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For Immediate Release
3/31/08
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Senator Pippy, Governor Rendell, PA Senate and House recognize 250th anniversary of Pittsburgh region
Anniversary celebration reaches across Commonwealth;
Touches seven states, Washington, DC and a worldwide media audience

Commonwealth officials and legislators gathered to recognize the 250th anniversary of the naming of the Pittsburgh region – and the founding of communities west of Carlisle – this morning in the Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg. The anniversary celebration – officially called "Pittsburgh 250" – will touch seven states, Washington DC and a worldwide media audience this year through a series of major projects and events including the first-ever elite international bike race for cyclists under age 25 across the Commonwealth.

"We are here today to thank Governor Rendell, DCED Secretary Dennis Yablonsky, DCNR Secretary Michael DiBerardinis and the members of our General Assembly for their generous support of the Pittsburgh 250 effort. Without their support, we wouldn't have been able to carry out the celebration of this important anniversary through major projects and events and the promotion of all of the Forbes Trail from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh in the manner we have," said Terrence Murphy, Vice Chair of Pittsburgh 250.

Pittsburgh 250 is supporting the completion of several major projects including the renovation of Point State Park in Downtown Pittsburgh, the completion of the Great Allegheny Passage, a 335-mile hiking and biking trail that connects Washington, DC to Pittsburgh, and the publication of a new heritage tourism driving guide to Forbes Trail attractions.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has provided two phases of construction funding for Point State Park and the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission has also played a key role in the preservation of this important recreational and historical resource.

The Department of Community and Economic Development, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the PA Historical and Museum Commission have also provided support for the driving guide, Pennsylvania's Forbes Trail: Gateways and Getaways along the Legendary Route from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh.

Among the major events planned for the anniversary year is the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®, the first-ever elite cycling event spanning the Commonwealth from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh on June 24-29. A roster of international cycling teams will compete in this cycling race offering the largest prize list for its class in the world. The State Police and PennDOT have been instrumental in the logistical planning of the race and the development of the race route. The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has also provided marketing support for the Pittsburgh 250 effort.

"The 250th anniversary is a unique opportunity to promote Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh, Carlisle, Bedford, Ligonier and numerous other communities across our Commonwealth to a national and global audience and to encourage both tourism, especially to historical sites and outdoor recreation areas, and further business development. Two hundred and fifty years ago, Pittsburgh was seen as the "Gateway to the West." Through Pittsburgh 250 and through the upcoming Tour of Pennsylvania, we can reinforce the fact that Pennsylvania is now a "Gateway to Opportunity: for young people," remarked Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Dennis Yablonsky as he presented a proclamation from Governor Edward G. Rendell to the Pittsburgh 250 officials and supporters.

PA Senator John Pippy (37th district – R) presented Senate Resolution 255 honoring this historic celebration and said, "I am proud to stand here today with my colleagues and others to commemorate Pittsburgh on its 250th anniversary. Our region's history, architecture, and technological and medical breakthroughs have made us what we are. Because of our past – and how it taught us to embrace the possibilities of the future -- the people and businesses in the Pittsburgh region enjoy an environment that's rich in opportunity, inspiration, and entrepreneurial spirit."

In announcing House Resolution 599 to be presented on the floor of the House later today, Representative Dan Frankel (23rd district-D) said, "I am pleased to join with my fellow House members in recognizing 250 years of innovation, accomplishment and global connections in the Pittsburgh region. The Pittsburgh 250 effort touches the entire Pittsburgh region and reaches across our Commonwealth. It is an opportunity to champion Pittsburgh's and Pennsylvania's leadership in innovation and technology and a time to recognize our creative spirit as well."

In addition to the Tour of PA, Pittsburgh 250 is planning two other major events: the PNC Legacy Trail Ride which will celebrate the completion of the Great Allegheny Passage Trail in October 2008; and the Pittsburgh Celebrates 250 Festival of Lights, a celebration of a series of national and international premieres in arts, culture and history in October and November 2008 – including the Carnegie International and the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Festival of Firsts.

Pittsburgh 250 officials are also happy to recognize the latest additions – Kennametal, Verizon Wireless and Wal-Mart - to a growing list of Pittsburgh 250 supporters and sponsors of the American Eagle Outfitters Tour of Pennsylvania presented by Highmark Healthy High 5®.

Pittsburgh 250 is the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the naming of the Pittsburgh region in 1758. With the support of business, government and civic leaders from across the region, Pittsburgh 250 has set three goals: Improve awareness of Southwestern Pennsylvania as a global leader in arts, science and quality of life through an integrated regional marketing effort; support the completion of lasting signature projects that connect the region's past to its future; and improve the region’s competitiveness for future generations by encouraging grassroots participation in improving communities, attracting visitors, and living healthier lives. For more information, visit www.imaginepittsburgh.com

CONTACT:
Matt Campion (717) 787-5839