Downtown Pittsburgh ranks 25^th in the entire nation for jobs in an urban setting and supports 1,600 technology and research companies, including Intel, Google, and Apple—some of the biggest names you can get. When it comes to medicine, the 9 billion dollar global healthcare enterprise UPMC is headquartered in Pittsburgh. You can’t get much better than that. Also, even during the recent job recession, Pittsburgh still added jobs. You might want to consider moving to Pittsburgh.

While most know of the success of Pittsburgh’s sports teams—mainly the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Penguins—some don’t know that Pittsburgh is a city of fine art as well. The Carnegie Library and Carnegie Museums bring much strength to the city, both culturally and academically. Also, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is known throughout the country and travels all over. The artistic scene is very big in Pittsburgh, and with the all of the students coming in from across the country and beyond, this city is infused with cultural diversity. Pittsburgh has many renowned Universities, such as: the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, and Point Park University. There is a wide variety of studies, covering medicine, engineering, robotics, journalism, dance, and much more.

In many of the “most livable city” lists, Pittsburgh itself comes in as one of the overall top places to live in the entire country as well as one of the best worldwide travel destinations. When looking to buy a house, the housing market is relatively stable despite the national mortgage crisis. Also, if you are looking to raise a family, Pittsburgh is the best place to start. In recent years, a new scholarship has developed—only going out to a child that has gone to Pittsburgh Public Schools during their high school years. Pittsburgh wants to make something out of their children, because children are our future. This scholarship has helped many students pay for some of their college tuition—many students who wouldn’t have been able to afford higher education without it.

Pittsburgh is not only there to support our adults—with good employment ratios and stability in the housing department—but it is looking out for our children’s future too. Pittsburgh is the place to be for today, and for tomorrow. Moving to Pittsburgh may be the best decision you have ever made.

Some quick suggestions before the 10 Step process.

Get some big boxes.

Label them for each room.

Start packing. Take down bric-a-brac, extra pictures, books anything that screams clutter. Buyers like to see a clean slate. They like to know you have kept the house nice and it is move-in-ready.

Take these boxes and stack in garage or in one space in your home.

If you do this, you will be one step ahead of the process and you will be organized. Trust me a clean, organized house sells much faster than something in disarray.

Take a look at my top ten clutter free steps!

Clutter, which is defined as things that lie about untidily, is often linked to creativity. So, just how much imagination will it take to tidy up your space? To be exact, you can make it happen in 10 easy steps.

Step # 1: Set A Schedule

You are much more likely to stick to a routine, whatever it may be, if you work on a schedule. In addition, this allows you to clean when you can minimize interruptions and maximize your time.

Step # 2: Set A Goal For Each Room

If you can visualize what you want, you will be better able to achieve it. By setting goals for each room, you can note the things that need changing and work toward that goal one day at a time.

Step # 3: Create A Timeline

When do you hope to have your home completely free of clutter? One week, two weeks or even a month? Depending on your schedule and the amount of clutter that you have, it may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks before you can kick back and relax again.

Step # 4: Start Small

The clutter in your home didn’t appear overnight, and it won’t disappear overnight either. If you start small, you will be less likely to get frustrated and give up midway through your cleanup.

Step # 5: Categorize Your Clutter

When cleaning, it’s important to categorize your items into groups. By separating the items that you want to keep, toss and donate, you will be able to move through your clutter quickly and efficiently.

Step # 6: Letting Go

A good rule of thumb for uncluttering your home is to get rid of anything that you haven’t used within the past year. If it’s still useful, consider donating it to a good cause. Otherwise, toss it.

Step # 7: Storing Your Seasonal Apparel

When storing seasonal clothing, purchase a sturdy plastic storage bin with a lid and roll your clothes instead of folding them in an effort to maximize storage capability. When full, snap the lid on and slide the unit into your closet.

Step # 8: Closet Organization

Did you know that your choice of clothes hangers can greatly impact the storage capacity of your closet? Wire hangers take up less space and can save your shirts from getting that annoying shoulder bump that often arises from the use of plastic hangers.

Step # 9: Shoes Blues

When it comes to storing shoes, many homeowners are fighting a losing battle with clutter. How many pairs of shoes do you own? How neatly are they stored? If your shoe storage has you down, try purchasing clear lidded shoe boxes. These handy creations can house each pair of shoes and can be stacked neatly in your closet. And best of all, you can see your shoe collection without having to sift through a sea of sandals.

