April 19, 2023 - Pittsburgh City Paper

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SUSAN BONGTAG 20 EVENTS

APRIL

19-26, 2023

// VOL. 32 ISSUE 16

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COVER ILLUSTRATION: JEFF SCHRECKENGOST

Eat, Drink, Vibe

BY

SOMETIMES YOU WANT

a munchie, and sometimes you want a munchie that will lead to wanting more munchies. Either way, 4/20, like Thanksgiving, is all about the food; more specifically, the snacks the delicious, possibly hemp or cannabis-infused

Tokey’s Treats

If you ask Takia Mitchell, her Pittsburgh-based bakery business, Tokey’s Treats, is about more than cookies.

Launched in March 2018, the Black woman-owned and operated venture, touted as the first legal hemp edibles company in Pennsylvania, focuses on “empowering women on their self-love journey after trauma while educating them on how hemp can help.”

Mitchell, aka Chef Tokey, hosts small, private catering events with a menu that includes vegan food and baked goods made with hemp seed oil, terpenes, and cannabinoid isolates to “create the perfect blend to help with relaxation and pain relief.” Mitchell also produces a podcast called Cookie Secrets and hosts informational sessions at places like Total Peace and Wellness in Lawrenceville.

But back to the cookies. Among the available options are classic chocolate chip, oatmeal, and Snickerdoodle, as well as a “jet black” cocoa cookie, and one loaded with Oreo bits, white and dark chocolate chips, pretzels, and marshmallows. Other flavors include Neapolitan ice cream, strawberry sugar, peanut butter, and Red Velvet. You can even buy gift cards for the person in your life looking for something beyond the usual gummy.

AMANDA WALTZ // AWALTZ@PGHCITYPAPER.COM

4/20 falls right on the edge of summer, aka seltzer season, and Open Road has a variety of canned, fizzy drinks infused with D8, D9, CBD, CBG, and other derivatives to make you feel alright.

Originally opened as a mobile sober bar, Open Road has since set up as a bottle shop in Allentown, where customers will find an array of non-alcoholic wines, spirits, beer, and more. Among those options are a number of brands featuring ingredients made to calm, soothe, and relax.

Try seltzers by Rebel Rabbit, Delta, or

Recess, canned cocktails by Flora Hemp, Flyers, Crisp & Crude, or Jeng, and spirits by Gather or Aplos. Open Road tells City Paper that these beverages all come from “nationally available, vetted brands with readily available COAs (third-party tested certificates of analysis).”

Open Road also carries non-infused versions of some of these beverages for those who just want the taste of a cocktail without the added alcohol.

You can peruse these selections and more at Open Road’s 600 E. Warrington Ave. location, or order online at openroadbarpgh.com.

Curated Flame x Sugar Spell Scoops

When the munchies hit, you want something right away. No cooking, no preparation, just instant gratification. Ice cream fans are covered with the locally made Peanut Butter Banana Flame, a vegan ice cream that could be a few steps away in your freezer.

The collaboration combined the talents of two businesses, Curated Flame smoke shop ( 505 Grant Ave., Millvale. curatedflamepgh.com ) and Sugar Spell Scoops ( 1014 N. Canal St., Sharpsburg. sugarspellscoops.com), to create something special in celebration of 4/20. Sugar Spell describes the sweet treat as a nondairy, cashew-based banana ice cream with house-made peanut butter cups, a

ribbon of peanut butter, and a chocolate sauce swirl.

Curated Flame owner Anthony Rabinovitz says the product is based on a banana peanut butter chip flavor of ice cream that he used to love. “And then I would add peanut butter cups to it. But that ice cream no longer exists and I wanted to work with Sugar Spell on recreating that flavor.”

He confirms that Peanut Butter Banana Flame was designed to “be a munchie after smoking.”

Pints are priced at $12 and are available to pre-order from Sugar Spell. Curated Flame will also have pints available at the shop as prizes on 4/20.

PHOTO: SUGAR SPELL SCOOPS INSTAGRAM

PHOTO: COURTESY OF REBEL RABBIT Rebel Rabbit seltzer at Open Road

WorkshopPGH x Humble Pride Glass

Can you eat these adorable little pipes? No. Do I care? No. This is my list, and these food-themed glass pipes by the Oregon-based company Humble Pride Glass are so cute and colorful I could weep.

Sold at WorkshopPGH’s Penn Avenue shop, and available online at the artist’s website, these items will surely add a touch of whimsy to any cannabis cache. The artist, Michael Sorenson, selfdescribes as a “functional glass artist” and produces these as part of his Fruit Bowl Smoking Accessories collection. A product description says they feature

Sorenson’s “signature carefully placed air trap ‘pips’” and that some, such as the Deluxe Pink Strawberry pipe, can be purchased in their “naturally round fruit shape or with a flat spot pressed in the back.”

Besides the pink strawberry, WorkshopPGH will also have the banana, pear, red strawberry, and lemon pipes from Humble Pride.

WorkshopPGH says the pipes are available for $58 each and in very limited supply at its 5131 Penn Ave. location in Garfield, so get yours before they are gone. •

PHOTO: COURTESY OF HUMBLE PRIDE GLASS Humble Pride Glass fruit pipes at WorkshopPGH

Herbal Care Rx Provides Options for Those Struggling With Anxiety

Medical cannabis has grown much more accessible since it was first made available to Pennsylvanian patients in 2018. The medical criteria for patient qualification have broadened, allowing many more people to take advantage of the program.

As accessibility increases, we’re also seeing a wider cultural shift to understanding cannabis as a medicine that can help people manage and alleviate a host of medical conditions. Many of our patients have never used cannabis before accessing our medical program, and come to it as a last resort after having incomplete symptom relief with pharmaceuticals or experiencing intolerable side effects. Others come to us having longtime awareness of the benefits of cannabis for their symptoms, and want to access cannabis legally and conveniently. When cannabis is purchased from a dispensary, every component is listed on the label, allowing for the ability to fine tune a regimen for a person’s specific needs.

Patients are not expected to figure this out alone! Dispensary pharmacists are present at every dispensary, and are trained in symptom management with cannabis. They consult with each new patient to discuss symptoms and treatment goals, and help create a treatment regimen for symptoms. They are available on subsequent visits to help adjust a regimen as needed to achieve intended benefit. There are also knowledgeable sales representatives in every dispensary room who can also provide assistance.

The PA Medical Marijuana Act (Act 16) designed the MMJ program to be patient-driven, which means that there are no prescriptions, and it’s up to patients to decide what products they purchase and how they take them. This shift prioritizes individual autonomy, and empowers people to participate more directly in their own care.

For those concerned about cannabis smoke inhalation, there are many other formulations of cannabis, including tinctures, capsules, and topical products like ointments and lotions. Cannabis-infused topical products can be excellent for localized areas of pain and inflammation, such as arthritis. Cannabis is a powerful anti-inflammatory that can be much more easily tolerated by the body than other common NSAID medications like ibuprofen or naproxen.

