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- Pittsburgh Newsletter (December 19th)
Pittsburgh Newsletter (December 19th)
Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events in Pittsburgh.
Welcome to The Pittsburgh Newsletter!
In today’s edition:
Cioppino and Osteria 2350 in the Strip District to close at year's end.
Upcoming Lindsay Liebro concert
A deep-dive into the life of Philander C. Knox
And more…
Quote of the Week
“Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.”
— Albert Einstein
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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!
Pittsburgh's Carnegie Mellon University was formed by the merger of the Carnegie Institute of Technology and which other university?
A) University of Pittsburgh
B) Duquesne University
C) Mellon Institute of Industrial Research
D) Point Park University
Answer to Last Week's Trivia:
The historic John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge in Pittsburgh was completed in B) 1869.
News
💼Business
Lender files foreclosure action against Station Square ownership. (Link)
Cioppino and Osteria 2350 in the Strip District to close at year's end. (Link)
🏒Sports
Pitt women's volleyball team gets send-off to Louisville for NCAA tournament semifinals. (Link)
Rickard Rakell scores OT goal, leads Pens to 3-2 win over Kings. (Link)
🏦Finance
Charleroi glass plant closing postponed but still happening. (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
🏀 UC Irvine Anteaters at Duquesne Dukes (Men’s Basketball)
UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse, Pittsburgh
Saturday, Dec. 21st | (More info)
🏀 Pittsburgh Holiday Hoops Classic
PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh
Sunday, Dec. 22nd | (More info)
Music & Concerts
🎵 Lindsay Liebro
Wigle Whiskey, Pittsburgh
Thursday, Dec. 19th | (More info)
🎵 Trans-Siberian Orchestra
PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh
Saturday, Dec. 21st | (More info)
Family
🤖 Free Robotics Workshop for Kids (Ages 7-14)
100 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh
Sunday, Dec. 22nd | (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 “Pittsburgh celebrating a futuristic international festival” 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
1946: The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine develops the polio vaccine.
In 1946, a groundbreaking achievement took place at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine that would change the course of medical history. It was here that the polio vaccine, a vital tool in the fight against the devastating disease, was developed. This monumental breakthrough marked a significant milestone in the field of medicine and brought hope to millions of people worldwide who were affected by polio. The tireless efforts of the researchers and scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine led to the development of a vaccine that would ultimately save countless lives and contribute to the global eradication of polio.
The development of the polio vaccine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine represented a triumph of scientific innovation and dedication. The tireless work of the researchers and medical professionals involved in this historic achievement demonstrated the power of collaboration and perseverance in the face of a formidable health crisis. The impact of this milestone extended far beyond the walls of the university, as the polio vaccine went on to become a cornerstone of public health initiatives around the world, leading to a significant reduction in polio cases and offering hope for a polio-free future.
The legacy of the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine's development of the polio vaccine continues to resonate today, serving as a testament to the institution's commitment to advancing medical knowledge and improving global health. This pivotal moment in medical history stands as a testament to the potential for scientific research to transform lives and inspire future generations of medical professionals. The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine's contribution to the fight against polio remains a source of pride for the city of Pittsburgh and a shining example of the impact of local innovation on a global scale.
Famous People From Pittsburgh

Philander C. Knox (1853–1921): U.S. Senator, Attorney General, and Secretary of State.
Philander Chase Knox was an American lawyer, bank director, and politician who made significant contributions to the legal and political landscape of the United States. Born on May 6, 1853, in Brownsville, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, to banker David S. Knox and philanthropist Rebekah Page Knox, Philander C. Knox was raised in a family deeply involved in the commercial and social fabric of the Pittsburgh region. His upbringing instilled in him a sense of community service and a strong foundation for his future endeavors. Philander C. Knox's career was marked by his involvement in the legal profession, public service, and political leadership. He was a member of the Republican Party and served in the Cabinet of three different presidents, representing Pennsylvania in the United States Senate. Knox's impact extended beyond his legal and political roles, leaving a lasting legacy in Pittsburgh and the nation as a whole.
Philander C. Knox's Early Life and Education
Philander Chase Knox was born on May 6, 1853, in Brownsville, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, to David S. Knox and Rebekah Page Knox. His father, a banker, was involved in financing commercial activities in the Pittsburgh region, while his mother was actively engaged in philanthropic and social organizations. Knox's upbringing in a family deeply connected to the Pittsburgh community laid the groundwork for his future commitment to public service and community involvement. Knox pursued his education at West Virginia University and graduated from Mount Union College in Alliance, Ohio, at the young age of 19. His academic achievements were recognized when his alma mater bestowed upon him the honorary degree of Doctor of Law at the commencement of 1901. This early academic success foreshadowed his future accomplishments in the legal and political arenas.
Legal Career and Political Involvement
Following his education, Philander C. Knox embarked on a distinguished legal career, becoming a prominent attorney in Pittsburgh. He formed the law firm of Knox and Reed, where he honed his legal expertise and established himself as a respected figure in the legal community. His legal acumen and dedication to public service led to his involvement in politics, where he represented Pennsylvania in the United States Senate and served in the Cabinet of three different presidents Knox's political career was characterized by his commitment to public service and his active participation in shaping the nation's legal and political landscape. His tenure in the Cabinet and the Senate allowed him to contribute to significant policy decisions and legislative initiatives, leaving a lasting impact on the governance of the United States.
Legacy and Contributions to Pittsburgh
Philander C. Knox's legacy extends beyond his legal and political achievements, encompassing his profound impact on the Pittsburgh community. His upbringing in a family deeply rooted in Pittsburgh's commercial and social activities instilled in him a sense of responsibility and commitment to the betterment of the region. Knox's involvement in the elite Duquesne Club in Pittsburgh further exemplifies his connection to the city and its influential circles.
Key Achievements of Philander C. Knox:
Distinguished legal career as a prominent attorney in Pittsburgh.
Representation of Pennsylvania in the United States Senate.
Service in the Cabinet of three different presidents.
Legacy of community involvement and commitment to public service.
Active participation in shaping the nation's legal and political landscape.
Philander C. Knox's life story is one of dedication to public service, legal expertise, and a deep-rooted connection to the Pittsburgh community. His contributions to the legal and political spheres, coupled with his commitment to community involvement, solidify his place as a prominent figure in Pittsburgh's history and the nation's governance. In summary, Philander Chase Knox, born in 1853 in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, was a distinguished lawyer, bank director, and politician who represented Pennsylvania in the United States Senate and served in the Cabinet of three different presidents. His legacy is marked by his commitment to public service, legal expertise, and active participation in shaping the nation's legal and political landscape, leaving a lasting impact on Pittsburgh and the United States.
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