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SCOTUS rejects Trump's bid over disputed California ballots

It's a blow to the administration, which has been tussling with the state in what it says is a fight to ensure all eligible voters can vote.

Politics & Policy

The Supreme Court denied the Trump administration&#x27;s request Monday to hear its case regarding more than <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="20,000 California ballots" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/02/trump-supreme-court-california-ballots-case" data-vars-content-id="dee63b53-e3c4-48bc-be63-284cffb5e8f4" data-vars-headline="SCOTUS rejects Trump&#x27;s bid over disputed California ballots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/02/trump-supreme-court-california-ballots-case" target="_self">20,000 California ballots</a> that President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="dee63b53-e3c4-48bc-be63-284cffb5e8f4" data-vars-headline="SCOTUS rejects Trump&#x27;s bid over disputed California ballots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> claims were cast by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="noncitizens" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/15/trump-doj-california-voters-ballots-lawsuit" data-vars-content-id="dee63b53-e3c4-48bc-be63-284cffb5e8f4" data-vars-headline="SCOTUS rejects Trump&#x27;s bid over disputed California ballots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/15/trump-doj-california-voters-ballots-lawsuit" target="_self">noncitizens</a>.Why it matters: It&#x27;s a blow to the administration, which has been tussling with the state in what it says is a fight to ensure all eligible voters can vote and have their ballots counted, as the law requires.

Trump to Axios: "No rush" to decide on bombing Iran again

He's pursuing dual tracks of diplomacy and preparation for war.

World

President Trump told Axios in a phone interview Monday he&#x27;s &quot;in no rush&quot; to decide whether to resume fighting in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="eef156c8-5936-4754-b740-847b490a1d06" data-vars-headline="Trump to Axios: &quot;No rush&quot; to decide on bombing Iran again" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a>. Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="midterm" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/2026-midterm-elections" data-vars-content-id="eef156c8-5936-4754-b740-847b490a1d06" data-vars-headline="Trump to Axios: &quot;No rush&quot; to decide on bombing Iran again" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/2026-midterm-elections" target="_self">midterm</a> elections have been seen as an inflection point for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="eef156c8-5936-4754-b740-847b490a1d06" data-vars-headline="Trump to Axios: &quot;No rush&quot; to decide on bombing Iran again" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> on whether to unleash a massive bombing campaign to try to bring the war to an end.<ul><li>But it appears the president, at least for now, will continue on dual tracks — letting <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="negotiations" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/28/iran-war-arab-mediators-war-post-midterms" data-vars-content-id="eef156c8-5936-4754-b740-847b490a1d06" data-vars-headline="Trump to Axios: &quot;No rush&quot; to decide on bombing Iran again" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/28/iran-war-arab-mediators-war-post-midterms" target="_self">negotiations</a> play out while preparing to go back to war if he concludes a deal isn&#x27;t reachable.</li></ul>

U.S., Russia and Ukraine to resume peace talks next week, Witkoff says

The talks revive a diplomatic effort suspended in February due to the war in Iran, following recent meetings by Trump's envoys.

The U.S., <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Russia" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/russia" data-vars-content-id="36afefb4-7280-44ca-b1d0-50163d416164" data-vars-headline="U.S., Russia and Ukraine to resume peace talks next week, Witkoff says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/russia" target="_self">Russia</a> and Ukraine will hold peace talks in Abu Dhabi on Nov. 10-11 in an effort to reach a breakthrough on a deal for ending the war. Why it matters: U.S. officials say the meeting to restart a diplomatic effort suspended in February due to the war in Iran is a result of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="talks Presidnt Trump&#x27;s envoys" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/21/russia-ukraine-putin-witkoff-peace" data-vars-content-id="36afefb4-7280-44ca-b1d0-50163d416164" data-vars-headline="U.S., Russia and Ukraine to resume peace talks next week, Witkoff says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/21/russia-ukraine-putin-witkoff-peace" target="_self">talks Presidnt Trump&#x27;s envoys</a> Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin in recent weeks.

Final polls, models and markets see a "blue tsunami"

With sky-high expectations, some Democrats fear disappointment on Tuesday is inevitable.

