Pittsburgh Newsletter (July 4th)

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

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Welcome to The Pittsburgh Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Etna celebrates $3M grant to fund new community building and library.

  • Upcoming The Plate Scrapers concert

  • A deep-dive into the life of Jack Gilbert

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"Your big opportunity may be right where you are now."

— Napoleon Hill

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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!

Week 27 Trivia: Pittsburgh's Three Rivers Arts Festival, a celebration of music, art, and performance, began in what year?

A) 1959

B) 1964

C) 1970

D) 1985

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The Pittsburgh-born jazz pianist and composer known for "Misty" is C) Erroll Garner.

News

💼 Business

Etna celebrates $3M grant to fund new community building and library. (Link)

Allegheny Health Network names new chief medical officer of Wexford Hospital. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Pittsburgh Penguins trade forward Reilly Smith to New York Rangers for draft picks. (Link)

Duvall delivers walk-off single in 10th as Braves overcome strong start by Skenes, beat Pirates 2-1. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Apple expanding into former Gap store on Walnut Street in Shadyside. (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

Monterey Bay F.C. at Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
Highmark Stadium - PA, Pittsburgh
Saturday, Jul. 6th | (More info)

Oakland Roots SC at Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
Highmark Stadium - PA, Pittsburgh
Saturday, Jul. 13th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 NO BAD JUJU
Private Event, Pittsburgh
Thursday, Jul. 4th | (More info)

🎵 The Plate Scrapers
Thunderbird Cafe & Music Hall, Pittsburgh
Saturday, Jul. 6th | (More info)

Family

📖 Sunday Storytime at Squirrel Hill
5841 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh
Sunday, Jul. 7th | (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 at night, lit by neon and holograms” 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

1960: The Pittsburgh Pirates win the World Series with Bill Mazeroski's historic home run.

In 1960, the city of Pittsburgh witnessed a historic moment in baseball history as the Pittsburgh Pirates clinched the World Series championship. The defining moment came in Game 7 when second baseman Bill Mazeroski made history with his iconic walk-off home run, securing the victory for the Pirates. This unforgettable moment not only brought the city together in celebration but also solidified Mazeroski's place in baseball lore. The triumph of the Pirates in the 1960 World Series remains a cherished memory for Pittsburgh and continues to be a source of pride for the city's baseball fans.

The 1960 World Series victory was a testament to the resilience and determination of the Pittsburgh Pirates, as they overcame formidable opponents to claim the championship title. The team's remarkable performance and Mazeroski's legendary home run left an indelible mark on the city's sports history, inspiring future generations of athletes and fans. The celebration that ensued throughout Pittsburgh reflected the deep-rooted passion and unwavering support for the Pirates, making the 1960 World Series a defining moment in the city's sporting legacy.

Bill Mazeroski's historic home run in the 1960 World Series stands as a symbol of triumph and perseverance for the city of Pittsburgh. The impact of this momentous event continues to resonate with Pittsburgh residents, serving as a reminder of the power of teamwork, dedication, and the unbreakable spirit of the city. The legacy of the 1960 World Series victory lives on as a cherished part of Pittsburgh's rich sports heritage, forever etched in the hearts of baseball enthusiasts and the proud community of Pittsburgh.

Famous People From Pittsburgh

Jack Gilbert (1925–2012):

Jack Gilbert (February 18, 1925 – November 13, 2012) was an American poet known for his passionate, introspective work. Born and raised in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania neighborhood of East Liberty, Gilbert's life and career were marked by a deep connection to his hometown and a relentless pursuit of poetic excellence.

Early Life and Pittsburgh Roots

Jack Gilbert was born on February 18, 1925, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and spent his formative years in the neighborhood of East Liberty. He attended Peabody High School in Pittsburgh, where he began to develop a love for literature and poetry. Despite the challenges he faced growing up in Pittsburgh, Gilbert's early experiences in the city would later influence his poetic voice and themes.

Journey to Poetry

After completing high school, Gilbert worked in various jobs, including as a door-to-door salesman, an exterminator, and a steelworker. His experiences in Pittsburgh and the struggles he encountered during this time became a source of inspiration for his later poetic works. Gilbert's determination to pursue poetry led him to the University of Pittsburgh, where he graduated in 1954, marking the beginning of his journey as a poet.

Literary Career and Recognition

Gilbert's literary career was characterized by a dedication to his craft and a commitment to introspective, emotionally charged poetry. His work resonated with readers and critics alike, earning him recognition and acclaim. In 2013, Gilbert's ""Collected Poems"" was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Poetry, a testament to the enduring impact of his poetic legacy.

Impact and Legacy

Throughout his career, Gilbert's poetry touched the lives of many, with readers expressing how his poems had saved their lives. His ability to capture the depth of human emotion and the complexities of existence made him a revered figure in the world of poetry. Gilbert's connection to Pittsburgh remained a central theme in his work, reflecting the influence of his hometown on his poetic vision.

Key Achievements of Jack Gilbert:

  • Finalist for the 2013 Pulitzer Prize in Poetry for his Collected Poems.

  • Known for emotionally charged and introspective poetry that resonated with readers.

  • Revered for capturing the depth of human emotion and the complexities of existence in his work.

  • Remembered for the enduring impact of his poetic legacy and the influence of his Pittsburgh roots.

Jack Gilbert's life and poetry are a testament to the power of introspection, emotional depth, and the enduring influence of one's hometown. His legacy as a poet continues to inspire and resonate with readers, reflecting the profound impact of his work on the world of literature.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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