There are currently 24 diagnoses that the state recognizes as eligible for becoming a PA medical marijuana patient. Anxiety, chronic pain, cancer including remission therapy, PTSD and autism are just a few. For a full list of the 24 qualifying conditions, visit our website www. herbalcarerx.com.

If you’re thinking getting certified or recertified for MMJ with Herbal Care Rx, here’s what you need to know about us:

Herbal Care Rx was founded in 2018 by a hospice and palliative care physician who is also a clinical herbalist, with the hope of making medicinal cannabis more accessible.

Herbal Care Rx offers telemedicine certification and recertification consultations for medical marijuana.

Our prices are the lowest in the state: $125 for most new patient certifications, discounted to $75 for anyone who is receiving state benefits (SSI, Medicaid, Disability, food assistance) and US Veterans.

Recertifications are $75 for all patients. Any patients who aren’t certified for any reason are refunded in full.

We have been working with the state providing access to the PA MMJ program since its inception.

The Department of Health charges its own separate $50 fee for an annual license, but if you receive any of the following state benefits, you will qualify for a complete waiver of their card fee: SNAP, CHIP, WIC, Medicaid, SSI, PACE/PACENET.

If you need assistance with your Department of Health registration, or have any questions about medical marijuana in general, our experienced staff is happy to assist—you only have to ask.

Our practitioners are gentle, respectful, and knowledgeable, and want to help you get the care you need. You can schedule your consultation or learn more at www.herbalcarerx.com, or call us at (215) 671-6929.

MARIJUANA

Weed workers unite

Medical marijuana workers look to unions to shore up shaky industry

BY MATT PETRAS // INFO@PGHCITYPAPER.COM

MEDICAL MARIJUANA dispensaries in Pittsburgh have been hit by recent layoffs in line with the rest of Pennsylvania, but rising unionization efforts are attempting to protect workers and stabilize the industry.

In the past year, multiple Pittsburgharea medical marijuana businesses have laid off employees as buyouts and other uncertainties shake up the industry. Trulieve, which has locations across several states, including multiple in the Pittsburgh area, laid off an unknown number of employees in its McKeesport location in December, according to TribLIVE . Hanging Gardens, a smallersized Johnstown business that previously had about 100 employees, laid off 50 of

them in July, and is suing the state for making the business environment worse for independent dispensaries, according to The Tribune-Democrat.

Almost exactly seven years ago, Pennsylvania legalized medical marijuana, but now, industry leaders say, the state’s reluctance to legalize recreational use appears to be holding back progress.

As the industry struggles, the largest companies buy out the smallest a trend that can be seen across Pennsylvania. As reported in August by MJBizDaily, a business-focused news outlet about marijuana, “multistate operators are gearing up for the prospect of adult-use legalization and buying smaller, independent marijuana businesses that are struggling and laying off employees in an

increasingly crowded market.”

At the same time, however, workers are unionizing to secure their jobs and better work conditions. CannTech and Trulieve workers are among the hundreds unionized with UFCW Local 1776, which also represents other medical marijuana industry workers across the state. Over the past few years, the number of unionized workers in the industry continues to grow, according to Wendell Young, president of the union group. And one of the ways the union helps is in securing against layoffs.

“Other positions can be identified instead of just showing you the door, where in the non-union place, they’ll just lay off who they want, when they want, regardless of qualifications, expe-

rience,

seniority,” Young tells

Pittsburgh City Paper Workers are struggling to form unions amid a fluctuating industry in which smaller firms are at constant risk of buyouts.

“While it’s been a number of years since the law was approved, it’s still very much in its infancy, and … quite limited here in Pennsylvania because it’s medical marijuana only,” Young says. “And so we’re often organizing at a point where a facility’s just started hiring people and there aren’t that many workers, and they haven’t been there that long.”

And even though it’s still a budding industry, it could be completely changed by legislation that legalizes marijuana for adult recreational use. It’s an effort

CP PHOTO: JARED WICKERHAM Trulieve on the North Shore

that’s long been supported by progressive politicians such as U.S. Senator John Fetterman, who previously served as the state’s Lieutenant Governor, and Summer Lee, a U.S. Congresswoman representing parts of the Pittsburgh area.

State legislators in February circulated memos in both the House and Senate hinting at legislation that would legalize marijuana recreationally and have it be sold exclusively at state-run stores in an attempt to stave off corporate control of marijuana sales. But it’s also possible that the state would take the more conventional route by legalizing recreational use and throwing the sale of marijuana to the private sector.

and consistency.”

In some parts of the state, unionization has already shown itself to benefit workers. A few years ago, a Scrantonbased woman named Ashley Batista abandoned hotel work after earlypandemic layoffs and instead turned to the medical marijuana industry, then deemed an essential business. Batista soon became a shop steward in the existing union represented by UFCW 1776 at a dispensary called Jushi. She’s seen her union improve pay and healthcare, and maintain hours for workers, so she feels secure in the future of her employment.

At the same time, she knows there’s

“When that happens, you’re gonna have more actors coming into the space, you’re gonna have more buying and selling of these companies,” Young tells City Paper . “It could be very turbulent for workers, but with a union contract, it actually helps bring [security], stability

a lot of work to be done to improve conditions for industry workers across the state.

“I feel like all these employers are gonna cut hours, cut pay, take people’s benefits,” Batista tells CP. “I feel like it’s everywhere all over Pennsylvania.” •

CP PHOTO: JARED WICKERHAM Window at Trulieve on the North Shore

“It could be very turbulent for workers, but with a union contract, it actually helps bring [security], stability and consistency.” — Wendell Young

Research Studies May Provide Answers to Important Questions about Medical Marijuana

Several research studies are underway as Organic Remedies partners with the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Researchers at PCOM are looking to answer important questions about the therapeutic value of medical marijuana in several key areas.

As a clinical registrant in Pennsylvania, Organic Remedies has embedded researchers in four of its dispensary locations and is assisting with the recruitment of patients to participate in the research. Organic Remedies also provides the products used by patients who are participating in the research.

Determining Psychological, Social, and Clinical Outcomes with the Use of Medical Marijuana

Organic Remedies and PCOM started recruiting for the first of several clinical studies in the fall of 2020. The study focuses on health-related quality of life for patients starting medical marijuana treatment for one or more of the state-approved 24 qualifying conditions. More than four hundred patients with no previous experience with medical marijuana have enrolled to participate; a majority are looking for treatment for chronic pain and/or anxiety. Early recruiting was a challenge because of COVID-19 protocols, but Organic Remedies staff met the challenge and referred patients to the embedded researcher for screening.

The study focuses on how an individual’s life may change over time when using medical marijuana, clinically, psychosocially, as well as their quality of life. Researchers are looking for answers as to how an individual’s life changes with medical marijuana use, not only in terms of the severity of their relevant health condition, but also their health-related quality of life, including social functioning, daily activities, work life, and interpersonal relationships. Interviews with participants are conducted every three months over the course of one year.

