🛑 Can PA stop detention centers?

Pittsburgh Theater Orgs Approve Merger

The city’s two largest theater companies — Pittsburgh Public Theater and Pittsburgh CLO — voted to merge into a new cultural institution as a way to deal with persistent funding issues. Currently planned shows will go on as scheduled. The newly-combined organization will launch a full season of programming in January 2027. [TribLive]

Can PA Block New Detention Centers?

The federal government quietly purchased two warehouses in Berks and Schuylkill Counties as part of a national move to build more immigrant detention facilities. Some local leaders, including Gov. Josh Shapiro, are pushing back against these sites. But does the state have any power to block the facilities or a say in how they operate? [SpotlightPA / City Cast Philly / City Cast Pittsburgh]

U.S. Rep Summer Lee Moves To Impeach AG

The Swissvale Democrat introduced articles of impeachment against Attorney General Pam Bondi for failing to fully release the Epstein files. The articles accuse Bondi of redacting and withholding documents to protect herself, President Donald Trump, and “other influential members and allies of the Trump administration.” [Post-Gazette]

UPMC Reports Possible Data Breach

Patient information — including names, birth dates, clinical notes, and medical histories — may have been improperly accessed and shared through a national health network. UPMC did not disclose the number of patients involved but said it would send a written notice to those who might’ve been affected. [Business Times]

• Learn about how Pittsburgh families went to court to protect patient information. [City Cast Pittsburgh]

PPS Will Go Virtual During NFL Draft

Pittsburgh Public Schools students will learn remotely from April 22 to 24, when as many as 700,000 people visit the city for the NFL Draft. The three days of online instruction are meant to reduce transportation challenges and learning disruptions. [Public Source]

Restaurant Leaders Launch New Hospitality Group

The team behind Ritual House, Palm Palm, Shorty’s, and The Common Good is joining forces with another industry expert to launch Legacy Hospitality Group — a new restaurant group dedicated to “eatertainment.” They plan to open three additional food and drink concepts this year, and more in 2027.

• Looking for some late night eats? Here’s what’s open after midnight. [City Cast Pittsburgh]

March 20 is the birthday of Pittsburgh’s favorite neighbor. Here’s how to celebrate the life and legacy of Fred Rogers.

1. See the Set

Head to the Heinz History Center in the Strip District to check out the largest collection of original items from the “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” television show. Highlights include the entryway and living room set that he walked through at the beginning of each show, King Friday XIII’s Castle, the Great Oak Tree, and Mr. McFeely’s “Speedy Delivery” tricycle.

2. Stand With His Statue

Take in the view of Downtown while sitting next to the “Tribute to Children” monument on the North Shore. This 10-foot bronze statue depicts Rogers sitting and tying his sneakers, just like in every episode. Music composed and sung by Rogers plays through speakers in the background, making you feel like it truly is a beautiful day in the neighborhood.

3. Buy Some Themed Merch

You can find so many sweet gifts inspired by Mister Rogers at Pittsburgh gift shops, including a whole section at the Heinz History Center. I’m a big fan of the “It’s cool to be kind” pennant, “good vibes” tote, and Kindness Zone road sign. Plus, Mix Candle Co. in Lawrenceville has a Mister Rogers' Neighborhood scent that’s “cheerful, calming, and wonderfully familiar.”

4. Turn On the TV

Reminisce with old episodes and clips of “Mister Rogers Neighborhood” on WQED, watch the documentary “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”, or catch Tom Hanks starring as Mister Rogers in the film “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.” And if you have a kiddo around, turn on “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.”

5. Visit the Children’s Museum

The North Side institution was recently named the number one children’s museum in the country by USA Today. To celebrate, they’re offering free admission on Mister Rogers’ birthday. See one of Fred’s iconic sweaters, original puppets from the show, and more.