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Monday, December 19, 2011

Caring for Kids Results & Car Winner!

After weeks of tireless fundraising, our team members have wrapped up our annual Caring for Kids campaign, with results that are nothing short of amazing.

In a mere five weeks, we raised...
$413,371!

This total is the highest in the history of Caring for Kids, and given the fact that this campaign has now been going strong for 33 years, that’s saying a lot!

This year’s contribution has also pushed us over the $8 million mark in donations to local children’s hospitals over the life of the campaign.

No words can express our gratitude to all of the guests and team members who opened their wallets and their hearts for such a great cause. This campaign truly makes a difference in the lives of local children who are being treated at these hospitals.

The following hospitals benefited from this year’s campaign:
  • Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
  • WVU Children’s Hospital
  • St. Vincent Heath System
  • Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley
  • Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Hershey Medical Center
  • Rainbow Babies
  • Indiana Regional Medical Center
  • DuBois Regional Medical Center
  • Columbus Children’s Hospital
  • Children’s Medical Center of Akron
  • Geisinger Health System
  • Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Of course, Caring for Kids wouldn’t be nearly so successful without the generous contributions of our partners. The Neighborhood Ford Store once again donated a car – A 2012 Ford Focus – to be raffled off to one lucky winner. Robin Brooks of Youngstown, Ohio got a special holiday surprise on Wednesday when her ticket was drawn by a patient at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Congratulations, Robin!

2012 Ford Focus raffle drawing at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh

Other partners who made significant contributions to the campaign include:
  • Sheetz, Inc.
  • Nestle Professional Vitality
  • Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
  • KDKA Radio
  • KDKA-TV
Thank you for your support!

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Friday, December 16, 2011

The Eat'n Park Christmas Star commercial: Nearly 30 years later, it’s still going strong!

We’ve noticed something lately. The holidays have a special quality; one that ensures that much-loved classics will never go away. Our Christmas Star commercial is coming up on its 30th anniversary (can you believe that it’s been running since 1982?), and that got us thinking about traditions and the Christmas season.

At what other time of year are folks tuning in to watch movies that are over a half-century old? It’s a Wonderful Life came out in 1946, and some of the other classics that we all know and love – Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Frosty the Snowman – came out in the 60’s, more than 40 years ago.

So is it really any surprise that a simple holiday sentiment like our Christmas Star commercial has cemented its place in the hearts of so many? We say no. There are certain things that transcend time, and the Christmas Star, just like those timeless Christmas movies, communicates an everlasting idea that just doesn’t fade. It’s the idea that we’re all in this together – and that by sharing, helping, comforting, and caring, we’re able to make the world a brighter place.

New trends will come and go; 30 years ago, you watched these classics on TV. Who would have thought back then that today you’d be viewing them online or on your phone? Technology will change, but the holiday spirit continues to hold true, as it has for centuries past.

So, as the holidays approach, remember those who could use a special lift. Make a donation, volunteer an afternoon, lend a helping hand, spend a day with someone who has no one to celebrate with. The smallest act of kindness can echo further than you’d imagine. And as you settle in to watch Miracle on 34th Street for the umpteenth time, you’ll know that you’ve made someone’s holiday just a little bit brighter.

From all of us here at Eat’n Park, Merry Christmas!




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Thursday, December 15, 2011

A Look Back: 2011 Sustainable Accomplishments at Eat'n Park

At the end of every year I like to take some time to reflect on all of Eat’n Park’s accomplishments over the past year. We’ve had a great year and are really proud of the hard work we’ve done relating to sustainability. (We give ourselves two “green” thumbs up!)

In 2011, we...
  • Reduced the amount of waste going to our landfills (by recycling)
  • Accommodated cyclists at some of our restaurants (stop in to fuel your ride!)
  • Supported our local farmers (who doesn’t love fresh, local produce?!)
  • Became LEED-certified (think skylights and rainwater barrels)
Read more about our EcoSteps initiatives below…

Reduction of waste going to our landfills

We have been recycling cardboard at our locations for many years, but in January 2011, we instituted a recycling program that includes bottles and cans at 47 of our restaurants. This recycling program represents 384 yards or 24 tons of material annually being diverted away from landfills. We would love to incorporate this element at ALL of our locations, but recycling programs aren’t available in all of the communities that we have restaurants. We continue to encourage more areas to offer a comprehensive recycling program.

Smiley visits a local recycling center
Health and Wellness

The Steel Valley bike trail of Allegheny Passage follows the shores of the Monongahela River, through historic battlefields and former steel mill sites in Homestead, Braddock, Duquesne, McKeesport, Glassport and Clairton. When this section of the trail opened in June 2011, we realized that the restaurants we have in the area don’t have places for cyclists to park their bikes. So, we’ve installed new bike racks along the trail next to our Waterfront restaurant location.

We know at this point in time it’s not practical to have bike racks at all our locations, but we’ll install them where it makes sense. At this time we have them at the following locations:

Waterfront – Homestead, PA
Waterworks – Fox Chapel, PA

New bike racks at our Homestead location

So if you’re out cycling in Homestead or Fox Chapel and you’re looking for a place to eat, remember that we’ve got a place to park your bike! If you know of other locations that need a bike rack, please let us know. In early spring, we’ll be installing racks at our McKeesport restaurant, which is also along the Steel Valley trail.

FarmSource Local Sourcing

Eat’n Park Hospitality Group’s FarmSource® program, which started in 2002, is thriving today as a company-wide initiative. This year our FarmSource program purchased over $18 million in local foods throughout the communities that we serve. This program encompasses dairy, produce, local artisan producers and meat. One of the great FarmSource successes this year was local cherry tomatoes from Yarnick Farms in Indiana.

We also were recognized nationally for our FarmSource program. This year Regis Holden, our Senior Director of Culinary Services for Eat’n Park received the United Fresh, Produce Excellence in Foodservice award, which honors the foodservice industries most innovative produce performers. Regis received this award for his exceptional work in incorporating fresh produce on our menu and for his engagement in community outreach.

Regis is one the chefs who works with the Community Food Bank on their Farm Stand project. The Farm Stand project is in place to provide low-income neighborhoods traditionally underserved by full-service grocery stores. Each week the one of our chefs complements the produce for sale with nutrition education and weekly cooking demonstrations with recipes and samples using local produce to encourage healthy eating.

LEED-Certified Gold Eat’n Park

Our Fox Chapel Eat'n Park Restaurant in the Waterworks shopping plaza opened last summer, and this year, it became the first restaurant in the city of Pittsburgh to achieve a LEED Gold certification. The restaurant features skylights that amplify natural light, LED lighting, an Energy-Star rated kitchen, barrels to harvest natural rainwater, bike racks, and a wind-turbine system that generates 2,000 kilowatt hours of wind energy a year, which equates to about 1/3 of the annual energy used by an average household.

So, what does LEED Gold Certification mean? Let me explain. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is an internationally-recognized green building certification system that was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). They have multiply levels for their certification; Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. After the construction of a LEED building it then is evaluated by the USGBC to determine the level of certification, and our restaurant was certified as Gold in June 2011.

On the horizon

So what are we doing now? Through the construction of the Waterworks Eat’n Park, we learned quite a bit about building a green restaurant, and we’re now implementing LEED components into new construction projects. For instance, our newest restaurant, The Porch at Schenley (located in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood) has many cool green construction components, like a green vegetated sedum roof over a 1/3 of the building and a rain barrel that collects water to be used to irrigate our rooftop garden that will starting growing some of our veggies in early spring.
Our newest restaurant concept, The Porch at Schenley Plaza
The Porch's "green" roof
Rain barrel at The Porch

These are some of the highlights of our initiatives and, of course, we plan on doing more in 2012. If you’ve got some suggestions on areas that we can green, I would love to hear from you.

