- The Pittsburgh Newsletter
- Posts
- Pittsburgh Newsletter (December 16th)
Pittsburgh Newsletter (December 16th)
Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events in Pittsburgh.
Welcome to The Pittsburgh Newsletter!
In today’s edition:
See inside this Fox Chapel home that's for sale for $2.7 million.
Upcoming Tom Breiding concert
A deep-dive into the life of Charles Taze Russell
And more…
Quote of the Week
“Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.”
— Albert Einstein
Sponsored
Own a stake in Alaska’s oil reserves.
Estimated 300 million barrels of recoverable reserves
Royalty-based model reducing operational risks
Projected 25+ years of reliable, high-margin royalty income
Trivia
Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!
The historic John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge in Pittsburgh was completed in what year?
A) 1845
B) 1869
C) 1883
D) 1900
Answer to Last Week's Trivia:
The Pittsburgh native known as the Queen of Jazz is B) Lena Horne.
News
💼Business
Hard Rock Cafe in Station Square to close in February 2025. (Link)
See inside this Fox Chapel home that's for sale for $2.7 million. (Link)
🏒Sports
NFL legend Randy Moss reveals cancer diagnosis, surgery. (Link)
Pittsburgh Pirates open to trading Mitch Keller, Jared Jones, report says. (Link)
🏦Finance
LFederal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh appoints first chief banking officer. (Link)
Upcoming Events
Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.
Sports
🏀 New Hampshire Wildcats at Pittsburgh Panthers (Women’s Basketball)
Petersen Events Center, Pittsburgh
Thursday, Dec. 19th | (More info)
🏀 Sam Houston Bearkats at Pittsburgh Panthers (Men’s Basketball)
Petersen Events Center, Pittsburgh
Saturday, Dec. 21st | (More info)
Music & Concerts
🎵 Tom Breiding
Club Café, Pittsburgh
Tuesday, Dec. 17th | (More info)
🎉 Tom Breiding Live Performance
3700 Butler Street, Pittsburgh
Tuesday, Dec. 17th | (More info)
Family
⛑️ Infant Red Cross BLS CPR and AED Class
3700 Butler Street, Pittsburgh
Tuesday, Dec. 17th | (More info)
Image of the Week
Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.
This week, I typed in “An entirely underground Pittsburgh” and this is what I got.
Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Pittsburgh Historical Events
1942: Pittsburgh becomes a center for World War II production, particularly in steel.
In 1942, Pittsburgh emerged as a pivotal center for World War II production, playing a crucial role in the war effort, particularly in the steel industry. The city's steel mills became vital hubs for the production of steel, which was essential for the manufacturing of weapons, ammunition, and military equipment. Pittsburgh's strategic location and abundance of natural resources made it an ideal location for steel production, and the city quickly became known as the Arsenal of Democracy due to its significant contribution to the war effort.
The steel produced in Pittsburgh played a critical role in supplying the military with the materials needed to support the war. The city's steelworkers worked tirelessly to meet the escalating demand for steel, contributing to the overall success of the Allied forces. Pittsburgh's industrial prowess and dedication to wartime production solidified its reputation as a key player in the United States' efforts during World War II, earning the city widespread recognition for its contributions to the war.
As a result of Pittsburgh's pivotal role in World War II production, the city experienced significant economic and industrial growth. The wartime production efforts led to an increase in employment opportunities, drawing workers from across the country to support the booming steel industry. Pittsburgh's transformation into a center for steel production during this time not only impacted the outcome of the war but also left a lasting legacy on the city's industrial landscape and its role in shaping the nation's history.
Famous People From Pittsburgh

Charles Taze Russell (1852–1916): Religious leader and founder of what is now known as Bible Students movement.
Charles Taze Russell: Early Life and Religious Upbringing (1852-1868)
Charles Taze Russell was born on February 16, 1852, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to devout Presbyterian Scots-Irish parents, Joseph Lytel and Ann Eliza Birney Russell. His father owned a chain of clothing stores, and young Russell assisted in the family business. He spent his first 16 years as a member of a Presbyterian congregation in Pittsburgh, where his faith was deeply influenced by his religious upbringing.
Formation of Bible Study Group and Religious Exploration (1869-1875)
In 1870, Russell and his friends formed a Bible study group in Pittsburgh, marking the beginning of his religious exploration. His quest for spiritual understanding led him to question traditional Christian doctrines and seek a deeper understanding of the Bible.
Founding of the Bible Students Movement (1876-1884)
In 1876, Charles Taze Russell began publishing the magazine Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, which later became known as The Watchtower. This marked the official founding of what is now known as the Bible Students movement. Russell's teachings and publications gained a following, and he became a prominent figure in the religious community.
Expansion of Influence and Doctrinal Teachings (1885-1899)
During this period, Russell's influence expanded beyond Pittsburgh as he traveled extensively to promote his doctrinal teachings. He emphasized the study of the Bible and the imminent return of Christ, attracting followers who shared his beliefs. His work laid the foundation for the establishment of congregations and study groups across the United States.
Legal and Organizational Developments (1900-1909)
In 1909, Russell founded the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, which served as the organizational structure for the Bible Students movement. This marked a significant milestone in the formalization of the movement's administrative and publishing activities. The society's headquarters were established in Brooklyn, New York, further solidifying the movement's presence beyond Pittsburgh.
Continued Leadership and Legacy (1910-1916)
Throughout the final years of his life, Russell continued to lead the Bible Students movement and remained dedicated to his doctrinal teachings. His influence extended to international audiences, and his publications reached readers around the world. Russell's leadership and legacy left a lasting impact on the religious landscape, shaping the beliefs and practices of the Bible Students movement for years to come.
Key Achievements of Charles Taze Russell:
Founded the Bible Students movement and established the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society.
Published Zion's Watch Tower and Herald of Christ's Presence, later known as The Watchtower, which became a widely circulated religious publication.
Promoted doctrinal teachings emphasizing the study of the Bible and the imminent return of Christ.
Expanded the influence of the Bible Students movement beyond Pittsburgh, establishing congregations and study groups across the United States.
Established the movement's headquarters in Brooklyn, New York, and laid the foundation for its international presence.
In summary, Charles Taze Russell, born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was a pioneering religious leader who founded the Bible Students movement and played a pivotal role in shaping its doctrinal teachings and organizational structure. His legacy continues to influence the beliefs and practices of the movement, reflecting his enduring impact on the religious community.
Sponsored
Learn AI in 5 minutes a day
This is the easiest way for a busy person wanting to learn AI in as little time as possible:
Sign up for The Rundown AI newsletter
They send you 5-minute email updates on the latest AI news and how to use it
You learn how to become 2x more productive by leveraging AI
Connect With Me
If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.
I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.
-Yannick Lyons