“The House” of Stars

Westinghouse High School opened in 1917 to serve the eastern neighborhoods of Pittsburgh PA.  Located in Homewood, this institution has served the community for over 100 years. Over that time the school earned a reputation for breeding fantastic talent in all areas. So I want to take a moment to share some of the names on that list. I can’t fit them all so please take the time to look up all the amazing people that came from this school.

-CHUCK COOPER- 1st Black man drafted to the NBA

-ERROLL GARNER- Jazz Pianist

BILLY STRAYHORN- Jazz Composer

ADAM WADE– 1st Black Game Show Host

BEV SMITH- National TV Talk Show Host

NAOMI SIMMS- 1ST Black Supermodel

MARY LOU WILLIAMS- Piano Composer

ALBERT FRENCH– Author and My Uncle so you already know he is awesome

THOMAS GUNN- Tuskegee Airman

CLARENCE BRUCE– Homestead Grays

ORIN RICHBURG- Olympic Track Coach

And dozens upon dozens more. From major league sports players to government officials to artists and trailblazing professionals. This school is a source of pride and a Black History maker in Pittsburgh.

 

Previous articleYou’re Not Doing It Wrong: Getting Real About Normal Baby Sleep Patterns
Next articleHow to Feed a Sick Toddler
Lanae Lumsden
Lanae is lifelong Pittsburgh resident with a brief stint in Ohio for her high school and middle school years. Most of her life she lived in Wilkinsburg but recently became a resident of the north boroughs. Lanae holds an associates’ degree in fashion merchandising and a bachelor’s degree in business management. After college, Lanae, entered the insurance and financial services industry by becoming a licensed agent and a claims specialist. Lanae also is an advocate for cloth diapering and baby wearing. Through her website drybabies.org she offers information and sources offering cloth diapering to all women and families in need. With two boys and 3 girls ranging in ages from 18- 2 most of her time is spent traveling to ballet lessons, band practice, and cello lessons. Also, two of her children are special needs and require various appointments and therapy. When there is time left, she enjoys writing, sewing and cooking. She is currently finishing up her first novel with more already in the works. With a love for travel, Lanae and her family have been to 5 different Caribbean islands and 2 countries in South America. So, look to hear more about the organized chaos that is traveling with 5 kids.