Until next time,
Jamie

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Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Eat'n Park Coupon for Stocking Stuffers - BOGO Smiley Mugs

Next time you're in Eat'n Park, knock those last minute stocking stuffers off your list! Just print out this coupon and use it to buy one Smiley Mug, and get one free!

You can mix and match mug styles (ceramic or travel) AND designs. Plus, your coupon is good for up to three mugs. So you can get six, but only pay for three!

Click here to print your coupon now.
Valid through December 24, 2011.


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Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Holiday Bonus Cards are here at Eat'n Park!

Let's take a look at that holiday shopping list.  What are you going to get for...
....your father-in-law, who already has everything
....your picky aunt, a relentless re-gifter
....the co-worker who always brightens your day
....the service people who make your world go 'round, all through the year (you know, your mailperson, garbage men, babysitter, etc.)

Don't have an answer yet? Now you do: Eat'n Park gift cards! Not only does everyone love an Eat'n Park gift card, but right now, you can treat yourself, too! That's because our Bonus Cards are back.

While supplies last, you’ll get a FREE $5 bonus card with every $25 in Eat’n Park gift card purchases at our restaurants. It’s like a reward for being such a great gift-giver! Bonus cards work just like regular gift cards, and are valid from January 1 through January 31, 2012, so you have a whole month to use them.

You’ll get one $5 bonus card for every $25 in gift card purchases, regardless of the denomination. So, if you buy five $5 cards, you’ll get one bonus card. Buy $100 worth of gift cards, and you’ll get four $5 bonus cards. You get the picture.
But here’s the catch : We only have a limited supply of bonus cards, and we can’t make substitutions. So when they’re gone, they’re gone! Stop in to your local Eat’n Park today to get yours, then relax – holiday gift-giving doesn’t get any easier than this!

Bonus cards are only available at Eat’n Park restaurant locations. This offer is not available with online gift card orders.


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Thursday, December 1, 2011

12.5.2011 Caring for Kids Activities at Eat'n Park

Monday, December 05, 2011
Big McKnight Pictures with Santa (5:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Library Road Spaghetti Dinner (7:00 PM-9:00 PM)

Tuesday, December 06, 2011
Butler--United Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Marshall Twp. Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-7:00 PM) Includes Pictures with Santa
Belle Vernon Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Austintown Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)

Wednesday, December 07, 2011
Whitehall Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8 :00 PM)
Monongahela Tips for Tots (3:00 PM-9 :00 PM)
Canonsburg Scott Blasey Benefit Concert (6:00 PM-10:00 PM) Held at Muse Firehall
Sewickley Tips for Tots (11:00 AM-8:00 PM)
Streetsboro Tips for Tots
New Stanton Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-9:00 PM)
Moon Twp.--Airport Tips for Tots (11:00 AM-8:00 PM)
Johnstown Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Morgantown Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-7:00 PM)
Clarksburg Tips for Tots (5:00 PM-8 :00 PM)
N. Huntington Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
North Versailles Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)

Thursday, December 08, 2011
Parma Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Monongahela Round-up Weekend
Johnstown Bowlathon (11:00)
Chapel Hill Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Warren Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)

Friday, December 09, 2011
Steubenville Tips for Tots (11:00 AM-7:00 PM)
Franklin Park 80's Dance (6:00 PM-10:00 PM) Held at Corapolis VFW (412 Mulberry Street)
Somerset Pictures with Santa (6:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Marshall Twp. Rodeo Round-up (All Day)
Indiana Rodeo Round-up (All Day)
N. Huntington Night at the Races (7:00 PM-11:00 PM) Held at Manor American Legion

Sunday, December 11, 2011
Library Road Smiley Idol (7:00 PM)
Johnstown Oldies Dance (7:00 PM-10:00 PM) Held at St. Patick's Church
Washington--Mall Christmas Tunes with Jen (10:00 AM-1:00 PM)
Belle Vernon Cash Bash (5:00 PM)

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Winter Specials at Eat’n Park

It might be dreary and drab outside, but inside Eat’n Park, our winter specials are going to set your taste buds ablaze!

Texas Tanglers
This appetizer takes no prisoners with its Texas-sized flavor! Strips of onions and jalapeño peppers are batter-dipped and fried, and served with our Cajun ranch dressing. Giddyup, cowboy! $4.99

Buffalo Bleu Burger
Get rowdy with this Cajun-seasoned burger, topped with crumbled Bleu cheese and spicy Buffalo sauce. Served on a Kaiser roll, along with a side of your choice. $6.99

Texas Jack Burger
The heat will get you hopping! A Fajita-seasoned burger is topped with Pepper Jack cheese, batter-dipped strips of jalapeño peppers and onions, and chipotle mayo. Wowza! Served on a Kaiser roll with your choice of a side. $6.99

Chocolate Chip Pancakes
There’s really no denying it – chocolate chips make everything better, especially when you add them to breakfast! Indulge in a sweet start to the day with 2 or 3 Chocolate Chip Pancakes, piled high and topped with whipped cream and MORE chocolate chips. Served with your choice of sausage or bacon. $4.99 (three pancakes), $4.29 (two pancakes)

Chocolate Peppermint Milkshake, Mocha, and Hot Chocolate
Cool down your taste buds after that spicy burger with a fresh burst of peppermint! Get your fix from our Chocolate Peppermint Milkshake, Peppermint Mocha, or Peppermint Hot Chocolate. Ahhhh! Starting at $2.59

Chocolate Caramel Milkshake
If chocolate makes everything better, what happens when you add caramel? Ecstasy, squared. Need we say more? $3.69

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Monday, November 28, 2011

Thanks for voting Eat'n Park one of Pittsburgh’s favorite brands!

In September, Eat’n Park was selected to compete in the Pittsburgh Business Times’ “Brand Madness” challenge – along with 63 other local brands. We were up against some very stiff competition over the past few months, but thanks to our supporters, we defeated Kings, Giant Eagle, Brunner, Alpern Rosenthal, and Cranberry Woods Office Park to make it to the championship. In the end, we lost to a Pittsburgh legend, the Terrible Towel.

Even though we didn't win, we’d like to extend a huge Smiley thank you to all our loyal fans who voted for us – we couldn’t have made it to the finals without you!

We are honored that you voted us Pittsburgh’s second-favorite brand!

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11.28.2011 Caring for Kids Activities at Eat'n Park

Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Natrona Hgts. Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Altoona Tips for Tots (3:30 PM-7:00 PM)
Washington--Mall Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Indiana Breakfast with Santa (8:00 AM-11:00 AM)
Grove City Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-7:00 PM)

Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Canonsburg Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Somerset Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Latrobe Tips for Tots (5:00 PM-8:00 PM)

Thursday, December 01, 2011
Waterfront Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Avalon Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Butler--Clearview Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Westmont Tips for Tots (3:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Uniontown Tips for Tots (5:00 PM-8:00 PM)
New Kensington Tips for Tots (5:00 PM-7:00 PM)
Moon Twp.--Airport Cookies and Milk with Santa (5:00 PM-8:00 PM)
DuBois Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
St. Clairsville Tips for Tots (11:00 AM-8:00 PM)
North Versailles Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)

Friday, December 02, 2011
Johnstown Rodeo Round-up (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Marshall Twp. Rodeo Round-up (All Day)
State College Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-9:00 PM)

Saturday, December 03, 2011
Banksville Breakfast with Santa (8:00 AM-10:00 AM)
Monongahela Holiday Bash (3:00 PM) Held at West Newton Fire Hall
Washington--Mall Pictures with Santa (10:00 AM-2:00 PM)
Chapel Hill Rodeo Round-up (All Day)
Belle Vernon Rodeo Round-up (All day)

Sunday, December 04, 2011
Boardman Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
New Stanton Bingo (7:00 PM-10:00 PM)
Indiana Bingo (3:00 PM-7:00 PM) Held at Marion Center Park Hall

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Friday, November 18, 2011

2011 Eat'n Park Black Friday Shoppers' Buffets (and a coupon!)

Attention Shoppers! Don't hit Black Friday's sales on an empty stomach. Stop in to your local Eat'n Park to fuel up with our Shopper's Breakfast and Fruit Buffet.  At only $6.99, it's a bargain! 

