Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Friday, December 20, 2024.

We start with breaking news from the past few days. A Purchase Line School District security guard in Indiana County is under investigation after accidentally discharging his gun in an elementary school faculty room on Friday morning[1]. Fortunately, no one was injured, but it's a stark reminder of the importance of safety protocols in our schools.

In other news, the Pittsburgh City Council has approved the 2025 budget with no tax hike, which is a relief for many residents[4]. This decision will have a direct impact on our daily lives, ensuring that we won't see an increase in our local taxes next year.

Moving on to the job market, the United States Postal Service is hosting job fairs in Western Pennsylvania to fill immediate openings. Positions include City Carrier PTF, City Carrier Assistants, Rural Carrier Associate, PSE Clerk, and Mail Handler Assistant, with hourly wages ranging from $18.62 to $22.18[2]. If you're looking for a new career opportunity, these job fairs are definitely worth checking out.

In real estate news, the Monroeville Mall is up for sale, which could lead to significant changes in the local retail landscape[4]. Additionally, Redbeard’s Sports Bar & Grill on Shiloh Street in Mt. Washington is closing after three decades, marking the end of an era for a beloved local establishment[1].

From city hall, we have updates on decisions that affect our daily lives. The Pittsburgh City Council's approval of the 2025 budget without a tax hike is a significant development. Also, concert promoters, hotels, and lodging sites will soon have to disclose extra fees upfront, providing more transparency for consumers[4].

Weather-wise, it's looking like a chilly day ahead, with temperatures expected to remain in the mid-30s. Make sure to bundle up if you're planning on venturing out today.

In new business activity, Hard Rock Café Pittsburgh in Station Square is set to close on February 13 after 23 years, which is a sad day for fans of the iconic restaurant[1]. On a brighter note, American Airlines is adding daily nonstop flights between Pittsburgh and Los Angeles, which will make travel to the West Coast more convenient[4].

Upcoming community events include the ongoing holiday festivities across the city. If you're looking for something to do this weekend, consider checking out the local Christmas events in the A-K Valley[4].

In local school achievements, Plum High School students recently attended the Junior Achievement of Western Pennsylvania Stock Market Challenge, where they learned valuable lessons about investing and financial strategy[1].

For our feel-good community story, four Highlands alumni are hosting a free holiday dinner giveaway for those in need, showcasing the spirit of generosity and community that defines our city[1].

Finally, in today's crime report, police are investigating a violent incident involving a Jimmy John's employee and a serv

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Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

We're starting with some breaking news from the past few days. The Steelers have officially clinched a playoff berth for the 2024-25 NFL playoffs, which is exciting news for local football fans. Meanwhile, Pitt swept Kentucky 3-0 on Saturday at the Petersen Events Center to punch their ticket to the semifinals in Louisville. On a different note, the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh held a "mega adoption event" this weekend to help pets find loving homes ahead of the holidays.

Moving on to the job market, the United States Postal Service is hosting job fairs in western Pennsylvania to fill immediate openings. Positions include City Carrier PTF, City Carrier Assistants, Rural Carrier Associate, PSE Clerk, and Mail Handler Assistant, with hourly wages ranging from $18.62 to $22.18. These job fairs are happening at various locations, including the Glenshaw Post Office and the Pittsburgh Kilbuck Post Office, on December 20 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

In real estate news, the Monroeville Mall owner has put the shopping complex up for sale. This comes as another restaurant in Pittsburgh's Station Square, D&G Pizza, is closing its doors, with the final day of business set for Saturday, December 21.

From city hall, the Allegheny County Council recently passed a 1.7 mill property tax hike by a narrow margin. This increase aims to address fiscal challenges inherited from the previous administration.

Weather-wise, temperatures are expected to drop later in the week, so make sure to bundle up. Today, however, should be relatively mild, making it a good day to get out and enjoy some of the holiday events happening around the city.