The threat of a blue tsunami is bearing down on President Trump&#x27;s Washington, with virtually every major indicator forecasting a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democratic rout" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/07/house-election-majority-wave-democratic-republican-trump" data-vars-content-id="bf77f448-d5ca-446e-a83e-d2c2df5b6ec6" data-vars-headline="Final polls, models and markets see a &quot;blue tsunami&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/07/house-election-majority-wave-democratic-republican-trump" target="_self">Democratic rout</a> in Tuesday&#x27;s elections.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Expectations for the midterms" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/28/2026-election-democrats-house-midterm-results" data-vars-content-id="bf77f448-d5ca-446e-a83e-d2c2df5b6ec6" data-vars-headline="Final polls, models and markets see a &quot;blue tsunami&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/28/2026-election-democrats-house-midterm-results" target="_self">Expectations for the midterms</a> have soared so high that some Democrats fear disappointment is inevitable, particularly if the party falls short of winning the Senate — a prize that seemed beyond reach just months ago.

GOP's midterm blame game starts early

"Reflecting Pool presser was an interesting choice for closing message."

Republicans don&#x27;t know <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="if they&#x27;ll lose big or small" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/03/2026-midterms-polls-predictions" data-vars-content-id="1805342d-a82b-42fa-abde-b2f3dae90037" data-vars-headline="GOP&#x27;s midterm blame game starts early" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/03/2026-midterms-polls-predictions" target="_self">if they&#x27;ll lose big or small</a> on Tuesday, but they&#x27;re already bracing for an epic blame game.Why it matters: Privately, Republicans acknowledge it&#x27;s not a complicated version of Clue. The leading suspect: Mr. President, in the Oval Office, with an assortment of weapons — and one war.

"The Pitt" stars are all over Pittsburgh

"The Pitt" crew is winding down a busy week of filming in Pittsburgh.

Culture

&quot;The Pitt&quot; crew is winding down a busy week of filming in Pittsburgh, shooting scenes at an old-school North Side eatery Thursday and leaving a few clues about what&#x27;s coming next season.Catch up quick: Noah Wyle (Dr. Robby) and other stars of HBO Max&#x27;s critically acclaimed medical drama returned to the Steel City<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" this week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/10/27/the-pitt-season-3-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="3f9ce3fd-536d-407e-bae5-a8cda9b0493c" data-vars-headline="&quot;The Pitt&quot; stars are all over Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/10/27/the-pitt-season-3-pittsburgh" target="_self"> this week</a> to film exterior shots for the show&#x27;s third season.

Pittsburgh road closures surge 31% in 2026

City data confirms a sharp rise in weekday road closures, with more work on the way.

News

You aren&#x27;t crazy: There has been more roadwork in Pittsburgh this year.Why it matters: Road closures cause massive headaches for locals, disrupting commutes and limiting access to businesses and neighborhoods.

"The Pitt" stars are back in Pittsburgh

Cameras are rolling at Allegheny General as the HBO Max drama films Season 3.

Pittsburgh is getting another close-up as the cast and crew of HBO Max&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Emmy-winning " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/07/09/the-pitt-leads-emmys-with-25-nominations" data-vars-content-id="14fa32de-f6d1-47d5-89b0-41faa03e0105" data-vars-headline="&quot;The Pitt&quot; stars are back in Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/07/09/the-pitt-leads-emmys-with-25-nominations" target="_self">Emmy-winning </a>medical drama <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;The Pitt&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/01/15/the-pitt-where-does-dr-robby-live-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="14fa32de-f6d1-47d5-89b0-41faa03e0105" data-vars-headline="&quot;The Pitt&quot; stars are back in Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/01/15/the-pitt-where-does-dr-robby-live-pittsburgh" target="_self">&quot;The Pitt&quot;</a> return to the North Side this week to film exterior scenes for its third season.The big picture: Cameras will roll Tuesday through Thursday at Allegheny General Hospital, the real-life inspiration for the show&#x27;s fictional ER.

This Shop 'n Save has one of the area's best NY-style pizza spots

One of Southwestern Pennsylvania's best New York-style pizzas is inside a Greensburg grocery store.