And it just wouldn't be Black Friday if we didn't sweeten the deal even more....so, here's a coupon for a free latte!

Print your coupon now! Valid on Friday, November 25, only.

Find your local Eat'n Park below to see when the Shopper's Buffet will be available.
Happy (bargain) hunting!

Pennsylvania
Altoona: 5:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Avalon: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Banksville: No Shopper's Buffet
Belle Vernon: 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Bridgeville: 7:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Butler (Clearview): 5:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Butler (United): 5:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Canonsburg (Peters) : No Shopper's Buffet
Center Twp.: 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Chippewa: 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Clarion: 5:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Cranberry (Marshall Twp): 5:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Dormont: No Shopper's Buffet
Dubois: 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Edgewood: No Shopper's Buffet
Erie (West 12th Street): 5:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Erie (Peach Street): 5:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Etna: 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Franklin: 5:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Franklin Park: 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Greensburg: 5:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Grove City: MIDNIGHT - 10:30 AM
Hampton Twp.: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hermitage: 5:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Indiana: 5:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Johnstown: 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Latrobe: 5:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Library Road: 6:30 AM - 10:30 AM
McKees Rocks: 6:00 AM-11:00 AM
McKeesport: No Shopper's Buffet
McKnight Rd. (Northbound): 5:00 AM - 11:30 AM
McKnight Rd. (Southbound): 5:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Monongahela: No Shopper's Buffet
Monroeville: 5:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Moon Twp.: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Murrysville: 7:00 AM - 11:30 AM
N. Huntingdon: 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Natrona Hts.: 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM
New Castle: No Shopper's Buffet
New Kensington: No Shopper's Buffet
New Stanton: No Shopper's Buffet
North Versailles: 6:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Penn Hills: 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Pittsburgh Mills: 4:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Robinson: 4:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Sewickley: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Somerset: 5:00 AM-11:00 AM
South Hills: 5:00 AM- 11:30 AM
Squirrel Hill: Wednesday night Midnight - 4:00 AM
State College: 5:00:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Uniontown: 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Washington (Mall): 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Washington (West Chestnut): 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Waterfront: 5:00 AM-11:00 AM
Westmont: No Shopper's Buffet
Whitehall: 6:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Ohio
Austintown: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Boardman: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Chapel Hill: 5:00 AM - NOON
Medina: 4:00 AM - NOON
Mentor: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Parma: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM
St. Clairsville: 4:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Steubenville: 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Streetsboro: 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Warren: 6:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Willoughby: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM

West Virginia
Clarksburg: 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Morgantown: No Shopper's Buffet
Weirton: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Wheeling Highlands: 4:30 AM - 11:00 AM

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11.21.2011 Caring for Kids Activities at Eat'n Park

Saturday, November 19, 2011
Erie--Peach Street Decorate Your Own Smiley Cookie Night (6:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Latrobe Craft Show (10:00 AM-3:00 PM) Held at Latrobe American Legion

Sunday, November 20, 2011
Library Road Tips for Tots (5:00 PM-8:00 PM)

Monday, November 21, 2011
Greensburg Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-7:00 PM)
DuBois Hoagie Sale

Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Parma Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)

Friday, November 25, 2011
Somerset Rodeo Round-up (5 :00 AM-11:00 PM)
Marshall Twp. Rodeo Round-up (All Day)
Clarksburg Rodeo Round-up (All Day)
Latrobe Rodeo Round-up (All Day)
North Versailles Rodeo Round-up (All Day)

Saturday, November 26, 2011
Moon Twp./Airport Pictures with Santa and Smiley (9:00 AM-2:00 PM)
Altoona Rodeo Round-up (All Day)

Sunday, November 27, 2011
Moon Twp./Airport Pictures with Santa and Smiley (9:00 AM-2:00 PM)
Center Twp. Bowling for Tots (6:00 PM-8:00 PM)

Monday, November 28, 2011
Indiana Breakfast with Santa (8:00 AM-11:00 AM)

Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Natrona Hgts. Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Altoona Tips for Tots (3:30 PM-7:00 PM)
Washington-Mall Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Indiana Breakfast with Santa (8:00 AM-11:00 AM)
Grove City Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-7:00 PM)

Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Canonsburg Tips for Tots(4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Somerset Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM )
Latrobe Tips for Tots (5:00 PM- 8:00 PM )

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Thursday, November 17, 2011

2011 Eat'n Park Christmas Star Commercial and Air Dates

Our Christmas Star commercial has been airing for nearly 30 years, and for many, seeing it on TV officially marks the start of the holiday season. If you've ever wondered about the story behind this classic, click here to read about how it came to be.

Below is a list of when the commercial will be airing this year; just check your local listings for times. If you just can't wait to catch it live, you can watch it below.

And as always, we hope that the special lift you get this season lasts all year long!



Local Television Air Dates

Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh
  • KDKA - Rudolph Red Nose Reindeer (Week of 11/28), Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21), Yes Virginia there is a Santa Claus (Week of 12/5), Frosty /Frosty Returns (Week of 12/5), The Flight Before Christmas (Week of 12/5)
  • WPXI - Macys Holiday Parade (Week of 11/21), It's a Wonderful Life (Week of 11/21, 11/28, 12/12, 12/19)
  • WTAE - Santa Clause is Coming to Town (Week of 11/28), How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Week of 12/19), Disney Christmas Parade (Week of 12/19), Charlie Brown Christmas (Week of 12/5, 12/12)
  • AMC - Scrooged (Week of 11/28)
  • Family Channel - 25 Days of Christmas (Week of 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19)
  • HGTV - White House Christmas (Week of 12/5)
  • TBS - A Christmas Story Marathon (Week of 12/19)
  • WPGH - Glee Holiday episode (Week of 12/12)
Johnstown/Altoona
  • WTAJ - Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21), Rudolph Red Nose Reindeer (Week of 11/21 ,11/28), Frosty the Snowman/Frosty Returns (Week of 12/5, 12/12), Yes, Virginia/Elf on a Shelf (Week of 12/5), The Flight Before Christmas (Week of 12/5), Home for the Holidays (Week of 12/19), Story of Santa Claus (Week of 12/12)
  • WJAC - Christmas in Rockefeller Center (Week of 11/28), Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21), Miracle on 34th Street (Week of 11/28), It's a Wonderful Life (Week of 11/28, 12/19)
  • WATM - CMA Country Christmas (Week of 11/28), How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Week of 11/28, 12/19), Santa Claus is Coming to Town (Week of 12/5), Shrek the Halls (Week of 12/5), Charlie Brown Christmas (Week of 12/12), The Santa Claus (Week of 12/12)
  • Family Channel - 25 Days of Christmas (Week of 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19)
Erie
  • WSEE - Home for the Holidays (Week of 12/19), Rudolph Red Nose Reindeer (Week of 11/21, 12/5), Yes Virginia Santa Claus (Week of 12/5), Frosty the Snowman (Week of 12/5, 12/12), CBS Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21), Frosty Returns (Week of 12/5), Elf on a Shelf: An Elf Story (Week of 12/5), The Story of Santa (Week of 12/12)
  • WICU - Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21), Miracle on 34th Street (Week of 11/21), Christmas in Rockefeller Center (Week of 11/28), It's a Wonderful Life (Week of 11/28), Michael Buble Christmas (Week of 12/5), It's a Wonderful Life (Week of 12/19), Sing Off Holiday Special (Week of 12/5)
  • WJET - A CMA Country Christmas (Week of 11/28), How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Week of 11/28), A Charlie Brown Christmas (Week of 12/5), Santa Claus is Coming to Town (Week of 12/12), Shrek the Halls (Week of 12/5), I Want a Dog for Christmas Charlei Brown (Week of 12/12), Santa Claus 2 Movie (Week of 12/5), Santa Claus 3 Movie (Week of 12/5)
  • Family Channel - 25 Days of Christmas (Week of 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19)
  • WFXP - Glee holiday episode (Week of 12/12), New Girl/ Raising Hope - Holiday episode (Week of 12/12)
Ohio