Speaking of events, there are plenty of holiday-themed activities to look forward to in the next few days. The Burgh Crafted Holiday Market is one such event that could provide some great gift ideas for your family and friends. Additionally, the Holiday Cookie Extravaganza is happening, where students bake cookies and sing for local seniors.

In local school news, an updated report on the performance of the Pittsburgh Public Schools suggests that attendance has improved, but disparities and some pandemic-era learning loss difficulties persist.

On a positive note, the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh's mega adoption event is a heartwarming example of the community coming together to help those in need.

In crime news, there was a shooting near the 7-Eleven convenience store and Exxon gas station along James Street. The Allegheny County Health Department also shut down Pittsburgh Popcorn Co.'s processing facility due to health concerns.

Finally, in sports, Brady Tkachuk scored 1:46 into overtime, and the Ottawa Senators beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 3-2 for their first three-game winning streak of the season.

This has been Pittsburgh Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

We start with breaking news from the past 24 hours. A 17-year-old boy has been arrested after nearly a dozen shots were fired outside Pittsburgh Public Schools' Perry High School on Tuesday. Micaiah Wheeler of Forest Hills is facing nearly 30 charges, including eight counts of attempted homicide. Police used surveillance video to identify Wheeler, who was located and arrested in the city's Hill District[4].

Moving on to the job market, the latest unemployment rate for Pittsburgh is 3.30%, which is slightly higher than last month's 2.90% but still lower than the long-term average of 5.62%[2]. While there are no major hiring announcements or new job postings to report today, it's worth noting that the Pittsburgh metro area is still struggling to recover from the pandemic's job losses, particularly in the goods-producing sectors[5].

In real estate news, construction is taking off at the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, with a new location set to open next summer. Meanwhile, another restaurant in Pittsburgh's Station Square is closing its doors, with D&G Pizza owner Ken Levato announcing that the final day of business will be Saturday, December 21.

From city hall, we have updates on efforts to make housing more affordable, a cornerstone of the Gainey administration. However, critics say these efforts have fallen short. Additionally, lawmakers are proposing standards for internet gambling, including a tax rate of 15% to 25% and a ban on credit card deposits.

Weather-wise, temperatures are expected to drop later in the week, so make sure to bundle up if you're planning on attending any outdoor events. Speaking of events, the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh held a "mega adoption event" this weekend, and we're told it was a huge success.

In local sports news, Pitt swept Kentucky 3-0 on Saturday at the Petersen Events Center to punch their ticket to the semifinals in Louisville. The Steelers have officially clinched a playoff berth for the 2024-25 NFL playoffs, despite losing 24-19 to the Cleveland Browns.

On a more serious note, our crime report includes the arrest of Micaiah Wheeler, as mentioned earlier. We also have reports of a shooting near the 7-Eleven convenience store and Exxon gas station along James Street.

Finally, a feel-good community story: the Allegheny County Health Department has been working hard to keep our community safe, and we appreciate their efforts. We also want to recognize the University of Pittsburgh for jumping into the NIL sphere with both feet, supporting our local student-athletes.

This has been Pittsburgh Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for December 14, 2024.

We're starting with some breaking news from the past few days. A fire broke out at a barn at Critter Country Animal Farm, a zoo in Westmoreland County. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the incident is a reminder of the importance of fire safety, especially during the holiday season.

In other news, U.S. Steel employees rallied on Thursday in support of the company's proposed sale to Japan-based Nippon Steel. This development could have significant implications for the local economy and job market.

Speaking of jobs, let's take a look at the current job market snapshot. The unemployment rate in Pittsburgh is at 3.30%, which is lower than the long-term average of 5.62%[2]. This is a positive sign for our local economy, but it also means that employers are facing a tight labor market. According to Christopher Briem, regional economist at the University of Pittsburgh's Center for Social and Urban Research, the competition over hiring workers has put pressure on employers to pay their employees more[5].

