will not pay for the installation of the aerators in Lake Elizabeth.
- PWSA will be working with the DPW to identify some possible solutions such as the treating the water with small amounts of Algaecide. The City will be working to identify funding to pay for the electrical infrastructure needed to power the aerators. They are committed to draining and cleaning out the lake on a more regular basis to decrease the amount of organic material that contributes to the algae blooms and overall unsightliness of the lake.
- The DPW asked the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy to help organize a volunteer event to remove debris from the lake. I will be at the lake 8am this Saturday morning with gloves, trash bags, and a few rakes/shovels. Please register online here if you can join: https://www.showclix.com/event/lake-elizabeth-clean-up
- The DPW understands that they will need to go into the lake and power wash following the removal of debris. They explained that this work will happen quicker with the support of volunteers. So please consider joining me on Saturday morning!
What else can the community do to help?
- If you cannot volunteer, we could still use rakes and shovels. PPC will provide gloves and trash bags. I can pick up items on Thursday or Friday if you are willing to let us borrow, feel free to text/call or email 201-669-9046
- Contact Councilwoman Harris and request that she put $ in the capital budget for 2019 for the aeration system for the lake. 412-255-2135, darlene.harris@pittsburghpa.gov
- Help make the power washing and refilling of the lake a priority for DPW by continuing to send in 311 calls, contacting Councilwoman Harris at 412-255-2135 and contacting the Mayor’s office 412-255-2626
- Please attend your local community group meetings where I attend and provide park updates and can be available to answer questions. Or reach out to me directly and let’s meet for coffee!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Thanks all for your continued support and advocacy for the park!
Erin Tobin
Community Outreach Coordinator
RSVP for May & June Upcoming Events with YPA
Join the Young Preservationists Association for two exciting upcoming events!
The Young Preservationists Association (YPA) represents and promotes younger voices in historic preservation. Our organization uses community engagement and education to advocate for the preservation of historic sites and structures in the Greater Pittsburgh region.
The Ratskeller at Max’s Allegheny Tavern
[ebor_button style=”pomegranate” url=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-ypa-at-maxs-allegheny-tavern-may-31-tickets-45921565639″] More Info + RSVP [/ebor_button]
Gallery Talk/Visions of Pittsburgh
[ebor_button style=”sea” url=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/visions-of-pittsburgh-gallery-talk-with-artist-cory-bonnet-june-28-tickets-45945680768″] More Info + RSVP [/ebor_button]
2018 Allegheny West Preservation Awards
Submitted by Carole Malakoff
The Allegheny West Local Review Committee, along with the Allegheny West Civic Council, announces the 10th Annual Allegheny West Historic Preservation Awards. These awards are presented to property owners in Allegheny West who have completed exterior projects over the past year, retaining or restoring appropriate elements of historic character, and adhering to our neighborhood guidelines. The success of these projects was attained by doing research, creating well thought-out plans, following neighborhood guidelines, and working with the neighborhood LRC and the City HRC to seek advice on the application process and guidelines. The 2018 award recipients are:
831 Western Avenue
Susan and Frank Remcheck, owners
When Susan and Frank purchased 831 Western over a year ago they inherited a large project that was initiated by the previous property owner. The brick had already been stripped and cleaned, and new wood windows had been installed, but there was so much more to do. These new homeowners took over the renovation of the entire façade, paying close attention to historic detail and existing architectural elements. First floor window hoods were added, reflecting in scale and design those existing on the second floor. A wood hood, brackets, and decorative elements above the front door were made to match those on 833, next door. Other work included fencing, side entry steps, and a new door. This project reflects the significant research and planning that were done to complete it successfully.
840 N Lincoln Avenue
Debra Kelly and Douglas Debelak, owners
It’s evident that, if you walk the streets and allies of Allegheny West, lately there has been an interest in auxiliary structures, garages, carports, designated places to park our cars. This project is a garage construction. The original garage on this property was deemed unsalvageable due to structural deterioration, and so was demolished. The HRC determined that the new structure be moved to the other side of the property so that it would be aligned with the existing gate at the front of the house. It was also designed to be compatible with the house in scale, materials, architectural elements, and trim colors. This project demonstrates how a new auxiliary structure can be designed to be compatible with an historic building.