While the data are still being analyzed from this study, one paper has been published in the journal of Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids. This paper, Clinical Characteristics and Quality of Life in Adults Initiating Medical Marijuana Treatment, describes the demographic characteristics and health-related quality of life of medical marijuana patients who are initiating treatment in Pennsylvania.

Weight Change in Medical Marijuana Patients.

Following this first study, a second paper was published in the Journal of Cannabis Research. The study looked at a sub-sample of participants with obesity to determine if individuals experienced weight change as a result of medical marijuana consumption.

The study found that in the first three months, there was no significant change in weight for individuals just starting a medical marijuana regimen. “This finding is significant because it will inform patient-provider conversations about medical marijuana, and providers can refer to these data to address patient concerns about possible weight gain or loss when considering medical marijuana as part of their treatment plan,” said Michelle Lent, PhD., PCOM director of psychosocial research for medical marijuana and associate professor, school of professional and applied psychology.

Medical Marijuana as a Treatment for Chronic Pain in Patients Living with Opioid Use Disorder

Recruiting participants for a study focused on the incremental effects of medical marijuana on pain management and treatment engagement in patients with opioid use disorder and chronic pain was initiated in April 2022. Many people with opioid use disorder also live with severe pain, which may be one of the reasons they started using opioids. Researchers are looking to recruit 120 adults with chronic pain and opioid use disorder in the Philadelphia area. The study will examine additional qualities of the individuals’ lives, including sleep, mood, and other substances they are using. Individuals selected must already have a recommendation from their provider to use medical marijuana and be taking Suboxone, a prescription medication for treating opioid use disorder. PCOM is working with Ethos, a dispensary in Center City Philadelphia, so that participants can conveniently pick up their medical marijuana medication.

Dr. Lent said, “We believe this may be one of our most important studies to date, given the opioid epidemic and the limited treatments currently available to help those with opioid use disorder.”

Medical Marijuana as a Treatment for Autism

Another research study initiated in July 2022 may bring to light new information about the therapeutic effects of medical marijuana for the treatment of pediatric autism. Dr. Lent is collaborating with Elizabeth Gosch, PhD., a licensed clinical psychologist, certified by the American Board of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology who serves as an examiner for this board. Dr. Gosch is a nationally recognized expert on clinical child psychology, anxiety disorders, and cognitive behavior therapy with youth.

Researchers have started to recruit for 50 adult caregivers of pediatric patients with autism who are looking to start a medical marijuana regimen. The study will focus on specific autism behaviors, including repetition, aggression, cognition, sleep activity, and independence. The study will examine behaviors before beginning a medical marijuana regimen, and then assess any changes to behaviors periodically throughout the study. All measures will be calibrated based on what would be appropriate for the child’s age.

“We are very excited about this small pilot study

and hope that these results will be of benefit to in dividuals with autism as well as their providers and caregivers,” said Dr. Lent.

For more information or to enroll in this study, email AutismStudy@pcom.edu.

Other Research Studies Approved

Frederick J. Goldstein, Ph.D., FCP, Professor of Clinical Pharmacology, PCOM and his team are currently recruiting for two studies.

“We are just beginning to explore at a scientific level the pain-relieving qualities of THC. Organic Remedies’ continued support that allows us to work within the dispensaries to recruit patients, along with the financial support, are greatly appreciated. Our research coordinator has an office in the Paoli dispensary, and we are confident that these studies will garner important scientific data about medical marijuana,” said Dr. Goldstein.

Study of Nano-Emulsion Capsules Containing Vitamin E

Dr. Goldstein and his team are preparing to study the absorption of THC into the bloodstream after consuming Organic Remedies’ nano-emulsion capsules. The study is to determine how much THC gets into your blood over 24 hours after taking one capsule that contains Vitamin E, plus equal amounts of THC and CBD. The purpose of this research is to find out how the body handles a new form of medical marijuana capsule over 24 hours. In medical marijuana, there are many cannabinoids, including THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol). This new type of medical marijuana capsule has equal amounts of these two substances. The capsule also includes Vitamin E. Both CBD and Vitamin E may allow more marijuana to be absorbed into the bloodstream than by taking THC by itself. Scientists want to learn how much THC enters the bloodstream during the 24 hours after the capsule has been swallowed.

Relief of Nerve Pain with Medical Marijuana

Another study led by Dr. Goldstein is focused on patients who suffer from neuropathic pain. He is

looking to determine what connection, if any, there is between the use of medical marijuana and the relief of nerve pain that has been occurring daily for at least two months. This 4-week study will re quire patients with neuropathic pain to consume a THC-CBD combination product. Enrollment in the study has recently started; one participant has now successfully completed the study with a reduction in pain and a decrease in both sleep medicine and an aspirin-like drug; there was also a loss of weight which was related to an increase in physical activity. Two additional participants are beginning to use this product, and another is considering participation.

“This study will add significant scientific data around medical marijuana and pain management,” said Dr. Goldstein. “There are hundreds of thousands of individuals suffering with nerve pain on a daily basis who may benefit from this study. We are excited to learn more and further our understanding of consumption of THC-CBD as related to neuropathic pain.”

Use of Medical Cannabis in Nursing Homes in Pennsylvania

Dr. Katherine E. Galluzzi, D.O., and her team are evaluating the current state of usage of medical marijuana in Skilled Nursing Facilities in Pennsylvania. An anonymous survey was sent to the Nursing Home Administrator or Director of Nursing requesting information about existing policies for the use of medical marijuana in their facility. The goal of the study is to determine the extent of use of medical marijuana in different geographic areas across PA and identify barriers to use for residents with qualifying conditions.

Effectiveness of Solvent-Based Extraction Methods and Processes to Eliminate or Substantially Diminish Microbial Contamination of Marijuana Plant Extract

Brian Balin, Ph.D., collaborated with the team of scientists at Organic Remedies led by Mark June Wells, Ph.D., to determine whether the solvent extraction process eliminates microbial contaminants from marijuana plant material, and whether the manufacturing process creates raw extracted materials that conform to current PA DOH regulations for safe consumption by patients. This research and independent testing demonstrating that all extracted materials were free of microbial contaminants and associated toxins were recently published in the journal Cannabis Science and Technology, Vol. 5, No. 9 [June-Wells et al, 2022) (Cannabissciencetech.com).

Conclusion

Organic Remedies is proud to be working with the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine on these important studies on the medicinal value of medical marijuana.

“We believe our research will inform patient-provider decisions on whether to use medical marijuana to treat specific conditions. We’ll be creating a body of literature to inform medical professionals. It’s very exciting to be able to fill a gap in our knowledge of the therapeutic value of medical marijuana for a variety of conditions. The preliminary data we are seeing looks promising,” said Dr. Lent.

For more information on PCOM Cannabis Studies visit, https://www.pcom.edu/research/ research-areas/medical-cannabis.html

RELIEF FOR YINZ!