Step # 10: Read The Labels

If you have medicine, food or anything else with an expiration date in the home, check to make sure that the items are still good. If the expiration date has already come and gone, throw them away.

Plus don’t forget to book your Valentine’s Day date now before its too late.  There are so many Peters Township restaurants to choose from, you won’t have to drive far because you never know if it will snow. Or you can check out one of the great Valentine’s Day events in Pittsburgh.

Valentine’s Enchanted Evening

Friday, Feb 10 6:00p

Pittsburgh’s Grand Hall at The Priory, Pittsburgh

For Your Good Health will hold its 2nd Annual Fundraiser Dinner. The event will be held at Pittsburgh’s Priory Grand Hall from 6pm-10pm.

Heart and Soul 2012

Saturday, Feb 11 12:30p

Hard Rock Cafe, Pittsburgh

Sweet Note Ent Presents: “Heart & Soul” 2012 featuring Lyndsey Smith & Soul Distribution W/guests Glenn Strother Project and The Unit!

Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise

www.gatewayclipper.com

02-11-12 to 02-14-12

350 West Station Square Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15219

4123557991

Enjoy a Valentine’s Day Dinner out on the water, aboard the Gateway Clipper Fleet! Sailing Saturday, Feb 11 & Tuesday, Feb 14! Boat leaves @ 7 PM and docks @ 10 PM- call us today to reserve your spot! 412-355-7980

Trey Anastasio with the Pittsburgh Symphony orchestra

http://www.pittsburghsymphony.org/trey

02-14-12 to 02-14-12

Heinz Hall

412-392-4900

Scott Dunn, conductor Trey Anastasio, guitar for one night only, Phish front man Trey Anastasio trades in the arenas and the band for an intimate solo performance with the world-class Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy Valentine’s Day with two sets of your favorite tunes in Pittsburgh’s premiere concert hall. Tickets: $45, $60, $70 www.pittsburghsymphony.org/trey 412.392.4900

Advance Auto Parts MONSTER JAM

http://www.monsterjam.com

02-17-12 to 02-19-12

Consol Energy Center

1-800-745-3000

An incredible, family-friendly experience starring the biggest performers on four wheels: the Monster Jam monster trucks! These twelve-feet-tall, ten-thousand-pound machines will bring you to your feet, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles to soar over, or smash through! Monster Jam provides a massive night’s entertainment tailored perfectly for your family’s budget, and these colorful, larger-than-life beasts are sure to capture the hearts of both young and old.

Trax Farm Indoor Flea Market

February 18^th & 19^th

http://traxfarms.com/events.html

Taste of Trax

Saturday Feb. 11 11am-3pm

We are opening up our pantry for a day of sampling, so come try our Trax Farms specialties.  Numerous vendors like Wind & Willow, Miller’s Mustard, Boars Head, Evelyn’s Edibles, Albert’s Meats, Schneider’s Dairy and more will also be showcasing their wonderful eats. For those with a sweet tooth, come by and try our fudge and other baked goods. Free parking and free admission make this the perfect excuses to get the entire family out of the house and try something new. Come hungry.

Peters Township Library

The Peters Township Library is full of surprises.  It has so many events for the community.  Here are two upcoming clubs that you might want to check it out in February.

Peters Township Public Library, 616 E McMurray Rd, McMurray, PA

PTPL GO Green Club Meeting

Monday, February 20, 7:00 pm

Peters Township Public Library Couponing Club

Tuesday, February 21, 6:00 pm

If you run out of things to do, I,  Julie Sasko-Bissell, your local Peters Township Real Estate Agent will gladly help you fall in love with a new home in the month of February.

Roses are red, violets are blue, I promise to find a house, just for you!

Happy Valentine’s Day Peters Township

We headed into the bustling Strip District. It has been way to long since I went there for a taste of Pittsburgh. We perused the Pittsburgh Public Market and sampled some delectable local treats. Even though there was a chill in the air, my husband and I were just as excited as the kids. We walked down the street to Stan’s Market for some fresh produce and fought our way through the line outside of DeLuca’s. There are a plethora of nationalities present in the Strip and you can find that exact spice you have been looking for. Don’t forget the street vendors selling everything you need to fit right in with some Pittsburgh gear.

