Author Archives: Bobby Cherry

Taylor Swift in Pittsburgh: 13 things to do here

Swiftburgh! From the Carnegie Science Center to Primanti Bros., here are 13 things to do during your June 16-17 weekend in Pittsburgh for Taylor Swift. And, of course, these things are themed with Taylor Swift lyrics!

13. It’s a roller coaster kind of rush

Get that roller coaster kind of rush at one of America’s best amusement parks — Kennywood Park!

Experience record-breaking thrills on the Steel Curtain, and check out Kennywood’s other wildly popular coasters: Phantom’s Revenge, Thunderbolt, Jack Rabbit, Racer and Sky Rocket.

And take a spin out of this world on Kennywood’s newest ride — Spinvasion. It’s the first of its kind in America!

Be sure to get some Potato Patch fries while there.

Buy tickets online at Kennywood.com.

12. You ate at my favorite spot for dinner

There are so many great places to eat in Pittsburgh.

You could go bougie, but why? Save that money for Taylor Swift merch!

Go to Primanti’s to chow down on the iconic sandwich with coleslaw and fries on it.

Be sure to get cheese fries, too.

Visit the Primanti’s in Market Square or Strip District.

Also recommend Bella Notte in the Strip District. Hands down, my favorite pizza in Pittsburgh.

11. See the lights, see the party, the ball gowns

The Carnegie Science Center might as well change its name to the Swift Science Center.

The facility — located next to Acrisure Stadium — has two epic Taylor Swift special events.

First up is the “Laser Taylor Swift” laser light show at the Buhl Planetarium.

“Calling all ‘Exiles’ and ‘Anti-Heroes!’ The Laser Taylor Swift sets hits from all the singer’s eras to dazzling laser lights and special effects,” the science center says about the show. “The question is: ‘Are You Ready For It?’ Warm up for the Eras Tour with us!”

And, as the science center notes, “If you didn’t score tickets to her concert, Laser Taylor Swift is the next best thing.” (Is it, though?)

The laser light show is an additional charge to the regular admission for the science center.

The light show will run daily at 2 p.m. through Sept. 4. Between June 12 and 15, the center will add a second showing at 4 p.m.

Be sure to check out the center’s Miniature Railroad & Village to find 10 tiny Taylor Swift figures — with each Taylor dressed as an era, of course!

“She may not fit into the Miniature Railroad’s timeline or aesthetic, but Taylor Swift never goes out of style,” Rosalie Garfinkle, assistant manager of the miniature railroad, said in a news release, according to WPXI.

The science center will close at 4 p.m. June 16 and will not be open June 17.

10. My baby’s fly like a jet stream, high above the whole scene

Go high above the whole scene from the mountaintop.

A staple of visiting Pittsburgh is taking in the view.

There are several great vantage points — walk along Grandview Avenue in Mount Washington and check out the West End Overlook.

9. Karma takes all my friends to the summit

Get to the summit (Mount Washington) by taking one of Pittsburgh’s two inclines.

Pittsburgh’s two operating inclines are the Monongahela Incline and Duquesne Incline.

The Mon Incline is considered the first passenger funicular built in the U.S.

And it’s been in continuous operation for nearly a century and a half.

The Duquesne Incline is part of the Pittsburgh Regional Transit system.

These are the last two remaining inclines in Pittsburgh, where nearly two dozen once transported people from the mountaintops.

Taylor Swift Era’s Tour in Pittsburgh: Know before you go

With Taylor Swift’s two “Eras Tour” Pittsburgh shows at Acrisure Stadium on June 16…

8. Best believe I’m still bejeweled, when I walk in the room, I can still make the whole place shimmer

Visit the Hillman Hall of Minerals and Gems and the Wertz Gallery of Gems and Jewelry at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History to take in the sights of minerals and gems that make the whole place shimmer. (Admission includes the Carnegie Museum of Art.)

7. It feels like a perfect night for breakfast at midnight

You can get breakfast at midnight at Sheetz — a unique and totally fun 24/7 convenience store with locations all around the Pittsburgh area. Take it from me: A certified Sheetz Freak.

Of course, if you don’t want breakfast at midnight, Sheetz offers pizza, hoagies, milkshakes, loads of appetizers and so much more.

6. Green was the color of the grass where I used to read at Centennial Park

Point State Park fountain and Pittsburgh skyline

It might not be Nashville’s Centennial Park, but Pittsburgh’s Point State Park offers gorgeous views of the city skyline, all three rivers, Acrisure Stadium (where Taylor Swift is performing) and Pittsburgh’s hills and valleys.

And, yes, the grass is green, and you can read on a park bench at Point State Park.