In real estate news, construction is taking off at the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport. This project is expected to bring new economic opportunities to the area. Meanwhile, Redbeard's Sports Bar and Grill on Pittsburgh's Mount Washington is set to close at the end of the month, marking the end of an era for this beloved local spot.

From city hall, we have an update on the proposed sale of U.S. Steel. The deal is still pending, but it could have significant implications for the local economy and job market.

Weather-wise, we're expecting frigid temperatures to return to the Pittsburgh area later this week, following a rainstorm. This could impact outdoor activities and events, so be sure to check the forecast before heading out.

In new business activity, D&G Pizza owner Ken Levato announced that the final day of business will be Saturday, December 21. This is a sad day for pizza lovers in the area, but we're also excited to see what new businesses will pop up in its place.

Looking ahead to the next few days, there are plenty of community events to check out. The ski season is set to start on Saturday at Hidden Valley Resort, and there are several holiday events and activities planned throughout the city.

In local school achievements, the Lincoln Park graduate's 30 points were the most this season by an ACC freshman. Congratulations to this talented young athlete!

In a feel-good community story, a Christmas wish is coming true for a South Fayette family devastated by a contractor nightmare. This is a heartwarming reminder of the kindness and generosity of our community.

Finally, in today's crime report, we have an update on the suspect in the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was nabbed at a McDonald's in Altoona. We also have reports of a sinkhole opening up in East Liberty and a person flown to the hospital following a crash.

This has been Pittsburg

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Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Friday, December 13, 2024.

We start with breaking news: a fire broke out at a barn at Critter Country Animal Farm, a zoo in Westmoreland County. Fortunately, no animals were harmed, but the incident is a reminder of the importance of fire safety, especially during the holiday season.

In other news, U.S. Steel employees rallied on Thursday in support of the company's proposed sale to Japan-based Nippon Steel. This development could have significant implications for the local economy and job market.

Speaking of jobs, let's take a look at the current job market snapshot. While there haven't been any major hiring announcements recently, there are several new job postings from top local employers. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is hiring a Shared Services Director with a salary range of $95,000 to $100,000. The Carnegie Museum of Art is also looking for an Exhibition Designer with a hourly rate of $27.50. These are just a few examples of the many job opportunities available in our city.

In real estate news, there haven't been any notable commercial or residential property sales recently. However, Redbeard's Sports Bar and Grill on Pittsburgh's Mount Washington is set to close at the end of the month, which could lead to new development opportunities in the area.

From City Hall, budget time is in full swing, with Pittsburgh City Council scrutinizing Mayor Ed Gainey's proposed spending. This is an important process that affects daily life in our city, and we'll be keeping a close eye on developments.

Weather-wise, it's going to be a chilly day today, with temperatures in the mid-30s. However, the cold weather isn't stopping holiday festivities. Thousands will be out finding their perfect Christmas tree this weekend, and the Pittsburgh Public Theatre is bringing its adaptation of "A Christmas Story" back on stage for the next few weekends.

In business news, the Pittsburgh Popcorn Company is dealing with a rodent infestation issue, with inspectors finding rodent droppings inside several rooms of their production facility. On a more positive note, the University of Pittsburgh is jumping into the NIL sphere with both feet, which could lead to new opportunities for student athletes.

In community events, the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank is highlighting the issue of food insecurity among children in our area, and their Child Hunger Hero Award Program is looking to combat that. Additionally, the Old Fashioned Christmas in Canonsburg is serving up nostalgic holiday vibes, and we got a sneak peek at the festivities.

In sports news, the Pittsburgh Steelers lost 24-19 to the Cleveland Browns, but they're looking to bounce back in their next game. And in a feel-good community story, a Christmas wish is coming true for a South Fayette family devastated by a contractor nightmare.

Finally, in today's crime report, a Mt. Lebanon man was sentenced to federal prison over fraudulent insurance claims, and i

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Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Friday, December 13, 2024.