852 N Lincoln Avenue
Greg Kobulnicky, owner
Talk about research and planning! This project reflects both! Greg completed an entire façade restoration at 852, from removing the fake front, exposing the original brick, to installing new stone front steps to match the existing, and redesigning and rebuilding the dormers to match the original. All were done in accordance with the HRC Guidelines. Other projects include brick cleaning and pointing, installing new wood windows, replacing window and door surrounds and brackets, and even replacing chimney pots. This project sets the standard for restoration in our neighborhood.
852 Beech Avenue
Katie and Robin Zoufalik, owners
Here’s another example of an auxiliary structure that is a well-planned design with a gabled roof to match that of the adjoining property and a wood paneled garage door resembling stable doors. The paint colors selected add to the attractiveness of the carport and doors.
These four projects add to the historic ambience of our neighborhood streets and alleys, contribute to the economic development of our neighborhood, and enhance the quality of life in Allegheny West. To celebrate Historic Preservation Month, these awards will be presented at the May Membership Meeting of The Allegheny West Civic Council on Tuesday, May 8th at 7:30 pm. Please attend and honor these neighbors.
PHLF: Spring House Maintenance Workshop
Location: Landmarks Preservation Resource Center, 744 Rebecca Avenue
Date: Thursday, March 15th
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Contact: marylu@phlf.org or (412) 471-5808 ext. 527
“O Wind, If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?” — Percy Bysshe Shelley, 1792-1822
As the short days of Winter get slightly longer, day-by-day, and days of highly fluctuating temperatures give way to Spring, now is the time to take a look around the house and consider some of the maintenance and other home improvement items you might have on your list.
About the Presenter: Regis Will is a woodworker, craftsman, and owner of Vesta Home Services, a consulting firm on house restoration and Do-it-Yourself projects. He blogs about his work at The New Yinzer Workshop.
All events are free to PHLF members. Non-members: $10 RSVPs are appreciated: marylu@phlf.org or (412) 471-5808 ext. 527
Check out http://phlf.org/events/ for more PHLF tours and events.
PHLF: Restoring Murals and Other Works of Art
Location: Landmarks Preservation Resource Center, 744 Rebecca Avenue
Date: Tuesday, March 13th
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Contact: marylu@phlf.org or (412) 471-5808 ext. 527
This workshop will focus on the restoration of murals and other works of art, particularly looking at the typical damages that ruin treasured pieces. We will consider the difference between art restoration and repair, but most of all, give you tips on how to care for and maintain your varied works of art and collections. Presented by Boris Brindar.
About the Presenter: Boris Brindar is a second-generation art conservator. He got his start in the field at a young age, working with his dad, then the Head of Conservation Labs at the Russian State Museum in Leningrad. Boris is a graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts in Leningrad where he received a degree in conservation and art history. He has more than 33 years of professional experience.
All events are free to PHLF members. Non-members: $10 RSVPs are appreciated: marylu@phlf.org or (412) 471-5808 ext. 527
Check out http://phlf.org/events/ for more PHLF tours and events.
PHLF: Citizen Jane Film Screening
Location: Landmarks Preservation Resource Center, 744 Rebecca Avenue
Date: Tuesday, November 21st
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Contact: marylu@phlf.org or (412) 471-5808 ext. 527
In 1960 Jane Jacobs’s book The Death and Life of Great American Cities sent shockwaves through the architecture and planning worlds, with its exploration of the consequences of modern planners’ and architects’ reconfiguration of cities. Jacobs was also an activist, who was involved in many fights in mid-century New York, to stop “master builder” Robert Moses from running roughshod over the city.
This film retraces the battles for the city as personified by Jacobs and Moses, as urbanization moves to the very front of the global agenda. Many of the clues for formulating solutions to the dizzying array of urban issues can be found in Jacobs’s prescient text, and a close second look at her thinking and writing about cities is very much in order. This film sets out to examine the city of today through the lens of one of its greatest champions.
This screening is FREE to the public.
RSVPs are appreciated: marylu@phlf.org or (412) 471-5808 ext. 527
Check out http://phlf.org/events/ for more PHLF tours and events.