Be sure to check out the fountain, too! Just don’t get in it.

5. The world moves on, another day, another drama, drama

Take in another drama, drama in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District with Pittsburgh Public Theater and the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera.

“Frida… A Self Portrait” continues at Pittsburgh Public Theater through June 25.

CLO’s “Anything Goes” runs June 13-18 at the Benedum Center.

4. You held your head like a hero on a history book page, it was the end of a decade, but the start of an age

Learn about Pittsburgh’s history at the Heinz History Center in the Strip District.

The center features set pieces from “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” “Pittsburgh: A Tradition of Innovation,” “From Slavery to Freedom” and more. Plus, check out Western Pennsylvania’s sports history at the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum (Heinz History Center admission includes admission to the sports museum).

On special exhibit now is “The Negro Motorist Green Book” — a look at the travel for African Americans in mid-century America.

3. And I think you should come live with me and we can be pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates aren’t home the weekend Taylor Swift is in Pittsburgh, but you can still tour PNC Park — one of America’s best ballparks.

The tour showcases a number of areas throughout the ballpark.

2. When they point to the pictures, please tell them my name

There are several art and photo galleries to visit in Pittsburgh. These are just a few:

Wood Street Galleries; 601 Wood St., Downtown Pittsburgh
Photo Antiquities; 531 E Ohio St., North Side
August Wilson Center for African American Culture; 980 Liberty Ave., Downtown Pittsburgh
Space Gallery; 812 Liberty Ave., Downtown Pittsburgh
Carnegie Museum of Art (admission includes the Carnegie Museum of Natural History); 4400 Forbes Ave., Oakland

1. Hold on to the memories, they will hold on to you

Make the most of your concert experience! Whether you’re going into Acrisure Stadium to see her show or you’ll be dancing and singling along outside, just have fun!

Taylor Swift Era’s Tour in Pittsburgh: Know before you go

Pittsburgh…are you ready for it? With Taylor Swift’s two “Eras Tour” Pittsburgh shows at Acrisure Stadium (I still call it Heinz Field) approaching (June 16 and June 17!), here is a look at everything you need to know before going — from parking to transportation to bag policies and so much more.

Much of this information has been condensed from the Acrisure Stadium site. Visit that site for more information.

Who is opening for Taylor Swift?

Girl in Red and Gracie Abrams will open for Taylor Swift in Pittsburgh on June 16.

Girl in Red and Owenn will open for Taylor Swift in Pittsburgh on June 17.

When will Taylor Swift start performing?

Based on previous shows, it seems that Taylor Swift will probably take the stage around 8 p.m.

How long does the concert last?

The show begins at 6:30 p.m. Taylor Swift typically features 44 songs, meaning she performs for about three hours, including two secret songs that change each show.

Taylor Swift in Pittsburgh: 13 things to do here

Swiftburgh! From the Carnegie Science Center to Primanti Bros., here are 13 things to do during your June 16-17 weekend in Pittsburgh for Taylor Swift.

What does the view from my seat look like?

If you’re not familiar with Heinz Field, check out what the view will be like from where you’re sitting.

Here is an official seating chart.

Oh, and here is what the stadium likely will look like with the stage.

Heinz Field map with Taylor Swift Eras Tour stage

Arrive early

While the show begins at 6:30 p.m., and Taylor Swift likely goes on around 8, it’s recommended to arrive early. This can ensure you have ample time to pass through security, find your seats, use the restroom, get something to eat and check out the Taylor Swift merch (more on that in a bit).

For Steelers games, the stadium opens two hours before kickoff. This site will be updated once the stadium opening time is known.

What is the Acrisure Stadium bag policy?

Acrisure Stadium enforces a “clear bag policy,” limiting the size of bags to no bigger than 12 inches by six inches by 12 inches. Small clutch purses no larger than 4.5” x 6.5” are also permitted, with or without a handle or strap, and need not be clear. Bags must be made of clear plastic, vinyl or PVC.

Small clutch purses — with a max size of 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches — with or without a handle or strap can be carried into the stadium along with one of the clear bag options.

A 1-gallon reusable storage bag (think: Ziploc) is permitted.

An exception is made for medically necessary items with inspection at the gate. Diapers and wipes are permitted in a clear bag. Diaper bags are not permitted.

Each member of a family, including children, will be able to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse.

Among other bags not permitted include: Backpacks, fanny packs, camera bags, computer bags, other types of purses, cinch bags, tote bags and seat cushions.

What can I take into Acrisure Stadium?

