Grays bridge, TV smiles and a fire and ice festival
good (belated) celebration
If any out-of-towners are confused by the “Grays” in “Homestead Grays Bridge,” just tell them to look up. The Allegheny County Department of Public Works recently installed 22 banners on the bridge’s light poles to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Negro Leagues, which included the Homestead Grays and its stars, such as “Cool Papa” Bell, Josh Gibson, Buck Leonard and many more.
Was the 100th anniversary of the Negro Leagues
last year? Yes, it was. But despite the best efforts of the county, 2021’s banners didn’t
stand up to the elements as they waved high above the Monongahela River. This year’s versions are new, improved and ready to celebrate some of baseball’s most talented ballplayers.
good appearance
Pittsburgh-based Homeless Children’s Education Fund and its executive director, AJ Jefferson, appeared on the Nov. 2 episode of “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” The nonprofit supports the educational needs of children and youth experiencing homelessness in Allegheny County, and the appearance aired just after Homeless
Children’s Awareness Month ended, which is observed each October in Allegheny County.
good ... ice bar?
Ready to make winterthemed history? New Brighton, in Beaver County, is hosting its first-ever Fire and Ice Festival on Dec. 10 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. Fire dancers and fire breathers, ice skating, an ice bar, marshmallow roasting, carolers: They’re all on the agenda. Admission is free. Some events involve a fee. A portion of the proceeds will go to the New Brighton Volunteer Fire Department and the New Brighton Historical Society.