Here’s another random one for the books. This one goes out to all the econ lovers in the audience (you sick, sick people.)

I recently found out Pittsburgh is a chosen city. For what, you ask?

We, along with 12 other lucky dawgs, have been chosen by the US Department of Labor for a SEMIANNUAL update of the CONSUMER PRICE INDEX. (Ahem, “If used with caution, local area CPI data can illustrate and explain the impact of local economic conditions on consumers’ experience with price change.” Basically, the difference in CPI = inflation.)

In fact, this data can be ACCESSED via PHONE 24 hours a day. Look, I’m not even kidding:

“Recorded summaries of CPI are also available by calling any of the following metropolitan area CPI hotlines. Summaries typically include data for the U.S. City Average, as well as the specified area. Recordings are approximately 3 minutes in length and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”

Pittsburgh (412) 644-2900

Take it and run with it, Pittsburgh. (I hope Jerome Bettis shirts are not included in the index.) This is brought to you the friendly Bureau of Labor Statistics.

(Love the government graphic. Labor statistics are fun!)