We acted like tourists. We sampled bread from Mancini’s, cheese from Pennsylvania Macaroni Company and made the pigs and cows sing for us at Wholey’s (you have to visit to know what I mean). We took pictures and ate lunch at Primantis.

In the end, everyone usually lives somewhere for a reason. Sometimes that reason is work, sometimes it is family and sometime you just are born into it. Take a day and act like a tourist and you will be amazed at what you will find. Even after 30 years, Pittsburgh still excites me like I was a kid riding the “T” into the city for the first time.

In good times and hard times whether winning or losing, the black and gold unifies us.  It connects people from all over, from all different places and ages.  It is about supporting a heritage bound by much more than football.  It is about connecting with people for a celebration over food and drinks.  It is understanding Pittsburghese and knowing about a Pierogi race.  It is learning to be passionate about something in a time when many people may be searching for that spark in life.

That bright light comes from gathering family, friends and strangers to join in a united cause – making people see the good in others even if it is over a football game.  We hold our teams as members of our family.  The Steelers are like our grandparents we will always respect, love and cherish as the backbone of the family.  The Penguins are like a newborn baby with so much accomplished in a little bit of time and so much to look forward to as they grow.  The Pirates are our cousins.  Yes sometimes you wish you weren’t related but if push comes to shove we have their back.

As Pittsburghers and family we reserve the right to complain about a bad play, call someone a name, to jump off and on the sports wagon and yell at the tv, announcers and referees in good times and bad times.  It doesn’t make us fair weather fans…it makes us real.  We yell and make up just like family.  We know Pittsburgh better than anyone else and would take a concussion to suit up for the Steelers as their 4^th string quarterback.  We have hope even if we complain about a loss.  We have hope in our black and gold year after year even if we haven’t had a winning season.  The hope in our great nation is what brings us together.

We unite over all things Pittsburgh – food, culture, events and attractions.  Like the areas of Pittsburgh each unique and special for different reasons so are the fans of Pittsburgh.  From the North Shore to the Strip, from the South Side to Mt. Washington, from the Cultural district to Oakland, from Shadyside to East Liberty and beyond, the eclectic areas unite to make one great city.

While outsiders may think that we only have our Steelers, they are strongly mistaken.  We have Steeler Nation which embodies the truth and the passion of the love for all of Pittsburgh.  We hold a place in our hearts for the people of the region that truly make it great.  In the end, you might be surprised about what great things Pittsburgh has to offer and the changes the city has undergone over the years, but one thing you can be sure on is the people will always stay the same. #PittsburghNation

We are going to be sponsoring free informational seminars about the Allegheny County property reassessments. The workshops will be held on -

Tuesday, Jan. 24 at the Four Points by Sheraton Pittsburgh North hotel in Mars

Thursday, Jan. 26 at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Upper St. Clair
The workshops are free to the public and both will be held at 7pm.

Presenting at the Crowne Plaza will be Michael Werner, Esq. Presenting at the Sheraton will be John Kamarados & Robert Xides, Jr. All three attorneys have experience and expertise in the field of property assessments and appeals.

Please connect with me on LinkedIn for information concerning your local real estate market

Some useful links concerning Allegheny county Reassessment & Pittsburgh Tax Reassessments

Also, some articles regarding taxes in local districts.

http://www.alleghenycounty.us/opa/assess.aspx

http://www.thealmanac.net/alm/story11/12-28-2011-ML-tax-hike

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/12005/1201565-100.stm

http://linkd.in/wxQl2I

With the early snow in October, skiers rejoiced at the thought of an early season.   However, much to the demise of snow lovers, the ski season is suffering this year.  Some of the local places don’t have snow yet, but when they do you should give them a try.

Some of the places require a little bit of a drive, but will be well worth it if you are itching to get on the slopes.  For an adventure and some fun with friends, try one of these places for skiing in Pittsburgh or around the area.

Hidden Valley Ski Resort

If the weather conditions are less than expected, don’t fret Hidden Valley has you covered.  They boast an indoor pool, spa and sports club.  Plus there are events going on all year round.