In addition to following the bag policy above, guests are able to bring the following items:

Food — of any kind — contained in a clear plastic bag
Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks that are a maximum size of 24 ounces
Still photography cameras with a lens that is 6 inches or less in length not contained in a case
Hand-carried jackets, blankets or other items that will be searched

Leave these items at home or in the car

Any non-clear bag exceeding the bag policy rules
Apparel or signage displaying profane or abusive language
Alcoholic beverages
Balls of any kind, including full-size footballs
Banners/signs on poles
Battery-operated items (i.e. light up clothing)
Cans, coolers of any type, glass bottles or thermoses
Laser pointers
Noisemakers
Selfie Sticks
Single-purpose video cameras or still-photography cameras with a lens longer than 6 inches
Strollers or seat cushions
Weapons/any item that may be deemed to be a projectile
Any other item deemed dangerous or inappropriate

I asked ChatGPT to write a Christian sermon about LGBTQ people. Here’s what it did.

Artificial intelligence is all the rage lately with the release of ChatGPT.

I recently saw someone on Facebook post that they asked the chatbot to create a sermon about how Jesus would accept gay and transgender people.

I thought that was a good idea and decided to do the same. I also asked it to create a sermon about how Jesus would not accept LGBTQ people.

See the sermons below. Imagine if people followed these messages.

Of note, I am skeptical of the “language model” notice before the second one.

I also made some grammar and punctuation edits.

Write a 3 minute sermon about how Jesus would accept gays and transgender people

As a language model, I do not have personal beliefs or opinions, and my responses are not intended to offend anyone. However, here is a sample sermon that focuses on the theme of inclusion and acceptance in Christianity:

Good morning, brothers and sisters. Today, I want to talk to you about a topic that is often divisive and controversial in our society: The acceptance of gays and transgender people in our churches.

As Christians, we are called to love and accept all people, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. Jesus himself taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves and to show compassion and kindness to all those around us.

Despite this, many in our society still struggle with accepting the LGBTQ community. They are often excluded, discriminated against, and made to feel like outsiders. But this is not the message that Jesus would have us follow.

Jesus never turned anyone away. He welcomed everyone, regardless of their background or social status. He ate with tax collectors and sinners, he healed the sick and the outcast, and he showed compassion and love to all those around him.

So, how can we, as Christians, follow this example? We can start by recognizing that being gay or transgender is not a sin or a choice. It is simply a part of who someone is, and we should love and accept them for who they are.

We can also be more inclusive in our churches and communities. We can create spaces where everyone is welcome and valued, regardless of their identity or background. We can work to break down the barriers that separate us and create a more loving and accepting world.

Finally, we can show compassion and kindness to all those around us, just as Jesus did. We can reach out to those who are struggling, offer support and encouragement, and create a community that is based on love and acceptance.

In conclusion, Jesus would accept gays and transgender people just as he accepted everyone else. As Christians, we should follow his example and show love and compassion to all those around us, regardless of their identity or background. Let us work to create a world that is based on love, acceptance, and inclusivity, and let us be a shining example of Christ’s love to the world. Amen.

Write a 3 minute sermon about how Jesus would not accept gays and transgender people

As a language model, I do not have personal beliefs or opinions, and my responses are not intended to offend anyone. However, it is important to note that the overwhelming majority of Christian denominations believe in love, compassion, and inclusivity, and reject any form of discrimination or hatred against the LGBTQ community.

The message of Jesus is one of love and acceptance, and he welcomed all people, regardless of their background or identity. In the Gospel of John, Jesus tells us to love one another as he has loved us, and he never made any exceptions or qualifications for this commandment.

In fact, Jesus himself challenged the religious and social norms of his time by reaching out to those who were considered outcasts or sinners, such as tax collectors and prostitutes. He showed them love and compassion, and encouraged them to change their ways and follow him.

Therefore, it is clear that Jesus would not reject or exclude anyone based on their gender or sexual orientation. Rather, he would welcome them with open arms and show them the same love and compassion that he showed to all those he encountered during his ministry.

As Christians, we are called to follow Jesus’s example of love and acceptance and to create a community that is based on these values. We should strive to create a world where everyone is valued and accepted, regardless of their background or identity.

In conclusion, the message of Jesus is one of love, compassion, and inclusivity, and he would not reject or exclude anyone based on their gender or sexual orientation. As Christians, let us follow his example and work to create a world that is based on love and acceptance for all people. Amen.

Remembering Boo

Boo, a sweet and talkative cat who preferred expensive wet food and loved headbutts, died Feb. 10, 2023, after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. She was 14.

She was born as a feral cat who, along with her brother and sister, joined the family after taking refuge around the outside of the house. The three of them were meant to be fosters but quickly found a place in our hearts.