We're starting with some breaking news from the past few days. A woman was tragically killed in a hit-and-run crash in Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood early Thursday morning. Police are still investigating the incident and urging anyone with information to come forward. In other news, a man has been indicted after firing at a DEA agent in Pittsburgh's Carrick neighborhood.

Moving on to the job market, we have some updates for you. The University of Pittsburgh is jumping into the NIL sphere with both feet, which means star college football and basketball players are now getting paid millions of dollars. However, the overall job growth in the Pittsburgh metro area is still struggling to recover from the pandemic. According to the Allegheny Institute, the annual average number of jobs in the Pittsburgh MSA grew just 1.2 percent from 2000 through 2023, far behind the national growth rate of 18.2 percent.

In terms of new job postings, the Pittsburgh Arts Council has compiled a list of job openings at some of the area's best arts and cultural institutions. Some notable postings include a Shared Services Director at the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, an Exhibition Designer at the Carnegie Museum of Art, and a Program Operations Manager at Handmade Arcade.

On the real estate front, we have some updates on new development projects. A 36-acre park in Pittsburgh is getting a huge facelift to host some major events in 2026, including the NFL Draft. Additionally, the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce is launching a feasibility study to see about building a convention center and hotel.

From City Hall, we have some news on budget discussions. Pittsburgh City Council is scrutinizing Mayor Ed Gainey's proposed spending, and a city program is seeking to recruit and train from within the community to address staffing shortages in Pittsburgh EMS.

Weather-wise, it's going to be a chilly day today, with temperatures in the mid-30s. Make sure to bundle up if you're planning on heading out to any of the festive events happening around the city.

Speaking of events, we have some exciting news on the entertainment front. Billy Joel and Rod Stewart are coming to Pittsburgh for a show at Acrisure Stadium, and Pearl Jam is hitting the road and bringing its tour to Pittsburgh for two shows. Additionally, Pierce The Veil will return to the Pittsburgh area in 2025 as part of a newly announced global headlining tour.

In local school news, over 600 students from the Pittsburgh region got experience learning about careers in the medical field at a career fair. And in sports, the Pittsburgh Steelers pulled away from the mistake-prone Cleveland Browns 27-14.

On a more serious note, we have some updates on crime in the area. A girl in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was abducted and raped by a masked man while walking home from school last week. Authorities are still investigating the incident and urgin

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Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Sunday, December 8, 2024.

We're starting off with some breaking news from the past few days. The Pittsburgh Steelers have nominated Larry Ogunjobi for the 2024 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, following in the footsteps of last year's winner, Cam Heyward. In other news, a 36-acre park in Pittsburgh is undergoing a major facelift to host significant events in 2026, including the NFL Draft. This development is expected to bring in a lot of excitement and economic activity to the area.

On the job front, the United States Postal Service is hosting job fairs in Western Pennsylvania to fill immediate openings for various positions, including City Carrier PTF, City Carrier Assistants, Rural Carrier Associates, PSE Clerks, and Mail Handler Assistants. These job fairs are taking place at the Glenshaw Post Office, Ambridge Post Office, and Pittsburgh Kilbuck Post Office. Additionally, the Pittsburgh Arts Council has compiled a list of job openings at local arts and cultural institutions, including positions at the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Carnegie Museum of Art, and Handmade Arcade.

In real estate news, there are no significant updates on commercial or residential property sales, but we do have some updates on new development projects. The Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce is launching a feasibility study to explore building a convention center and hotel. This could potentially bring in more business and tourism to the area.

From city hall, we have some updates on decisions that affect daily life. The Pittsburgh Public Safety department is deploying over 100 police officers downtown for the Light Up Night celebration to ensure public safety. Additionally, the city is considering changes to the rules for a program that offers free spay and neuter services for cats and dogs, making it available only to low-income residents.

