City Cast Pittsburgh

🌊 A definitive ranking of Pittsburgh’s pools

June 13, 2023

Ah, smell that summer rain? We finally got a little reprieve from the dry spell, but the stretch of heat put Pittsburgh into a “moderate drought,” impacting local waterways and crops.

I’ll tell you what — Pittsburghers also need a soak. The city fiiiinallyyy announced what pools are opening this summer, and today on the City Cast Pittsburgh podcast, a special guest is giving us a true, definitive ranking.

What's CITY Talking About?

Black Pgh Honors Child Killed By Gun Violence

A new community center, called Young Black Motivated Kings & Queens, will be built in Penn Hills to honor D’Avry Thomas, the 18 month old who was tragically killed by gun violence in Downtown over Memorial Day weekend last year. The family hopes to bring hope and positive change through youth engagement and activities like arts, crafts, culinary classes, and STEM programming. [Pittsburgh Magazine]

Juneteenth Celebrations Will Go On — Probably?

There was some talk that Pittsburgh and state officials were going to cancel Juneteenth celebrations at Point State Park, but Mayor Ed Gainey clarified that was never the intention. The city is putting $125,000 toward the event, plus in-kind support. However, all events at the park need to have their own security for fireworks, and the event’s main organizer said he doesn’t intend to provide that security. [TribLIVE]

Pittsburgh Public Schools Is Hiring

It’s crunch time to fill shortages before the next school year. The district needs more than 30 teacher aides, more than 30 custodians, and a handful of nurses and security officers — and they're offering sign-on bonuses and increased wages to get folks in the door. [90.5 WESA]

Cutch Swings a Benchmark Hit

Pirates outfielder Andrew McCutchen got his 2,000th hit off a single in the first inning against the Mets on Sunday, and the Buccos went on to win 2-1. He’s the fifth active MLB player to achieve the milestone, which came 14 years and eight days after his first career hit, also against the Mets. Fun fact: When the Pirates get a home run, their preferred celebration is called a swashbuckle. [90.5 WESA / The Athletic / Associated Press]

🎧 Hear about the sordid early history of our Buccos’ best luck charm and biggest curse – the Pirate Parrot mascot.

Where Is It?

I hope you like games! Here’s your photo challenge for the week.

Where can you find this painting of yellow, orange, pink, and blue houses?

Submit Your Guess!

Spot the reveal in tomorrow’s neighborhood guide, and if you get it right, look for a shout out in this segment next week.

🌟 Shout out to last week’s “Where Is It” winners: Alyssa C., Lynn B., Jade U., and Courtney D. They all correctly identified the colorful crosswalk in Millvale, pictured below.

*A crosswalk mural at Sedgwick Street and Grant Avenue in Millvale, created with the help of the Millvale Music Festival Committee. (Francesca Dabecco / City Cast Pittsburgh)*

🏘️ ICYMI: Browse The Millvale Neighborhood Guide

What To Do

🍾 Nine O’Clock Wines Opening | Thursday - Sunday | Various Times

Celebrate the new home of Pittsburgh’s natural wine shop at Lawrenceville Market House with snacks and sales. [free, Lawrenceville]

♻️ World Refill Day | Friday | 12 - 5 p.m.

Go on a scavenger hunt with the Refillery to celebrate a day of action to prevent plastic pollution and participate in reuse / refill activities. [free, Squirrel Hill]

🎶 Black History: Closer Than You Think | Friday | 5 - 8 p.m.

Bring a blanket or lawn chair to Hazelwood Green for a free outdoor concert featuring jazz, soul, funk, and hip hop — plus food trucks and kids games. [free, Hazelwood]

Today on City Cast