WHIRL Magazine: March 2018

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MARCH 2018 W192

MARCH 2018 $4.95US

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SPLASH is a Division of Nicklas Supply, Inc. Serving Greater Pittsburgh Since 1956

2/13/18 12:31 PM

LIVE MODERN | LIVE ILLUMINATED | LIVE LUMI ÈRE

REIGNITING LUXURY DOWNTOWN LIVING LUXURY FINISH PACKAGES STANDARD | ROOFTOP SPACES | PET-FRIENDLY | COMPLIMENTARY GYM MEMBERSHIP | INTEGRATED PARKING | SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY | FROM THE $250s CONTACT BILLY LANE | LUMIEREPGH.COM 415.990.1053 (M) 412.471.4900 (O) PIATT SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY | 260 FORBES AVENUE SUITE 1525 | PITTSBURGH PA 15222 412.471.4900 (O) | PIATTSOTHEBYSREALTY.COM | PITTSBURGH@SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is Independently Owned and Operated. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully.

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“Highest Member Satisfaction Among Commercial Health Plans in Pennsylvania, Two Years in a Row” –J.D. Power

When it comes to the quality of care you and your family deserve, second best just won’t do. And when you’re a member of UPMC Health Plan, it doesn’t have to.

UPMC Health Plan provides access to the world-class doctors and hospitals of UPMC as well as thousands of community doctors and hospitals. Global medical services from Assist America, coverage for children until age 26 no matter where they live, and outstanding member service all mean YOU get the best health care plan.

Find out why more and more people are choosing UPMC Health Plan at UPMC HealthPlan.com/choose.

UPMC Health Plan received the highest numerical score among commercial health plans in Pennsylvania in the J.D. Power 2016-2017 U.S. Member Health Plan Studies. 2017 Study based on 33,624 total responses from 8 commercial health plans in Pennsylvania measuring experiences and perceptions of members surveyed January 2017 - March 2017. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

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TABLE OF

/ CONTENTS

ON THE COVER

RON LUNIEWSKI WITH WAR STORY, OF IMAGINARY STABLES, TRAINED BY JORGE NAVARRO PHOTOGRAPH FROM HAZEL RODRIGUEZ OF HAZEL PHOTOGRAPHERS

FEATURES 34 MEET WHIRL MAGAZINE’S 20 IN THEIR 20s CLASS FOR 2018 We’ve expanded our annual 13 Under 30 feature to showcase 20 people in their 20s! From nonprofit leaders to wellness advocates, these inspirational innovators are making an impact in Pittsburgh.

56 TRIPLE CROWN ENTERTAINING Host the ultimate parties for the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Bellmont Stakes with cocktails and bites that definitely belong in the winner’s circle.

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Our 20 in their 20s feature highlights honorees, including Jordan Rose, who are bringing the community together.

72 COLORECTAL CANCER AWARENESS UPMC Hillman Cancer Center details the importance of getting tested for this highly treatable disease.

74 SPECIAL MEDICAL SERIES, PART ONE: THE PUSHERS Our three-part series on the opioid crisis in America begins with an insightful look at how addiction began for three local mothers.

84 HOT HOUSE FRESH ON THE MARKET Explore 18th Fairway, an entrepreneur’s dream home in the golfing community of Nevillewood.

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Cheers to enjoying i the th thrill th ill of a horse race from the comfort of your home!

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL FORNATARO, FROM HAZEL RODRIGUEZ OF HAZEL PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Offering truly exclusive residences...

Scott Ludwick 724-838-3660 x648

Susan Brunko 412-833-7700 x221

New Construction Kim Maier 724-776-3686 x241

Jane Siddons Herrmann 412-782-3700 x228

North Huntingdon $1,400,000

Ross Twp. $428,900

Custom built sprawling ranch on a 17+ acre cul-de-sac lot.

Dream kitchen with 2 islands, pantry, granite counters, high end stainless appliances, luxurious master suite, huge game room with wet bar, exercise room, huge laundry room/butler pantry, free form pool with dive and slide with stamped concrete patio. Lots of concrete decking and porches.

This stunning contemporary home in Ross is not your cookie-cutter home! Featuring 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, and a bright, open floor plan filled with light. You’ll love the resort like setting.