Voted #1 Best Medical Marijuana Dispensary

Dispensary Locations including McKnight Road & Bethel Park

Fun places to go in

Wour dear readers, to consume marijuana in public because it is capital-I illegal, I can recommend taking advantage of the heightened capacity for enjoyment and observation cannabis provides. In fact, I’d argue that Pittsburgh — being the altogether unlikely and unusual place that it is — is a city best experienced off your rocker. With that in mind, I’ve put together a list of my favorite destinations in the city where your visit will only benefit from being on drugs — categorized, of course, by the kind of experience we think each location can provide.

Carnegie Science Center

Nothing says “being high off your ass” like laying back in a cold, dark room and being blown away by projections on the ceiling. Fortunately, the good people at the Carnegie Science Center seem to know this! While they offer all kinds of programs there with evident educational purposes like explorations of the solar system and the universe, they also have laser shows. Currently, they’re programming a Laser Symphony of the Stars which promises “brilliant laser animation [...] set to some of the most memorable music of all time.” But in the past, they’ve regularly done Pink Floyd laser shows — and come on, there’s no way you put on a Pink Floyd laser show without knowing that your audience is out-of-their mind stoned.

experience that will have you thinking you’ve time traveled back to the Summer of Love … well, I won’t say that’s what this is, but it’s probably the closest you’ll get. There is something incredibly easy and pleasant about hanging out high as a kite on the gently sloping Schenley Park hill. In warm weather, Pitt and CMU students chill on the hill blasting music and laying on the grass — most likely under the influence too. We recommend bringing snacks, blankets, and making a day of it. Oh, and don’t forget your hacky sack!

I can hear what you’re thinking. The Waterfront? You seriously want me to go to the Waterfront while high on drugs? Are you nuts? The answer to all those questions is yes, but let me explain myself first. Sober, going to the Waterfront is a downright unpleasant experience. I have felt my soul seep away in that Target parking lot. But stoned? It becomes Sim City: a strange place filled with bizarre characters simply waiting to be observed by someone under the influence. (I once saw a teen couple spinning each other around and making out in the parking lot like they were in The Notebook — in front of one of their mothers, sitting in the car watching with dead eyes.) My recommendation: Catch a very stupid movie at the AMC, and then make your way to T.J. Maxx and spend too much money on crap you don’t need.

Murray Avenue

If you’re someone who likes to walk around and have a little flaneur/flaneuse moment while stoned, Murray Avenue (not Forbes!) is, in my opinion, the best destination. This is because Murray truly runs the gamut. As you ascend up the street from Forward, you pass a variety of inexplicably in-business stores with plenty of window shopping possibilities: the carpet place you never see anyone in, the international snack vending machine store Vendor Bender. (My favorite is the Global Market, where I always find myself looking in awe at the colorful glass lanterns dangling from the ceiling.) And if you find yourself getting the munchies, there are plenty of snacking opportunities: Sumi’s Cakery for a sweet treat, Kung Fu Tea for boba, Mineo’s for a slice. Any of these work as a reward to yourself, when you finally make it to the top of the hill and feel an absolute sense of accomplishment.

Hall of Minerals at Carnegie Museum of Natural History

The dinosaurs normally steal the show at the Museum of Natural History, but the Hall of Minerals is my favorite. Completely sober, it’s educational. But stoned? You develop crow brain; everything that shines becomes completely irresistible. You find yourself attached to all rocks — rocks that glow, rocks that glitter, rocks that give off a low-level of radiation. Before you know it, the mirrored hall of what is essentially “cool rocks” goes from being simply pretty to a seemingly endless reminder of the invisible and ever present forces that produce such singular specimens — albeit at the rate of a handful every million years or so.

Phipps Conservatory

If looking at some stones stoned means contemplating your mortality in the context of geologic time, we hope that looking at some greenery on green can be a relative salve. While Phipps is beautiful in all states of mind, visiting the conservatory while on a mildly psychoactive substance alleviates the darkness of a Pittsburgh winter like nothing else. It reminds you — in spite of the endless gray skies that make a relocation to Ron DeSantis’s Florida seem enticing — that the return of life is inevitable if you just hold on. •

PHOTO: PAUL G. WIEGMAN / PHIPPS CONSERVATORY Orchid Room at Phipps Conservatory

Ask a stoner

BY SUSAN BONGTAG // INFO@PGHCITYPAPER.COM

THIS WEEK, we took burning questions from Pittsburgh City Paper readers and turned them over to a bonafide weed expert for a little ad hoc (ad)vice column. Let’s call her … Susan Bongtag? Picture her with a big skunk stripe running through her hair and weed ash dusting her clothes, picking her way through your questions with a raised eyebrow. Now, without further ado:

City Paper Reader: Why won’t someone take the steps to get recreational marijuana legalized in Pennsylvania?

Susan Bongtag: I’m no political insider, but my guess is that the line that tracks potential revenue from legalization has not yet beat the line that indicates the donor cash lost from pissing off the conservative billionaires and alcohol industry lobbyists who would be displeased as a result. That being said, my sense is it’s only a matter of time before the former exceeds the latter. Stay strong!

CP R: I’m new to weed and can’t make heads or tails of the stuff on the labels. What does any of this crap mean?

SB: I only have so many column inches here, so let’s see how fast I can run through a few basic explanations. The first thing you need to know is that everything you think you know about weed is, in fact, crap. Indica, sativa, THC percentage? None of those actually mean anything when it comes to the effect a particular strain of marijuana will have on you. Instead, the most important things to pay attention to are the cannabinoids and the terpenes — these are actually what determine how smoking whatever Blue Girl Scout Lime Haze varietal will make you feel. Google is your friend!

CPR: Is it true that if I get a prescription for medical marawanna [sic] I have to give up my guns? Asking for a friend : )

SB: Bypassing my initial question about your spelling of marijuana, I'm here to

inform you that this is in fact the case in Pennsylvania. A quick perusal of the Pennsylvania State Police website explains that — even with a medical card — the use of marijuana makes you an “unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance” under federal law and thus forbids you from purchasing or possessing a firearm. At the same time (and while City Paper does NOT endorse this!), if you already own guns and then get a medical card, the likelihood of local police entering your home and seizing your firearms is slim to none; that is, unless you’re under federal investigation already. In that case, I think you’ve got bigger problems.

CPR: I’m a big stoner, but I’ve just started dating someone who is very much not and feels uncomfortable with the whole thing. How do I navigate this?

SB: Hmm. The question I have is what exactly is it about weed that makes your paramour so uncomfortable? Is it an aversion to smoking? The smell? The glazed look in your eyes when you’re on hour three of eating Bugles and watching King of the Hill ? My suggestion, Big Stoner, is to get a clear answer from your partner and go from there in terms of finding a compromise, whether that’s taking it outside, switching to a more lung-friendly way of partaking, limiting the occasions you partake, or something else entirely.

CPR: How high should I get?

SB: There's a whole spectrum available to you when it comes to figuring out how stoned you wanna be — all the way from “this edible ain’t shit” to “because of this edible, I now believe that this Giant Eagle cashier is an undercover CIA agent.”

