I am originally from McKeesport, PA, a city about 12 miles southeast of Pittsburgh.     It was a great place to grow up in the late 60’s and early 70’s.    The steel mills were booming, people were employed, businesses thrived and people were happy.    Then it all came crashing down.   Steel mills closed, people lost their jobs, businesses failed, people moved away.     McKeesport is a shell of what it once was, but it is still home to me.

Pittsburgh is a very unique city.    It has so much to offer in terms of sports, arts, outdoor activity, biking, boating, historical places to visit, museums, food, diversity etc….   The Steelers, Pirates and Penguins have a huge following all over the country (especially the Steelers – the Terrible Towel is everywhere!).     There is something for everyone.

I try to come to Pittsburgh about once a month to visit my Mom and my son, who is going to college in Pennsylvania.     I stay with my Mom and I don’t have to rent a car since my son has a car there and we just share.    It’s nice to catch up with old friends and family, and to visit different places in Pittsburgh.     My son and I especially love the estate sales.    We have gotten some good stuff!    That is a whole other column.

I’m back home in Sugar Land now and will go back to Pittsburgh in May.    Can’t wait!