Dawn Landis 412-367-8000 x760

Upper St. Clair $700,000+

Point Breeze $400,000

Two custom built specs available. Lot 201 Benjamin Marcus Homes $779,900 and Lot 101 Wm. C. McCloskey, Inc. $950,000. 3 cul-desacs, quiet, convenient location. Fifteen additional lots available from $100,000, 1/3 to 1/2 acre. Our builder or yours.

You’ve Found it! An adorable 5 bedroom, 3 bath home in the perfect location to make the most of living in Pittsburgh.

In the desirable neighborhood of Point Breeze and priced to sell, so don’t wait!

Dawn Landis 412-367-8000 x760

Adams Twp. $650,000+

Clearfield Township $399,900

46 lot single family custom home community with .5 - 1.5 acre lots.

Enjoy low Butler County taxes with Mars Schools.

Gorgeous wooded setting with tons of trees. 24 acres of greenspace and walking trails!

Conveniently located to shopping, entertainment, restaurants and more!

Unbelievable privacy! Over 3,000 sq ft of living space with tons to offer. Marble entryway opens to huge two story living room, eat in kitchen with custom bar, first floor master suite.

Huge second floor master suite with updated bath, laundry, and private deck.

Stone patio overlooks the unparalleled view.

Chuck Swidzinski 724-283-0005 x206

Fox Chapel $619,900

Unity Township $399,000

Updated 4BR, 3.5BA home tucked away with plenty of privacy. Large, bright rooms.

Fully equipped kitchen with breakfast bar and eat-in nook with a private deck. Ample closet and storage space throughout.

Oversized 2-car garage.

Walkout lower level with gameroom and craft room.

Fairview Elementary.

Just minutes from Greensburg and Latrobe (and only 40 miles from Pittsburgh), is the idyllic community of White Pines. Featuring a wealth of beautiful fully customizable designs and superior craftsmanship, buyers can expect nothing less than perfection.

New Construction Aimee Churchel 724-838-3660 x653

800.860.SOLD www.ThePreferredRealty.com ©2018 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchise of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your home is currently listed with a Broker, this is not a solicitation.

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TABLE OF

/ CONTENTS

IN EVERY ISSUE 10

PUBLISHERS’ PAGE

13

SAVE THE DATE

16

HAPPENINGS

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POWERFUL WOMEN OF THE WORLD

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FINANCE REPORT

90 Positivity is the name of the game for rapper Gallo Locknez.

SPONSORED BY

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

86

WHIRL ESTATE

90

WHIRL WEDDINGS

94

WHIRL DIRECTORY

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ONE LAST WHIRL

96 Check out four love stories, guaranteed to sweep you off your feet!

EVENTS 31

THE CINDERELLA BALL

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SYMPHONY OF FOOD

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COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL’S SUN & SCHMOOZE: A TROPICAL GALA

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RYAN ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER BENEFIT FOR FOCUS ON RENEWAL

FOOD 26

FOOD TOUR A STAPLE OF SHADYSIDE See why Shady Grove has only grown in popularity in its 15-plus years of business!

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Savor something delicious, like this Southern Fried Chicken Sandwich, at Shady Grove.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM EVA LIN PHOTOGRAPHY, GALLO LOCKNEZ PHOTOGRAPHY, BY MICHAEL FORNATARO

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SLOTS | TABLE GAMES | DINING | NIGHTLIFE 777 CASINO DRIVE, PITTSBURGH PA 15212 RIVERSCASINO.COM

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER. Must be 21 years of age or older to be on Rivers Casino property.

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ISSUE

192

MARCH 2018

PU BL I SH ER Jack Tumpson

ED I TO R I AL D I RECTO R Christine McMahon Tumpson

ED I TO R I N CH I EF Rachel Jones

A S S O C I ATE ED I TO R Matthew Hacke

C O N TR I B U TI NG W RI TER Sven Hosford C R EATI VE D I RECTO R Jason Solak

G R A PH I C D ES I G NER/ PH O TO STYL I ST Alyssa Otto

S TA FF PH O TO G RA PH ER Michael Fornataro

C O N TR I B U TI N G PH O TO G RA PH ERS Frances Del Duca, Charlie Magovern

A C C O U N T EXECU TI VE Darrelyn Leebov

D I G I TA L M A R K ET I NG CO O RD I NATO R & A D V ER TI S I N G PRO D U CTI O N MA NA G ER Aubray Onderik

B U S I N ESS MA NA G ER Amanda Wilson

ED I TO R IA L I NTERN Caitlin Cesa

call 412.431.7888 or fax 412.431.7997 For advertising, subscriptions, and internships.