I’ll advise you to land somewhere in the middle: the sweet spot where QVC suddenly becomes very interesting. But if you want to risk it all for an out of body and mind experience? Well … that’s up to you, kid. •

Record Numbers of Pennsylvanians Are Discovering the Benefits of Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Program

Over 1 Million Patients Have Been Certified Across the State to Use Medical Marijuana to Treat Anxiety, PTSD, Chronic Pain, and More

In the latest report on Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Program (PAMMP), the PA Department of Health announced that more than 1 million patient certifications have been issued to individuals seeking marijuana for relief from serious medical conditions — a number that continues to rise across the state.

“When Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Program started, there were a significant number of patients interested in treatment for conditions like chronic pain. But as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re seeing remarkable shifts in patients seeking medical marijuana to help with anxiety-related disorders as well,” said Dr. Bryan Doner, Chief Medical Officer and Co-Founder of Compassionate Certification Centers (CCC). “Patients are reporting tremendous results,” he added. Studies around medical marijuana treatments have shown that medical marijuana can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety, including racing thoughts, restlessness, and sleep-related issues. Medical marijuana has also been shown to be effective in helping patients relieve physical symptoms associated with anxiety, such as nausea and muscle tension.

Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana: A Safe and Legal Alternative to Recreational Marijuana

A leading provider of medical marijuana certifications in Pennsylvania, Doner’s CCC has focused its mission on making the process of accessing the MMJ program easier, as well as providing patient support and education. To date, the organization has certified more than 100,000 patients across Pennsylvania through in-office and virtual telehealth appointments on its website.

“Our goal has always been to educate, support, and remove any stigma associated with MMJ certifications. We pride ourselves on transparency, patient support, and quality of service, and are proud to be ongoing advo-

cates for the PA MMJ community and patients,” said Dr. Doner. As the program grows and more awareness and education are spread, the interest around medical marijuana has spiked in recent years. And thanks to organizations like CCC, registering and taking advantage of Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana program is a simple and convenient process.

What Are the Benefits of Becoming a PA Medical Marijuana Patient?

One major benefit to registered patients is safety. While black-market marijuana products lack quality control, which means that those products can be of poor quality, or worse, laced with other, more dangerous substances such as fentanyl, the state’s medical marijuana program offers patients legal access to a range of lab-tested, high-quality marijuana products.

The state requires that medical marijuana be grown, extracted, and sold by state-certified providers who are held to stringent standards for product safety and quality, and testing procedures are mandated and products must meet specific guidelines for packaging, labeling, and distribution. The result? A safer, higher-quality product for patients.

But risk aversion is not the only reason to look into medical marijuana for treatment of specific medical conditions.

In addition to quality and safety standards, Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana program offers patients a range of products that can meet specific medical needs. These include products that are THC- or CBD-dominant, which allows patients to more accurately tailor their use of marijuana to their specific condition and symptoms.

Through the state’s medical marijuana assistance program, patients can also offset the costs of registering for the program if they qualify for accepted assistance programs like Medicaid, PACE, SNAP or WIC. Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana program also ensures that patients who are certified to use medical marijuana are provided with certain legal protections; They cannot be arrested, charged, or penalized for their

use of legal medical marijuana products as long as they are following the rules provided by the program. In contrast, recreational and black market marijuana use can result in legal repercussions, which can have significant social and financial consequences.

How to become a PA Medical Marijuana Patient or Caregiver

“Since we began in 2016, we’ve streamlined the MMJ certification and card renewal process to make it as easy and convenient as possible, supporting our patients and certified caregivers every step of the way,” said Dr. Doner.

The process of becoming a PA MMJ patient is as simple as registering on the DOH website, seeing an approved practitioner like CCC to get certified, and paying for your medical marijuana ID card. Once you receive your card, you are legally able to visit any Pennsylvania dispensary and purchase medical marijuana products.

For those interested in becoming a medical marijuana patient, CCC is currently offering a $25 discount to all new patients from 4/20/2023 through 5/20/2023 using promo code ‘CCC420’ during appointment scheduling. Promotional terms apply. To learn more about the PA Medical Marijuana Program or to ask questions about certification with CCC, visit www.CCCRegister.com or call (888) 316-9085.

RECORD STORE DAY SAT., APRIL 22

RECORD STORE DAY, the favored holiday of audiophiles, returns on Sat., April 22, and Pittsburgh shops are ready to celebrate with big deals, live performances, and more. Launched in 2007, the worldwide, annual event has drawn vinyl collectors and music fans to local businesses looking to snag a rare find or exclusive release, or just to see their favorite local band rip it up.

Originally created to boost independent record stores, the event has grown into a phenomenon where customers have access to over 400 new titles, reissues, and other items released specifically for RSD. As explained by Brian Broad of Long Play Cafe, store owners pick and choose which releases to order and stock, with the hope that these choices will appeal to RSD crowds.

Broad says Long Play will have 50 or more RSD titles available for the big event, ranging from customer-requested albums from acts like Beach House, The Cure, Jason Isbell & Amanda Shires, and Taylor Swift to more obscure items.

“We just try to get what we think people might want,” Broad adds.

The selections vary based on each store, meaning that you may have to go on a day-long shopping adventure to find what you want.

Mostly, though, shop owners participating in RSD are focused on providing a place for the community to gather, have fun, and celebrate their shared love of music, all while supporting local businesses.

See below for Pittsburgh City Paper’s list of local spots to make the best of Record Store Day.

Government Center

715 East St., North Side. thegovernmentcenter.com

Government Center rewards early risers with access to limited-edition RSD releases beginning at 7 a.m., and from there, it’s a wealth of music spoils. Perks include free promo items, T-shirts, and more, markdown bins with new records up to 60% off, and a sale on all used records. The live music offerings include performances by Silenus & St. Christopher with Dubravka Bencic, Warm Tape, TV Moms, Melt, Weird Paul Rock Band, and more. Badamo’s Pizza will also be on-site selling wood-fired pies.

Jerry’s Records

2136 Murray Ave., Squirrel Hill. jerrysrecords.com

The most legendary used vinyl shop in Pittsburgh may not have any special new RSD releases, but it will have a huge weekend-long sale. From Fri., April 21 to Sun., April 23, check out more than 20,000 LPs and CDs, plus 5,000 classical LPs, each one priced at only a dollar. The owners also promise a ton of other great stuff for RSD, so be there or be square.

ON RECORD, CONTINUES ON PG. 18

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER SPROWLS Melt at Government Center

Long Play Cafe

5262 Butler St., Lawrenceville. longplaycafe.com

Head to Lawrenceville for live music, DJs, food, and more at Long Play Cafe. Arrive at 8 a.m. for deals and special releases, followed by a live music lineup that starts at 11 a.m. and includes The Phantom Tones, Cody Piper, Tied Heart, The Gretchen Emery Band, Fermented Beats, and The 10th Ward Troubadours featuring Slim Forsythe. Hear more tunes courtesy of DJ Poptone and Action Alpha, and dine on food and drinks by El Sabor, Lolev Beer, and Lawrenceville Distilling Co..