Phone: 814-443-8000

Hidden Valley Resort

One Craighead Drive

P.O. Box 4420

Hidden Valley, PA 15502

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Ok so maybe they don’t have any slopes open right now due to weather.  You will not run out of activities here.  Dining, golf, spa, kids activities, the adventure center, the field club and the wildside.  Check out Nemacolin for your getaway that isn’t too far away.  If you want to go skiing, check out the website for slopes information before you head out at Nemacolin Snowsports.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort

Is open and ready to go!  Not that far from Pittsburgh and if you are itching to get on the slopes I would head up to Seven Springs.  They also have snow tubing, a spa, sleigh rides, snowmobile tours, and snowshoe tours!  If you are looking to get away for New Years too, I would check this place out with a plethora of options you won’t be disappointed.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort

777 Waterwheel Dr

Seven Springs, PA 15622

800-452-2223

An update for this coming weekend from their website states, “The colder air has arrived with some light wet snow! We will make snow tonight to improve conditions! Starting today we will be skiing 8am – 5pm through and including Monday, Dec. 26. Holiday rates will not be in effect! Tubing is open today from 1pm till 10pm and tomorrow it will be on the regular scheduled times and rates. The season pass office is open daily and ready to take your photo for your 2011-2012 Season Pass! It’s not too late to purchase a season pass or a “Super Seven Card”!”

The Wisp

One of my personal favorites with a laid back atmosphere year round, The Wisp in Deep Creek Maryland cannot be overlooked.  They offer skiing, boarding, tubing, ice skating, a spa, snowmobile and snowshoe tours.  I have personally attempted a few times to learn to snow board here without much success but I blame it on my height.  They are reporting to have 4 trails open at this time so head on out.

Wisp Resort

296 Marsh Hill Road

McHenry, MD 21541

Boyce Park

This park located in Monroeville & Plum has your pick of snowboarding, skiing and tubing.  It is a great local family place and very affordable.

675 Old Frankstown Road

Pittsburgh, PA 15239

Season: Mid-December to Mid-March

(Weather & Conditions Permitting)

24-hour Snow Conditions: (724) 733-4665 (recording)

General Info: (724) 733-4656

Willowbrook Ski Area

This place is great and located in Belle Vernon PA.  I spent many school ski trips here trying not to fall.

Willowbrook Ski Area

1833 Rostraver Road

Belle Vernon, PA  15102

(724) 929-2294

Snow Report: (724) 872-7272

Here are some other resorts that might be a little further from home but are worth a look.

Blue Knob (Pennsylvania)

Canaan Valley (West Virginia)

Holiday Valley (New York)

Kissing Bridge (New York)

Peek ‘N Peak (New York)

Snowshoe (West Virginia)

Timberline (West Virginia)

Please double check on the websites and by calling to ensure snow conditions and skiing, boarding and tubing conditions.  It is not worth the drive just to find some muddy slopes.

If you don’t feel like leaving home and want something right in your back yard, given the hills in the Pittsburgh real estate market, I am sure I can find you something that would fit your needs for some great sledding adventures.  As for now, I would suggest heading to the mountains because mud and skis don’t mix.  Here is hoping the conditions get a little bit better for those avid skiers and boarders!

Well maybe not in the house but at some great locations around Peters Township and the Pittsburgh region.  Not only is the holiday season fast approaching, it seems to be birthday season as well.  I don’t mind.  I love a great party and my kids have a blast.

A couple weeks ago we attended a rockin party at Toys2Try in Greentree.  Let me tell you the kids had a blast!  I think the parents did too.  Just to see all those smiles on the kids’ faces.  Plus there is complimentary coffee and internet for the parents not the kids.  Trust me the kids didn’t need coffee!

When you first walk in to Toys2Try, you are greeted with an array of unique toys.  In the back is the true fun.  A huge ship with a slide, plank walk, and swing!  There is a rope climbing area, huge soft blocks, a toddler spot and a kitchen area all for the enjoyment of the children. Plus a couple of riding toys for those that want to go around and around.

If this weren’t enough, they do a great job with a birthday party.  We were welcomed by the party hostess.  She took our presents for the pile and our coats for the coat rack.  The kids can play the whole time or the hostess will lead you in activities, songs and games.  It is your choice.  You are allowed to bring in outside food for the party too.

It was a great experience all around.  If you need a place to play, check out Toys to Try.  They have open play times.  If you need a place to party, they have that covered too!