Youngstown
  • WKBN - Rudolph Red Nose Reindeer (Week of 12/5), Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21), Frosty Returns (Week of 12/12), Frosty the Snowman (Week of 12/12)
  • WFMJ - Macys Holiday Parade (Week of 11/21), Miracle on 34th Street (Week of 11/21), Christmas in Rockefeller (Week of 11/28), It's a Wonderful Life (Week of 11/28, 12/19)
  • WYTV - How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Week of 11/28), Shrek the Halls (Week of 12/5), Charlie Brown Christmas (Week of 12/12)
  • ABC Family - 25 Days of Christmas (Week of 11/21, 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19)
Cleveland
  • WOIO - Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21), Rudolph Red Nose Reindeer (Week of 11/21, 11/28), Frosty the Snowman/ Frosty Returns (Week of 11/21, 12/5, 12/12), Yes Virginia Santa Claus (Week of 12/5), The Flight Before Christmas (Week of 12/5)
  • WKYC - Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21), Miracle on 34th Street (Week of 11/21), It's a Wonderful Life (Week of 11/28, 12/19)
  • WEWS - CMA Country Christmas (Week of 11/28), Santa Claus is Coming to Town (Week of 11/28), Charlie Brown Christmas (Week of 12/5), The Polar Express (Week of 12/5), Santa Claus 2 (Week of 12/12), Santa Claus 3 (Week of 12/12), Disney Christmas Day Parade (Week of 12/19),
  • Family Channel - 25 days of Christmas (Week of 11/21, 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19), 25 Days of Christmas - Early edition (Week of 11/21, 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19)
  • Food Network - Ace of Cakes Holiday (Week of 12/12)
  • Hallmark - A Princess for Christmas (Week of 11/28), Annie Claus is Coming to Town (Week of 12/5), The Christmas Pageant (Week of 12/12), Christmas Comes Home to Canaan (Week of 12/12), Christmas Magic (Week of 12/12)
  • HGTV - All Out American Christmas (Week of 12/19), White House Christmas (Week of 12/5)
West Virginia

Wheeling/Steubenville
  • WTRF - Rudolph Red Nose Reindeer (Week of 11/28, 12/12), Frosty The Snowman (Week of 12/5), Frosty Returns (Week of 12/5), Elf (Week of 12/12), Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21)
  • WTOV - Macys Holiday Parade (Week of 11/21), Mircacle on 34th Street (Week of 11/21), Christmas in Rockefeller Center (Week of 11/28), It's a Wonderful Life (Week of 11/28, 12/19), Michael Buble Christmas (Week of 12/5), The Sing Off holiday special (Week of 12/5)
  • GTRF - Charlie Brown Christmas (Week of 12/12), Santa Clause is Coming to Town (Week of 11/28), Santa Clause 2 (Week of 12/19), Santa Clause 3 (Week of 12/19), CMA Country Christmas Concert (Week of 11/28), How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Week of 12/19), Shrek the Halls (Week of 12/19), Disney Parade (Week of 12/19)
  • ABC Family - 25 Days of Christmas (Week of 11/21, 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19)
  • ETRF - Glee holiday episode (Week of 12/12), Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas (Week of 12/12)
Clarksburg
  • WDTV - Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21), Rudolph Red Nose Reindeer (Week of 11/28, 12/5), Flight Before Christmas (Week of 12/5), Frosty /Frotsy Returns (Week of 12/5, 12/12), The Story of Santa Clause (Week of 12/12), Hallmark Holiday Movie (Week of 12/19), Elf on a Shelf (Week of 12/5)
  • WBOY - Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (Week of 11/21), It's A Wonderful Life (Week of 11/21, 12/19), Miracle on 34th Street (Week of 11/21)
  • ABC Family - 25 Days of Christmas (Week of 11/28, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19)
  • WVXF - Ice Age A Mammoth Christmas (Week of 11/21), Glee Holiday episode (Week of 12/12), New Girl (Week of 12/12)
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Send a pie for the holidays with e-gift cards from Eat'n Park!

Being away from loved ones over the holidays is tough. When you can't send your own homecooked goodies to friends and family, send them a handmade pumpkin pie from Eat'n Park!

If your loved one lives near an Eat'n Park restaurant, check out our holiday pie e-gift cards. These cards are pre-loaded with the price of a pumpkin pie, and they can be delivered instantly! All the recipient has to do is stop in to Eat'n Park and show the card printout or pull it up on their smartphone at checkout. It's easy - and delicious! To learn more about our e-gift cards, click here.

Click here to shop our e-gift cards now! 



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Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Eat'n Park: Your one-stop holiday pie and bakery stop!

This holiday season, there's an easy way to cut out a big chunk of stress - let us do all of your baking! We'll handle the muss and the fuss, while you relax and enjoy your found time.

We have the favorites you're familiar with: Smiley Cookies (now available in a mini version), Gingerbread Smiley Cookies, and a wide variety of pies (fruit and creme pies - whatever suits your fancy).

But maybe you didn't realize that you can also get homemade breads, rolls, buns, and biscuits. Do any of your guests have Celiac disease? Pick up a half-dozen of our gluten-free buns!

Whatever you need to complete your holiday meal, you can find it at Eat'n Park. And don't forget that our delicious Pumpkin Pie is on sale during the month of November for just $7.99 for a whole pie!

Click here to download our bakery order form.
Need the number for your local Eat'n Park? Click here.


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Friday, November 11, 2011

11.11.2011 Caring for Kids Activities at Eat'n Park

Monday, November 14, 2011
McKnight (Northbound) Tips for Tots (5:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Grove City Bingo Night (7:00 PM)

Thursday, November 17, 2011
Westmont Rodeo Round-up (3:00 PM-8:00 PM)

Friday, November 18, 2011
New Stanton Rodeo Round-up (4:00 PM-10:00 PM)
Johnstown Rodeo Round-up (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Marshall Twp. Rodeo Round-up (All Day)

Saturday, November 19, 2011
Erie--Peach Street Decorate Your Own Smiley Cookie Night (6:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Latrobe Craft Show (10:00 AM-3:00 PM) Held at Latrobe American Legion

Sunday, November 20, 2011
Library Road Tips for Tots (5:00 PM-8:00 PM)

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Monday, November 7, 2011

E-Gift Cards Now Available from Eat’n Park!

Gift cards can be a lifesaver. A time-saver. Even a face-saver! Think about it: What do you turn to when you need a quick and easy way to say thanks? Or when you've forgotten about a birthday until the day of the party?

