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Archive for February 4th, 2014

Carnegie Downtown & Business Library February Events

February 04, 2014 By: admin Category: Consumer Education

612 Smithfield Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
412.281.7141
downtown@carnegielibrary.org

The Basics of Estate Planning: Leaving a Legacy
Thursday, February 6, 2014
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM

No matter your age, marital status or net worth, estate planning prepares everyone for the difficult times that come with the end of life. To put it simply, since you don’t know when you will die, a good plan ensures that your final wishes and the ensuing legal process play out as smoothly as possible.

Join us for a free seminar and learn about the five most common documents used in estate planning: the will, trust, power of attorney, medical directive and living will.

Presented by Ruth McGrath, Mutual of Omaha
Event fee: FREE

How to Appeal Your Property Assessment
Monday, February 10, 2014
12:15 PM - 2:15 PM

Kenneth R. Behrend, former member of the Allegheny County Board of Property Assessment and Appeals, will discuss strategies for presenting a successful appeal of your property assessment.
Event fee: FREE

What’s New in Federal Tax Credits
Thursday, February 20, 2014
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM

Ready to file, but confused about the new tax credits for personal taxation?
Join Patrick Price, IRS Tax Consultant, as he reviews recent changes and updates to the federal tax credits.
Event fee: FREE

How to E-File Your Federal Return
Thursday, February 27, 2014
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM

This tax season, you don’t have to be tech savvy in order to file your taxes electronically.
Diana Smith, IRS Tax Consultant, will explain the many benefits of using the IRS e-file to file your federal return free. Event fee: FREE

Why Positive Thinking Doesn’t Cut It

February 04, 2014 By: admin Category: Consumer Education

By Mary Foley

Ever hear someone say “Think positive” after you’ve just unloaded your frustration, hurt and confusion to a friend or colleague? So irritating, isn’t it? Their advice isn’t much help when you’re distraught and upset and the only positive thinking is when you can take your next vacation.

When you are consumed with negative thoughts and emotions about something happening in your career, positive thinking doesn’t cut it. You’re not a light switch. The probability of immediately swapping out your negative emotions for positive ones isn’t high.

What’s far more within reach – and far more effective - is called positive framing.

Positive framing means that you squarely see the situation for what it is, warts and all, and counter your negative feelings by taking constructive action. So you aren’t denying that you feel bad. You simply aren’t going to let those feelings get too cozy and, instead, muster the courage to do something about your situation.

In fact, in the Harvard Business Review article “The Power of Small Wins,” Teresa Amabile and Steven Kramer shared that from their research the single biggest predictor or a “good day” at work whether or not you made progress – AKA steps forward – toward your goal.

So, do you want to turn a bad day into a good one? Do you want to start turning a no-longer-so- good-for-me career into an I’m-excited-to-get-up-and-get-going one?

If so, then follow the advice of your high school cheerleaders who shout “Action, action, we want action. A-C-T (clap, clap, clap) I-O-N!” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsPd2NOQoKY
Trying to do something – anything! – is better than doing nothing at all.

For example, one gal I recently mentored named Janet (not her real name), is a smart, career-minded and an outstanding performer. However, a few months after becoming a mom and returning to work she was feeling overwhelmed with her new schedule and really having doubts that she could be a good mom and have an aspiring career. In particular, she needed to be even more productive during her work day hours to manage her new life.

But, how could she realistically manage her time when her role required her to be available for students, which often meant lots of restarting emails, tasks and other work again and again? And when colleagues would walk right into her office, even with her door closed?

We came up three ideas that she agreed to try:

1. First thing in morning take about an hour to organize your day and have quiet time to do a few of your most pressing tasks.

2. Talk with your colleagues and share with them how you are focused on being even more productive during your work hours because of being a new mom. Let them know that one way you’re doing that is to close your door for 20 – 30 minutes to please wait until it’s open again to ask you any questions. In addition, post a funny or cute sign when you close your door like “Do Not Enter. Nuclear Testing. Done in 30 minutes or less.”