WHIRL Magazine 2549 Penn Avenue, Suite 2, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412.431.7888 • www.whirlmagazine.com All rights reserved.

WHIRL Magazine is published 12 times per year

by WHIRL Publishing, Inc. Copyright 2017 WHIRL Publishing, Inc.

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March 17– July 8, 2018 TheFrickPittsburgh.org

The exhibition is organized by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

The Pittsburgh presentation of this exhibition is made possible through the generous support of the Richard King Mellon Foundation.

Additional support is provided by the Allegheny Foundation.

Image: Edgar Degas (French, 1834–1917), Little Dancer Aged Fourteen (Petite danseuse de quatorze ans), model executed ca. 1880; cast in 1922. Bronze with net tutu and hair ribbon. 38 ½"H x 14 ½"W x 14 ¼"D; base: 2 ¼"H x 19 ½"W x 12"D. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

State Operating Fund and the Art Lovers’ Society.

Photo: Travis Fullerton. © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

TH E FRICK PIT TSB U RG H .O RG | 412-37 1 - 0 60 0 | 7227 R E YNO LDS STR E E T, PIT TSB U RG H , PA 1520 8

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PUBLISHERS’

/ PAGE LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

eat big

For years, we listened to people complaining, “The young people are leaving, the young people are leaving!” Our response? Let them fly! They will come back to this beautiful nest and build for themselves with their new visions.

We were so right. Today, when we asked for nominees for outstanding people in their 20s in Western Pennsylvania, we were inundated with responses. So many that we are making this a special series, and will be featuring even more of our Generation Z folks who are liking, living, and loving in and around the three rivers. See some of the remarkable honorees on page 34, watch for more in future issues, and best of all, make your nomination at whirlmagazine.com.

For horse racing fans, we’ve got the easiest way to enjoy the thrill of the competition from home: Xpressbet. With the Triple Crown coming up, we have recipes for drinks and dishes that cater to each race, as well as the story of Xpressbet President Ron Luniewiski, whose journey back to his hometown of Pittsburgh is truly remarkable.

Read all about it on page 56.

For entrepreneurs, there are many ways to run a business, a particular favorite being the home/work model. If that is what you have been thinking about, check out the Nevillewood house we are featuring on page 84. Besides its spaciousness, it is specifically designed for business meetings and social gatherings. We like it so much that we are hosting a special Entrepreneurs Open House there on March 24 from 11 a.m-2 p.m. Nominate your favorite entrepreneur or sign up yourself at whirlmagazine.com.

HERE’S TO A BEAUTIFUL SPRING!

Christine and Jack Tumpson

bigburrito.com

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PHOTOGRAPH BY TARA ANTILL

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Welcome to 1061 Meridian Drive

Estate Photography by Scott Witalis Photography, LLC

One of Nevillewood’s Most Prestigious Homes!

Overlooking the “Signature” 18th Fairway.

Now on the Market!

P>E<HF> MH : @HE?>K L I:K:=BL> :G= : MKN> LM:M>F>GM AHF>' Sitting high atop a hill on an oversized lot with a commanding view, this uniquly private French Provincial is located in Nevillewood, a golfing community just 20-miles southwest of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on The Club @ Nevillewood’s “Signature” 18th Fairway. With a spectacular new outdoor stone patio and fire pit (completed Summer 2017) this property has a commanding view of the ponds, the course and includes a membership to The Club @ Nevillewood, a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, annually ranked as one of Pennsylvania’s finest golf courses.

The Club recently hosted the 2016 Pennsylvania Open and is honored to have hole #9 selected as one of Bear’s Best, a collection of Jack Nicklaus golf courses featuring his greatest holes from over 200 course designs worldwide.