You can't go wrong with a gift card - especially when it's from Eat'n Park! But sometimes, you need one in a pinch, and you just don’t have time to stop in to your local restaurant.

Great news: Our gift cards are now available electronically, so you can have one in an instant! No special trips, no shipping charges, and no waiting. Order your gift card online, and have it sent to you or your recipient via email – right now!

Just realized that you need to leave in an hour for Aunt Margaret’s party, and you don’t have a gift? Order an electronic gift card, print it out at home, and tuck it into Auntie’s card. Oh, and if she’s a techie? Email it to her, and she can redeem it right from her smartphone!

Here’s an example of what an electronic gift card can look like.

The coolest part is that you can customize our electronic gift cards. Not only can you choose your card design and add your own personal message, but you can upload photos and even make a voice recording! And if you don’t need to send the gift card right now, you can schedule it to be delivered on the date and time of your choosing, up to 30 days in advance. It doesn’t get much easier than that!

Of course, our traditional plastic gift cards are still available in our restaurants and online. E-gift cards just give you a new option – a quick and easy way to get your gift card, right when you need it! Click here to try it out today.

Special Offer – Get a coupon with your e-gift card!

Everyone who purchases an e-gift card now through November 16 will receive a coupon for $2 off a $5 breakfast purchase (5-11 AM daily), valid through November 30.

The coupon will be sent at the bottom of your purchase receipt, so make sure you print that email before deleting it!

Click here to order your e-gift card now.

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Friday, November 4, 2011

Caring for Kids Kicks Off at Eat'n Park

For the last 32 years, Eat'n Park guests and team members have united to do some serious fundraising for five weeks every November and December. That's right - it's time for Caring for Kids!

We just kicked off our 33rd annual campaign, and we're hoping that this year's donation will put us over the $8 million mark in total contributions to local children's hospitals. To hit our goal, we're going to need your help!

$2 Raffle Tickets - 2012 Ford Focus

Our generous partner, The Neighborhood Ford Store, has kindly donated a 2012 Ford Focus to the campaign - so one lucky guest is going to be taking home a pretty nice Christmas present!


Raffle tickets are available for just $2 each at every Eat'n Park location. Just ask your server for one (or 10!) for your chance to win. 100% of the proceeds from the raffle go directly to the campaign.


For full details and raffle restrictions, click here.

Caring Hearts Merchandise

Earlier this year, we partnered with world-famous artist (and Pittsburgh native) Burton Morris, who created an exclusive design featuring our iconic Smiley Cookie.

To help us raise money for our Caring for Kids campaign, Burton has stepped in with a new design. Our Caring Hearts line of merchandise features his original art - and 10% of proceeds go to Caring for Kids. You'll find mugs, magnets, and pins at every Eat'n Park location. In addition, restaurants that normally carry apparel will be featuring Caring Hearts t-shirts and long-sleeve tees.

Stop in to pick yours up today - we have limited quantities!

Restaurant Activities

Every year, our team members pour their hearts into this campaign. Many of them donate their time (and sometimes, their tips) to organizing special events at our restaurants.

You may be familiar with our Tips for Tots nights, in which our team members and local celebrities donate the evening's tips to the campaign. Events like these are fun for everyone, and of course, they benefit a great cause.

We'll be updating the schedule of events every week, so check back often to see what's happening at your local Eat'n Park!

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11.4.2011 Caring for Kids Activities at Eat'n Park

Our Caring for Kids Campaign kicked off this week! Here's what's happening at some of our locations:

Saturday, November 05, 2011
Belle Vernon Rodeo Round-up (All Day)

Wednesday, November 09, 2011
Erie--Peach Street Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Belle Vernon Rodeo Round-up (All Day)

Thursday, November 10, 2011
Banksville Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-7:00 PM)


Friday, November 11, 2011
Indiana Rodeo Round-up (All Day)
Indiana Tips for Tots (4:00 PM-9:00 PM)

Monday, November 14, 2011
McKnight Rd-Northbound Tips for Tots (5:00 PM-8:00 PM)
Grove City Bingo Night (7:00 PM)

Thursday, November 17, 2011
Westmont Rodeo Round-up (3:00 PM-8:00 PM)

Friday, November 18, 2011
New Stanton Rodeo Round-up (4:00 PM-10:00 PM)

Saturday, November 19, 2011
Erie--Peach Street Decorate Your Own Smiley Cookie Night (6:00 PM-8 :00 PM)

Sunday, November 20, 2011
Library Road Tips for Tots (5:00 PM-8:00 PM)

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Thursday, October 27, 2011

Double treat: Two Halloween Coupons for Eat'n Park!

We're scaring up smiles this Halloween! Print the coupons below for:
  • Buy two dozen Smiley Cookies, get one dozen free!
  • 20% off your takeout order


Both coupons are valid from now until Halloween - Monday, October 31. 
Click here to print yours. 

Happy Haunting!

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Monday, October 3, 2011

10.3.2011 FarmSource Listing

See what's fresh and local this week at Eat'n Park:

Apple Cider
Dawson Orchards– Lawrence County, PA

Apples, Assorted
Dawson Orchards – Lawrence County, PA

Zucchini
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA

Green Cabbage
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
Hills of Home Farm, Indiana, PA

Green Peppers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler County
Hills of Home Farm, Indiana, PA

Cucumbers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County

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Visit Smiley at Lake Farmpark's Corn and Pumpkin Harvest Weekend

Looking for a great fall activity this weekend? Stop on out to Lake Farmpark's Corn and Pumpkin Harvest Weekend. Smiley will be there both days, and our Cookie Cruiser will be attending on Saturday. Come say 'hi' and pick up a free Smiley Cookie to munch on!

October 8 & 9, 2011
9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Lake Metroparks Farmpark
8800 Euclid Chardon Rd.
Kirtland, OH 44094
440-256-2122 • 800-366-FARM

Event Information:
Experience activities that highlight the sights, smells, and tastes of various corn and pumpkin harvest activities!

Participate in a variety of hands-on harvest activities and see demonstrations of antique farm equipment showing how corn was harvested.

Activities:
  • Cornhusk doll making
  • Harvest and decorate a pumpkin
  • Three-acre corn maze
  • Kid-friendly hay maze
  • Giant Pumpkin Patch
  • Tasty corn treats
  • Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup
  • Apple press to make cider
  • Fresh apple butter
  • Pony rides
Admission:
General, $6
Ages 60+, $5
Youth 2 - 11, $4
Younger than 2, Free
Farmpark members, Free

Directions:
Take I-90 to the Rt. 306 exit. Head south on Route 306 five miles to Chardon Road (Route 6), turn left on Route 6, and head east one mile. Entrance to Farmpark is on the right.

For more information, click here.

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Friday, September 30, 2011

Team Smiley fuels runners at Pittsburgh's Great Race

On Sunday, September 25, more than 40 Eat’n Park team members hit the streets for the City of Pittsburgh Great Race. No, we didn’t run it, but we did have a GREAT time volunteering! Our Eat’n Park volunteers passed out water to 14,000 thirsty runners at the Water Station on Blvd of the Allies near Mercy Hospital. Plus, another group of our volunteers greeted runners at the end of the race with congratulatory Smiley Cookies.


We look forward to the Great Race every year and it’s a favorite with our Eat’n Park team members. Our entire Eat’n Park District Management team, including our Senior Vice President of Operations, Mercy Senchur, comes out to cheer on the runners at the Water Station. In fact, this team from Eat’n Park volunteers at this very same Water Station every year. We love cheering on runners with an encouraging word and, of course, a big smile!



