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October 22, 2026

Runaway Pelicans, Aging Ambulances & Waterproof Warhol Art

City Cast Pittsburgh

Runaway Pelicans, Aging Ambulances & Waterproof Warhol Art

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It's been a big week for Pittsburgh: two local innovations landed on Time Magazine's Best Invention list and a pair of animals made a dramatic escape from their enclosure. Host Megan Harris and executive producer Mallory Falk discuss whether we have more animal breakouts than the average city. Plus, we've finally ordered new ambulances, fire trucks, and other critical city vehicles (meaning, soon we won't need to worry about ambulances breaking down on the way to the hospital!). Megan called up Jon Atkinson, president of the Pittsburgh Paramedics Union, to talk about what this means for his team — and for Pittsburghers experiencing medical emergencies. Finally, we share some Neighbor shoutouts and personal recommendations for bookstores, bird strolls, and waterproof Warhol art.

Interested in the bird outing we discussed on today's show? Sign up here!

Notes and references from today’s show:

  • The Best Inventions of 2026 [Time Magazine]
  • Nonprofit support of Pittsburgh’s vehicle fleet may mean 2027 savings, officials say [WESA]

👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email pittsburgh@citycast.fm. We’re also on Instagram! 

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If you enjoyed this interview with Boone Troyer, Executive Director at Athens County Visitors Bureau, learn more here.

Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, October 22nd episode:

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre

Quantum Theatre

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