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McCormick says gas prices could drop soon

McCormick acknowledged gas is too expensive and the cost has impacted families.

News

Sen. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dave McCormick" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/07/14/trump-mccormick-ai-energy-summit-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="9d093af1-b965-448a-bc55-97ee23f4855f" data-vars-headline="McCormick says gas prices could drop soon" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/07/14/trump-mccormick-ai-energy-summit-pittsburgh" target="_self">Dave McCormick</a> told Axios Thursday gas prices should come down rapidly when the Iran war ends, which he expects will be relatively soon.Why it matters: Pittsburgh&#x27;s average gas prices are the highest in the state, currently at over $4.92 a gallon and near all-time highs, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AAA" data-vars-click-url="https://gasprices.aaa.com/?state=PA" data-vars-content-id="9d093af1-b965-448a-bc55-97ee23f4855f" data-vars-headline="McCormick says gas prices could drop soon" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://gasprices.aaa.com/?state=PA" target="_blank">AAA</a>.

Pa. won't join new redistricting push

State law and divided government keep Pennsylvania out of new redistricting efforts.

Last week&#x27;s Supreme Court ruling<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" weakening the Voting Rights Act" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/29/voting-rights-act-supreme-court-democrats-south" data-vars-content-id="e759d17d-0219-47f1-affc-2b9002d83d17" data-vars-headline="Pa. won&#x27;t join new redistricting push" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/29/voting-rights-act-supreme-court-democrats-south" target="_self"> weakening the Voting Rights Act</a> is causing some previously skeptical Democrats to reconsider partisan gerrymanders this election cycle, but not in Pennsylvania.Why it matters: This new energy could put a new crop of blue and even purple states on the board as potential redistricting targets ahead of 2028, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="more than 20 federal and state Democratic lawmakers who spoke to Axios" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/01/supreme-court-voting-rights-2028-maps-democrats" data-vars-content-id="e759d17d-0219-47f1-affc-2b9002d83d17" data-vars-headline="Pa. won&#x27;t join new redistricting push" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/01/supreme-court-voting-rights-2028-maps-democrats" target="_self">more than 20 federal and state Democratic lawmakers who spoke to Axios</a>.

Health care gaps persist for Black and Hispanic Pennsylvanians

A new report finds disparities in access, cost and outcomes across racial groups in Pennsylvania.

Black and Hispanic Pennsylvanians still face the largest gaps in health care access and quality, per a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Commonwealth Fund report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/fund-reports/2026/apr/commonwealth-fund-2026-state-health-disparities-report" data-vars-content-id="cfd44f41-9b94-42b0-b134-d0873e83a5dc" data-vars-headline="Health care gaps persist for Black and Hispanic Pennsylvanians" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/fund-reports/2026/apr/commonwealth-fund-2026-state-health-disparities-report" target="_blank">Commonwealth Fund report</a>.The big picture: No state has eliminated <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="health disparities" data-vars-click-url="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11806735/" data-vars-content-id="cfd44f41-9b94-42b0-b134-d0873e83a5dc" data-vars-headline="Health care gaps persist for Black and Hispanic Pennsylvanians" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11806735/" target="_blank">health disparities</a> across racial and ethnic groups, and researchers warn that recent federal policy shifts will likely widen them.

Where to find authentic Mexican food

From tacos to gorditas, these Pittsburgh spots bring authentic Mexican flavors to the region.

Food and Drink

May the food be with you — Mexican food that is.The big picture: The Pittsburgh area&#x27;s Latino population is growing, but it&#x27;s still one of the smallest of any large metro area in the nation, so finding authentic Mexican food <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="can be a struggle" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/01/17/steelers-kfc-mexico-nfl" data-vars-content-id="50f15873-28ce-40a2-acb2-ab6f111c5906" data-vars-headline="Where to find authentic Mexican food" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/01/17/steelers-kfc-mexico-nfl" target="_self">can be a struggle</a>.

Retro Pizza Hut serves nostalgia in Baden

A Beaver County location still has the vintage look — and hopes to bring back the buffet.

You can still visit a Pizza Hut location reminiscent of your youth just outside of Pittsburgh.Why it matters: We&#x27;re <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nostalgic for everything" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/08/20/throwback-summer-pittsburgh-activities" data-vars-content-id="3a95b561-303f-4ac2-a1fa-71b556651946" data-vars-headline="Retro Pizza Hut serves nostalgia in Baden" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/08/20/throwback-summer-pittsburgh-activities" target="_self">nostalgic for everything</a> in the Steel City, and our national pizza chains are no exception.

