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Welcome to The Pittsburgh Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Neighborhood Allies invests $250,000 into new grocery store in Pittsburgh's Hill District.

• Upcoming Big Wreck concert

• A deep-dive into the life of Erroll Garner

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else."

— Booker T. Washington

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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 21 Trivia: Pittsburgh's Strip District is famous for its variety of ethnic foods and markets. Originally, what was the primary industry in this area?

A) Steel production

B) Meatpacking

C) Automobile manufacturing

D) Glassmaking

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The Pittsburgh-born actress who won an Academy Award for her role in "The Great Ziegfeld" (1936) is B) Luise Rainer.

News

💼 Business

Exclusive: Nippon Steel exec tells why he’s confident the U.S. Steel deal will go through — and why it’s best for Pittsburgh. (Link)

Neighborhood Allies invests $250,000 into new grocery store in Pittsburgh's Hill District. (Link)

This Sewickley Heights estate is for sale for almost $5 million. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Atlantic 10 Conference Championship basketball tournament coming back to Pittsburgh in 2026. (Link)

Pirates rally with 4 runs in 9th inning to tie game, beat Giants 7-6 in 10th inning. (Link)

Special Olympics Pennsylvania's "Flame of Hope" begins 150-mile journey. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Report finds Pittsburgh tech sector lost about 4,000 jobs in 2023. (Link)

Pittsburgh native Rob Lynch becomes CEO of Shake Shack on same day chain opens first local restaurant. (Link)

Penn State trustees approve $700M stadium renovation. (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

⚽ Indy Eleven at Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
Highmark Stadium - PA, Pittsburgh
Saturday, June 1st | (More info)

🥏 Indianapolis AlleyCats at Pittsburgh Thunderbirds
Highmark Stadium - PA, Pittsburgh
Sunday, June 2nd | (More info)

⚾ Los Angeles Dodgers at Pittsburgh Pirates
PNC Park, Pittsburgh
Tuesday, June 4th to Thursday, June 6th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 The Burkharts
Smiling Moose, Pittsburgh
Thursday, May 30th | (More info)

🎤 Natasha Bedingfield
Stage AE, Pittsburgh
Friday, May 31st | (More info)

🎵 Big Wreck
Thunderbird Cafe & Music Hall, Pittsburgh
Saturday, June 1st | (More info)

Family

📚 Sunday Storytime at Squirrel Hill
5841 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh
Sunday, June 2nd | (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 “Urban winter wonderland in Pittsburgh with ice 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

1933: The first drive-in gas station opens in Pittsburgh.

In 1933, Pittsburgh made history as the location of the first-ever drive-in gas station, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of automobile culture. This innovative concept revolutionized the way motorists refueled their vehicles, offering unparalleled convenience and efficiency. Situated in the heart of Pittsburgh, this pioneering gas station provided drivers with the opportunity to pull up, fill up, and be on their way without ever leaving the comfort of their vehicles. The introduction of the drive-in gas station not only transformed the city's landscape but also set a new standard for modern refueling practices, leaving an indelible mark on Pittsburgh's automotive history.

The debut of the drive-in gas station in Pittsburgh represented a groundbreaking shift in the automotive industry, reflecting the city's forward-thinking approach to transportation and infrastructure. As the first of its kind, this innovative establishment captured the imagination of motorists and quickly gained popularity, setting a precedent for similar developments across the country. Pittsburgh's embrace of this pioneering concept signaled a new era of convenience and accessibility for drivers, cementing the city's reputation as a trailblazer in automotive innovation.

Today, the legacy of Pittsburgh's first drive-in gas station lives on as a testament to the city's enduring spirit of innovation and progress. This historic milestone continues to be celebrated as a defining moment in Pittsburgh's automotive history, serving as a reminder of the city's role in shaping the evolution of transportation and fueling practices. The drive-in gas station's impact on Pittsburgh's identity endures, symbolizing the city's commitment to embracing change and driving forward into a future defined by innovation and convenience.

Famous People From Pittsburgh

Erroll Garner (1921–1977):

Erroll Garner: Early Life and Musical Prodigy (1921-1939)

Born in Pittsburgh on June 15, 1921, Erroll Garner showed an early aptitude for music, playing the piano by the age of three. His natural talent and passion for music became evident at a young age, setting the stage for his future as a musical prodigy.

Rise to Prominence in the Jazz Scene (1940-1949)

Garner's musical journey took off in the 1940s as he began performing and touring across the United States. His captivating performances and unique style quickly garnered attention, propelling him to prominence in the jazz scene.

Partnership with Martha Glaser and Musical Innovations (1950-1959)

In 1950, Garner joined forces with Martha Glaser, his manager, and co-founded a publishing company, Octave. This partnership marked a significant period of musical innovation and creative collaboration, solidifying Garner's influence in the jazz world.

Global Recognition and Enduring Legacy (1960-1977)

Throughout the 1960s and until his passing in 1977, Erroll Garner continued to captivate audiences with his exceptional talent and musical prowess. His compositions and performances earned him global recognition, leaving behind an enduring legacy in the world of jazz.

Connection to Pittsburgh

Erroll Garner's roots in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, played a significant role in shaping his musical career. His early experiences in the city, including attending George Westinghouse High School, contributed to his development as a pianist and composer.

Key Achievements of Erroll Garner:

• Pioneering jazz pianist and composer known for his unique style and captivating performances.

• Co-founded a publishing company, Octave, with Martha Glaser, marking a period of musical innovation and creative collaboration.

• Garnered global recognition and left behind an enduring legacy in the world of jazz.

• Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and began his musical journey at an early age in the city.

• Composed the popular jazz standard Misty, which remains a timeless classic in the jazz genre.

Erroll Garner's story is one of musical genius, creative innovation, and a lasting impact on the world of jazz. His legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians and jazz enthusiasts worldwide.

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

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