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Pittsburgh Newsletter (July 29th)

Pittsburgh Newsletter (July 29th)

Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events in Pittsburgh.

Matthew Larsen
July 29, 2024

Quote of the Week

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”

–Maya Angelou

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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 famous Primanti Bros. sandwich shop was established in what year?

A) 1927

B) 1933

C) 1946

D) 1955

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The Andy Warhol Museum is located in C) North Shore, Pittsburgh.

News

💼Business

Howmet Aerospace to expand in Tennessee. (Link)

Bass Pro Shops to start approval process for debut store in western Pennsylvania. (Link)

🏒Sports

Steelers fans from across the United States converge on Latrobe for training camp. (Link)

When do the Olympics start and end? See the schedule for the 2024 Paris Games. (Link)

🏦Finance

Fox Rothschild accelerates move to new Pittsburgh office. (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

⚾ Arizona Diamondbacks at Pittsburgh Pirates
PNC Park, Pittsburgh
Friday, August 2 to Sunday, August 4, 2024 | (More info)

⚾ San Diego Padres at Pittsburgh Pirates
PNC Park, Pittsburgh
Tuesday, August 6, 2024 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Faye Webster
Stage AE, Pittsburgh
Monday, July 29, 2024 | (More info)

🎵 Mastodon
Stage AE, Pittsburgh
Tuesday, July 30, 2024 | (More info)

Family

🚑 Storytime: Family Fun
720 Sherwood Ave, Pittsburgh
Wednesday, July 31, 2024 | (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 with interactive, educational playgrounds for all ages” 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

1980: The demolition of the Lower Hill District, marking a significant urban redevelopment phase.

In 1980, the demolition of the Lower Hill District marked a significant urban redevelopment phase in Pittsburgh. The Lower Hill District, historically a vibrant African American neighborhood, was transformed through the demolition of over 1,300 buildings, displacing thousands of Black, Jewish, Italian, and Eastern European families. This redevelopment was a result of the construction of the Civic Arena and Crosstown Expressway, which led to the displacement of more than 8,000 people, including 1,885 families. The demolition of the Lower Hill District was a controversial and impactful event that reshaped the urban landscape of Pittsburgh.

The redevelopment of the Lower Hill District was part of a larger effort to upgrade housing across the nation, and Pittsburgh's 95-acre Hill District was selected for redevelopment. The area, which was once the cultural center of black life in the city and a major center of jazz, saw a substantial portion slated for demolition. Despite its cultural and economic vibrancy, the demolition of the Lower Hill District brought about significant upheaval and displacement, leaving a lasting impact on the community and the city of Pittsburgh as a whole.

The demolition of the Lower Hill District in 1980 remains a poignant chapter in Pittsburgh's history, symbolizing the complex intersection of urban development, displacement, and community resilience. The event serves as a reminder of the social and cultural consequences of urban redevelopment and continues to be a topic of discussion and reflection in the ongoing narrative of Pittsburgh's urban evolution.

Famous People From Pittsburgh

Billy Eckstine (1914–1993):

Billy Eckstine was a prominent jazz and pop singer known for his influential career in music. Born on July 8, 1914, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he grew up in Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C., where he attended Armstrong High School. Throughout his life, Eckstine made significant contributions to the music industry, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a talented vocalist and band leader.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1914-1930s)

Billy Eckstine, born William Clarence Eckstine, spent his formative years in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His early exposure to music and his passion for singing became evident during his time at Armstrong High School. It was here that he honed his musical talents and developed a deep appreciation for jazz and ballad singing.

Rise to Prominence in the Music Industry (1940s-1950s)

Eckstine's career took off in the 1940s when he founded and led the Billy Eckstine Band. His band quickly gained recognition, and he emerged as a solo performer, captivating audiences with his soulful vocals. His tours and recordings as a vocalist solidified his status as a prominent figure in the jazz and pop music scene.

Innovations and Fashion Trends (1940s-1950s)

Eckstine's influence extended beyond his musical talents. He was known for setting fashion trends and reshaping the boundaries of jazz, bebop, and ballad singing. His innovative approach to music and style made him a trailblazer in the industry, paving the way for future generations of musicians.

Legacy and Lasting Impact (1960s-1993)

Throughout the 1960s and until his passing in 1993, Billy Eckstine continued to leave a lasting impact on the music world. His collaborations, performances, and recordings showcased his enduring talent and cemented his legacy as a jazz and pop icon. His contributions to the music industry remain influential and continue to inspire artists today.

Connection to Pittsburgh

Billy Eckstine's connection to Pittsburgh was significant, as it was the city where he was born and attended Peabody High School. His formative years in Pittsburgh played a crucial role in shaping his musical journey and laying the foundation for his successful career in the music industry.

Key Achievements of Billy Eckstine:

Founded and led the Billy Eckstine Band, gaining recognition in the music industry.
Emerged as a solo performer, captivating audiences with his soulful vocals.
Set fashion trends and reshaped the boundaries of jazz, bebop, and ballad singing.
Left a lasting impact on the music world, inspiring future generations of musicians.
Maintained a strong connection to Pittsburgh, where he was born and attended high school.

Billy Eckstine's story is one of musical innovation, influence, and enduring talent. His contributions to jazz and pop music have left an indelible mark on the industry, solidifying his place as a legendary figure in music history.

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.

-Matthew Larsen