Bohemian bar opens in Garden Theater

The Bohemian brings Czech-style beer and cocktails to a revived North Side landmark.

There&#x27;s new life for a North Side landmark, and it is serving up suds.Why it matters: The Garden Theater site finally has retail tenants again after a nearly two-decade-long redevelopment project.

NFL draft has Pittsburgh-inspired snacks

Fans can try kielbasa, pepperoni rolls and themed cocktails at the draft.

Get your kielbasa at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="NFL draft" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/21/pittsburgh-nfl-draft-fears-traffic-yinzers-relax" data-vars-content-id="26ac80b2-7fc6-4b9b-a055-47860ebe8079" data-vars-headline="NFL draft has Pittsburgh-inspired snacks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/21/pittsburgh-nfl-draft-fears-traffic-yinzers-relax" target="_self">NFL draft</a>.The Intrigue: Yinzer-themed stuff is everywhere on the NFL draft campus, including the Aramark <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="concessions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/31/pnc-park-2026-food-review-pirates" data-vars-content-id="26ac80b2-7fc6-4b9b-a055-47860ebe8079" data-vars-headline="NFL draft has Pittsburgh-inspired snacks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/31/pnc-park-2026-food-review-pirates" target="_self">concessions</a>.

Skip the tourist traps: Where to eat in Pittsburgh

These restaurants, pizza spots and breakfast joints are our personal faves.

Even if your <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="NFL draft experience" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/17/nfl-draft-parking-prices-schools-residents-rent-spaces" data-vars-content-id="27576b39-fdf8-44af-8b69-6b27f6ff921e" data-vars-headline="Skip the tourist traps: Where to eat in Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/17/nfl-draft-parking-prices-schools-residents-rent-spaces" target="_self">NFL draft experience</a> in Pittsburgh is 100% about football, yinz still have to eat.Why it matters: It might be hard to peel yourself away from the gridiron action, but there are some essential spots to try that won&#x27;t take you too far from the draft, and some that are worth a trek.

Heinz History Center expansion takes shape

The project will add new exhibits and event space by 2028.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Heinz History Center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/" data-vars-content-id="25897a2e-c6d5-438f-ba1a-2747fca9d246" data-vars-headline="Heinz History Center expansion takes shape" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/" target="_blank">Heinz History Center</a> broke ground Thursday on its 92,000-square-foot expansion.Why it matters: The $80 million project will boost capacity, add exhibits and help position the Smithsonian-affiliated museum as a top draw for tourists and visitors.

Market Square debuts $15 million makeover

The renovations aim to bring energy back to one of Downtown's busiest gathering spaces.

NFL draft crowds will be among the first to see <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Market Square&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/04/01/market-square-revamp-downtown-upgrade-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="bfaf2a54-7789-4c77-8f56-1d65a7cd0d2d" data-vars-headline="Market Square debuts $15 million makeover" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/04/01/market-square-revamp-downtown-upgrade-pittsburgh" target="_self">Market Square&#x27;s</a> $15 million renovation after a year of work.Why it matters: The city is fast-tracking new projects to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="draw people" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/25/us-cities-downtown-data?utm_campaign=editorial&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter" data-vars-content-id="bfaf2a54-7789-4c77-8f56-1d65a7cd0d2d" data-vars-headline="Market Square debuts $15 million makeover" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/25/us-cities-downtown-data?utm_campaign=editorial&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter" target="_self">draw people</a> back Downtown after pandemic-era hits to foot traffic, while teeing up Pittsburgh for a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="busy tourism" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/01/05/pittsburgh-2026-nfl-draft-world-cup-arts" data-vars-content-id="bfaf2a54-7789-4c77-8f56-1d65a7cd0d2d" data-vars-headline="Market Square debuts $15 million makeover" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/01/05/pittsburgh-2026-nfl-draft-world-cup-arts" target="_self">busy tourism</a> year.

First look: Arts Landing park

A new 4-acre Downtown park opens with art, a lawn and a public playground.