Vinyl Remains

692 Washington Road, Mount Lebanon. vinylremainspg13.com

Vinyl Remains opens bright and early at 8 a.m. for a day featuring a few tobe-announced live performers and giveaways for Stage AE concert tickets.

Music To My Ear

3003 Babcock Blvd., North Hills. musictomyear.com

Prices are slashed on tons of records and accessories at the Music To My Ear RSD event. Take 20% off all in-stock electronics (including turntables, speakers, amps, and more), 20% off all record washing kits and accessories, and 15% off all used vinyl records. You can also enter to win free Stage AE concert tickets.

Preserving Record Shop

1101 Fifth Ave., New Kensington. preservingunderground.com

Preserving Record Shop tells City Paper that while they do not participate in RSD “in the sense of carrying their releases,” they do typically host some type of sale on that day. Be sure to watch out for more details on the sale by checking in on the shop’s socials. •

CP PHOTO: JARED WICKERHAM Jerry's Records

CP RECORD STORE DAY PICKS

BY AMANDA WALTZ // AWALTZ@PGHCITYPAPER.COM

Allman Brothers Band, Syria Mosque: Pittsburgh, PA 1-17-71

(Allman Brothers Band Recording Company)

Honor Pittsburgh’s music past with an album recorded during a performance at the Syria Mosque, an Oakland venue that hosted over 70 years of incredible musicians.

Carole King, The Legendary Demos Vol. 1

(Legacy/SMG)

Originally released in 2012, The Legendary Demos Vol. 1 contains 13 demo recordings produced by King from 1962 through 1971.

Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers, Live at Jazz Workshop 1970

(Gearbox Records)

This album by a legendary, late, Pittsburgh-born jazz drummer comes with a QR code with access to nearly five hours of extra content.

Dirty Projectors + Björk, Mount Wittenberg Orca

(Domino Record Co.)

This collaboration between the Brooklyn indie rock band and visionary Icelandic musician comes in an expanded edition that includes bonus tracks, new live material, and more.

HALF THE FUN of shopping for records is digging for hidden gems, and half the fun of Record Store Day is knowing just how many

more of those are tucked into the crates. Here are the exclusive Record Store Day releases Pittsburgh City Paper staffers think are worth searching for this year:

Groove Armada, Black Light

(BMG)

Previously nominated for a Grammy in Best Electronic/Dance Album, this work features vocal collaborations from Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music, Saint Saviour, and Fenech-Soler, among others.

Sparks, A Woofer In A Tweeter’s Clothing

(Friday Music)

This album, which features new commentary notes from producer and Electric Prunes/Utopia member, James Lowe, marks 50 years of one of music’s greatest pop/rock duos.

Haircut 100, Live in Hammersmith 1983

(Demon UK)

The RSD site calls this recently unearthed live recording “an absolute must for all fans of frenetic funky fabulous melodic pop.”

Tori Amos, Little Earthquakes Rarities

(Rhino/Atlantic)

If you ever cried while singing along to “Silent All These Years,” these B-sides from Amos’ debut album should have you feeling beautifully sad all over again. •

Follow A&E Editor Amanda Waltz on Twitter @AWaltzCP

THU., APRIL 20

ART • SOUTH SIDE

Rip, Repair, Repeat: Opening Reception

6-8:30 p.m. Continues through June 17. Brew House Gallery. 711 S. 21st St., South Side. Free. brewhousearts.org

MUSIC/LIT • MUNHALL

Jazz and Working-Class Experience: Book Talk, Poetry, Live Music. 7-9 p.m. The Pump House. 880 E. Waterfront Drive, Munhall. Free. Registration required. battleofhomestead.org

THEATER • NORTH SIDE

Morning Reckoning 8 p.m. Continues through Fri., April 21. New Hazlett Theater. Six Allegheny Square East, North Side. $20-30. newhazletttheater.org

FILM • MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

The JFilm Festival marks its 30th year with big premieres, global films, special events, and more. The festival opens with the Israeli comedy Matchmaking and continues with screenings at AMC Waterfront, Oaks Theater, and McConomy Auditorium at Carnegie Mellon University. Included in the lineup is documentary The Cure for Hate and the Pittsburgh premiere of Finding Light, described as a “multifaceted film that uses dance to explore the need for human rights protections against bigotry and hate.” 7 p.m. Continues through Sun., April 30. Multiple locations. Ticket prices vary. filmpittsburgh.org

FRI., APRIL 21

FILM • HOMESTEAD

Pittsburgh Sound + Image presents Maya Deren on 16mm. 8-9:30 p.m. Eberle Studios. 229 East Ninth Ave., Homestead. $10. pghsoundandimage.com

SAT., APRIL 22

ZOO • HIGHLAND PARK

Wild Earth Day 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. 7370 Baker St., Highland Park. Included with regular admission. pittsburghzoo.org

encourages people to adopt and race rubber duckies for a chance to win cash prizes and gift cards. The duckie adoption fees benefit Partners For Quality’s efforts to aid those with “intellectual and developmental disabilities and behavioral health challenges.” Be there when 7,500 duckies are set loose on Lake Elizabeth and float to the finish line. 11 a.m. West North Ave., North Side. Free to attend. duckrace.com/pittsburgh

KIDS • DOWNTOWN

Penny Arcade: Interactive Kids Comedy Show. 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Arcade Comedy Theater. 943 Liberty Ave., Downtown. $12.

FAMILY • WEST MIFFLIN

Celebrate more than a century of thrills at the season-opening 125th Celebration Weekends event at Kennywood. Revisit classic rides like the Thunderbolt and check out the park’s new additions, including the first-ever amusement park Primanti Bros. (Though you might want to hold off on the coleslaw until after the coasters.) For this weekend, first responders will receive free admission at the gate, as well as discounted admission for up to four friends or family members. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Continues every weekend until Memorial Day Weekend. 4800 Kennywood Blvd., West Mifflin. Included kennywood.com

SOUTH SIDE

12-6 p.m.

2010/2012 East Carson St., South Side.