3. During your open office hours for students, instead of immediately stopping what you are working on, acknowledge their question and ask them to wait in the seating area for 3 minutes while you finish.

Within two weeks, Janet was already having more “good days”! We then came up with her next set of practical actions. Within a short period of time she was starting to feel confident that she could successfully manage a career and a life.

Feeling bummed about your current career isn’t a crime and it isn’t terminal. But “thinking positive” isn’t going to get you out of your rut. Taking one practical step and then another and then another is the key.

About Mary Foley
Mary Foley offers entertaining advice to increase career confidence in busy women. After a 10-year career at AOL during its heyday, she’s the author of 3 books, featured blogger, and creator of the video program “Keys to Being a Confident, Courageous, Career-Savvy Woman.” When she’s not writing or creating videos, she’s presenting or facilitating live programs or being a career mentor. Get free resources to increase your career confidence at www.maryfoley.com

Surviving Valentine’s Day

February 04, 2014 By: admin Category: Consumer Education

by Mary Grace Musuneggi
www.singlestepsstrategies.com

It seems we have barely finished taking down the Christmas decorations, when in every store Valentines appear. And, although Valentine’s Day should be something to look forward to in the doldrums of the winter; for many women, Valentine’s Day can bring them into the cold reality of defining themselves in terms of their romantic relationships… or lack thereof.

Remember how in elementary school, you would spend days decorating that shoe box, writing out your cards and choosing the best card for that “someone special”; only to watch that “someone special” walk past your desk to give his “someone special” card to that too adorable, too sweet, “teacher’s pet” little girl, who wouldn’t have much as given him the time of day. She would take the card and put it in her box with the other 15 “someone special’ cards she got that day. By the end of the school day, the amount and size and shape of the cards we received defined us as popular… or not; in the right clique…or not; pretty… or not … and so on.

And somehow 20, 30, 40 years later, nothing has changed. Unless our current relationship is with our prince charming, soul mate, life partner; or we are the adult version of the “teacher’s pet”, Valentine’s Day defines us as single, divorced, widowed; unhappily attached; sadly attached; in the wrong relationship with the wrong person; or living with the guy who just will never think to buy us flowers and candy, but he will get our car washed. No matter what, we will define ourselves in terms of our relationship on that day. This holiday can attack self-esteem, produce anxiety, create confusion over lifestyles and cause a sense of inadequacy for women who are normally intelligent, successful, self-confident and self-assured.

The whole reason for this is that we all have the need to be loved. And thanks to Cinderella and “Pretty Woman” Julia Roberts, we believe that romantic love is the ultimate form of love. And Valentine’s Day is all about romantic love. So how do you survive this if you are not currently in a romantically loving relationship?
You can begin by focusing on who you love and who loves you. Even if this is your kid sister or your mom, you can be reassured that you are a lovable person. Hang out with your mom. Take your little sister shopping. Spend some time being grateful for who you are and what is special about you. These thoughts will reassure you and remind you of your self-worth while restoring your self- esteem. Plan to spend February revisiting the goals you had set for yourself going into the new year. Concentrate on the things that are important to you.

Do something special for yourself. Go to a spa, get a professional pedicure, or get a massage. Send Valentine’s cards to everyone you know. You will feel good for doing it and they will feel great for receiving it. And for someone, this may be the only card they get. Write on each card, “For Someone Special”. Prepare your favorite dinner, have a glass of wine and watch your favorite movie. Use this time to become the kind of person you would love or the person you would love to be. Use the day to do something you’ve always wanted to do. Create a special memory. Valentine’s Day will come and go. Memories can last forever.