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Halloween Smiley Cookies - They'll scare up a smile at any size!

Halloween Smiley Cookies are baaaaaack! And as always, that ghoulish green smile is eerily tasty.

These festive favorites are available in their traditional "costume" - complete with candy corn eyes and a crooked smile. But that's not all! This year, for the first time, we have Mini Smiley Cookies available in Halloween colors. Don't save them just for the trick-or-treaters - these babies (pun intended) are a great snack for home or the office.

And if you won't get to see your nieces, nephews, or grandkids this Halloween, don't fear! You can send a dozen anywhere in the U.S. from our online store at SmileyCookie.com. Click here to shop today!

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Monday, September 19, 2011

9.19.2011 FarmSource Listing

Tomatoes
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Holthouse Farms, Willard, Ohio
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA

Zucchini
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Wexford Farms, Allegheny County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA
Mason Farms, Erie, PA
Yarnick Farms, Indiana County, PA

Green Cabbage
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Peppers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Cucumbers
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler County
Mason Farms, Erie County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Laurel Vista Farms, Somerset County
KW Zellers & Son, Hartville, OH

Apple Cider
Dawson’s Orchards– Lawrence County, PA

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Monday, September 12, 2011

9.12.2011 FarmSource Listing

Here's what's fresh from local farms this week at Eat'n Park:

Tomatoes
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Holthouse Farms, Willard, Ohio
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA

Zucchini
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Wexford Farms, Allegheny County
Laurel Vista Farm, Somerset County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Cabbage
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Peppers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie County

Cucumbers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler County
Mason Farms, Erie County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Laurel Vista Farms, Somerset County
KW Zellers & Son, Hartville, OH

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Dinner for Two at Eat'n Park, only $14.99!

Who are YOU going to bring? Your spouse? Your neighbor? A co-worker? A friend? Regardless, you're both going to love Dinner for Two! Two delicious meals (and two Mini Smiley Cookies) are yours for one low price: just $14.99!

Choose from eight of our favorite meals:
  • Rosemary Chicken
  • Mushroom & Onion Burger
  • Mile-High Meatloaf
  • Baked Cod
  • Chicken Parmigiana
  • Baked Lemon Sole
  • Sesame Pork Chop
  • New! Buffalo Chicken Mac'n Cheese
All meals come with their standard sides and/or dinner rolls. After your meal, enjoy two free Mini Smiley Cookies - that's one sweet ending!

Intrigued by the new Buffalo Chicken Mac'n Cheese? You should be - it's cheesetastic! Cheesy elbow pasta is blended with a sprinkle of bleu chese and mixed with seasoned chicken, and the whole thing is drizzled with our buffalo sauce and baked. Yum!



What are you waiting for? Stop in today! Dinner for Two is available from 11 A.M. to 9 P.M. daily, through November 30.

And don't forget, we're also featuring our Fall Specials!


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20% Off Takeout Coupon at Eat'n Park

For most of us, Fall = BUSY! Eat'n Park takeout to the rescue! For those nights when you just don't have time to cook (or just don't want to), make dinner quick, easy, and delicious with takeout from Eat'n Park.

And, we'll sweeten the deal with this coupon for 20% off your next takeout order, now through September 25, 2011.  Click here to print your coupon. 


Coupon must be printed to be redeemed.

Our whole menu is available for takeout! Click here to print a menu with prices, and get the phone number for your local Eat'n Park.

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Fall Specials are here at Eat'n Park!

The nights are getting cooler, which means that it's time to savor the flavors of fall! Fall Specials are here at Eat'n Park, and this season's selections are sure to satisfy. Are you ready? Here we go...

Caramel Apple Pancakes
Breakfast seems like a pretty natural place to start, right? Well, THIS breakfast starts with a bang! We've gone and stuffed two fluffy pancakes with warm cinnamon apples, topped them with streusel and candied pecans, and drizzled the whole thing with caramel. Yes, caramel. You can thank us later. Served with 3 pieces of bacon or sausage. $5.79

Eat'n Smart Smile
Start the day guilt-free! Scrambled fat-free, no-cholesterol egg substitute, served with our new turkey sausage, a side of fresh fruit, and dry homemade six-grain toast. Only 367 calories! $5.99
P.S. That turkey sausage is available with any breakfast as a substitute for bacon or regular sausage.

Gourmet Grilled Cheese with Campbell's Tomato Soup
Melted American, Swiss, and Pepper Jack cheeses with three strips of crispy bacon on grilled six-grain bread. Served with a cup of hot, creamy Campbell's Tomato Soup. Is this comfort food or what? $5.99

Pot Roast Melt
The sassy cousin of our classic Shredded Pot Roast sandwich is back in town. Our famous shredded pot roast is topped with a blend of Pepper Jack, Swiss, and American cheese and served on sourdough bread with Dijon horseradish mayonnaise. Includes a side of your choice. $6.99

Fresh Chips & Dip
It's a simple equation:
Fresh housemade potato chips
+ our homemade ranch dressing for dipping
= crispy, golden perfection.
You're going to love these! $4.99

Buffalo Chicken Mac'n Cheese
Is cheesetastic a real word? No? How about cheesamazing? Hmmm....In any case, you'll melt for our cheesy elbow pasta blended with a sprinkle of bleu cheese and mixed with seasoned chicken. The whole deal is drizzled with our buffalo sauce and baked. Like I said, cheesetastic. Available as an entree with our special Dinner for Two pricing!

Pear Chicken Salad
As crisp as the fall air, and just as refreshing. Fresh mixed greens topped with grilled chicken breast, fresh pears and grapes, crumbled bleu cheese, tomatoes, and candied pecans, all mixed with Pear Shallot vinaigrette. Served with fresh seasonal bread. $8.49

Herb-Crusted Chicken
Tender boneless chicken breast coated with Parmesan bread crumbs and baked to a golden brown. Only 265 calories! Served with two sides of your choice, and bakery-fresh dinner rolls. $8.99

Pumpkin Beverages
Waiting for the Great Pumpkin? Well, you can stop waiting for a great pumpkin beverage - we have three of them! Have your pie and drink it too with our Pumpkin Pie Milkshake. Vanilla ice cream is blended with Pumpkin Pie filling, topped with whipped cream, and dusted with nutmeg. $3.69
Prefer something hot? Our Pumpkin Latte and Pumpkin Chai Tea will warm your soul. $2.29-$2.89

Apple Cider
Fresh from local farms, nothing says "fall" like apple cider. Enjoy it cold and crisp, or mulled with spices and an orange slice. Your choice! $2.79

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Thursday, September 8, 2011

Eat'n Park Video: The History of Smiley

History. The mere mention of the word makes some people's eyelids heavy. Well, this is the most interesting history lesson you've heard in a long time...we promise!

Eat'n Park has long been known as the Place for Smiles. One reason is that we want every guest to leave with a smile. But our famous Smiley Cookies have doubtlessly played the biggest role in earning us that nickname.

So then, how did those famous cookies come to be synonymous with Eat'n Park? You'll find the answer below in this fun video that celebrates all things Smiley. You might even recognize a few of our first Smiley Cookie commercials. Enjoy!



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Farm Tour 2011 – Late Summer Edition

Last time I posted, it was early July and local tomatoes were just coming into season. As you’re probably well aware, they’re ripe now! On August 10th, I had an opportunity to visit one of the local farms that we work with through our FarmSource program. Brenckle’s Farm has been a long-standing partner of ours. They are great people and grow some unbelievable veggies: tomatoes, zucchini, squash, peppers, eggplant, cabbage and cucumbers.