The weather is quite chilly today, with meteorological winter officially here. The National Weather Service has warned that travel could be difficult to impossible in places with ongoing snowfall. Pittsburgh International Airport's Snow Fighters were even dispatched to Erie to assist with snow removal.

In new business activity, PetVet365 has opened a new location at the Strip District Terminal, and Billy Joel and Rod Stewart are coming to Pittsburgh for a show at Acrisure Stadium. Pearl Jam is also hitting the road and bringing its tour to Pittsburgh for two shows.

Upcoming community events include the Pittsburgh Symphony Splendor House Tour, which features a Broadway-themed tree and benefits the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. The Brown Mamas Marketplace is also happening, supporting Black women on Small Business Saturday.

In local school achievements, over 600 students from the Pittsburgh region got to experience learning about careers in the medical field at a career fair. In sports, the Pittsburgh Penguins beat the Calgary Flames 6-2 on Saturday night.

On a feel-good

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Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for December 8, 2024.

We start with breaking news: a 36-acre park in Pittsburgh is getting a huge facelift to host some major events in 2026, including the NFL Draft. This development is expected to bring significant economic benefits and excitement to our city.

In other news, the Steelers have nominated Larry Ogunjobi for the 2024 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. This comes after Cam Heyward won the award last year and Russell Wilson won it in 2020.

Looking at our job market, the latest data shows that Pittsburgh's labor force is at 1.177 million, down slightly from last month and last year[2]. The unemployment rate is at 3.30%, which is higher than last month but still lower than the long-term average[4]. There are no major hiring announcements or layoffs to report today.

In real estate, we see that Robinson Township won't increase its taxes next year, which is good news for residents. However, there are concerns about the proposed Trump tariffs affecting local businesses, including a small business owner in Pittsburgh who expressed worries about the impact on her business.

From City Hall, we have news that Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato proposed a significant property tax increase, but council members say they can cut it almost in half without reducing staff or services.

Weather-wise, it's going to be a cold day today with temperatures in the low 30s. The National Weather Service warns that travel could be difficult to impossible in places with ongoing snowfall. Pittsburgh International Airport's Snow Fighters were dispatched to Erie to assist with snow removal.

In new business activity, PetVet365 cut the ribbon on its new location at the Strip District Terminal. The first Von Maur department store in Pennsylvania has opened at South Hills Village. However, Spirit Airlines announced that it has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

Upcoming community events include the 31st annual Highmark First Night celebration, which will feature a performance by Frzy and fireworks. The Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre's 'Nutcracker' brings local flair to a Christmas tradition.

In local sports, the Pittsburgh Steelers lost 24-19 to the Cleveland Browns, but they did beat the Ravens 18-16 at Acrisure Stadium. The Pittsburgh Penguins beat the Calgary Flames 6-2 on Saturday night.

In a feel-good community story, a tree farm in Harmony, Butler County, is already open for the season, offering a festive outing for families.

Unfortunately, we have to report on some crime incidents. A girl in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was abducted and raped by a masked man while walking home from school. A man was found inside an Allentown apartment shot in the arm. Police are investigating these incidents and urge anyone with information to come forward.

This has been Pittsburgh Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Saturday, December 7, 2024.

We're starting with some breaking news from the past few days. A major development is underway at a 36-acre park in Pittsburgh, which is getting a huge facelift to host some major events in 2026, including the NFL Draft. This project is part of a larger effort to revitalize the area and bring in more visitors and economic activity.

In other news, Robinson Township has announced that it won't increase its taxes next year, which is a welcome relief for residents. Meanwhile, an investigation into an alleged hazing incident in the Highlands School District is underway, and we'll be keeping an eye on this story as it develops.

Let's take a look at the job market snapshot. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Pittsburgh unemployment rate is at 3.30% as of October 2024, which is slightly higher than the previous month but still lower than the long-term average. We're also seeing some major hiring announcements, including the University of Pittsburgh's new initiative to jump into the NIL sphere with both feet, which could bring in new opportunities for students and athletes.