<figure><img alt="A marching band playing in front of a large canopy and stage with yellow bridges in the background" height="450" id="c0e4164c-172c-43bb-8aa3-e6e23f5e66fe" src="https://images.axios.com/dPWOsZyOQwWAnmXCc7eWB0788nw=/2026/04/17/1776450701893.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Arts Landing is nearly open and Pittsburgh is ready to celebrate. GIF: Ryan Deto/Axios</figcaption></figure>Pittsburgh&#x27;s newest park is nearly ready and will open the first day of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="NFL draft." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/17/nfl-draft-parking-prices-schools-residents-rent-spaces" data-vars-content-id="d83c9482-a370-4491-a297-f2a7b3b6db48" data-vars-headline="First look: Arts Landing park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/17/nfl-draft-parking-prices-schools-residents-rent-spaces" target="_self">NFL draft.</a>Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arts Landing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/02/06/downtown-development-pittsburgh-park-nfl-draft" data-vars-content-id="d83c9482-a370-4491-a297-f2a7b3b6db48" data-vars-headline="First look: Arts Landing park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/02/06/downtown-development-pittsburgh-park-nfl-draft" target="_self">Arts Landing</a> converted a vacant lot into a 4-acre green space complete with Downtown&#x27;s first public playground, plus sculptures, a great lawn and a canopy and stage that will be the Three Rivers Arts Festival&#x27;s permanent home.

Paving season has begun

Crews will repave 24 miles of streets as potholes linger after winter.

Road relief is on the way as Pittsburgh starts street resurfacing this week. Why it matters: After a particularly rough winter, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="potholes are abundant" data-vars-click-url="https://www.post-gazette.com/news/weather-news/2026/03/07/pittsburgh-weather-potholes/stories/202603050115" data-vars-content-id="81ed056d-c8fe-416f-8ba9-dfd1dc53a193" data-vars-headline="Paving season has begun" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.post-gazette.com/news/weather-news/2026/03/07/pittsburgh-weather-potholes/stories/202603050115" target="_blank">potholes are abundant</a> across the city.

How Pittsburgh is banking on small business

Leaders are investing millions to bring shops, foot traffic and energy back to Downtown.

Pittsburgh leaders are betting small businesses are the city&#x27;s secret sauce.Why it matters: After losing a third of its foot traffic since 2019, Downtown Pittsburgh&#x27;s recovery may hinge on whether small local shops can bring people and spending back.

Canvas outage delays college finals across the country

The  shutdown forced colleges to reorganize or scratch finals.

Technology

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Universities" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/02/ai-college-students-change-majors-poll" data-vars-content-id="b1a6e06f-6314-451a-a314-36a36c4d9e78" data-vars-headline="Canvas outage delays college finals across the country" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/02/ai-college-students-change-majors-poll" target="_self">Universities</a> across the country are rescheduling or <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="canceling" data-vars-click-url="https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/education/article315678331.html" data-vars-content-id="b1a6e06f-6314-451a-a314-36a36c4d9e78" data-vars-headline="Canvas outage delays college finals across the country" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/education/article315678331.html" target="_blank">canceling</a> finals after a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="cyberattack" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/article/cyberattack-schools-canvas-instructure-shinyhunters-a0d7719689263e6b5f90d0e633391b5b" data-vars-content-id="b1a6e06f-6314-451a-a314-36a36c4d9e78" data-vars-headline="Canvas outage delays college finals across the country" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/article/cyberattack-schools-canvas-instructure-shinyhunters-a0d7719689263e6b5f90d0e633391b5b" target="_blank">cyberattack</a> shut down a learning platform used by thousands of schools for course information and assignments.The big picture: The attack comes at a critical moment for college students who are cramming for finals — and underscores education&#x27;s growing reliance on singular technology platforms.

How Pittsburgh nonprofits are putting AI to work

A local program helps nonprofits build AI literacy, develop practical tools and learn from peers.

Pittsburgh nonprofits are tapping into AI to stretch limited resources and widen their reach.Why it matters: Nonprofits are often lifelines for those they serve, but lean teams, rising demand and fierce <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="funding" data-vars-click-url="https://cep.org/blog/a-time-of-crisis-as-nonprofit-leaders-face-extraordinary-challenges-heres-what-they-are-saying/" data-vars-content-id="f12fb877-8b35-40ad-ae43-06edac7dac16" data-vars-headline="How Pittsburgh nonprofits are putting AI to work" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://cep.org/blog/a-time-of-crisis-as-nonprofit-leaders-face-extraordinary-challenges-heres-what-they-are-saying/" target="_blank">funding</a> competition can drive burnout and blunt impact.

Pittsburgh adds loungers to public pools

Nearly 300 loungers will be available when city pools open June 15.

Summer is about to get more relaxing as Pittsburgh&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="public pools" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/06/06/best-public-pools-guide" data-vars-content-id="7dd7b3e1-210f-4e19-beee-a82098e60a60" data-vars-headline="Pittsburgh adds loungers to public pools" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/06/06/best-public-pools-guide" target="_self">public pools</a> add loungers and chairs.Why it matters: They&#x27;re more comfortable than the ground.