Food and Drink

One of Southwestern Pennsylvania&#x27;s best <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New York-style" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/10/13/penn-ave-pizza-steaks-lawrenceville" data-vars-content-id="a2734918-b31d-4ff5-8fc2-991ca25b18d4" data-vars-headline="This Shop &#x27;n Save has one of the area&#x27;s best NY-style pizza spots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/10/13/penn-ave-pizza-steaks-lawrenceville" target="_self">New York-style</a> pizzas is inside a Greensburg grocery store.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Rocco&#x27;s Slice House" data-vars-click-url="https://slicehousegbg.com/" data-vars-content-id="a2734918-b31d-4ff5-8fc2-991ca25b18d4" data-vars-headline="This Shop &#x27;n Save has one of the area&#x27;s best NY-style pizza spots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://slicehousegbg.com/" target="_blank">Rocco&#x27;s Slice House</a>, tucked in a Shop &#x27;n Save at 730 E. Pittsburgh St., specializes in generously sized slices and full pies built for a quick lunch or feeding a crowd — served from the counter of a former pharmacy space.

Opafe Bakery brings creative coffee, desserts to SouthSide Works

The bakery pairs elaborate pastries and specialty coffees with claw machines.

Croissants take center stage at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Opafe Bakery" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/opafebakery/" data-vars-content-id="bb962699-36a1-4ad8-a811-e0eed4d62978" data-vars-headline="Opafe Bakery brings creative coffee, desserts to SouthSide Works" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/opafebakery/" target="_blank">Opafe Bakery</a>, a new pastry shop at SouthSide Works.The big picture: The 4,200-square-foot bakery at 2720 Sidney St. comes from Pittsburgh-based Opal Group, the budding hospitality company behind Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Okane" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/08/14/okane-sushi-cafe-rooftop-bar" data-vars-content-id="bb962699-36a1-4ad8-a811-e0eed4d62978" data-vars-headline="Opafe Bakery brings creative coffee, desserts to SouthSide Works" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/08/14/okane-sushi-cafe-rooftop-bar" target="_self">Okane</a>.

Penn Ave Pizza serves a perfectly charred slice

Penn Ave Pizza and Steaks serves $4 slices, giant subs and retro vibes in Lawrenceville.

Sometimes you just want a hot slice, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a pop" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/09/24/soda-pop-debate-poll" data-vars-content-id="f6353b91-b844-47d2-a8b2-db418dd7a16e" data-vars-headline="Penn Ave Pizza serves a perfectly charred slice" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/09/24/soda-pop-debate-poll" target="_self">a pop</a>, and a nice place to sit. A new pizza shop at the Lawrenceville-Bloomfield border has what you need.The intrigue: Penn Ave Pizza and Steaks opened earlier this year and has already attracted scores of fans and may warrant an inclusion in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="our best pizza bracket" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/07/10/fioris-wins-best-pittsburgh-pizza" data-vars-content-id="f6353b91-b844-47d2-a8b2-db418dd7a16e" data-vars-headline="Penn Ave Pizza serves a perfectly charred slice" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/07/10/fioris-wins-best-pittsburgh-pizza" target="_self">our best pizza bracket</a>.

Six noodle dishes worth slurping

Celebrate National Noodle Day with these 6 dishes

The weather is cooling off, so it&#x27;s time to warm up with a delicious cup, bowl or plate of noodles.The intrigue: It&#x27;s National Noodle Day, and Pittsburgh has scores of starchy ribbons to sample across several different international cuisines.

Citizens Live at The Wylie opens

Citizens Live at The Wylie holds 4,300 people next to PPG Paints Arena in the Hill District

Pittsburgh&#x27;s newest entertainment venue opens this week in the Hill District. Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Citizens Live at The Wylie" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/07/28/citizens-at-the-wylie-tour-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="d87cef82-b668-467f-b8b6-8d98062cac2b" data-vars-headline="Citizens Live at The Wylie opens" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/07/28/citizens-at-the-wylie-tour-pittsburgh" target="_self">Citizens Live at The Wylie</a> adds another piece to the Lower Hill&#x27;s redevelopment, decades after the neighborhood was demolished in the name of urban renewal.

Local data centers test if there's a "right way" to build

Opposition is still strong to local data centers despite on-site power and community benefits.

Western Pennsylvania&#x27;s two biggest data center projects are making strides to mitigate opposition, but it might not be working.The big picture: As backlash against <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="hyperscale data centers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/12/18/pennsylvania-data-center-expansion" data-vars-content-id="ab5670ec-29c6-43a2-8e2f-fcd914b325f4" data-vars-headline="Local data centers test if there&#x27;s a &quot;right way&quot; to build" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/12/18/pennsylvania-data-center-expansion" target="_self">hyperscale data centers</a> grows, some Pennsylvania companies are responding by generating their own power and water and choosing sites that previously housed dirtier industry.