Are You Looking for a Speaker for Your Upcoming Event, Meeting or Gathering? Mary Grace Musuneggi, President & CEO of The Musuneggi Financial Group andExecutive Director of Single Steps Strategies is available to present avariety of topics. For more information or to contact Mary Grace marygrace@singlestepsstrategies.com
or 412-341-2888
www.MFGplanners.com

MWDBE Governmental Committee’s 13th Annual Conference - 2014

February 04, 2014 By: admin Category: Consumer Education

MWDBE Governmental Committee’s 13th Annual Conference
Thursday March 6, 2014 from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM EST
IBEW Conference Center
5 Hot Metal Street
(South Side Works)
Pittsburgh, PA 15205

Minority, Women, Disadvantaged Business
Governmental Committee’s 13th Annual Conference.
As is customary, there is no cost for this event. The
theme for this year’s conference is “Securing Contracts
Through Partnerships”.
We plan to have representation from several major
construction projects in Allegheny County.

If you have questions please feel free to contact us by
email or by phone.
Thank you in advance for your careful consideration
and prompt response. We look forward to seeing you
at our event.

Respectfully,
MWDBE Governmental Committee
mwdbe2012@yahoo.com
412-402-2460

Register Now! [http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e8kkr2wa9b7129e2&c=8fcdf270-08f7-11e3-aca0-d4ae52a45a09&ch=8fd1c300-08f7-11e3-aca0-d4ae52a45a09]

Pittsburgh Professional Women -February 2014 Events

February 04, 2014 By: admin Category: Consumer Education

Thursday, February 6th at 12pm Eastern (Pittsburgh) Time:
Tell Less, Sell More: Five Secrets to More Sales with Guest Coach Mj Callaway
Are you losing sales that you should be getting?
A sales conversation is like a tour and Mj Callaway is your go-to leading authority, coaching you through the practical actions that will result in an immediate increase in your sales. Studies show that after a sales conversation, only 13 % of consumers feel their sales consultant understood what they wanted. Sales is more than a numbers game. Know the inside secrets of the sales conversation and you’ll increase your close ratio.
FREE from Pittsburgh Professional Women Learn more and register online here: http://pittsburghprofessionalwomen.org/coffee-with-the-coach

Pittsburgh Professional Women Presents: Publicity Academy: a one day intensive workshop for professionals.
Are you ready to attract publicity for your company, organization, project or cause? Plan to attend Publicity Academy on Saturday, February 15, 2014 with WTAE TV News Anchor Michelle Wright and Publicity Expert Beth Caldwell.
Publicity is a critical piece of any organizations marketing plan, and one that is often left to chance. Most companies don’t need to hire a full time publicity specialist, but every business should have a plan. When you attend 2014 Publicity Academy for Women, you’ll leave with a plan, and know exactly how to respond when you’re called on by media professionals. This workshop is ideal for:

• Marketing Professionals
• Business Owners
• Solo-Professionals
• Non-Profit Organizations
• Marketing Professionals
• Event Planners
• Students
• Authors
• Entrepreneurs

For full details and to register, visit this webpage: http://pittsburghprofessionalwomen.org/publicity-academy

Friday, February 28th from 1-3pm at the Courtyard by Marriott at Settlers Ridge
Playing Nice With Others: Beretta’s Best Business Advice. Presented by Dr. Ann Gatty & Beretta, her 3 year old service dog, a Great Dane.
Smart business leaders understand that strong relationships are key to a company’s success. In this clever canine-led workshop, you’ll learn practical strategies that inspire trust and motivation in the workplace. Beretta, a three year old Great Dane therapy dog, teaches the lessons he’s learned while endearing himself to thousands of individuals. This gentle giant will share helpful tools that your team can implement immediately to improve teamwork. As he leaves his paw prints behind, watch your employees expand productivity as they find more satisfaction in their work environment. Registration includes lunch and workshop.
Dr. Ann Gatty is a business learning specialist, who believes that everyone has the capabilities to get where they want to go if they are enabled with the right strategies and tools. She is the co-founder of Drs. Gatty People Solutions, an organization that helps businesses develop strong leaders while creating a culture where self-improvement is an intrinsic part of the organization’s value system.
Join us for this unique and refreshing interactive leadership workshop. Friday, February 28th from 1-3pm. There is plenty of free parking at the Courtyard by Marriott Settlers Ridge.
Register Online Here: http://pittsburghprofessionalwomen.org/register

February 2014 Events

February 04, 2014 By: admin Category: Consumer Education

February 5, 2014
E Magnify + Power Link
PowerUp Lunch
Can’t We All Just Get Along?

