🛒 Grocery store wars

Grocery Store Showdown

Giant Eagle has long been the main grocery game in town (it's celebrating 95 years in the Burgh with a series of $6.99 shirts). But with Wegmans and Meijer coming to Cranberry and Kroger acquiring the local chain, it suddenly feels like we're at the center of the grocery store wars. [Giant Eagle / 🔒 Post-Gazette]

• What's going on, and can the competition drive down prices? We discuss. [City Cast Pittsburgh]
• Are you a “one-and-done” shopper or a “deal finder” hitting multiple stores? Let us know and we might share your comments in a future episode.

26,000 County Residents Could Lose Medicaid

Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato says new paperwork requirements taking effect next year will make it harder for eligible recipients to keep their coverage. Lower enrollment will also lead to less federal funding for local behavioral health providers. Officials estimate the county could lose more than $20 million next year. [TribLive]

Red Bus Lanes Arriving In Oakland

Starting tonight, PRT is installing red bus-only lanes on Forbes and Fifth avenues in Oakland as part of its University Line. Motorists using the lanes will get warnings during the first 30-days they're in use; after that, drivers will get tickets. [PRT]

Historic Pittsburgh Whiskey Brand Revived

H. Obernauer & Co. was founded in 1884 during the region’s whiskey boom, but closed ahead of Prohibition. Today, Matthew Obernauer, great-great-grandson of Herman Obernauer, is working to bring it back. The resurrected company will open a tasting room in the former Kingfly Spirits space in the coming months and host whiskey tastings as early as this fall. [Axios Pittsburgh]

We’re back with recommendations from City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors 📣 This is a regular spot in the newsletter where members get to shine a light on their favorite local businesses, organizations, and events.

• 🏋️‍♀️ Meaghan S. wants to shout out Ekstasis Movement Studio in East Liberty. “It’s an awesome gym. I tried Quality Strength through ClassPass and it was intense but also amazing. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a new gym or something to mix it up!”

Want to share your own shoutout? Become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor!

Now’s the perfect time because we’re still clearing out our Neighbor Swag Closet, so get in on the goods! Become a member now for the chance to pick ✨something special✨ like a roomy tote bag, our exclusive Oxford Pennant, or a diner-style mug.

Thanks to our new members, John K. and Saul S. Welcome to the neighborhood!