Mapped: Pennsylvania's data center pipeline

Pennsylvania has roughly 88 projects proposed for after 2026, per the company.

Development

Pennsylvania could have more than 100 large data centers in the coming years if all planned projects are built, increasing the state&#x27;s capacity 40-fold to 22,000 megawatts, per an analysis by market intelligence company Cleanview.By the numbers: Pennsylvania has roughly 88 projects proposed for after 2026, per the company.

Hazelwood Green redevelopment takes off

New housing, research facilities and public spaces are transforming the former steel mill site.

After a slow start, redevelopment at Hazelwood Green — the former site of Pittburgh&#x27;s largest steel mill — is finally taking off.Why it matters: Civic leaders planned for decades the redevelopment of a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="massive brownfield site" data-vars-click-url="https://benedum.org/hazelwood-green-transforming-a-brownfield/" data-vars-content-id="dae58c48-bdd8-4aa3-86c7-88fa8211c883" data-vars-headline="Hazelwood Green redevelopment takes off" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://benedum.org/hazelwood-green-transforming-a-brownfield/" target="_blank">massive brownfield site</a> along the Monongahela River in Hazelwood, and it wasn&#x27;t certain it would come together with new office space, light industry, multi-unit housing, retail and parks.

Election Day in PGH: What you need to know

Here's what to know about key races, polling hours and mail ballots before you vote Tuesday.

Welcome to your <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Election Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/10/19/pennsylvania-voter-guide-shapiro-garrity-state-house-senate" data-vars-content-id="9239234c-e8c5-45ad-b8f2-45e5ae9dd68c" data-vars-headline="Election Day in PGH: What you need to know" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/10/19/pennsylvania-voter-guide-shapiro-garrity-state-house-senate" target="_self">Election Day</a> cheat sheet.Why it matters: Control of Pennsylvania&#x27;s state government is on the line Tuesday, and Pittsburgh could play a part in that shift.

ALCOSAN sewage rates to jump 47.5% by 2029

ALCOSAN approved three years of rate hikes starting in January 2027.

Allegheny County&#x27;s sewage rates are going way up over the next three years.Why it matters: Residents are already dealing with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="high gas prices" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/07/10/pittsburgh-gas-spending-pnc" data-vars-content-id="06875730-f028-4838-b7ea-7192eec80293" data-vars-headline="ALCOSAN sewage rates to jump 47.5% by 2029" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/07/10/pittsburgh-gas-spending-pnc" target="_self">high gas prices</a>, persistent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="inflation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/cpi-september-inflation-trump" data-vars-content-id="06875730-f028-4838-b7ea-7192eec80293" data-vars-headline="ALCOSAN sewage rates to jump 47.5% by 2029" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/cpi-september-inflation-trump" target="_self">inflation</a> and local <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="property tax increases" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/01/16/allegheny-county-property-tax-increase" data-vars-content-id="06875730-f028-4838-b7ea-7192eec80293" data-vars-headline="ALCOSAN sewage rates to jump 47.5% by 2029" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/01/16/allegheny-county-property-tax-increase" target="_self">property tax increases</a>.

Westinghouse helps fuel nuclear energy revival

A $7 million award could help develop fuel for the next generation of nuclear reactors.

The U.S. Department of Energy believes Cranberry-based Westinghouse can create cheaper nuclear fuel to power the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="next revolution in nuclear energy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/06/25/westinghouse-loan-nuclear-reactors" data-vars-content-id="cbde5f7d-c556-4bef-b527-c02b5e2e62c9" data-vars-headline="Westinghouse helps fuel nuclear energy revival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/06/25/westinghouse-loan-nuclear-reactors" target="_self">next revolution in nuclear energy</a>.Why it matters: As electricity demand rises from homes and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="energy-intensive data centers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/09/30/data-centers-grid-electricity-costs-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="cbde5f7d-c556-4bef-b527-c02b5e2e62c9" data-vars-headline="Westinghouse helps fuel nuclear energy revival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/09/30/data-centers-grid-electricity-costs-pittsburgh" target="_self">energy-intensive data centers</a>, federal officials see expanded nuclear energy production as key to meeting the nation&#x27;s needs.

13 ways to celebrate this Halloweekend in Pittsburgh

Halloween won't land on a Saturday again until 2037. Make the most of it!