BLOOMFIELD

1-9 p.m. Bloomfield Park (under the Bloomfield Bridge), Bloomfield. Free. All ages. tracebloomfield.com/skatefest-23

FAMILY • NORTH SIDE

Waddle your way to Allegheny Commons Park for the Steel City Duck Derby, a day of live music, games, food, and more. Presented by Partners For Quality, the event

SOUTH SIDE

The Switchblades: A Nefarious 8 p.m. Doors at 7 p.m., Club Cafe. 56 S. 12th St., South Side. $25. 21 and over. instagram.com/swop_pgh

PHOTO: COURTESY OF FILM PITTSBURGH Karaoke , part of the JFilm Festival

PHOTO: COURTESY OF PARTNERS FOR QUALITY Steel City Duck Derby

Penny Arcade: Interactive Kids Comedy Show at Arcade Comedy Theater

THU., APRIL 20

SUN., APRIL 23

SWAP • MCKEES ROCKS

Spring Clothing Swap 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Radiant Hall Studios. 734 Thompson Ave., McKees Rocks. Donation suggested. radianthall.org/calendar

MON., APRIL 24

MUSIC • NORTH SIDE

Intercultural Music Collaboration with HarmoniZing 7-8:30 p.m. City of Asylum. 40 W. North Ave., North Side. Free. Registration required. Livestream available. cityofasylum.org

TUE., APRIL 25

LIT • MONROEVILLE

Author Talk: Lori Rader-Day & Ann Cleeves. 6:30-8 p.m. Monroeville Public Library. 4000 Gateway Campus Blvd., Monroeville. Free. mysterylovers.com/event

MUSIC • MCKEES ROCKS

Sunny Day Real Estate 8 p.m. Doors at 7 p.m. Roxian Theatre. 425 Chartiers Ave., McKees Rocks. $33-93. roxianlive.com

SAT., APRIL 22

WED., APRIL 26

THEATER • BLOOMFIELD/GARFIELD

See a range of unconventional productions by local puppeteers, opera singers, spoken word poets, and others during the tenth-annual Pittsburgh Fringe Fest. The four-day festival will take place in venues across Bloomfield and Garfield, with certain events allowing guests to tune in virtually. Check out shows such as Rats’ Feast, a ballet puppet comedy with original music. Want to see everything?

Purchase a day or weekend pass giving you access to multiple shows. 6-11 p.m. Multiple locations. Free-$15. Continues through April 30. pittsburghfringe.org

THEATER • DOWNTOWN

Potted Potter. 7 p.m. Byham Theater. 101 6th St., Downtown. $36-51. trustarts.org

MUSIC • MILLVALE

Shadow of Intent, Brand of Sacrifice, Bodysnatcher, and Boundaries

7 p.m. Doors at 6 p.m. Mr. Smalls Theatre. 400 Lincoln Ave., Millvale. $22. mrsmalls.com

PHOTO: COURTESY OF KENNYWOOD 125th Celebration Weekends at Kennywood

PHOTO: COURTESY OF BREW HOUSE Rip, Repair, Repeat at Brew House Gallery

MARKET PLACE

STUDY SMOKERS WANTED

The University of Pittsburgh’s Alcohol & Smoking Research Lab is looking for people to participate in a research project. You must:

• Currently smoke cigarettes

• Be 18-49 years old, in good health, and speak fluent English

• Be right handed, willing to not smoke before two sessions, and to fill out questionnaires

Earn up to $260 for participating in this study.

turing facility seeks a CSV Engineer. This is a full-time onsite position that will be responsible for supporting CSV activities of systems, equipment and programs requiring system and/or software qualification and testing. Apply at https://krystalbiotech.applytojob. com/apply or send email to cfarrell@ krystalbio.com with resume, salary requirements, and reference to CSV Engineer.

PUBLIC AUCTION

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 700 E Carson St, Pittsburgh PA 15203 on May 3, 2023 at 12:15 PM.

Unit 4152 Donyisha Wooley, Unit 3003 Rebecca Hegarty, and Unit 1019 Edward Brown. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com.

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

HELP WANTED ENGINEERING

Inovalon, Inc. seeks a Sr Principal Software Engineer in Canonsburg, PA, to architect, dsgn, create, test, & ensure the quality of lrg scale or complex sftwre for major prodct or prodct line. Min BS in CS, Soft Eng, IS, or rtld, plus 6+ yrs. For complete requirements, submit resume to: https:// www.inovalon.com/ careers/job/?gh_

jid=5439308003

PUBLIC AUCTION

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated:

7535 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15208, 11:00am May 3, 2023. 2048

Erica Clemons, 2095 Tamela Twyman, and 5043 Maria Jarret. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com.

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

HELP WANTED MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Canonsburg General Hospital seeks Medical Technologist work in Canonsburg, PA, has a Medical Technologist to independently perform routine and highly complex laboratory analyses on clinical specimens in one or more sections in the laboratory.

Apply at: ahn.org/careers Job Code: J224185.

PUBLIC AUCTION

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated:

902 Brinton Rd Pittsburgh, Pa 15221.

May 3rd 2023, at 11:30am. Vonda Harris 1115, William Pappert 3209, Dale Custer 3155, Sharita Johnson 3240. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com.

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property

ESTATE NOTICE ESTATE OF HAWKINS, LILLIE B., DECEASED OF PITTSBURGH, PA

Lillie B. Hawkins, deceased of Pittsburgh, PA No. 022302417 of 2023. Kimberly Spears-McNatt, Ext., 7108 Drucilla Street, Pickerington, OH 43147.

PUBLIC AUCTION

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 880 Saw Mill Run Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15226 May 3, 2023, at 1:15 PM. 3009 Yvete Ntakirutimana, 4133 Clayton Holloway, 4189 Chris Zimmerman. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com.

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction.

Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE OF SILVESTRE, NANNETTE D., DECEASED OF WEST MIFFLIN, PA Nannette D. Silvestre, deceased of West Mifflin, PA No. 01320 of 2023.

Leonard Silvestre, Ext., Or to Thomas D. Berret, Attorney. 1326 Freeport Road, Suite 100, Pittsburgh, PA 15238.

PUBLIC AUCTION

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 6400 Hamilton Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15206 May 3, 2023 at 1:45 PM. 1021 Benjamin Coleman, 2056 Jenn Bakal, 2069 Yolanda M. Rodriguez, 2139 Ronald Hudson, 4079 Joshua Ghen, 5053 Marcia Quincy. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com.

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

https://www.familycourtdirect. com/?network=1

ESTATE NOTICE ESTATE OF SENICH, DONNA R., DECEASED

OF PITTSBURGH, PA

Donna R. Senich, deceased of Pittsburgh, PA No. 022200308 of 2023. James Senich, Ext., 412 Maplevale Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15236. Or to D. Scott Lautner, Esquire. 68 Old Clairton Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.

PUBLIC AUCTION

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy the Extra Space Lien at 3200 Park Manor Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15205 on 05/03/2023 at 1:00pm. 1197 Chad Carter, 3034 Allison Yates, 3076 Michael Cramer, 3110 Adam Gilchrist and 3260 Perry Arrington. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

ESTATE NOTICE

For more information, call (412) 407-5029

ESTATE NOTICE ESTATE OF SCHIEFER, EDWARD W., DECEASED OF MOON TOWNSHIP, PA

Edward W. Schiefer, deceased of Moon Township, PA No. 02107 of 2023.

Heather Murray, Adm., 11 Suffolk Drive, Coraopolis, PA 15108. Or to Thomas D. Berret, Attorney. 1326 Freeport Road, Suite 100, Pittsburgh, PA 15238.

PUBLIC AUCTION

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 1005 E Entry Drive Pittsburgh PA 15216, May 5, 2023 at 11:30 AM. Charlene Goodnight 4137. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com.

