Welcome to The Pittsburgh Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC match

• Steelers release veteran safety Keanu Neal

• A deep-dive into the life of Gene Kelly

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday.”

- Matt Haig

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!

In Pittsburgh, the "Incline" is a famous funicular that provides a scenic view of the city. What is its full name?

A) Pittsburgh Incline

B) Monongahela Incline

C) Duquesne Incline

D) Steel City Incline

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The name of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ stadium is A) Heinz Field.

News

💼 Business

L.B. Foster Company is scheduled to present at the upcoming Sidoti Small Cap Conference, taking place virtually in Pittsburgh. (Link)

Allegheny Technologies Inc. (ATI) reports strong quarterly earnings, driven by increased demand for specialty materials in aerospace and defense sectors.(Link)

🏒 Sports

The Steelers have released veteran safety Keanu Neal due to failing a physical examination. (Link)

NFL insider Aditi Kinkhabwala reports significant frustration among Steelers staff at the NFL Combine over discussions about replacing quarterback Kenny Pickett. (Link)

The Penguins overcome the Blue Jackets, securing a victory that breaks their three-game losing streak. (Link)

University of Pittsburgh Panthers considered underdogs for the ACC basketball tournament. (Link)

🏦 Finance

FHLBank Pittsburgh announces $114.2 million in available funding for its 2024 Community Investment Product Program. (Link)

The FDIC plans to recover $20 billion, a 25% increase, through a special assessment on banks following the failure of two banks and guaranteeing their deposits. (Link)

Pittsburgh's city controller issues a warning about the city's trajectory towards a significant financial crisis. (Link)

Local investment firm, Federated Hermes, announces record-breaking assets under management, fueled by strong market performance.(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

⚽ Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC vs. Orange County SC
Highmark Stadium, Pittsburgh, PA
Saturday, Mar. 16th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏒 Detroit Red Wings at Pittsburgh Penguins
PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Sunday, Mar. 17th | 6:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Marc Broussard, Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers
Thunderbird Music Hall, Pittsburgh
Wednesday, Mar. 13th | 7:30 PM | (More Info) ​

🎸 Otoboke Beaver
Spirit Hall, Pittsburgh
Thursday, Mar. 14th | 7:00 ​PM | (More Info)

🎤 Arm’s Length
Cafe at Thunderbird Cafe & Music Hall, Pittsburgh
Friday, Mar. 15th | 6:30 PM​ | (More Info)

🎸 KK’s Priest, L.A. Guns, Burning Witches
Stage AE, Pittsburgh
Sunday, Mar. 17th | 6:30 PM​ | (More Info)

Family

🍀 Pittsburgh St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2024
Grant Street, Downtown Pittsburgh, PA
Saturday, March 16th | 10 AM | (More Info)

🎭 Grease at Byham Theater
Byham Theater, Pittsburgh, PA
March 11th - March 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 “A steampunk-themed Pittsburgh with Victorian architecture” 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

1845: The Great Fire of Pittsburgh destroys over a thousand buildings.

In 1845, the city of Pittsburgh was devastated by a catastrophic event known as The Great Fire of Pittsburgh. This devastating fire engulfed over a thousand buildings, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The fire, which raged through the heart of the city, brought about widespread devastation and left a lasting impact on the community. The aftermath of the fire prompted a remarkable display of resilience and determination as the people of Pittsburgh came together to rebuild and restore their beloved city.

The Great Fire of Pittsburgh, which occurred in 1845, is a significant event in the history of the city. The fire's destructive force not only reshaped the physical landscape of Pittsburgh but also tested the resolve of its residents. The aftermath of the fire served as a turning point, leading to the implementation of new safety measures and fire prevention strategies to safeguard the city against future disasters. The resilience and unity displayed by the people of Pittsburgh in the face of such adversity stand as a testament to the city's enduring spirit.

Today, the legacy of The Great Fire of Pittsburgh serves as a reminder of the city's ability to rise from the ashes and rebuild. The event is commemorated as a pivotal moment in Pittsburgh's history, highlighting the strength and determination of its residents. The Great Fire of 1845 remains a poignant chapter in the city's story, symbolizing the unwavering spirit of Pittsburgh and its ability to overcome adversity.

Famous People From Pittsburgh

Gene Kelly (1912–1996):

Gene Kelly was born on August 23, 1912, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and passed away on February 2, 1996, in Beverly Hills, California. His remarkable career spanned multiple artistic disciplines, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.

Early Life and Passion for the Arts (1912-1930s)

Gene Kelly was born into a working-class neighborhood in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he developed a passion for the arts from a young age. His early exposure to dance and performance set the stage for his future career in entertainment.

Pioneering Dance Career (1930s-1940s)

After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh in 1933, Kelly pursued a career in entertainment. He initially worked as a dance teacher and choreographer, laying the foundation for his groundbreaking contributions to dance and musical cinema during Hollywood's Golden Age.

Rise to Stardom in Hollywood (1940s-1950s)

Kelly's energetic and athletic dancing style, combined with classical ballet technique, transformed the movie musical and did much to change the American dance. His performances in iconic films such as "Singin' in the Rain" and "An American in Paris" solidified his status as a legendary figure in the entertainment industry.

Directorial and Production Ventures (1950s-1960s)

In addition to his groundbreaking work as a dancer and choreographer, Gene Kelly was a skilled actor, director, and producer. His multifaceted talents allowed him to leave an enduring legacy in the world of film, with his directorial and production ventures contributing to the evolution of cinematic artistry.

Legacy and Influence (Post-1960s)

Gene Kelly's influence on dance and musical cinema remains unparalleled. His legacy extends beyond his own performances, as he paved the way for a new form of American dance accessible to the general public, which he called "dance for the common man."

Connection to Pittsburgh

Gene Kelly's roots in Pittsburgh remained significant throughout his life. Between 1931 and 1938, he ran two dance schools, one in Pittsburgh and one in Johnstown, both named Gene Kelly School of Dance. His early experiences in Pittsburgh played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic vision and passion for dance.

Key Achievements of Gene Kelly:

• Pioneer of a new form of American dance accessible to the general public, known as "dance for the common man."

• Iconic performances in films such as "Singin' in the Rain" and "An American in Paris."

• Successful career as a dancer, actor, singer, film director, producer, and choreographer.

• Influence on dance and musical cinema during Hollywood's Golden Age.

• Enduring legacy as a multifaceted artist and visionary in the world of entertainment.

Gene Kelly's story is one of artistic innovation, creative excellence, and a lasting impact on the world of entertainment. His contributions to dance, film, and the performing arts continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the globe.

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

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

Poll