New rules limit teen access to Market Square

New policy requires teens to have adult chaperones during peak activity.

A new city policy temporarily bars unaccompanied teens from entering Market Square during peak hours.Why it matters: It aims to address Market Square businesses&#x27; unease with large — and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="sometimes rowdy" data-vars-click-url="https://triblive.com/local/3-juveniles-arrested-20-treated-for-pepper-spray-exposure-after-fight-in-market-square/" data-vars-content-id="5b164f1b-885f-4889-89f4-93f8acacae8c" data-vars-headline="New rules limit teen access to Market Square" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://triblive.com/local/3-juveniles-arrested-20-treated-for-pepper-spray-exposure-after-fight-in-market-square/" target="_blank">sometimes rowdy</a> — teen <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gatherings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.reddit.com/r/pittsburgh/comments/1t066gi/market_square_teen_takeovers/" data-vars-content-id="5b164f1b-885f-4889-89f4-93f8acacae8c" data-vars-headline="New rules limit teen access to Market Square" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.reddit.com/r/pittsburgh/comments/1t066gi/market_square_teen_takeovers/" target="_blank">gatherings</a> they say hurt sales and risk <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="public safety" data-vars-click-url="https://triblive.com/local/pittsburgh-police-make-several-arrests-during-light-up-night/" data-vars-content-id="5b164f1b-885f-4889-89f4-93f8acacae8c" data-vars-headline="New rules limit teen access to Market Square" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://triblive.com/local/pittsburgh-police-make-several-arrests-during-light-up-night/" target="_blank">public safety</a>.

Shapiro sues AI chatbot over medical advice

State officials say a chatbot falsely claimed to be a licensed psychiatrist in Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania Department of State is suing a popular AI startup to stop its chatbots from posing as licensed medical professionals.Why it matters: Generative AI companies have come under increased scrutiny for breaching ethical boundaries, leading to several <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="lawsuits" data-vars-click-url="https://futurism.com/teens-killed-ai-phrase" data-vars-content-id="537eda06-ab59-497b-8afa-5801c03c2706" data-vars-headline="Shapiro sues AI chatbot over medical advice" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://futurism.com/teens-killed-ai-phrase" target="_blank">lawsuits</a>.

New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff

40%-50% of Post-Gazette newsroom workers are expected to lose their jobs, the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh said.