V ISIT 18T H FAIRWAY.CO M T O LE A R N MORE A BOUT THIS UNIQUE PROPERTY A ND VIEW THE VID EO T O U R /18thFair wayPittsburgh

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ICON AND ECHOES DUETS FROM JIŘÍ KYLIÁN’S PETITE MORT AND NEVER BEFORE SEEN PIECES

SETON HILL UNIVERSITY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER REICHGUT CONCERT HALL Greensburg, PA

APRIL 7, 2018 • 7 PM $100 VIP $35 Regular Admission $10 Senior Citizens *$8 Student (*Tickets Limited)

FOR TICKETS CALL 724.552.2929 OR VISIT SETONHILL.EDU/TICKETS 12

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WHIRL

/ CALENDAR

SAVE THE DATE:

MARCH 2018

THURSDAY, MARCH 1 13th Annual Women of Achievement Awards, benefiting Cribs for Kids® Omni William Penn Hotel, cribsforkids.org/woa

WHY WE’RE GOING: + The event honors and recognizes Western Pennsylvania’s most outstanding women who have demonstrated commitment to the betterment of their communities, excellence in their professional field, or accomplishments for the advancement of women.

BY MATTHEW HACKE • PHOTOGRAPH FROM GEORGE MENDEL

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+ All proceeds from the event benefit Cribs for Kids® Infant Safe Sleep Initiatives, an incredible organization that has been making an impact on reducing the rate of infant sleep-related deaths since 1998.

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WHIRL

/ CALENDAR

SATURDAY, MARCH 3 Shake Your Booties 125th Birthday Party Heinz Field, childrenshomepgh.org

WHY WE’RE GOING: + The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center hosts its 17th annual gala, which raises money to support the infants, children, and families served by The Children’s Home’s three programs: Adoption, Child’s Way®, and the Pediatric Specialty Hospital. + Food, drinks, and live music from Jason Kendall Productions + Special guest Jerome Bettis will cap off the organization’s gala and 125th birthday extravaganza.

Lucas & Renee Piatt, Cindy & Rich Engler

SATURDAY, MARCH 3 JCC’s Big Night: Kick Off Your Boots JCC of Greater Pittsburgh, 412.697.3510 WHY WE’RE GOING: + We’re dusting off our cowboy boots and saddling up for a night of great food, drinks, and dancing at the JCC’s premier fundraising event. + The evening serves as a chance to celebrate and recognize the community’s support for the JCC through the JCC Annual Fund, which provides scholarships that enable individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, religious affiliations, and financial need to participate in JCC programs and services.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 4 Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Presents Lights! Glamour! Action!™ David L. Lawrence Convention Center, pghfilm.org/lights-glamour-action

WHY WE’RE GOING: + Mingle with local celebrities, entertainment professionals, business leaders, and politicians at the 18th annual event. + Walk the red carpet at this black-tie optional event, which features a Champagne reception, gourmet food stations, premium cocktails, a luck of the draw game, jewelry raffle, and of course, the live telecast of the 2018 Oscars® on the big screen!

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM RICHARD KELLY, JCC OF GREATER PITTSBURGH, MARK SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY

2/15/18 3:06 PM

David Gilinsky, Carolyn Will, Jayne DeLuca

Claude Monet, Camille at the Window, Argenteuil, 1873

SATURDAY MARCH, 17SUNDAY, JULY 8 Van Gogh, Monet, Degas The Frick Pittsburgh, 412.371.0600 WHY WE’RE GOING:

SATURDAY, MARCH 17 ACHIEVA’s Pittsburgh Promenade 2018 Westin Convention Center, 412.995.5000

WHY WE’RE GOING:

+ The Frick will be the first of a select group of museums to host the major French painting show, which features works from Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Edgar Degas, as well as over a dozen other worldrenowned French artists.

The works come from the Mellon Collection of French Art from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

+ To join ACHIEVA at one of its signature events, as it continues to help support and empower individuals with disabilities

Tori Mistick, Andy Berry

+ The night includes an open bar, silent auction with mobile bidding, dinner, program, live auction, and a $10,000 raffle!

