By Genea Webb, New Pittsburgh Courier

Bill Strickland has always had a passion for helping inner city kids since 1968. When the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts Conference was looking for a place to hold its annual conference, Strickland knew the initiative would be another way to help the kids he has dedicated his life to.

“This conference is a great opportunity to showcase, underscore and highlight what we have been doing with kids,” said Strickland, who grew up in Pittsburgh’s Manchester section….

For the full New Pittsburgh Courier article:
http://newpittsburghcourieronline.com/articlelive/articles/40217/1/Ceramix-brings-Strickland-and-MCG-full-circle/Page1.html

MCG Jazz Nights at the Omni William Penn Hotel presents guitarist and native Pittsburgher Sheryl Bailey, Friday, March 14, 2008, who will be in town for a recording on the MCG Jazz label. Performances are at 7:00 & 9:00 p.m. and are included with a three-course gourmet dinner for $27.50 in the grand Omni Terrace Room. Dinner and performance reservations may be made by calling the Omni William Penn Hotel at 412-553-5235. (more…)

By Mary Thomas, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Consider this a heads-up to anyone who loves clay — potters, ceramists, collectors, decorators, fans of craft, art and art-craft: Between March 19 and 22 there’s going to be more clay exhibited in the city than we’ve ever seen at one time, or are likely to see again in the near future. And almost all of those exhibitions will be free and open to the public. Frequently work is for sale, and usually there are good buys to be had. (more…)