Good morning, Pittsburgh.

Tree of Hope, a nonprofit started by Adrienne Young, hosted its annual Christmas event at Eastminster Presbyterian Church with food, free toys and a $2,000 gift from a father's funds for children of parents lost to gun violence.

The event, now in its 26th year, offers hope and community support.

Local teen who beat leukemia used his Make-A-Wish experience to volunteer at Childrens Hospital yesterday, offering hope to kids facing tough treatments.

His actions boost a positive spirit in the community.

A sea otter turned 20 at the Pittsburgh Zoo on Friday, Dec.

26, as marine mammal keepers decorated his enclosure so he could celebrate with fellow otter Meshik (visitors will see them once Water’s Edge updates in early 2026).

Central Catholic High School in Oakland launched a $55M campaign (The Centennial Campaign: Rooted in Tradition, Building for Our Future) to upgrade campus facilities as it prepares for its 100-year anniversary in the 2027-2028 school year; phase one renovations of Brothers’ House were finished during the 2024-2025 school year.

Pittsburgh and Allegheny County offer Christmas tree recycling starting Dec.

26; drop-offs at county parks will be accepted until dusk until Jan. 18 and at city sites until Jan. 26 (trees must be free of decorations and will be mulched for available spring pickup).

Blawnox locals can now book the Allegheny River Aqua Villa, a custom-built floating house turned Airbnb designed by river rescue diver Greg Tersine and partner Erica Kane.

The unique rental offers river views, full amenities, and safety features—built after a four-year permits process with local authorities.

Pitt defensive coordinator Randy Bates (with over 40 years of coaching) retired, and head coach Pat Narduzzi now plans to search for a new coordinator to lead the team.

The change marks a significant moment for local football.

The Steelers likely will miss Brandin Echols and Calvin Austin III against the Browns because neither practiced early this week due to injuries (Echols suffered a groin injury and Austin a hamstring strain).

Replacement players like Jalen Ramsey and Scotty Miller are set to fill their roles.

Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers surprised his offensive line with off-road side-by-side UTVs delivered at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on Dec.

26—just ahead of Sunday’s game with Cleveland. The vehicles were locally purchased from Mosites Motorsports and continue an NFL holiday tradition.

Cleveland Browns tight end Harold Fannin Jr. remains questionable after sustaining a groin injury in practice on Friday, adding pressure ahead of their upcoming game with the Steelers.

Backup quarterback Dillon Gabriel has shoulder soreness and may be replaced by Bailey Zappe if needed (team officials are assessing the situation).

After a Week 16 game incident at Ford Field, fan Ryan Kennedy (a 15-year season ticket holder) denied using racial slurs during his altercation with Steelers receiver DK Metcalf and urged him to correct false claims; the NFL is still reviewing matters from the incident.

Ryan Kennedy, a 15-year season ticket holder, said Friday he did not use racial slurs when an altercation occurred with DK Metcalf at Ford Field on Dec.21.

Security allowed Kennedy to return to his seat after the incident, while Metcalf was suspended for two games.

Dazzling Nights Pittsburgh

5-8 p.m. — Pittsburgh Botanic Garden — Ticket info not provided — Experience enchanting holiday lighting displays beneath a 50-foot tree.

Dazzling Nights® Pittsburgh

6:45-9:45 p.m. — Pittsburgh Botanic Garden — Ticket prices vary — Immerse yourself in enchanting holiday lights and experiences under a magnificent 50-foot tree.

Carolina Hurricanes vs. Pittsburgh Penguins

7-8:30 p.m. — PPG Paints Arena — Tickets available — Catch the thrilling matchup between the Hurricanes and Penguins in this exciting NHL showdown.

New Year's Eve Tasting Menu

N/A — Wed, Dec 31st — Eleven — $95 per person — Indulge in a four-course tasting menu crafted by Chef Eli to celebrate the New Year.

Liam Cullagh Standup Comedy Show

7 p.m. — Sunken Bus Studios — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of laughter with standup comedian Liam Cullagh.

Candlelight: Tribute to Taylor Swift

8:45-10 p.m. — Omni William Penn Hotel — Get your tickets now to discover the music of Taylor Swift in a captivating candlelight setting.

Liam Cullagh Standup Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Sunken Bus Studios — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Liam Cullagh, known for his viral sketches and engaging performances.

Speed Dating for Singles in Pittsburgh

7-9 p.m. — Sunny Jim's Tavern est 1934 — Ticket required — Meet up to 12 potential matches in a friendly and effective speed dating atmosphere.

Nick Colletti Live Show

7-10 p.m. — Pittsburgh Improv — Tickets available online — Enjoy a night of comedy with Nick Colletti in Homestead.

Lucas Zelnick Concert

9:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. — Bottlerocket Social Hall — Ticket prices vary — Get ready to rock out with Lucas Zelnick for an unforgettable night of music.