In real estate news, we're seeing some notable commercial and residential property sales, including a vintage colonial in exclusive Fox Chapel that's been sold for a significant price. We're also seeing some new development projects and construction updates, including the renovation of Point State Park ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, which is getting a $3.4 million upgrade.

From City Hall, we're seeing some important decisions that affect daily life. The Pittsburgh City Council is scrutinizing Mayor Ed Gainey's proposed spending, and we're also seeing some efforts to recruit and train new EMS personnel to address staffing shortages.

The weather is having a big impact on today's activities and events, with a cold front bringing thundersnow to Western Pennsylvania. We're expecting a chilly day today, so make sure to bundle up if you're heading out.

In new business activity, we're seeing some exciting openings and closings. PetVet365 has cut the ribbon on its new location at the Strip District Terminal, and we're also seeing some new pop-up bars and restaurants opening up around the city.

Looking ahead to the next few days, we've got some great community events coming up. Billy Joel and Rod Stewart are teaming up for a show at Acrisure Stadium, and Pearl Jam is hitting the road and bringing its tour to Pittsburgh for two shows in May.

In local school achievements, we're seeing some great news from the Pittsburgh region. Over 600 students got experience learning about careers in the medical field at a recent career fair, and we're also seeing some impressive sports results from local teams.

Unfortunately, we've also got some crime news to report. A woman was killed in a hit-and-run crash in Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood early Thursday morning, and police are still inve

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Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Saturday, December 7, 2024. We're starting off with some breaking news from the past few days. A major development in our city is the upcoming facelift for a 36-acre park, which is set to host major events in 2026, including the NFL Draft. This significant investment will not only enhance the park's infrastructure but also boost local businesses and tourism.

In other news, Robinson Township has announced that it won't increase its taxes next year, providing relief to local residents. Meanwhile, an investigation into an alleged hazing incident in the Highlands School District is underway, and we'll keep you updated on any developments.

Let's take a look at today's job market snapshot. The current unemployment rate in Pittsburgh is at 3.30%, slightly up from last month but still lower than the long-term average of 5.62%[2][5]. While there haven't been any major hiring announcements recently, the University of Pittsburgh is making strides in the NIL sphere, which could lead to new opportunities for local athletes.

In real estate, the city is seeing significant investments, including a $3.4 million pledge to upgrade Point State Park ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft[4]. This project will not only enhance the park's amenities but also contribute to the local economy.

From City Hall, budget discussions are underway, with Pittsburgh City Council scrutinizing Mayor Ed Gainey's proposed spending. Amid staffing shortages in Pittsburgh EMS, a city program aims to recruit and train from within the community.

Weather-wise, a cold front has brought thundersnow to Western Pennsylvania, so be sure to bundle up if you're heading out today. Looking ahead, we're expecting a chilly week, so make sure to check the forecast before planning your activities.

In new business activity, PetVet365 has opened a new location at the Strip District Terminal, and we're seeing a resurgence of local businesses in popular shopping districts. However, some small businesses are expressing frustration with Duquesne Light, highlighting the need for better communication between utility providers and local entrepreneurs.

Upcoming community events include the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership's Black Market: Holiday Edition, featuring Pittsburgh's Black-owned businesses, and the Sewickley Sleigh holiday pop-up. Don't miss out on these opportunities to support local vendors and enjoy the holiday spirit.

In local school achievements, over 600 students from the Pittsburgh region recently attended a career fair to learn about careers in the medical field. And in sports, the Steelers have activated DB Cory Trice off injured reserve, and Larry Ogunjobi has been named the Steelers' nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award.

On a feel-good note, owners of a boutique in Ross and the South Hills are donating sweaters to honor a loved one's memory, showcasing the community's spirit of giving.

Unfortunately, we also have to report on so

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