🐼 Name the Pgh Zoo’s panda mascot!

Name the Zoo’s Red Panda Mascot

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium announced a new mascot, and you can help name it for a $1 minimum donation through May 17. The winner will be announced on May 31. Zoo officials say they chose the red panda to highlight their commitment to conservation. All proceeds benefit the Association of Zoos and Aquariums SAFE Red Panda Program. [WPXI]

Why So Many Tornadoes?

Our local tornado season peaked early this year, and Western Pennsylvanians have experienced an unusually high volume — more than twice the usual average of six per year. What’s going on? [KDKA]

• Does your community have a tornado siren? Many parts of Allegheny, Westmoreland, and Washington counties don’t, largely due to fragmentation. [KDKA]

Pitt Faculty Ratify Union Contract

New terms for about 3,500 full- and part-time University of Pittsburgh faculty members include salary floors, annual raises, job protections, and clearer guidelines for contractors. Good through June 30, 2026, the contract was secured through the United Steelworkers after two and a half years of bargaining. Pitt officials said through a spokesman that they welcome the union vote. [TribLIVE]

Pittsburgh TV Fixture Dies

DeHaven “Dee” Thompson, a WPXI reporter and anchor for 35 years before retiring in 2009, died at his home on Thursday. He was 84. Thompson joined the Pittsburgh station in 1974 as a sports reporter and later transitioned to the news team. A memorial is planned for May 17 in Rochester. [WPXI]

Renting in Pittsburgh? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you're looking for a place to rent, the time is now! Adam DiBuo with Neighborhood Legal Services says this late Spring, early Summer period is the peak time for moving into a rental home or apartment here in Pittsburgh, and he’s sharing an essential checklist to help you sort through the details before you sign a lease. Plus, stick around for what to do if things with your landlord ever go south.