Deb Gross, Chris Fennimore, Art Inzinga

SUNDAY, MARCH 18 Empty Bowls 2018 Rodef Shalom, pittsburghfoodbank.org/ emptybowlspgh

MONDAY, MARCH 19 A Song of Thrones — A Pittsburgh Opera Fashion Event Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters, 412.281.0912

WHY WE’RE GOING: + The annual event serves a simple meal of soup and bread as a reminder that too many people in the Pittsburgh area are facing hunger. + This year’s dinner, which benefits Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and Just Harvest, includes artisan pottery, soups from local restaurants, children’s activities, and an auction featuring artwork and celebrityautographed bowls.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM GWENDOLYN TUNDERMANN, KATHERINE WETZEL © VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, GREATER PITTSBURGH COMMUNITY FOOD BANK, DAVID BACHMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

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WHY WE’RE GOING: + To check out fashions by Diana Misetic of Little Black Dress, music by the Pittsburgh Opera, and hair and makeup by Studio Booth + Light hors d’oeuvres will be provided, as well as a cash bar.

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WHIRL

/ HAPPENINGS

MARCH HAPPENINGS From check presentations to philanthropic fundraisers, members of the Pittsburgh community are all about giving back this season.

Cameron Heyward, Lavon Hooks, and Tyson Alualu of the Pittsburgh Steelers teamed up with members of the City of Duquesne Police Department to distribute Thanksgiving meals to over 400 families in the area.

The annual tradition was made possible by Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

WISH 99.7’s Jordan Kline emceed the “Best Dog Trick” contest at the 9th Annual Komen Pittsburgh Paws for the Cure Dog Walk at Hartwood Acres.

The event raised funds to support Susan G. Komen Pittsburgh’s breast cancer education, screening, treatment initiatives, and national research.

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The Pittsburgh REthink Council, a group of millennial real estate professionals with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty, celebrated its kick-off meeting at Olive or Twist. From left, front row: Gabel Child, Karen Atria, Shannon Assad, Heather Kaczorowski, Eileen Allan, and Kristie Forsman; second row: Ashley Lowry, Amber Mincy, Melissa Shipley, Danielle Seals, Jennifer Burnett, Mary Rae Rocco, Liz Huber, Marlowe Hill, and Christy Gordon; and third row: Dan Capalongo, Jen Yuhas, Paul Murray, Lisa Schimizzi, Justin Christy, Bobby Cowden, Lindy Sgambati, Christie Keeling, Cameron Crocker, and Travis Crocker.

BY MATTHEW HACKE + RACHEL JONES PHOTOGRAPHS FROM GREATER PITTSBURGH COMMUNITY FOOD BANK, DAVID BACHMAN PHOTOGRAPHY, KELSEY SMITH

2/15/18 3:10 PM

Rick Sebak of WQED; John Fetterman, candidate for lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania; and Gisele Fetterman, co-founder of For Good PGH and 412 Food Rescue, took the stage at the 2018 Pittsburgh Humanities Festival Preview Event. The Festival, which brings together local and international intellectual innovators and artists, runs through March 4!

Molly Merhaut rocked the runway as friends and family cheered during The Woodlands DIVA Weekend fashion show.

Katie, Beth, Joe, and Deb Talarico of Piazza Talarico and Papa Joe’s Wine Cellar celebrated the restaurant’s grand opening in Lawrenceville.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM SETH CULP-RESSLER, ANNA PATSCH OF THE WOODLANDS, ELISCO’S CREATIVE CAFÉ

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More than 200 guests dressed in their best “garbage bag garb” for the 16th Annual Garbage Bag Gala at Fairmont Pittsburgh and raised over $40,000 for the Salvation Army Family Caring Center. From left: Rhonda Laughlin, Jacque Speed, and Lisa Freeman.

Enjoy

a pint of

gold EatShady.com

412-697-0909

5500 Walnut Street, Shadyside

LIVE MUSIC THURSDAYS 9:00pm-12:00am

BakerySocial.com

InVision Human Services hosted its first annual Fall Festival at Hozack Farms in Clinton, Pa., which included wheelchair-accessible hayrides, festival games, and a free concert from Saddle Up, adding to InVision’s year-long 25th anniversary celebration.