Maximizing the #Generations@Work
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Rivers Club, Pittsburgh, PA
Speaker:
Christy Uffelman, BCC, MHCS
Partner, Align Leadership, LLC

What You’ll Learn: •Understand the core values and workplace characteristics of each generation.
•Understand how to best motivate and engage across the generations.
•Share best practices with your peers on how to transform workforce conflicts into growth points.

To get the most of this session, consider bringing generationally diverse
members of your team.

Multiple team members from a single organization are asked to not sit at the same table.

Join us to share insights into how to bring out the emotional intelligence of your employees and utilize the inherent talents of Millennials/Gen-Yers, Gen-Xers and Baby-Boomers.

This is a powerful, interactive presentation for CEOs, high-potential talent, and emerging leaders who seek to break through generational friction, drive innovation and leverage the untapped knowledge of their entire workforce.

Registration: $35 (includes lunch)
Details: Learn more about this event and speaker Christy Uffelman, BCC, MHCS
www.e-magnify.com

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The WSBA Network Lunch

A Networking Luncheon for Women Business Owners & Professionals
“Get Heard, Get Noticed, Get Leads”

A networking event open to any business woman who would like
to increase her business contacts/clientele. Our networking
format will be structured to provide participants with high
profile and networking. Bring 20-30 business cards/brochures,
cash for your lunch check, and be prepared to give a 60-second
commercial about yourself.

Feb. 6 - 1:00 p.m. - Allegheny Valley
Feb. 10 - 1:00 p.m. - Beaver County
Feb. 12 - 11:30 a.m. - Shaler/Gibsonia
Feb. 14 - 1:00 p.m. - Robinson/Airport
Feb. 18 - 1:00 p.m. - East End

Feb. 19 - 1:00 p.m. - South Hills
Feb. 21 - 1:00 p.m. - Monroeville
Feb. 26 - 5:30 p.m. - After Work Network (Park Bruges, Bryant St.)
Feb. 25 - 1:00 p.m. - North Hills
Feb. 27 - 1:00 p.m. - Washington

Host: Women’s Small Business Association
Fee: $2 meeting fee (plus the cost of lunch)
RSVP: Required (Note: Any “Yes” RSVPs who do not show
will be charged a $20 no-show fee.)

For more info and to register online,
go to: http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=In_iHewaxeZhGz&b=_cpWp96Y5_9fFxsmRVhZ_g.

If you have further questions, contact Eileen Conniff Marzullo
at 412-429-9919 or marzullope@verizon.net.

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Business Exchange Networking Lunch

* Give a 1-2 minute commercial for your business.
* Bring business cards, brochures, and samples.
* Make new business contacts.

Four Dates and Locations:

Feb. 5- Wexford, Atria’s, 12980 Perry Highway, Wexford
RSVP: email Michelle Zmijanac at
Michellezmijanac@bestpracticesdelivered.com

Feb. 12- Mount Lebanon, Atria’s, 110 Beverly Road, Mt. Lebanon
RSVP: email Tina Noblers at TinaNobers@CMNNutritionGroup

Feb. 19- Fox Chapel, Comfort Inn (Old Holiday Inn) in RIDC Park,
Ohara Twp
RSVP: 412-781-8773 or PlanBConsultant@comcast.net

Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Cost: $18 (Bring cash; No-shows will be billed for the lunch)
RSVP: By Monday prior to the event

For more info, go to: http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=In_iHewaxeZhGz&b=p77EnRx3K8xK6p5JBrbF.A.

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Small Business Basics Workshop

This highly interactive workshop is geared to aspiring and
existing small business entrepreneurs. Industry experts will
discuss business planning, financing, bookkeeping, marketing,
and legal issues pertaining to small business. The workshop
is informal, and questions from the participants are solicited
and encouraged throughout to help each participant receive the
knowledge they need.

