Marathon Madness, Baby Elk & 40 Years of Wish Granting
It’s the Friday news roundup! The team is discussing the best ways to experience the Pittsburgh Marathon and how elk became a huge tourism draw in the region after they were nearly wiped out a century ago. Plus, newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco shares her personal connection to the Make-a-Wish foundation ahead of its 40th anniversary.
We love to cite our sources!
- Want to see if you’re on the marathon route? You can check it out here.
- Check out our own Megan Harris’ story on the “mathematic muscle” behind the marathon.
- If you make plans now, by the end of May, you’ll be able to see baby elk (calves!)
- Find elk viewing guides and scenic drive maps from the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau.
- Don’t miss Megan’s feature on elk mating season.
- The Trib did a lovely story about our own Francesca Dabecco and her journey from Make-A-Wish recipient to staffer.
- Refer a child, donate, or learn more about the local Make-A-Wish chapter.
Want some more Pittsburgh news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter.
We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh!
Not a fan of social? Then leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Stay connected to City Cast Pittsburgh and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Shapiro vs. Garrity, a Mafia-Style Toilet Fundraiser & TBD on New Local Taxes
Pittsburgh and Allegheny County officially announced their 2027 budgets and … wow our finances are not looking good. Host Megan Harris an...

Pittsburgh's Indigenous History
Pittsburgh loves to talk about its history — the forts, the steel mills, the immigrants, the neighborhoods. But the story of this place s...

What Pgh Restaurant Would Hold Your Wake? Plus, Measles & Mulan's Cookbook
It's official: an Allegheny County resident just tested positive for measles. It's part of Pennsylvania's ongoing (and worsening) measles...

The Dystopian AI School PA Rejected
Notes and references from today’s show: A.I.-Driven Education: Founded in Texas and Coming to a School Near You [New York Times] Sta...

Maple Miso Lattes, Artisanal Croissants & All-You-Can-Eat KBBQ
Korean BBQ, sushi, "artisanal" croissants, and other delectable delicacies are on offer from newly-opened (as well as expanding and reope...

‘Your City Could Be Better’: This Basketball Court Is Saving Residents From Floods — Presented By City Cast Pittsburgh
When Pittsburgh looks for inspiration for the future, does it look to the Netherlands? That’s what designers and officials in New York Ci...

CMU Miami, Bleak Budgets & Duquesne Light’s Strike
Carnegie Mellon University is opening a new campus in Miami, thanks to a $3 billion gift from hedge fund manager Ken Griffin. It's the la...

Your Guide to October 2026 in Pittsburgh
October in Pittsburgh is packed with things to eat, see and do — from campy musicals and a pizza opera to the Pittsburgh Art Book Fair an...

Pittsburgh’s Best Fall Frights, From Terrifying To Totally Tame
How scared do you actually want to be this Halloween? Pittsburgh has plenty of options! Whether you want chainsaw-wielding killers chasin...

Riverfront Trails Expand, Exercise for Beginners & Tim Burton Takeover
Have you ever been enjoying a bike ride along the riverfront, only for the trail to end abruptly? Good news! The city is planning to clos...