Pictured here: InVision’s Sadie Brown and Leanne Zerr, flanked by cowboy and cowgirl characters from Designiak portrayed

by Domenic Jungling and Caleigh Mourar.

Alison C. Hall, executive director of Pittsburgh Action Against Rape, accepted a check for the Gift of Security from Mike Dorrian, owner of Security 101 - Pittsburgh. The national Gift of Security program, sponsored

by Security 101 and Axis Communications, donates security systems to local nonprofits.

412-362-1234

6425 Penn Avenue, Bakery Square

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PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ANTHONY SOBOTKA, INVISION, PITTSBURGH ACTION AGAINST RAPE

2/15/18 3:12 PM

To celebrate Fairmont Pittsburgh’s parent company AccorHotels’ 50th anniversary, the luxury hotel welcomed 50 local heroes, nominated by their colleagues, through its doors for a complimentary stay and dining credit toward its new Modern American restaurant, fl.2. From left: Fairmont Pittsburgh General Manager Matthew Sterne and Riverlife Communications Director Stephan Bontrager.

AT THE

The 22nd Annual Lupus Loop 5K Run & Fun Walk raised crucial funds for the Lupus Foundation of Pennsylvania. From left: Manuela P. St. Jean, LCSW, patient services director, and Rosalyn Heleniak, volunteer patient advocate.

Baby Sloth See our new baby sloth during daily sloth talks at 12:30 (included with admission), or book an interactive encounter to meet her up close by calling 412-258-9445.

NEW! Twice Daily | Begins March 3rd Be amazed by the wild wonders of the Amazon in this new, multimedia, free-flight show. See a Toco Toucan, armadillo, sloth, macaws, and more, and learn about the world’s rainforests!

Presented by Jenerea Everett, Milcah Bozeman-Wallace, and Chamya Mills shined at the Fall Ball, a benefit for the Creative Youth Center at the Homewood-Brushton YMCA. More than $2,000 was raised to support STEM, arts, and digital media programs offered to local students free of charge.

.

Eggstravaganza March 24-25 & March 30 – April 1 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Included with admission Hop on in for a parade with the Easter Bunny, an egg hunt with an educational twist, story time with a live bird, and more.

Plan your visit at

aviary.org

412-323-7235 • 700 Arch St. Located on Pittsburgh’s Northside

Bring your group! 412-258-9463

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM SARAH COLLINS/ROSE COLORED CREATIVE, JEFF HELENIAK, SONJA CAPUZZI

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David Hillman and event co-chair Lilla Swan were all smiles at Pizzazz, a unique experience that invites community members to shop and mingle at the Fox Chapel Golf Club while also raising funds for the Garden Club of Allegheny County.

In its 22 years, Pizzazz has raised over $1 million, which supports conservation, environmental, preservation, and horticultural projects throughout Allegheny County.

Jay Shao of Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, Zaira Portillo of Rebuilding Together El Paso, Jesse Baum of Rebuilding Together New Orleans, and Jasmine Basdeo of Rebuilding Together New York City were among the AmericCorps members who rebuilt and repaired homes in the Pittsburgh area as part of a nationwide initiative.

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PHOTOGRAPHS FROM SALLY FOSTER, BENJAMIN KANES @BENJAMINKANES SIGHTSENSE PRODUCTIONS

2/15/18 5:43 PM

Bre Stephens, an account executive within the Pittsburgh office at Havas PR, won the 2018 Rising Star Award at the PRSA Pittsburgh Chapter’s 2018 Annual Renaissance Awards for the significant impact she’s made at the company in less than five years.

E. Maxine Bruhns, who has served as the director of the University of Pittsburgh’s Nationality Rooms and Intercultural Exchange Programs since June 1965, and Lithuanian Classroom Chairperson Janet Carlisle participated in the University of Pittsburgh’s 2017 Nationality Rooms Holiday Open House.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM EM MEDIA, JOHN ALTDORFER

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WHIRL

/ POWERFUL WOMEN OF THE WORLD

From “Voices of Hope”

by Kristine Irwin:

T

he person who called the ambulance for me was a complete stranger. Over a decade later, I’m still indebted to this woman, and I don’t even know her name.