This year they decided to do something a little different: they built a 5 acre hoophouse. What, exactly, is a hoophouse? Well, it’s similar to a greenhouse in that it’s a structure used to extend the growing season. Made of half-round lengths of pipe, the “hoops” are generally covered by heavy gauge plastic. The biggest difference between a hoophouse and a greenhouse is that hoophouses aren’t heated.

As you can see from the photo , they are still building the structure, but next year, they hope to have tomatoes by the first of July.

One of the primary reasons that we partner with farms like Brenckle’s is because of their innovation. I was talking with Greg Brenckle during our visit, and he said that next year, they are going to be watering their fields with ozonated water. Ozone is an extremely powerful oxidant and disinfectant that kill bacteria and viruses - without the use of chemicals. I look forward to updating you on the progress on this very cool food safety initiative.

While the hoophouse and the ozonated water are very exciting, the high-quality produce grown on this farm is the most important reason for our partnership. We got right into the fields during my visit. The first field that we came to was the tomato field, and I immediately noticed all of the varieties of tomatoes that were growing. San Marzano’s really caught my eye. These are a variety of plum tomatoes that are considered by many chefs to be the best sauce tomatoes in the world. As we continued our tour, I was continually impressed with the variety of produce being grown, and my mind was immediately churning with new recipes I could try at home.


This is the time that local produce is at the height of the season, and I’m taking advantage of it while it lasts – I hope you will too! Be sure to stop by your local farm market to pick up some vine-ripened veggies. And if you should come across any of those famous San Marzano tomatoes, here’s a recipe I think you’ll enjoy.

Until next time,
Jamie

Fresh San Marzano Tomato Sauce

Ingredients
  • 3 pounds fresh San Marzano tomatoes (or a 28 ounce can of San Marzano tomatoes, if you can’t find them fresh)
  • 1 sprig fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
  • 3 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt

Cooking Directions
  1. Wash the San Marzano tomatoes and take the stems off.
  2. When the water is boiling, put the tomatoes in the boiling water for 15-30 seconds, until the skin puckers or bursts.
  3. Take the tomatoes out of the water and let them cool on a large plate. When they are cool enough to handle, peel off the skin.
  4. Cut the tomatoes in half and then into about ½ strips. Remove any skin, stem from the inside, and seeds if you want. Coarsely chop the tomatoes.
  5. Put the olive oil and garlic in a cold pan over a high flame. Saute the garlic in the oil to release its flavor. Don’t let the garlic brown. With the oil sizzling, put in all the tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the basil sprigs and stir them into the sauce. They will wilt and release their flavor into the sauce. Cook over medium-high heat until the tomatoes have broken down and a chunky sauce has developed. Most of the tomato water should have evaporated. This should take about 15 minutes, if you a like a thicker sauce, simmer for an additional 15 – 20 minutes. Stirring frequently. When the sauce is done cooking remove the basil and garlic.
Serve over your favorite pasta.

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Tuesday, September 6, 2011

9.5.2011 FarmSource Listing

Fresh, local produce at Eat'n Park this week:

Tomatoes
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Holthouse Farms, Willard, Ohio
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA

Zucchini
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Wexford Farms, Allegheny County
Laurel Vista Farm, Somerset County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Cabbage
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Peppers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie County

Cucumbers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler County
Mason Farms, Erie County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Laurel Vista Farms, Somerset County
KW Zellers & Son, Hartville, OH

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Friday, September 2, 2011

Eat'n Park's Jamie Moore demonstrates how to can tomatoes at home

Local tomatoes are definitely in season..if you don't have a garden full of them, you've probably seen a bountiful haul at your local farmer's market.

Here at Eat'n Park, we're using them in our Baked Chicken Bruschetta, in our FarmSource Vegetable Soup, on sandwiches, and on our Salad Bar.

But what to do when you have TOO many tomatoes? Can them! If you've never done it before, the canning process may seem intimidating. But in reality, it's pretty simple.

Jamie Moore, our Director of Sourcing and Sustainability, walks us through the process in this how-to video he filmed at home.

Ready to get started? Click below to watch Jamie process his homegrown tomatoes.



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Monday, August 22, 2011

8.22.2011 FarmSource Listing

Here are the local veggies we're featuring this week at Eat'n Park!

Tomatoes
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Holthouse Farms, Willard, Ohio
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA

Grape Tomatoes
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA

Zucchini
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Wexford Farms, Allegheny County
Laurel Vista Farm, Somerset County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Cabbage
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Peppers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie County

Cucumbers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler County
Mason Farms, Erie County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Laurel Vista Farms, Somerset County
KW Zellers & Son, Hartville, OH

Yellow Squash
Harvest Valley Farm, Butler County
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Wexford Farms, Allegheny County
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Beans
Mason Farms, Erie County
KW Zellers & Son, Hartville, OH

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Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Smiley Lends a Hand at Big Reach Back to School Event

Smiley lent a big hand again this year at Greenford Ohio’s Big Reach Back to School Event on Saturday, August 6th. Smiley helped the Big Reach Center of Hope prepare over 1,000 families for back-to-school by providing kids of all ages with backpack tags and a treat for their new lunchboxes: Smiley Cookies!


Kids even got to spend some quality time with their friend Smiley while they were waiting for their physicals, getting their hair cut, and filling their carts with food and back-to-school supplies. There was a great turnout, and families said that waiting for all the back-to-school festivities was easier because they knew there was Smiley Cookie decorating afterwards!


Overall, the day was a big success and Smiley would like to thank all of the volunteers and families for filling the day with so many smiles!

Judy
Team Smiley

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8.15.2011 FarmSource Listing

Here's what's fresh and local at Eat'n Park this week! And might we add that those local tomatoes are fabulous in our Baked Chicken Bruschetta!

Tomatoes
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Holthouse Farms, Willard, Ohio
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA

Grape Tomatoes
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA

Zucchini
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Wexford Farms, Allegheny County
Laurel Vista Farm, Somerset County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Cabbage
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Peppers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie County

Cucumbers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Mason Farms, Erie County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Laurel Vista Farms, Somerset County

Yellow Squash
Harvest Valley Farm, Butler County
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Wexford Farms, Allegheny County
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Beans
Mason Farms, Erie County
Laurel Vista Farms, Somerset, PA

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Monday, August 8, 2011

8.8.2011 FarmSource Listing

Here's what's fresh and local at Eat'n Park this week!

Tomatoes
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Holthouse Farms, Willard, Ohio
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA

Grape Tomatoes
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA

Zucchini
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Wexford Farms, Allegheny County
Laurel Vista Farm, Somerset County
Harvest Valley Farms, Butler, PA
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Cabbage
Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Peppers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Mason Farms, Erie County

Cucumbers
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Mason Farms, Erie County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Laurel Vista Farms, Somerset County

Yellow Squash
Harvest Valley Farm, Butler County
Brenckle Farms, Butler County
Wiers Farms, Willard, OH
Holthouse Farms, Willard, OH
Wexford Farms, Allegheny County
Mason Farms, Erie, PA

Green Beans
Mason Farms, Erie County
Laurel Vista Farms, Somerset, PA

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Friday, August 5, 2011

See what we're baking up in our latest commercial!



Recognize that face? If you've visited our Steubenville, OH Eat'n Park, you've probably met Lanna, our baker/manager/greeter/prep person extraordinaire! She made her television debut in our latest commercial.

Let's take a minute to learn a little more about Lanna....