Roughly half of all Pittsburgh Post-Gazette newsroom workers are expected to lose their jobs Monday as new nonprofit owners take over, the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh said Friday.The big picture: Staff reductions will shrink coverage of local news, high school and college sports, and the arts at Pittsburgh&#x27;s oldest newspaper, along with less editing and production staff, per the Guild. Staff has been cut by 40%-50%, the union added. Catch up quick: Block Communications Inc. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="announced April 14" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/14/post-gazette-sale-venetoulis-institute-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/14/post-gazette-sale-venetoulis-institute-pittsburgh" target="_self">announced April 14</a> it was selling the newspaper to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Venetoulis Institute for Local Journalism" data-vars-click-url="https://venetoulisinstitute.org/" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://venetoulisinstitute.org/" target="_blank">Venetoulis Institute for Local Journalism</a> — the nonprofit publisher of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Baltimore Banner" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thebanner.com/" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thebanner.com/" target="_blank">Baltimore Banner</a>. Venetoulis Institute founder <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Stewart Bainum" data-vars-click-url="https://venetoulisinstitute.org/stewart-bainum-jr/" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://venetoulisinstitute.org/stewart-bainum-jr/" target="_blank">Stewart Bainum</a> said the nonprofit would likely cut the newsroom&#x27;s roughly 100-person workforce due to industry realities.<ul><li>Staff members were asked to reapply for their jobs and to sit for 20-minute conversations with Institute leaders, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="WESA reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wesa.fm/economy-business/2026-04-17/pittsburgh-post-gazette-new-ownership-union-questions" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wesa.fm/economy-business/2026-04-17/pittsburgh-post-gazette-new-ownership-union-questions" target="_blank">WESA reported</a>.</li><li>Some Post-Gazette employees said the process was less formal than a job interview; they didn&#x27;t feel like they were &quot;reapplying&quot; for their roles during their often casual conversations with leaders. </li><li>The nonprofit sent job offers to about half the newsroom starting Wednesday, per the Guild, while others received emails starting Thursday informing them they would not be retained.</li></ul>Zoom in: Those who said they were not re-hired include longtime music writer <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Scott Mervis" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/scottmervis_pg" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/scottmervis_pg" target="_blank">Scott Mervis</a>; designer Zack Tanner, who served as Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh president for most of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="newsroom&#x27;s three-year strike" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/12/10/newsroom-strike-ends-pittsburgh-journalists-return" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/12/10/newsroom-strike-ends-pittsburgh-journalists-return" target="_self">newsroom&#x27;s three-year strike</a>; high school sports writers <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Steve Rotstein" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/SteveRotstein" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/SteveRotstein" target="_blank">Steve Rotstein</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Brad Everett" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/BREAL412/status/2050222459685601699" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/BREAL412/status/2050222459685601699" target="_blank">Brad Everett</a>, Pitt athletics reporters <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Abby Schnable" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/AbbySchnable/status/2049958988716847152" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/AbbySchnable/status/2049958988716847152" target="_blank">Abby Schnable</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Stephen Thompson" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/stephenethom/status/2049952821961798090" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/stephenethom/status/2049952821961798090" target="_blank">Stephen Thompson</a>; photographers Steve Mellon and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sebastian Foltz" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/SebFoltz/status/2050254554990575683?s=20" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/SebFoltz/status/2050254554990575683?s=20" target="_blank">Sebastian Foltz</a>; and high school sports and Riverhounds writer <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Keith Barnes" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/KBarnes_PG/status/2050014475781112148" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/KBarnes_PG/status/2050014475781112148" target="_blank">Keith Barnes</a>.<ul><li>Books editor and columnist Adriana Ramírez <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="said on X" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/zadri/status/2050193190876070131" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/zadri/status/2050193190876070131" target="_blank">said on X</a> she will not be re-hired, adding &quot;the new ownership will be shuttering the entire opinion section.&quot; The paper published <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="its last editorial " data-vars-click-url="https://www.post-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/2026/05/03/block-communications-post-gazette-venetoulis/stories/202605030065?fbclid=IwY2xjawRktepleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEexEX-KeMZdjafGQG_-zVLWDHaoFmj-qNantMQ_xoK8uZs2QUtERe0_7CM_GE_aem_SYJQjav_x7zS9NVGGqrr0A" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.post-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/2026/05/03/block-communications-post-gazette-venetoulis/stories/202605030065?fbclid=IwY2xjawRktepleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEexEX-KeMZdjafGQG_-zVLWDHaoFmj-qNantMQ_xoK8uZs2QUtERe0_7CM_GE_aem_SYJQjav_x7zS9NVGGqrr0A" target="_blank">its last editorial </a>on Sunday.</li><li>About 80% of former striking Post-Gazette workers will not be rehired, NewsGuild president and education reporter Andrew Goldstein said Friday. Goldstein said he&#x27;s among those not offered jobs.</li><li>The cuts &quot;are a brazen, discriminatory attempt at busting our union by the PG&#x27;s incoming owners,&quot; Goldstein said in an email to supporters Friday. </li></ul>Between the lines: The Baltimore Banner <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thebanner.com/economy/banner-pittsburgh-post-gazette-4JWCQJWEE5B6LPRLH5QIEITRJE/" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thebanner.com/economy/banner-pittsburgh-post-gazette-4JWCQJWEE5B6LPRLH5QIEITRJE/" target="_blank">reported</a> the nonprofit will buy only the paper&#x27;s assets and is not obligated to take on existing contracts; the Institute previously informed the union it will recognize its standing and negotiate a new contract, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="per the NewsGuild" data-vars-click-url="https://newsguild.org/pittsburgh-western-pa-elected-officials-urge-new-post-gazette-owners-to-fully-staff-newsroom-bargain-in-good-faith-with-union-journalists/" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://newsguild.org/pittsburgh-western-pa-elected-officials-urge-new-post-gazette-owners-to-fully-staff-newsroom-bargain-in-good-faith-with-union-journalists/" target="_blank">per the NewsGuild</a>.<ul><li>&quot;I hope that the workers who remain don&#x27;t give Baltimore ownership one inch of leeway when it comes to defending their workplace rights,&quot; Tanner told Axios. &quot;If new owners can cut this aggressively, who knows what else they&#x27;re capable of.&quot;</li></ul>The other side: &quot;… Our commitment to providing trusted, independent news to the Pittsburgh region is fierce and unwavering,&quot; a Venetoulis Institute spokesperson said in a statement.<ul><li>&quot;At the same time, we are a nonprofit news organization determined to put the publication, which was on the verge of shutdown, on solid financial footing, so that it can serve the people of western Pennsylvania for generations to come.&quot;</li></ul>Flashback: Block Communications <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="said in January" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/01/07/post-gazette-shutdown-may-2026" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/01/07/post-gazette-shutdown-may-2026" target="_self">said in January</a> it would close the Post-Gazette, citing more than $350 million in losses over the past 20 years.<ul><li>The decision followed the longest newsroom strike of the digital era, during which many journalists <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="crossed " data-vars-click-url="https://www.niemanlab.org/2025/11/what-newsroom-organizers-learned-from-the-years-long-strike-at-the-pittsburgh-post-gazette/" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.niemanlab.org/2025/11/what-newsroom-organizers-learned-from-the-years-long-strike-at-the-pittsburgh-post-gazette/" target="_blank">crossed </a>the picket line.</li></ul>What&#x27;s next: The newspaper&#x27;s leadership team will remain in place after the Venetoulis Institute acquires the paper on Monday, the nonprofit <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="announced Thursday" data-vars-click-url="https://www.editorandpublisher.com/stories/venetoulis-institute-for-local-journalism-announces-leadership-team-for-pittsburgh-post-gazette,261405" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.editorandpublisher.com/stories/venetoulis-institute-for-local-journalism-announces-leadership-team-for-pittsburgh-post-gazette,261405" target="_blank">announced Thursday</a>. Tracey DeAngelo will stay on as president, and Stan Wischnowski will continue as executive editor.<ul><li>New owners plan to maintain the Post-Gazette&#x27;s two print days, Thursday and Sunday, and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="return newsroom offices" data-vars-click-url="https://www.post-gazette.com/business/development/2026/05/01/post-gazette-move-north-shore-2026/stories/202605010065" data-vars-content-id="7becab45-2fe5-4e95-b6bf-107b12640cc3" data-vars-headline="New owners shrink Post-Gazette staff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.post-gazette.com/business/development/2026/05/01/post-gazette-move-north-shore-2026/stories/202605010065" target="_blank">return newsroom offices</a> to the North Shore before the end of summer. </li></ul>Axios Pittsburgh reporter Ryan Deto contributed to this story. This story has been updated with new information and comment.