F CES O “ VO I E ” I S HOP BLE LA AVA I A ZO N M A ON RTING A T S !

CH 5 M AR

POWERFUL WOMEN OF THE WORLD:

Kristine Irwin

The infuriating truth about sexual violence is that it is as prevalent as it is silenced — which is why Kristine Irwin wrote “Voices of Hope” and created a nonprofit of the same name. Detailing her own experience with rape, the healing process, and the motivation to become an advocate for other victims and their loved ones, Irwin’s book empowers all readers.

Check out an excerpt from the book, here, as well as our exclusive interview with the inspiring Pittsburgh native.

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The woman told the police that when she saw a car at a stop sign on her street, she initially thought nothing of it. When the car was still there a few minutes later, the woman began to watch it. Eventually, she watched as the passenger door opened and I spilled onto the ground. The car drove away and left me by the side of the road, covered in mud and leaves. The stranger called 911 and stayed with me until the ambulance came. I remember none of it.

I do remember waking up in the hospital, feeling disoriented and asking a nurse, “What am I doing here?”

Answering, the nurse pulled no punches, “You are here because you were raped.”

The crime occurred on October 4, 2004, when I was 19 years old and a freshman in college.

I had come home from college excited to spend time with my crush, whom I’ll call Steve. I had met Steve the previous summer while working at a convenience store. For reasons I’ll never fully understand, I became obsessed with Steve and fitting in with his group of friends, even though I had great friends of my own. My obsession had led me to make five months’ worth of

BY RACHEL JONES • PHOTOGRAPH FROM ARCHIE CARPENTER

2/15/18 3:28 PM

Q & A bad decisions, enough that my friends and my parents were worried about the change in me. I’d begun drinking heavily and sneaking around. In spite of repeated warnings and red flags, Steve—and fitting in with his friends —were the only things that mattered to me.

For months, I had been chasing Steve.

Looking back, I realize he wasn’t particularly into me. But it wasn’t Steve who raped me. It was his friend, whom I’ll call Karl. This book is the story of how the whole thing happened and what I’ve learned from the experience.

It’s also about how my rape affected my family and friends and what we have all learned because of the experience.

I want to tell you my story for a number of reasons. For one thing, telling my story helps me to heal.

The rape is a major event in my life, and talking about it is a way to keep the crime from defining me.

Although it’s been over a decade since the incident, I’m still integrating the experience constructively into my life.

Talking reduces its power over me.

I believe we all need to talk more openly about rape. Currently, we have a culture of silence surrounding this topic. The silence has multiple consequences. For starters, perpetrators get away with, and repeat, their crime. Victims suffer in silence and shame, too embarrassed to reach out for the support they deserve. Families of victims also suffer in silence, protecting the privacy of their victimized loved one. In this way, families become isolated when they really need support. This pattern often leads to brokenness and even divorce within the families.

If we do talk openly about rape, we can learn to be realistic about the danger, and take steps to prevent it from happening to us or our friends.

HOW DID YOUR BOOK, “VOICES OF HOPE,” COME TO BE?

WHAT DO YOU HOPE READERS TAKE AWAY FROM THIS BOOK?

Kristine Irwin: ‘Voices of Hope’ really kicked off after my first child was born in 2015. I’ve done speaking engagements in the past, every now and again. It was a great way for me to heal, but I was looking for other ways. When I had my son, I said, you know, there’s a project I’ve been wanting to work on, which was ‘Voices of Hope,’ the book. Once I started working on that, Voices of Hope the nonprofit started to develop. It all just started to snowball from there. The driving force, though, was my son. I realized that I didn’t want my child or anybody’s child to grow up in a world where survivors are not believed or they’re blamed. For them to speak up and get reprimanded for it, is absolutely horrible. If I can do anything, even if it’s just to influence one person, I’m doing exactly what I should be.

KI: I hope that those who don’t have a familiarity with sexual violence, domestic violence, or sexual harassment educate themselves. For somebody that’s gone through something like this, I hope it’s able to help them heal in a sense. And that someone who hasn’t spoken to anyone about what happened to them will open up to a trusted friend. Sometimes, just talking about their experience can be extremely healing.