Date: February 8, 2014
Time: 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
(Registration and continental breakfast from 8:00-8:30 am)
Place: PNC YMCA, 236 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Host: Pittsburgh SCORE
Cost: $45.00 (includes continental breakfast)
RSVP: Early registration encouraged (Limited Space)

Further info: 412-471-9622

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=In_iHewaxeZhGz&b=O5oz86SVFjvl40m4c_6NKQ
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February 14, 2014
WOMEN’S NETWORKING LUNCHEON
Noon
South Hills Country Club
The monthly luncheon meeting* of the Women’s Networking of the Brentwood Baldwin Whitehall Chamber of Commerce will meet on Friday, February 14, noon, at South Hills Country Club. Please plan on attending and bring a friend. We welcome members and non-members. Tables are available for ladies who would like to display products or merchandise. Everyone will pass out cards and brochures and present a one-minute “commercial.”

Guest Speaker
Francine Smith
Owner, Photographer
TimeSmart Images

Now is the time to update your headshot by joining us for a fun opportunity to have beautiful professional images taken. All proofs will be available to view online in individual password protected galleries.
Women’s Networking Valentine Special — $100!
(this is a $50 savings!)
Payable to TimeSmart Images / Francine Smith

Photo Session includes:
Ø Sitting fee PLUS
Ø One Edited High Resolution + One Low Resolution of same image for print and all social networking needs
Ø Copyright Release included

Optional Service:

Ø Makeup Artist - $25 / touchup only $10
Ø Low Resolution digital photos - $50
Ø High resolution digital photo - $100
Ø Portrait Special (hard copy) prices start at (4×60 $10, (5×7) $20, (8×10) $40

What to wear for a PR Shoot
When selecting outfits follow these simple guidelines and you won’t go wrong.

Solid colors. Stay away from floral prints or busy/bold patterns.
Depending on your profession - simple small patterns would work
No spaghetti straps, tank tops or sleeveless shirts.
Long sleeve or 3/4 sleeves work best.
A jacket or cardigan if it fits your occupation.
Make sure you wear mascara and keep the lipstick light. You want your eyes to be the focal point.
Stay away from turtle necks - unless you are planning multiple looks for each season.
Make sure your clothing fits properly. Don’t forget jewelry.
Mini Shoots are (one) outfit only due to time frame.
If you would like to discuss outfit choices please contact Francine Smith at 412-965-5678.
If you are planning to have a headshot taken, please let Mary know so we can schedule accordingly.

Lunch for Chamber Members - $20 - Bring a friend!
Lunch for Non-Members - $25
Display Table $10

Please make a reservation* by contacting our secretary:
Mary Dilla at: 412-884-1233 / secretary@bbwchamber.com

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From Sweat to Sweets - How to Grow Two Boutique Businesses

Speaker: Kadee Lewis, Owner of BodyTech Health & Fitness and
Co-owner of Bella Christie & Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique

Kadee Lewis has made two boutique businesses thrive due to her
ability to see and respect the competition around her. She
understands and believes that to be successful, especially
with small businesses, you must know the competitor and its
product and to be able to make yours unique and different.
It’s also necessary to be willing and able to change your
business model in accordance with the market. Whether it
be gym memberships and personal training or cupcakes and
sweet treats, Kadee’s approach to business has allowed her
to continue her dreams with success.

Date: February 14, 2014
Time: 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.
Place: James Laughlin Music Hall, Chatham University, Shadyside
Host: The Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Chatham University
Cost: $25 (includes continental breakfast)
Students- $12.50 with valid ID (Email pdecker@chatham.edu)
RSVP: Suggested by February 10

Questions? Contact 412-365-1253

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=In_iHewaxeZhGz&b=ZL0jqvJRU6JiRzh7nHDaoA

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Choosing the Correct Business Structure

Speaker: Susan A. Ott, Esq., Rhoades & Owen, LLC

Join us to learn about the pros and cons of different business
structures available to entrepreneurs under Pennsylvania law.
Sole-Proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, S corps options will
be compared in terms of costs for set up and maintenance,
protections from liability, tax matters and more.