Pop-up roller rink to open in Market Square

The rink opens May 7 and runs through May 25.

Things to Do

Market Square is getting a retro remix this month with a pop-up roller rink — here for a short spin to showcase the plaza&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new renovations" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/22/pittsburgh-market-square-renovation" data-vars-content-id="573e3380-cc96-4b87-9c5b-58f85489e6a4" data-vars-headline="Pop-up roller rink to open in Market Square" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/22/pittsburgh-market-square-renovation" target="_self">new renovations</a> and bring people back Downtown.Zoom in: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Skate the Square" data-vars-click-url="https://downtownpittsburgh.com/skatethesquare/" data-vars-content-id="573e3380-cc96-4b87-9c5b-58f85489e6a4" data-vars-headline="Pop-up roller rink to open in Market Square" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://downtownpittsburgh.com/skatethesquare/" target="_blank">Skate the Square</a> opens Thursday.

Things to do in Pittsburgh this May

Enjoy free food festivals and live music across Pittsburgh this May.

May is here, and so is festival season!From concerts and culinary events to street fairs and more, here&#x27;s what&#x27;s happening around the city this month.

What May Day means in Pittsburgh

Marches and events highlight labor history and workers' rights across the region.

Labor rights are integral to Pittsburgh&#x27;s history and growth as a region, and International Workers&#x27; Day is a great opportunity to remember them.The big picture: Labor groups and local activists will be holding marches, parades and events Friday and this weekend to commemorate May Day.

NFL draft sets new first-day attendance record

Pittsburgh set a new NFL draft attendance record with 320,000 fans on Thursday.

The NFL draft&#x27;s first full day brought big crowds, packed park-and-rides and lively fan scenes across Downtown and the North Shore. The big picture: Pittsburgh set a new first-day attendance record with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="320,000 fans" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/NFL/status/2047510988908359916" data-vars-content-id="ae8b5497-9792-46c9-84cc-2918cc149c90" data-vars-headline="NFL draft sets new first-day attendance record" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2047510988908359916" target="_blank">320,000 fans</a>, commissioner Roger Goodell announced Thursday night, surpassing Detroit&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="previous record" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nfl.com/news/2024-nfl-draft-attendance-record-set-with-more-than-700-00-fans-attending-the-event-in-detroit" data-vars-content-id="ae8b5497-9792-46c9-84cc-2918cc149c90" data-vars-headline="NFL draft sets new first-day attendance record" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nfl.com/news/2024-nfl-draft-attendance-record-set-with-more-than-700-00-fans-attending-the-event-in-detroit" target="_blank">previous record</a> of 275,000.