Q: So, it looks like there isn't much you CAN'T do! What's your favorite role at Eat'n Park?
A: I love meeting new people, and I get to do that as a shift manager and as a greeter. But I also like doing prep and working in the bakery - at the end of the day, I feel like I've gotten a lot done. And, it's appreciated by both my team members AND our guests.

Q: So, how fast can you ice a tray of two dozen Smiley Cookies?
A: (Without hesitation) Eleven minutes!

Q: Besides Smiley Cookies, what's your favorite menu item?
A: The Pittsburgh Turkey Sandwich! I'm so glad we brought it back.

Q: Who's going to be most excited to see you in the commercial?
A: My brothers and sisters, my husband...pretty much all of my immediate family.

Next time you're visiting our Steubenville restaurant, make sure to say hello!
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Tuesday, August 2, 2011

8.1.2011 FarmSource Listing

Here's what's fresh and local at Eat'n Park this week!

Zucchini
Fresh in: Hand-Breaded Zucchini
  • Brenckle Farms, Butler County
  • Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
  • Wexford Farms, Allegheny County
  • Laurel Vista Farm, Somerset County
Green Cabbage
Fresh in: Housemade Coleslaw

  • Yarnick Farms, Indiana, PA
Green Peppers
Fresh in: Soup and Salad Bar, Select salads and sandwiches

  • Brenckle Farms, Butler County
  • Mason Farms, Erie County
Cucumbers
Fresh in: Soup and Salad Bar, Dinner and Entrée Salads

  • Brenckle Farms, Butler County
  • Mason Farms, Erie County
  • Laurel Vista Farms, Somerset County
Yellow Squash
Fresh in: FarmSource Vegetable Soup

  • Harvest Valley Farm, Butler County
Green Beans
Fresh in: FarmSource Vegetable Soup

  • Mason Farms, Erie County
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Monday, August 1, 2011

New Eat’n Park Commercials – featuring our very own team members!

Have you seen our newest commercials? If you recognize a familiar face or two, it’s no surprise – the stars of these ads are real team members who truly have a passion for their work. They may have greeted you last time you visited your local Eat’n Park, or perhaps prepared your meal.



So, who are these smiling ambassadors? Let’s take a minute to learn more about a few of them.


Amber
Server at our Fox Chapel/Waterworks Eat’n Park for 1 year

Q: What’s your favorite thing about Eat’n Park?
A: The other team members – they’re really friendly, and they make me feel right at home. I’ve made a lot of great friends here.

Q: Tell us what your favorite Eat’n Park meal is.
A: Philly Cheese Steak, sub mozzarella cheese! And I also love our Oreo Crème Pie.

Q: Do you think your friends will recognize you in the commercial?
A: They’d better! I Facebooked it to everyone!

Felisha
Greeter, server, cook, prep person (and more) at our Stuebenville restaurant for 5 years

Q: So, it looks like you’re quite the Renaissance woman – you can work anywhere in our restaurant! What’s your favorite position?
A: I like serving – I love taking caring of my customers one on one. I get to make sure they’re happy.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about Eat’n Park?
A: That the company gets involved in the community and really tries to help out. Especially with Caring for Kids – every year, my restaurant holds a Tips for Tots event, as well as raffles to raise money. I love to get involved with the cause.

Q: Who’s going to be most excited to see you in the commercial?
A: I have two answers to that one! My regular customers, and my 3-year old grandson. He’ll be shouting “Nana!!”

Dom and Emilee
Greeters at our Waterfront and South Hills Village locations, respectively

Q: What’s your favorite thing about Eat’n Park?
Dom: The kids who come in. They’re funny, and they’re always smiling.
Emilee: I love the cookies! I love seeing the smiles they bring to guests faces.

Q: What brought you to Eat’n Park?
Emilee: My sister started working at Eat’n Park first, and she’s really enjoyed it. So I joined her!
Dom: Same here! My mom and sister both work at Eat’n Park.

Q: Who’s going to be most excited to see you in the commercial?
Dom: My 2-year old nephew. He’ll be so excited!
Emilee: My mom – she’s my biggest fan! In fact, she even came to the shoot with me.

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Making healthy eating fun: Fitwits come to Eat'n Park

Beginning on August 1, we embarked on an innovative partnership to talk to kids and their parents about nutrition in a fun, relatable way. We think that an important part of “empowering parents and caregivers with choices” is educating them about those choices. As part of this goal, we introduced the world of Fitwits into our restaurants. Fitwits is an obesity prevention and health literacy research project that uses games and character-driven narratives to transform unhealthy lifestyles into healthy ones.

We’re glad to welcome guest blogger, Kristin Hughes- Associate Professor of Design at Carnegie Mellon University - to tell you about how this program called Fitwits was created and how it made its way to Eat’n Park.


When it comes to educating families about nutrition, we face many challenges. Many children and families lack the knowledge base to make healthy dietary and activity choices. Environmental and social changes, physical inactivity, abundant energy-dense foods and beverages, and poorly understood health education conspire against healthy lifestyle choices. Physicians, parents/caretakers, teachers, community leaders and corporations like Eat’n Park can and should exert a leadership role to help in the fight against obesity. Small changes in people’s lifestyles, choices and habits can make a big difference.

Fitwits first took shape in the Fall of 2007 when a team of concerned Pittsburgh-based designers, doctors, teachers and parents had a conversation about the growing epidemic of childhood obesity and what we could do to help create change. As a team, we worked to developed methods that could help us to understand how people discuss and deal with issues surrounding their own health. We began to look at all facets of the problem in order to identify opportunities for change.

In our preliminary research, some of the most valuable lessons we learned came out of our sessions observing doctors talk to patients about their weight problems. Patients were handed a folder containing charts, contracts, and diagrams to assist them in their daily decisions regarding general nutrition. Unfortunately, the complex language of these materials inhibited their understanding, and thus adoption of the health recommendations, once they left the doctor’s office.

We also found that many misconceptions and lack of knowledge about nutrition came into play when we interviewed families. For example, one interviewed parent, when asked about the number of fruit servings her son has everyday, responded, “he eats cherry and strawberry Jell-O at least four times a day.” In both examples doctors and parents were trying to do good, but we learned that it isn’t always easy to make things that are easy to understand and fun to use.

We began to categorize our findings, which helped us to establish steps for moving forward. We designed games and activities that encouraged people to move physically, exposed them to nutritional concepts, and allowed them opportunities to express what they learned. In doing so, our Pittsburgh coalition framed a health conversation for children, families, schools, community leaders and physicians – “Fitwits.”

Fitwits’ partnership with Eat’n Park gives us the opportunity to relate this important information to families during a pivotal point in their day: mealtime. We’re proud to partner with Eat’n Park and look forward to hearing your feedback about Fitwits.

Stop by any Eat’n Park to pick up a character card and a complimentary game set, just by asking your server!

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Thursday, July 28, 2011

Team Smiley beats the heat at WKDD Kidz Day

WKDD is known for welcoming music from the 90s, 2k, and today, but on Saturday, July 23rd it also welcomed its good friend Smiley.


At the largest outdoor kids’ event in northeast Ohio, WKDD Kidz Day, Smiley met up with several families who were enjoying all of the fun kids’ activities such as mini golf, crafts, moon bounces, a petting zoo, spinning rides, and music. Smiley even found his kangaroo pals Kenny from Kennywood and Zippy from the University of Akron to share some fun with.

The Cookie Cruiser was also a hit, allowing guests to show off their artistic abilities through cookie decorating or enjoy a tasty original Smiley Cookie.



Even in the heat, Smiley and his friends had a terrific day and would like to thank everyone for making it a memorable trip to Green, Ohio.

Judy
Team Smiley

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