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters of Administration in the Estate of Frances Regina Yochum, late of the City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, who died on December 28, 2017, have been granted to John P. Yochum, Administrator. All persons indebted to said Estate are requested to make payment and those having claims or demands are requested to present the same without delay to: David E. Schwager, Esquire 183 Market Street Suite 100 Kingston, PA 18704-5444

ESTATE

NOTICE

ESTATE OF YEKICH, PATRICIA K., DECEASED OF PLEASANT HILLS, PA

Patricia K. Yekich, deceased of Pleasant Hills, PA No. 02230148 of 2023. Mark Yekich, Ext., 900 Irwin Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15236. Or to D. Scott Lautner, Esquire. 68 Old Clairton Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR INSPECTION ACCESS/ SURVEYING ACCESS/ TRAFFIC CONTROL BIDS WSP USA, Inc. will receive emailed and sealed bids at Eric. Nardecchia@wsp.com and/or 11 Stanwix, Suite 950, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 until 1.00 PM on Friday, April 28, 2023. Bids are requested to provide the necessary equipment for inspection access, surveying access and traffic control during the inspection of bridges carrying SR 4042 over Norfolk Southern Railroad and Beaver River and SR 4042 over SR 0065 in Bridgewater Borough and Rochester Township, Beaver County. Interested bidders can request a bid package by emailing Eric.Nardecchia@wsp.com

Find a healthy balance of the mind, body and spirit with one of our massage therapists, yoga, or spa businesses. Call 412.685.9009

ELVERS SIGHTINGS

BY BRENDAN EMMETT QUIGLEY // BRENDANEMMETTQUIGLEY.COM

ACROSS

1.  Network support

7.  Tear it up in a pit

11.  ___ season (late winter/early spring)

14.  Later’s opposite 15.  Naysayer

16.  “I can’t decide, they all sound great”

17.  Route taken by one on the gig economy route?

20.  Another: Sp. 21.  Floor shine

22.  How picture books are often read 23.  Mowed area 25.  Ill-gotten gains

26.  Fake hair that give the wearer good vibes?

31.  Skateboarding 101 trick

32.  Chain with books in Swedish in their showrooms 33.  Inits. that say a scheduler’s still got work to do 36.  Bookstore ID 37.  Big name in Argentine history 39.  Span between an epoch, e.g. 40.  Kid who never celebrates their birthday during school 41.  Cracker spread 42.  Get 100% on an exam 43.  Tiny shaver in the accounts payable department?

47.  Skier’s transports

48.  Contacted privately through Twitter

49.  Lane the Muffin Man lives on

50.  Feathery neckpiece

51.  Old pronoun

55.  Lunged towards “Musta Notta Gotta Lotta” singer?

59.  “I know what you’re thinking” power

60.  Blinding glow

61.  Reduced, pricewise

62.  Problem for someone who can’t pass the bar?

63.  Cheer (on)

64.  Went bad DOWN

1.  What : may mean

2.  Car horn sound

3.  What comes before a :

4.  Get class placement

5.  Showed the way

6.  Like most of the time of the AustroHungarian Empire

7.  Who said “Marriage is the chief cause of divorce”

8.  Half and half

9.  Abbr. in some business addresses

10.  Baldwin with a questionable

Spanish accent

11.  Kal-El’s nickname

12.  Full length

13.  Changed the locks?

18.  Vampire’s biter

19.  Comic character in Madonna’s “Music” music video

24.  Exist

25.  Spider-___ (superhero)

26.  Silver wrap in the kitchen

27.  Choice word

28.  Greetings for the germophobic

29.  Rented out, as a limo

30.  Fightstopping decision

34.  Prepare, as pasta

35.  What pedestrians look like from a helicopter ride

37.  Close chums

NAME CHANGE

IN The Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania: No. GD-23-003830, In re petition of Olivia Jane Ryan and Robert Allan Duncan, parents and legal guardians of Celia Ryan Duncan, for change of names to Rebecca Ryan Duncan. To all persons interested: Notice is hereby given that an order of said Court authorized the filing of said petition and fixed the 12th day of May 2023, at 9:30 a.m., as the time and the Motions Room, City-County Building, Pittsburgh, PA, as the place for a hearing, when and where all persons may show cause, if any they have, why said name should not be changed as prayed for.

NAME CHANGE

IN The Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania: No. GD-22-11081, In re petition of Angelica Qin Zhang and Xulei Dong, parents and legal guardians of Jayden Zhang, for change of names to Jayden Dong. To all persons interested: Notice is hereby given that an order of said Court authorized the filing of said petition and fixed the 5th day of May 2023, at 9:30 a.m., as the time and the Motions Room, City-County Building, Pittsburgh, PA, as the place for a hearing, when and where all persons may show cause, if any they have, why said name should not be changed as prayed for.

ADOPTION NOTICE

IN RE: ADOPTION OF Baby Donna Dean a/k/a Baby Girl Dean, No. A 16 of 2023, IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT DIVISION OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA.

TO: Jason last name unknown, Birth Father of Baby Donna Dean a/k/a Baby Girl Dean, born on the 1st day of July, 2022, in Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. Petitions have been filed asking the Court to put an end to all rights you and Siera M. Dean, birth mother, have to your child, Baby Donna Dean a/k/a Baby Girl Dean. The Court has set a hearing to consider ending your parental rights. That hearing will be held in Orphans’ Court, Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, 1700 Frick Building, 437 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania 15219, on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at 1:30 P.M. You are warned that even if you fail to appear at the scheduled hearing, the hearing will go on without you and your rights to your child may be ended by the Court without your being present. You have the right to be represented at the hearing by a lawyer. You should take this paper to your lawyer at once. If you do not have a lawyer, go to or telephone the office set forth below to find out where you can get legal help.

NAME CHANGE

IN The Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania: No. GD-23-002113, In re petition of McKensi Dyess, parent and legal guardian of Katy Strummer Putnam, for change of name to Finn Strummer Putnam. To all persons interested: Notice is hereby given that an order of said Court authorized the filing of said petition and fixed the 10th day of May 2023, at 9:30 a.m., as the time and the Motions Room, City-County Building, Pittsburgh, PA, as the place for a hearing, when and where all persons may show cause, if any they have, why said name should not be changed as prayed for.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS

LAWYER REFERRAL SERVICE, The Allegheny County Bar Association, 11th Floor, Koppers Bldg., 436 Seventh Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219, 412-261-5555

In order to obtain a copy of the petition to involuntarily terminate parental rights prior to the hearing, you may contact counsel for the petitioner as set forth below.

If you cannot afford a lawyer, pursuant to the Adoption Act, the Court shall appoint counsel for a parent whose rights are subject to termination in an involuntary termination proceeding if, upon petition, the Court determines that the parent is unable to pay for counsel or if payment would result in substantial financial hardship. To request appointment of counsel, you may contact the Adoption Department Supervisor, the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Orphans’ Court Division, 1700 Frick Building, 437 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Phone number 412-350-5579.

Gerri L. Sperling, STRASSBURGER McKENNA GUTNICK & GEFSKY, Four Gateway Center, Ste. 2200, 444 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, 412-281-0828 (Direct) gsperling@smgglaw.com, Counsel for Petitioner