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PittsburghThe bicentennial celebration of city’s status runs throughout 2016

Law firm Rothman Gordon is pleased to announce its partnership with the Pittsburgh Bicentennial Commission as pro bono legal counsel to the Commission. The Commission was formed by Mayor William Peduto and includes communities, organizations and individuals in the celebration of the two hundredth year of incorporation of the City of Pittsburgh.

This Pittsburgh Bicentennial anniversary differs from the 2008 regional celebration of the founding of the city in 1758. The 2016 Bicentennial marks the first time Pittsburgh’s citizenry could vote, creating a mechanism for self-governance, as well as creating legal standing for Pittsburgh with the nation.

“The team at Rothman Gordon has gone beyond the call of duty in helping the Bicentennial Commission work through the legal aspects of coordinating the celebration that involves more than 200 community organizations and local governments. Rothman Gordon’s work has enabled us to set up the Commission in record time,” Said Andrew E. Masich, PhD, Chairman of the Pittsburgh Bicentennial Commission.

“As a Pittsburgh-based law firm, this was a fantastic opportunity for us to be a part of the celebration of our hometown.” said Raymond Roberts, the attorney working closely with the Commission. “To be able to contribute our skills and partner with so many esteemed Pittsburgh organizations and institutions is a proud moment for our firm.”

Five signature events will mark the anniversary, beginning on March 18, 2016. The actual date of the signing of the City of Pittsburgh incorporation papers was on March 18, 1816. Mayor Peduto will host a celebration to kick off the yearlong celebration and highlight the importance of the date.

A second celebration, the Bicentennial Bash, will take place on July 8, 2016, at the Senator John Heinz History Center. July 9, 2016 will also see a celebration of the descendants of the former mayors of Pittsburgh and will include a parade.

The League of Cities, the largest conference of mayors and city officials will gather in Pittsburgh in November 2016. As part of Light Up Night, these honored guests will be recognized and be part of the Bicentennial celebration. A final culmination of the Bicentennial will occur on First Night® Pittsburgh, December 31, 2016. The Pittsburgh Bicentennial will have a presence throughout the year-end festivities and highlights will include achievements and milestones made during the anniversary year.

About the Pittsburgh Bicentennial

The Pittsburgh Bicentennial is a yearlong celebration of the official 200th anniversary of the incorporation of Pittsburgh as a city, giving citizens the right to vote and the opportunity for self-governance.  Mayor William Peduto formed the Pittsburgh Bicentennial Commission to recognize and celebrate the anniversary with unique and collaborative partnerships. Over 200 organizations, companies, nonprofits and individuals are participating in the yearlong celebration. For more information log onto www.PGH200.com or contact Holly Bulvony at 412-471-4160.

About Rothman Gordon

Rothman Gordon is a Pittsburgh-based law firm that has been advocating its clients' interests since 1954. Rothman Gordon has created a suite of services for individuals, organizations and closely-held and family businesses. Areas of practice include alternative dispute resolution; business and corporate law; commercial real estate; litigation; estate planning and administration; taxation and employee benefits; financing and commercial loans; employment and labor law; employment litigation; and social security disability.

Rothman Gordon is a member of the International Society of Primerus Law Firms.