Date: February 19, 2014
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Place: Volunteers of America, 1650 Main Street, Sharpsburg, PA
Host: Volunteers of America of Pennsylvania
Cost: Free (Bring a brown bag lunch)

To register, call 412.782.5344 (x209) or email
volunteersofamerica@voapa.org

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Disability Resource Breakfast
Thursday, February 20, 2014
8:30 – 9:30 AM

Speaker: The Abundant Living Resource Group
Topic: A good plan for life.

Join us as we learn how to plan the business of life and how to live it well. Discover how to choose the right people to support abundant life planning and how to create a plan that fits your life.

Volunteers of America of Pennsylvania
1650 Main Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15215
FREE
RSVP: 412.782.5344 x 209 or volunteersofamerica@voapa.org

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Women’s Power Lunch

Come be a part of the longest running networking luncheon in the
Pittsburgh area. Bring 50 business cards or brochures to hand
out and be prepared to give a short presentation on your business
to introduce yourself to other business women and professionals.

Date: February 21, 2014
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Place: To be announced
Cost: $22.00 (Prepayment required)
RSVP: By February 19th

Questions: Contact Suzanne at Suzanne@womenspowerlunch.com
or 724-452-5152.

Register online at: http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=In_iHewaxeZhGz&b=2h0py_Vj_YZjt9sYxrn2LA

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Entrepreneurial Thursday Networking Event

A casual weekly networking event for those interested in what’s
innovative and positive in Pittsburgh. A jazz, soul & blues happy
hour show plus open-mike interviews with local executives.

Date: February 20, 2014
Time: 5:30 - 8 p.m.
Place: Little E’s, 949 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh
Host: Jessica Lee
Cost: $5 (hors d’ouevres included)

For further info, email smarshall@pghgateways.org.

The Entrepreneurial Thursday networking event is held each Thursday
evening. For information on upcoming events and featured themes,
visit http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=In_iHewaxeZhGz&b=gg_pWxMQW2vv45fxH8DxJg.

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Playing Nice With Others: Beretta’s Best Business Advice

Presented by Dr. Ann Gatty & Beretta, her 3 year old service dog,
a Great Dane.

Smart business leaders understand that strong relationships are
key to a company’s success. In this clever canine-led workshop,
you’ll learn practical strategies that inspire trust and
motivation in the workplace. Beretta, a three year old Great
Dane therapy dog, teaches the lessons he’s learned while
endearing himself to thousands of individuals. This gentle
giant will share helpful tools that your team can implement
immediately to improve teamwork. As he leaves his paw prints
behind, watch your employees expand productivity as they find
more satisfaction in their work environment.

Featured presenter Dr. Ann Gatty is a business learning
specialist, who believes that everyone has the capabilities
to get where they want to go if they are enabled with the
right strategies and tools. She is the co-founder of Drs.
Gatty People Solutions, an organization that helps
businesses develop strong leaders while creating a
culture where self-improvement is an intrinsic part
of the organization’s value system.

Date: February 28, 2014
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m
Place: Courtyard by Marriott at Settlers Ridge, Pittsburgh, PA
Host: Pittsburgh Professional Women
Cost: $59 (includes lunch)
RSVP: Suggested by February 24

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=In_iHewaxeZhGz&b=ZV7n_w2_J3SLsDyxIqFy_A
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2014 Laughter Club Dates
Each event is unique
Cost: a non-perishable non-glass item for the local food bank.
*** Note new location below

Mt. Lebanon Library
Mondays at 7 pm
16 Castle Shannon Blvd.
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
January 27
April 28
July 28
October 27

Peters Township Library
Thursdays at 10 am
616 E McMurray Road
McMurray, PA 15317
March 20
June 19
September 18
December 18

Volunteers of America
Fridays at 8:30 pm
1650 Main Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15215
February 21
May 23
August 22
November 21

Choose to make this a wonderful day.
Any questions just call or email.
724-942-0486 or julieann@julieannsullivan.com