Find Giant Eagle's giant buggy Downtown

The cartoonishly large, street-legal shopping cart will be Downtown for photos.

<figure><img alt="An oversized metal shopping cart on large wheels sits on a waterfront road; two people in red ride inside. City skyline and blue sky backdrop; cart bears the &quot;giant eagle&quot; logo." height="508" id="19ba28c7-4b3d-4972-b29d-2bdc6d708775" src="https://images.axios.com/Rg_JNJM9kCGcftofgB-BL24r8CI=/2026/04/23/1776919449013.gif" width="960"/><figcaption>When I &quot;just need a few things.&quot; GIF: Courtesy of Giant Eagle</figcaption></figure>Here&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="one" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfQbdyySrGE" data-vars-content-id="652a2038-9e01-4409-ad02-bc31cf48a3fa" data-vars-headline="Find Giant Eagle&#x27;s giant buggy Downtown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfQbdyySrGE" target="_blank">one</a> more <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="oversized" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/16/giant-pop-tart-mascot-nfl-draft-pittsburgh-event" data-vars-content-id="652a2038-9e01-4409-ad02-bc31cf48a3fa" data-vars-headline="Find Giant Eagle&#x27;s giant buggy Downtown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/16/giant-pop-tart-mascot-nfl-draft-pittsburgh-event" target="_self">oversized</a> surprise you didn&#x27;t have on your NFL draft bingo card: a Giant Eagle buggy — or shopping cart, for the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="uninitiated" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pghcitypaper.com/specials-guides/pittsburghese-dictionary-how-to-talk-like-a-yinzer-19623370/" data-vars-content-id="652a2038-9e01-4409-ad02-bc31cf48a3fa" data-vars-headline="Find Giant Eagle&#x27;s giant buggy Downtown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pghcitypaper.com/specials-guides/pittsburghese-dictionary-how-to-talk-like-a-yinzer-19623370/" target="_blank">uninitiated</a>.Zoom in: Giant Eagle&#x27;s supersized street-legal shopping cart has been <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="spotted" data-vars-click-url="https://www.reddit.com/r/pittsburgh/comments/1ss67bu/did_anybody_else_see_this_today/" data-vars-content-id="652a2038-9e01-4409-ad02-bc31cf48a3fa" data-vars-headline="Find Giant Eagle&#x27;s giant buggy Downtown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.reddit.com/r/pittsburgh/comments/1ss67bu/did_anybody_else_see_this_today/" target="_blank">spotted</a> all over town ahead of the draft. It&#x27;s large enough for five passengers and a driver.

What to know before the NFL Draft

Here's how to get there, what to do and when events start this weekend.

<figure><img alt="A man kicking a field goal and missing wide left at Acrisure Stadium." height="450" id="3e0c456c-7c6c-4dec-b360-ab8314e3f426" src="https://images.axios.com/abIH0ig_IykEo6l-aLeGbB91jhU=/2026/04/22/1776890808378.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Yinz can kick field goals at the draft, too, and hopefully not miss like Ryan. GIF: Courtesy of Oliver Morrison</figcaption></figure>The draft is here and we got a sneak peek.Why it matters: Local leaders say this is probably the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="biggest free event Pittsburgh has ever had" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/21/pittsburgh-nfl-draft-fears-traffic-yinzers-relax" data-vars-content-id="1b5e1e76-8004-4ee3-b8dc-95a7ca3b7c67" data-vars-headline="What to know before the NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/21/pittsburgh-nfl-draft-fears-traffic-yinzers-relax" target="_self">biggest free event Pittsburgh has ever had</a>, so take advantage but be prepared.

Pittsburgh major sports playoff skid continues

The city's major teams haven't advanced in the postseason since 2018.

Sports

We&#x27;ll have as many playoff losses as bridges soon at this pace. The big picture: Pittsburgh&#x27;s three major sports teams — the Steelers, Pirates and Penguins — have not advanced in the postseason their last 16 combined attempts.

Pop-Tarts mascot devoured in Pittsburgh

Fans watched — and ate — a giant Pop-Tarts mascot at a North Side event.