Things to Do

Halloweekend is here! It&#x27;s time to brave a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="haunted attraction" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/10/09/halloween-haunted-houses-events" data-vars-content-id="4b87e526-2317-4ac0-b588-a1300bd24f6f" data-vars-headline="13 ways to celebrate this Halloweekend in Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/10/09/halloween-haunted-houses-events" target="_self">haunted attraction</a>, take a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ghost tour" data-vars-click-url="https://www.visitpittsburgh.com/blog/pittsburgh-ghost-tours/" data-vars-content-id="4b87e526-2317-4ac0-b588-a1300bd24f6f" data-vars-headline="13 ways to celebrate this Halloweekend in Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.visitpittsburgh.com/blog/pittsburgh-ghost-tours/" target="_blank">ghost tour</a>, see some <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="monster murals" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/jeremymraymer/posts/pfbid0xPwxMCDHMWSALbjELt133cRDx8bg4wDm9zmmakw9CBFmYhiztRggcQzTp8owtDTsl" data-vars-content-id="4b87e526-2317-4ac0-b588-a1300bd24f6f" data-vars-headline="13 ways to celebrate this Halloweekend in Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/jeremymraymer/posts/pfbid0xPwxMCDHMWSALbjELt133cRDx8bg4wDm9zmmakw9CBFmYhiztRggcQzTp8owtDTsl" target="_blank">monster murals</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="check" data-vars-click-url="https://frightmaps.com/trick-or-treat-times/pennsylvania/pittsburgh-area/" data-vars-content-id="4b87e526-2317-4ac0-b588-a1300bd24f6f" data-vars-headline="13 ways to celebrate this Halloweekend in Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://frightmaps.com/trick-or-treat-times/pennsylvania/pittsburgh-area/" target="_blank">check</a> when trick-or-treaters will come knocking.But that&#x27;s just the start. Here&#x27;s what else is happening.

Wegmans to expand Pittsburgh area footprint with South Hills store

The grocer will anchor a major South Hills redevelopment.

Wegmans is making another major <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="play" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/08/06/the-bridge-a-look-at-our-first-wegmans" data-vars-content-id="dfc17ff5-6cde-4f4c-a353-d898c2512c53" data-vars-headline="Wegmans to expand Pittsburgh area footprint with South Hills store" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/08/06/the-bridge-a-look-at-our-first-wegmans" target="_self">play</a> in the Pittsburgh area&#x27;s increasingly competitive grocery market — this time in the South Hills.The big picture: The New York-based grocer will anchor a redevelopment of the Galleria of Mt. Lebanon, bringing a 110,000-square-foot supermarket to the South Hills shopping center.

Why Pa. and neighbors want in on the space race

The tri-state region is leveraging 1,124 firms and $9.5 billion in federal contracts.

The space industry is ready to take off, and partners representing Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia want in on the action.Why it matters: The private sector space industry is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="attracting billions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/pro/all-deals/2025/07/22/space-exploration-investment-lifts-off" data-vars-content-id="0bc69134-972d-4839-a4f8-3682e45b7e4c" data-vars-headline="Why Pa. and neighbors want in on the space race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/pro/all-deals/2025/07/22/space-exploration-investment-lifts-off" target="_self">attracting billions</a> in investment, so regions across the nation are competing to become the next hub of innovation, manufacturing and investment.

5 new Pa. laws, from AI ads to PFAS

The measures address AI advertising, school cellphones, toxic chemicals and more.

Gov. Josh Shapiro signed dozens of bills this month addressing everything from AI-generated ads to toxic chemicals and school cellphone use.Why it matters: The new laws tackle a wide range of public safety and consumer concerns, with changes that will reach classrooms, hospitals and everyday life across Pennsylvania in the coming years.

Poll: Do you support Pennsylvania's school cellphone ban? 

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a bill Monday requiring public schools to ban cellphone use throughout the school day.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bipartisan bill" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/10/27/pennsylvania-cellphone-school-ban-students-devices" data-vars-content-id="c34c43c4-2a9c-4093-9ed1-26567fe6e343" data-vars-headline="Poll: Do you support Pennsylvania&#x27;s school cellphone ban? " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/10/27/pennsylvania-cellphone-school-ban-students-devices" target="_self">bipartisan bill</a> Monday banning student cellphone use in schools, including during lunch and recess and between classes.How it works: Public, charter and private K-12 schools must enforce bell-to-bell restrictions but can set their own rules for storing phones starting next year.