Looking for something great to do in Pittsburgh for New Years Eve, look no further.  There are many great events happening in and around Pittsburgh.  From morning till night, you will find the event you are looking for in Pittsburgh on New Year’s Eve.

First Night Pittsburgh 2012

Enjoy live music, volunteer or just come for the fireworks but whatever you do plan ahead for this event downtown.  Please visit their website for more information.

First Night Pittsburgh 2012

Gateway Clipper

If you are ready to venture off dry land for your Pittsburgh New Year’s celebration, check out the Gateway Clipper.  Dinner and dancing right into the New Year aboard the Gateway Clipper sounds like a ton of fun.  Check out the Gateway Clipper Fleet for information and tickets.

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

Noon Year’s Eve at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium on 12/31/2011.  Ring in the New Year in a fun, family event inspired by the famous ball drop in New York City’s Times Square.

Count down to Noon with Radio Disney disc jockeys, make noise makers and party hats, enjoy live entertainment, sign the New Year’s ReZOOlution banner and dance into the new year.

Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh

So if you haven’t heard of it already, then you are in for a real treat for the entire family. Kids are welcome to a bedtime-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration with lots of fun activities and an exciting show by local magician Jason Hurdy. 12/31/2011 11:30am

Phipps Conservatory

Want another place in Pittsburgh to celebrate New Year’s Eve with the whole family. Ring in the New Year with an evening of terrific family activities including an early countdown to 2012. 12/31/11 6pm

Buckhead Saloon

New Years Eve Party 2012.  General Admission for $15 includes drink specials, champagne toast and Live Entertainment.  Dinner & VIP service is optional.

Olive or Twist

The Lounge Upstairs @ Olive or Twist, Pittsburgh

Olive or Twist presents Midnight Masquerade New Years Event Party.   Doors open @ 9:00pm. Single Tickets: $150 Couples Tickets: $250 *Ticket price includes open bar and buffet, plus desserts station.

The Club Bristo – The Club Sport and Health, Monroeville

Come join Pittsburgh’s own Skinner!! America’s Most Wanted Comic   for the most extravagant and anticipated New Years Eve Party of the New Year at The Club Bristo in Monroeville, PA.The Club Bistro.

Pittsburgh’s Elite New Year’s Party 2012

Saturday, Dec 31 7:00p

Rivers Casino New Year’s Eve Party

Come celebrate New Year’s Eve 2011 at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh. It’s the hottest party in town! Rivers is offering two different New Year’s Eve packages for purchase that may include dinner, entertainment and room accommodations at a Nearby North Shore hotel.

With so many different options, what are you doing New Years Eve in Pittsburgh.  What have you done in the past?  Will you celebrate out on the town or a quiet night at home?  Leave a comment and let me know.

Instead of exchanging gifts at the office in a grab bag consider everyone bringing a toy or a few canned goods to be donated.  Fill up a reusable shopping bag for the Pittsburgh Tote Bag Project.  Want to take the afternoon off?  Maybe you can talk your boss into letting the whole crew volunteer for a few hours.  Every little bit makes a difference and I hope you will spread “thanks” this holiday season.

Local Food Pantries

• Greater Washington Food Bank, 1020 Route 519, Eighty Four, Pa. 15330.
• Peters Township Food Pantry, 269 Arrowhead Lane, Eighty Four, Pa. 15330. Donation boxes for non-perishable items are available at the McMurray Dairy Bar, 601 E. McMurray Road, or the Peters Township Public Library, 616 E. McMurray Road.
• SHIM, 5301 Park Ave., Bethel Park, Pa. 15102
• South Hills Food Pantry, Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15228.
• Bridgeville Area Food Bank, 740 Washington Road, Bridgeville, Pa. 15017
• Or another food bank or food pantry of the donor’s choice.

Pittsburgh Tote Bag Project

Washington City Mission

• Thanksgiving dinner
• Christmas Program

Washington Womens Shelter

• Adopt a family for Christmas

Light of Life Ministries

Presents for Patients

Toys for Tots

Treasures for Children

Pet Adoption

Iams Home for the Holidays

Pet Finder

These organizations are probably just a few of the ones in the Pittsburgh area that need donations.  If you know any other ones, please feel free to leave a comment about volunteering in Pittsburgh during the holidays or places that need donations in Pittsburgh.