Good morning, this is Pittsburgh Local Pulse for Thursday, November 21, 2024.

We're starting with breaking news: a tornado touched down in a Pittsburgh neighborhood on Wednesday, confirmed by the National Weather Service. Thousands are without power after strong storms blew through the area, prompting a tornado warning[5]. We urge everyone to stay safe and follow updates from local authorities.

In other news, Pennsylvania State Police carried out a drug sweep in Butler on Thursday morning, asking residents to shelter in place. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to ensure public safety in our communities.

Moving to our job market snapshot, there are no major hiring announcements or new job postings from top local employers to report today. However, we note that staffing shortages in Pittsburgh EMS have led to a city program seeking to recruit and train from within the community. This initiative aims to address critical staffing needs in our emergency services.

In real estate, we have some notable updates. The first Von Maur department store in Pennsylvania has opened at South Hills Village, marking a significant commercial development in our area. Additionally, Wiz Khalifa's house in Washington County is now on the market, offering a unique glimpse into local celebrity real estate.

From City Hall, budget discussions are underway, with Pittsburgh City Council scrutinizing Mayor Ed Gainey's proposed spending. This includes addressing concerns about dwindling staffing levels for the city's police force, which several council members voiced on Thursday[4].

Weather-wise, the Pittsburgh area's first flakes of the season have already arrived, but the impactful snow will take over late Thursday night and Friday morning. PennDOT is advising people to avoid unnecessary travel and be cautious as the storm approaches.

In new business activity, an eatery in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is among the 100 best in America for 2024, according to OpenTable. However, a bakery in Pittsburgh's Squirrel Hill neighborhood and a pizzeria in the Oakland neighborhood were hit with consumer alerts, reminding us to stay vigilant about food safety.

Looking ahead to community events, the Africanism Gala is a night full of beauty, music, culture, and community spirit. We also have the PTL Weekend Guide with Pittsburgh Magazine's Sean Collier, offering exciting activities for the upcoming weekend.

In local school achievements, we highlight the creativity of students at Barrett Elementary in supporting the KDKA-TV Turkey Fund. It's heartwarming to see our young community members making a difference.

On a feel-good note, the new "Compassion Corner" opened on the Boulevard of the Allies, providing a space for community support and connection.

In today's crime report, a former Westmoreland County employee was charged with theft after detectives said he ordered unauthorized pay increases. Additionally, Pennsylvania State Police carried out a drug sweep in Butler, emphasizing the importance of public safety initiatives.

This has been Pittsburgh Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.