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Welcome to The Pittsburgh Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Penguins sign their first pick to a three-year deal

• Upcoming Pittsburgh Pirates match

• A deep-dive into the life of John Alfred Brashear

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Things work out best for those who make the best of how things work out.”

– John Wooden

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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 PPG Place, a notable glass skyscraper, was designed by which famous architect?

A) Frank Lloyd Wright

B) Philip Johnson

C) I.M. Pei

D) Norman Foster

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The famous Pittsburgh-born artist known for his public television painting show and unique style is A) Bob Ross.

News

💼Business

Patagonia asked about 90 of its remote employees to relocate within 60 miles of one of its seven hub cities, including Pittsburgh, or leave the company. (link)

DiAnoia’s Eatery is expanding its catering options by taking over the kitchen space of the former Lidia’s Pittsburgh. (link)

🏒Sports

The Pittsburgh Steelers will host a joint practice with the Buffalo Bills after the end of their training camp. (link)

The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed their first pick from the 2024 NHL Draft to a three-year deal. (link)

🏦Finance

The average rate on a 30-year mortgage fell slightly this week. (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

🏀 TBT Pittsburgh Round 2 – Games 5 & 6
Petersen Events Center
July 22 | (More info)

⚾ St. Louis Cardinals at Pittsburgh Pirates
PNC Park
July 22 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 The Band CAMINO
Stage AE, Pittsburgh
July 22 | (More info)

🎶 2024 VIVIZ WORLD TOUR [V.hind : Love and Tears] in Pittsburgh
Kelly Strayhorn Theater
July 22 | (More info)

Family

📚 Scott Institute Student Seminar
Bosch Spark Conference Room, Scott Hall
July 25 | (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 eco-city Pittsburgh with lush greenery and no visible technology” 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

1974: The Pittsburgh Steelers win their first Super Bowl.

In 1974, the city of Pittsburgh celebrated a historic moment as the Pittsburgh Steelers clinched their first-ever Super Bowl victory. The Steelers, led by head coach Chuck Noll and a roster of talented players, including Terry Bradshaw and Franco Harris, made their mark in football history by defeating the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IX. This triumph marked the beginning of a legendary era for the Steelers and solidified their status as a powerhouse in the NFL.

The victory brought immense pride and joy to the people of Pittsburgh, as they rallied behind their beloved team and reveled in the glory of this monumental achievement. The Steelers' Super Bowl win in 1974 not only elevated the city's sports legacy but also united the community in a shared sense of triumph and accomplishment. The team's success served as a source of inspiration and motivation for generations of Pittsburghers, leaving an indelible mark on the city's identity and fostering a deep sense of pride in their sports culture.

To this day, the Steelers' inaugural Super Bowl victory in 1974 remains a cherished and pivotal moment in Pittsburgh's history. It symbolizes the resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit of the city and its people, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Steelers and their profound impact on the fabric of Pittsburgh's identity. The triumph of 1974 continues to be celebrated and revered, standing as a testament to the unbreakable bond between the team and the city, and the enduring legacy of Pittsburgh's sports history.

Famous People From Pittsburgh

John Alfred Brashear (1840–1920):

John Alfred Brashear, an American optician and telescope maker, was born on November 24, 1840, in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, a town 35 miles south of Pittsburgh along the Monongahela River. His remarkable journey from a machinist and millwright to a renowned astronomer and instrument builder is a testament to his passion for astronomy and his dedication to scientific innovation.

Early Life and Passion for Astronomy

John Brashear's fascination with astronomy began at a young age when he had his first glimpse of the moon at the age of nine. This influential experience sparked his lifelong interest in the stars and celestial bodies. Despite receiving only a common school education until the age of 15, Brashear apprenticed himself to a machinist and had mastered his trade by the age of 20.

Transition to Telescope Making

Until 1881, John Brashear worked as a mechanic in a rolling steel mill in Pittsburgh during the day and pursued his passion for astronomy by night. He taught himself to make astronomical instruments in a shed behind his Pittsburgh home, driven by childhood memories of looking through a traveling telescope. His dedication and commitment to his craft led him to become an amateur telescope maker, laying the foundation for his future achievements in the field of astronomy.

Establishment of Workshop for Astronomical Instruments

In 1881, through the encouragement of Samuel Pierpont Langley and with the financial support of William Thaw, John Brashear was able to establish a workshop for making astronomical and physical instruments. This marked a significant turning point in his career, allowing him to fully dedicate himself to the pursuit of scientific innovation and the advancement of astronomical research.

Contributions to Astronomy and Instrument Building

John Brashear's expertise in telescope making and instrument building led to significant contributions to the field of astronomy. His precision-crafted lenses and mirrors revolutionized the design and construction of telescopes, enabling astronomers to observe celestial objects with unprecedented clarity and detail. His work in developing astrophysical instruments and his role in advancing astronomical research solidified his reputation as a pioneering figure in the field of astronomy.

Connection to Pittsburgh

John Brashear's connection to Pittsburgh is deeply rooted in his professional journey. From working as a mechanic in a steel mill to establishing his workshop for astronomical instruments, Pittsburgh played a pivotal role in shaping his career and fostering his passion for astronomy and scientific innovation.

Legacy and Recognition

John Alfred Brashear's legacy as an astronomer and inventor continues to inspire future generations of scientists and astronomers. His contributions to the field of astronomy, particularly in the development of precision instruments, have left an indelible mark on the scientific community. His dedication to advancing astronomical research and his pioneering work in telescope making have solidified his place as a trailblazer in the field of astronomy.

Key Achievements of John Alfred Brashear:

• Self-taught telescope maker and optician, driven by childhood memories of looking through a traveling telescope.

• Established a workshop for making astronomical and physical instruments with the support of Samuel Pierpont Langley and William Thaw.

• Revolutionized the design and construction of telescopes with precision-crafted lenses and mirrors.

• Made significant contributions to the field of astronomy through the development of astrophysical instruments and advancement of astronomical research.

• Left a lasting legacy as a pioneering figure in the field of astronomy, inspiring future generations of scientists and astronomers.

John Alfred Brashear's story is one of passion, dedication, and scientific innovation. His journey from a humble beginning as a machinist to becoming a renowned astronomer and instrument builder is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one's passion. His legacy continues to shine brightly in the field of astronomy, leaving an enduring impact on scientific exploration and discovery.

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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