Pittsburgh Local Pulse: Historic Papal Election, Storm Cleanup, and Community Spirit

Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Friday, May 9, 2025. We start today with breaking news from the Vatican, as American-born Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected Pope Leo the Fourteenth, making history as the first American to lead the Catholic Church. While this is a global story, it is resonating strongly here in Pittsburgh, home to a large Catholic community and many with roots in local parishes. Back at home, city hall is still working through the aftermath of last week’s severe thunderstorms. Pittsburgh City Council has extended the disaster emergency declaration for another 30 days, giving the city more time to clear debris and address tree damage in neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill, Highland Park, and the Hill District. There’s hope some relief funding will help homeowners dealing with tangled property claims after the storms. The weather today looks quieter, with mild temperatures in the upper 60s and partly sunny skies. A great day for outdoor activities, but keep an umbrella handy just in case of an early evening shower. In breaking crime news, a man from Beaver County, Joseph Long, is facing arson charges after allegedly setting fire to a home on Ranch Street in Independence Township early Thursday morning. Two occupants escaped with minor injuries, but the home was completely destroyed. Police say Long was taken into custody nearby and is charged with reckless endangerment and criminal mischief. Additionally, city police are warning of an uptick in scams targeting seniors, urging everyone to double-check calls or emails that ask for personal information or money transfers. On the cultural scene, WQED has announced layoffs and a pause on its Creator Academy due to funding issues, a tough blow to our local arts community. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh’s Home and Garden Show is underway at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, running through the weekend and featuring dozens of local vendors and landscape demos—always a spring favorite. In business news, some Rite Aid stores are facing closure or may be sold off for good as the company files for bankruptcy again. On a brighter note, several ribbon cuttings this week welcomed new small businesses along Forbes Avenue and in Lawrenceville, part of an ongoing trend of local entrepreneurship. Turning to sports, the Pittsburgh Pirates made headlines yesterday. After a seven-game losing streak and a tough start to the season, the team has let go of manager Derek Shelton. Bench coach Don Kelly steps in as interim manager, hoping to spark a turnaround for the Bucs, who now sit at the bottom of the NL Central. For jobs, while the job market remains tight, there is some optimism. Gas prices are stable for now, making commutes a bit easier for those working downtown and in the suburbs. Congratulations to our local schools. Several city schools are celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week, and the KDKA youth reporters even got to take over the broadcast for a day, bringing their own This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.