Pittsburgh startup swaps plastic pill bottles for paper

Point Breeze-based Parcel Health, fresh off a spot on TIME's Best Inventions list, is building momentum beyond Pennsylvania.

A Pittsburgh startup has a new prescription for plastic waste: a mostly paper pill bottle.Why it matters: Billions of plastic prescription bottles are discarded annually in the U.S., and Point Breeze-based Parcel Health aims to replace them with packaging that cuts plastic use without compromising medication safety.

How to make the most of Kennywood's Phantom Fall Fest

Hitting all seven haunted attractions at Kennywood's Phantom Fall Fest in one night is no easy feat.

Hitting all seven haunted attractions at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kennywood&#x27;s Phantom Fall Fest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kennywood.com/discover-the-park/events-shows/phantom-fall-fest/" data-vars-content-id="cd96acbb-8bdd-420a-97e7-7cbfd717db0d" data-vars-headline="How to make the most of Kennywood&#x27;s Phantom Fall Fest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kennywood.com/discover-the-park/events-shows/phantom-fall-fest/" target="_blank">Kennywood&#x27;s Phantom Fall Fest</a> in one night is no easy feat.Why it matters: A <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Speedy Pass" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kennywood.com/buy-tickets/extras/speedy-pass/" data-vars-content-id="cd96acbb-8bdd-420a-97e7-7cbfd717db0d" data-vars-headline="How to make the most of Kennywood&#x27;s Phantom Fall Fest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kennywood.com/buy-tickets/extras/speedy-pass/" target="_blank">Speedy Pass</a> is likely your best bet on busy nights, but it&#x27;ll cost you — and even with one, our poor planning limited us to five haunts during a recent Saturday visit.

Train from Pittsburgh to NYC melts travel stress away

Amtrak's Pennsylvanian offers mountain views, room to relax and a break from travel stress.

Transit

The train from Pittsburgh to New York City is slower than driving or flying, but its vibes are much better.Why it matters: Amtrak&#x27;s Pennsylvanian line is Pittsburgh&#x27;s most popular, and it&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="getting additional service" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/08/04/amtrak-second-pittsburgh-nyc-train" data-vars-content-id="4c2ec113-6bca-44d7-af9f-ca8eb1de13e3" data-vars-headline="Train from Pittsburgh to NYC melts travel stress away" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/08/04/amtrak-second-pittsburgh-nyc-train" target="_self">getting additional service</a> starting next month, giving locals more opportunities to ride the rails.

Take a day trip to Hollidaysburg

Explore historic streets, cozy cafes and scenic overlooks just two hours from Pittsburgh.

Pittsburghers love to flock to Florida or Myrtle Beach, but they should also look just a few hours east for a fun time.The big picture: Day-tripping is on the rise in Pennsylvania as travelers look to sidestep <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="high lodging costs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/10/01/center-city-hotels-industry-airbnb-greater-philadelphia-hotel-association" data-vars-content-id="0fad9724-d266-47b7-bc49-a1b5e213a679" data-vars-headline="Take a day trip to Hollidaysburg" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/10/01/center-city-hotels-industry-airbnb-greater-philadelphia-hotel-association" target="_self">high lodging costs</a>, per a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new report" data-vars-click-url="https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/v1/clients/pennsylvania/Economic_Impact_of_Visitors_to_Pennsylvania_Counties_2025_CLIENT_PRELIMINARY_9_25_2026_8edbb30b-017e-428d-ba04-59cacf35e9e5.pdf" data-vars-content-id="0fad9724-d266-47b7-bc49-a1b5e213a679" data-vars-headline="Take a day trip to Hollidaysburg" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/v1/clients/pennsylvania/Economic_Impact_of_Visitors_to_Pennsylvania_Counties_2025_CLIENT_PRELIMINARY_9_25_2026_8edbb30b-017e-428d-ba04-59cacf35e9e5.pdf" target="_blank">new report</a> industry group Tourism Economics.

A 6pm dance party is coming to Pittsburgh

Earlybirds Club is bringing throwback hits and an early bedtime to Stage AE.