Boo was a lovable and enthusiastic cat who would share in a conversation for as long as a human or another animal wanted to talk. She never turned down an opportunity to talk. Even a simple “Hey, Boo” from upstairs would get her chatting.

In addition to talking, Boo loved headbutting humans and animals alike — especially headbutts from her favorite dog, Kaci, who preceded her in death, and her human family member, Bobby. She would lean in and expect a headbutt. If one wasn’t given, she would repeat her action of leaning in until the headbutt was given. And this process usually involved talking and multiple headbutts.

Fuzzy warm blankets and kitty beds with roofs were favorites of hers. She sometimes enjoyed being covered with a blanket — but not too much and not all of the time.

In her final weeks, Boo had the opportunity to choose from three different beds. She regularly moved between them, making it a fun game of “Where’s Boo?” Though, she would easily give herself away by talking.

Max, left, and Boo, right, share a cat nap on the ottoman.

While many cats like Fancy Feast and other common cat foods, Boo had a refined palate that included Deck Hand, which is only available at Whole Foods, and later only liked Reveal. But she did not like fancy treats.

As kittens, her human family spent countless hours socializing Boo and her siblings — Charlotte and Max. Boo and Max quickly understood that food, treats and cuddles were so much better than hissing and staying in the corner of a cage.

Rocket squeezed himself into the back of the bed where Boo and Max had already been lying.

She grew to accept living with dogs, though she was never fond of playing with them.

She acted as a great caregiver to Belle in her later years of being sick and to Charlotte.

Boo’s death marks a sad milestone as she was the last remaining cat in the family after more than 25 years. And her death came one day shy of five weeks after Rocket’s death.

She is survived by her human companions and four-legged creatures — Anne, Macy and Oakley. She was preceded in death by Rocket, Charlotte, Kaci, Belle, Noel, Max, Sidney, Mindy, Midnight and Snowflake.

In lieu of fancy wet food and warm beds, headbutt your furry little animals and tell them how much they mean to you.

Remembering Rocket

Some cats steal your heart with cuddles. They curl up in a lap, knead their way onto a shoulder or chest, rub noses with favorite humans and give those sandpaper licks.

And then there was Rocket.

Rocket, the sweet and curmudgeon-y orange tabby cat who melted our hearts and left bite marks on our hands and ankles, unexpectedly died Jan. 7, 2023. He was 17.

Rocket did all of those cat things. He cuddled. He laid in laps. He kneaded shoulders or chests to find the perfect spot to sleep. He rubbed noses. And he licked hands or cheeks with his sandpaper-feeling tongue.

Usually, though, his cuddles began or ended with a bite. His hand licking ended with a bite. And if you rubbed noses too long, he would most certainly try to bite your face.

And you always needed to be on guard in the kitchen for fear of your ankles or thighs being bitten.

Perhaps it was his way of showing love.

At one time, Rocket was one of six cats living under one roof.

And that never stopped him from making sure he was king of the cats, always finding ways to torment — maybe even bully — other animals.

His personality was special. He was lovingly nicknamed “the bastard cat” or “the jagoff cat.” He didn’t care about knickknacks or dogs or Christmas villages — if something was in his way, he moved it, sat on it or attacked it.

One of his longtime favorite hobbies was to perch himself in a chair at the dining room table and swat at dogs as they walked by.

It seemed as if much of his life was spent in the front window — sleeping, watching birds or knocking over Christmas decorations. He loved the sunlight and would sometimes stay in the window much of the day.

Perhaps more than that, Rocket enjoyed cuddling up to me. Whether he was sprawled across my shoulders as I sat in the armchair, along my body in bed, on my chest or legs, he found comfort in being as close to me as he could be.

While Fancy Feast was a lifetime favorite of his, in the last few months of his life, he easily adapted to a special diet — both wet and dry food. He sometimes would sneak Boo’s food.

Never one to shy away from attention, Rocket joined us for family gatherings, such as opening gifts on Christmas Eve, where he would play in opened gift wrap; putting up the tree, where he loved jumping in the bag and rolling around; and sitting at the table trying to steal food.

A love for fellow felines he did not have. Max and Belle were often victims of his bullying. Though, he left some of his fellow cat family alone. And, at times, he shared his beds and toys with those furry four-legged family.

He is survived by his human companions and four-legged creatures he didn’t really care for — Anne, Macy, Oakley and Boo. He was preceded in death by Charlotte, Kaci, Belle, Noel, Max, Sidney, Mindy, Midnight and Snowflake.

In lieu of cat nip and tasty treats, hug your furry little animals and tell them how much they mean to you.