<figure><img alt="A Pop-Tarts mascot being lowered into a giant toaster and then smoke blown in the air. " height="450" id="11d78b73-cd74-4483-bd71-777294720620" src="https://images.axios.com/OalbSC75ReKZs10uLkEw9bIp_v0=/2026/04/24/1777060514876.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Sacrificed itself for yinzers with a smile on its face. GIF: Chrissy Suttles/Axios</figcaption></figure>A giant Pop-Tarts mascot sacrificed itself Friday in front of hundreds in the North Side.Why it matters: It died for yinz sins.

Nittany Lion wins Pa.'s first mascot race

Penn State's mascot beat Pittsburgh and Philly rivals in a 40-yard dash.

<figure><img alt="The Nittany Lion Mascot racing on green grass and beating three other Pennsylvania mascots" height="450" id="711bfdd1-fdd1-4664-bbcb-fb5186c16de4" src="https://images.axios.com/TMBPYu29CJIc91y0gluCnb2tVPQ=/2026/04/23/1776978065971.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>The Nittany Lion pulled away from the rest. GIF: Ryan Deto/Axios</figcaption></figure>The other <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Battle of Pennsylvania" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/14/penguins-flyers-playoff-series-pennsylvania-rivalry" data-vars-content-id="ff557613-6ccc-46dc-b54a-917489779d5f" data-vars-headline="Nittany Lion wins Pa.&#x27;s first mascot race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/14/penguins-flyers-playoff-series-pennsylvania-rivalry" target="_self">Battle of Pennsylvania</a> went to Penn State&#x27;s Nittany Lion mascot.The intrigue: The &quot;Great Pennsylvania Mascot Race&quot; at the NFL draft campus at Point State Park pitted Steely McBeam, Swoop the Philadelphia Eagles mascot, Roc the Pitt Panther and the Nittany Lion in a 40-yard dash to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="help promote the state&#x27;s tourism industry" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/21/pennsylvania-mascot-race-nfl-draft-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="ff557613-6ccc-46dc-b54a-917489779d5f" data-vars-headline="Nittany Lion wins Pa.&#x27;s first mascot race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/21/pennsylvania-mascot-race-nfl-draft-pittsburgh" target="_self">help promote the state&#x27;s tourism industry</a>.

Reader mailbag: Sounding off on the NFL draft debate

Locals share mixed reactions to crowd size, planning and city impact.

Culture

We <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reported Monday" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/21/pittsburgh-nfl-draft-fears-traffic-yinzers-relax" data-vars-content-id="0836b589-c1fb-48c6-a2ee-7c298fa52914" data-vars-headline="Reader mailbag: Sounding off on the NFL draft debate" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/21/pittsburgh-nfl-draft-fears-traffic-yinzers-relax" target="_self">reported Monday</a> that local leaders are urging residents to ditch the doom loop and embrace the NFL draft&#x27;s free festivities.Zoom in: We asked readers to share their reactions, and you delivered with thoughtful, candid responses.

Draft week offers more than football fun

Concerts, markets and more events will fill the city this week.

The NFL draft <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="will pack" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nfl.com/draft/event-info/attractions" data-vars-content-id="42244bbd-509f-40de-98f1-ea7d5bca6cec" data-vars-headline="Draft week offers more than football fun" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nfl.com/draft/event-info/attractions" target="_blank">will pack</a> the North Shore and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Downtown" data-vars-click-url="https://www.steelers.com/news/steelers-to-offer-a-fan-focused-experience-during-nfl-draft" data-vars-content-id="42244bbd-509f-40de-98f1-ea7d5bca6cec" data-vars-headline="Draft week offers more than football fun" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.steelers.com/news/steelers-to-offer-a-fan-focused-experience-during-nfl-draft" target="_blank">Downtown</a> with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="activity" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/02/nfl-draft-concerts-wiz-khalifa-kane-brown-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="42244bbd-509f-40de-98f1-ea7d5bca6cec" data-vars-headline="Draft week offers more than football fun" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/02/nfl-draft-concerts-wiz-khalifa-kane-brown-pittsburgh" target="_self">activity</a>, but there&#x27;s plenty to do this week beyond the football frenzy.Zoom in: From a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pop-Tart sacrifice" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/16/giant-pop-tart-mascot-nfl-draft-pittsburgh-event" data-vars-content-id="42244bbd-509f-40de-98f1-ea7d5bca6cec" data-vars-headline="Draft week offers more than football fun" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/04/16/giant-pop-tart-mascot-nfl-draft-pittsburgh-event" target="_self">Pop-Tart sacrifice</a> to a giant rubber duck and art, music and food festivals, here&#x27;s what fans and tagalongs can expect outside the draft campus.

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