The dance floor is calling, but your bedtime is safe.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Earlybirds Club" data-vars-click-url="https://early-birds.club/" data-vars-content-id="60856cdd-1e03-48a7-ba26-cbee96b3fa7e" data-vars-headline="A 6pm dance party is coming to Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://early-birds.club/" target="_blank">Earlybirds Club</a>, a national dance party series, is coming to Pittsburgh later this month with throwback hits, new friends and plenty of time to get your beauty sleep.

Pittsburgh legends get their stars on Smallman

From the Terrible Towel to Hollywood, Pittsburgh's newest honorees left their mark on America.

The Pittsburgh Walk of Fame doubled its star power Tuesday, unveiling a second class of honorees whose bronze stars now line the Strip District Terminal.Why it matters: From Hollywood and professional sports to art and industry, the honorees reflect Pittsburgh&#x27;s outsized influence on America.

Pittsburgh Halloween events to haunt your calendar

Find haunted houses, eerie cruises, festivals and more spooky fun.

Pittsburgh&#x27;s Halloween calendar is packed with haunted houses, creepy cocktail pop-ups, fright-night markets and other eerie events.Here are some of the best ways to celebrate Halloween around Pittsburgh this year. Check out our <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="October events guide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/09/22/pittsburgh-october-events-2026" data-vars-content-id="f6b965b2-03f9-43a9-9532-8e1d3fa78bed" data-vars-headline="Pittsburgh Halloween events to haunt your calendar" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/09/22/pittsburgh-october-events-2026" target="_self">October events guide</a> for more!

Forgotten Clark Crush Bar makes a comeback

The recipe had been lost for nearly 50 years.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Clark Crush Bar" data-vars-click-url="https://www.boyercandies.com/products/clark-crush-bar" data-vars-content-id="4fba2d75-d4e1-486e-9c66-c62598b303af" data-vars-headline="Forgotten Clark Crush Bar makes a comeback" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.boyercandies.com/products/clark-crush-bar" target="_blank">The Clark Crush Bar</a>, a long-discontinued spin on the iconic Clark Bar, is back on shelves after Altoona-based Boyer Candy Co. unearthed its recipe.Dig in: The Crush Bar blends peanut butter and pieces of Clark crunch right into the chocolate itself. Think a sweet, salty peanut butter crunch wrapped in rich milk chocolate.

Why Pittsburgh is America's Halloween capital

Pittsburgh has a killer claim to fame: We helped put the horror in Halloween.

Pittsburgh has a killer claim to fame: We helped put the horror in Halloween.Why it matters: From pioneering the modern zombie to producing generations of horror talent, Pittsburgh has a legitimate case as America&#x27;s Halloween capital.

Creator regrets (some of) "Star Wars" machine stunt

The creator says he should have been clearer that the viral heist was all in jest.

Content creator Braeden Days tells Axios he regrets how he communicated his <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="influencer stunt" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/09/01/star-wars-vending-machine-stunt-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="e3809788-b68a-4bc5-98fe-93ec2be9eec5" data-vars-headline="Creator regrets (some of) &quot;Star Wars&quot; machine stunt" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/09/01/star-wars-vending-machine-stunt-pittsburgh" target="_self">influencer stunt</a> with Pittsburgh&#x27;s beloved &quot;Star Wars&quot; vending machine.The big picture: In August, Days swapped out Mt. Washington&#x27;s 1999 &quot;Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace&quot; Pepsi machine with an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="artistic rendition" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/08/27/star-wars-vending-machine-replaced-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="e3809788-b68a-4bc5-98fe-93ec2be9eec5" data-vars-headline="Creator regrets (some of) &quot;Star Wars&quot; machine stunt" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/08/27/star-wars-vending-machine-replaced-pittsburgh" target="_self">artistic rendition</a>.

New exhibit brings Fred Rogers' lessons to life

A new Children's Museum exhibit turns kindness, bravery and patience into play.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Children&#x27;s Museum of Pittsburgh" data-vars-click-url="https://pittsburghkids.org/" data-vars-content-id="74c573cc-5780-4d81-bc75-9c76a725fc2e" data-vars-headline="New exhibit brings Fred Rogers&#x27; lessons to life" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://pittsburghkids.org/" target="_blank">Children&#x27;s Museum of Pittsburgh</a> is debuting a new Fred Rogers-inspired exhibit that will tour the country.Why it matters: Rogers&#x27; ideas about childhood still influence the museum&#x27;s exhibits, including his belief that play should honor children as whole people and speak to the child in all of us.

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