IN THE BOOK, YOU TALK ABOUT YOUR LOVED ONES’ ROLE IN YOUR HEALING PROCESS. WHY WAS THAT AN IMPORTANT ASPECT FOR YOU? KI: For eight or 10 years, I didn’t talk about it with my family. Once I started to get more comfortable, I thought, ‘What did my first college roommate think when she got a call from me saying I wouldn’t be back at school for a week?

What about my best friends?’ I needed to reach out to these people, my friends and family, and ask them how they feel. The responses were just amazing, especially my dad’s. It took me a year to give my dad his letter, and he gave me his response back the quickest. He was like, ‘Finally — someone is asking me how I feel.’ That’s kind of emotional for me as well.

WHAT DID YOU TAKE AWAY FROM THESE LETTERS? KI: It finally made me realize that people don’t really know how to respond to someone telling them that something like this has happened. My mom’s one initial reaction was, ‘You know, you could get charged for underage drinking.’ She says to me now, ‘That probably wasn’t the best thing I should’ve said.’ There is no appropriate way to respond. You never know where someone is in their healing process.

But there are definitely ways you can advise, help, and guide people on how to respond, should they come across this situation.

HOW DO THE CURRENT MOVEMENTS IN OUR CULTURE ADVOCATE FOR VICTIMS OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE? KI: With #MeToo and TIME’S UP, it’s everywhere. That’s a good thing. It’s opening up a lot of doors to having that conversation. But there’s still so much progress to be made. I can’t do all of this alone. That’s why it’s wonderful to have movements like this because it takes a community to change our culture.

IN WHAT WAYS IS THE NONPROFIT VOICES OF HOPE ADVOCATING FOR VICTIMS OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE? KI: One of the campaigns is our Consent Coaster campaign. We partner with restaurants throughout April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and they distribute coasters that educate on consent. There are some light phrases on the front of the coaster like, ‘If you wanna be my lover, you’ve gotta get my consent,’ then the back has an educational piece.

This year, the back will be something like, ‘So no one ever has to say #MeToo, remember that consent is about respect.’

Then, there’s a spot for someone to be a voice for a survivor and write encouraging words. #BeAVoice is a campaign that we’ve done throughout the year where we ask others to submit words of kindness and encouragement to survivors. With ‘Voices of Hope,’ what’s going on currently, and the campaign, the message is: be a voice.

Voices of Hope, voices-of-hope.org

Look for Kristine Irwin at the Women’s Warrior Weekend Retreat, held MARCH 9-11 at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort.

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FINANCE

/ REPORT

Huntington chief investment officer John Augustine spoke to a crowd of over 100 attendees at Huntington’s Economic Update, held February 1 at the Fox Chapel Golf Club.

WHAT’S AHEAD FOR INVESTORS

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So what should investors expect in 2018?

Augustine shares Huntington Private Bank’s top 10 predictions: 1. Global GDP Soars Synchronized economic expansion around the world pushes global GDP over 3.5 percent.

Growth has been accelerating in Europe, Japan, China, and the U.S. — and it doesn’t appear to be slowing any time soon.

From tax reform to global expansion, Huntington Private Bank breaks down the potential future

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Grows as Governments Debate It AI spending is forecasted to reach $58 billion by 2021, growing more than twice as fast as other high-growth tech sectors. As governments grapple with AI’s impact on labor, taxes, and privacy, regulation could pose risks to tech-focused investors.

2017 was a good year for many investors, especially those who diversified into global stocks. “Strong equity returns was the year’s biggest highlight, with some stocks offering double-digit gains,” says John Augustine, Huntington Bank’s chief investment officer.

3. Global Markets are Watching World Events A geopolitical crisis or terrorist incident has potential to sway how global markets and economies perform this year — and in years to come.

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EDITED BY RACHEL JONES •

PHOTOGRAPH FROM HUNTINGTON BANK

2/15/18 3:30 PM

4. U.S. Economy Starts to Get Some “Animal Spirits Back” Expect an uptick in consumer confidence, thanks to the tax reform act that bolsters corporations and small businesses, and three consecutive quarters of at least 3 percent GDP growth. Inflation in services will hold, while prices of goods accelerate. We see wage growth topping 3 percent, while skilled labor shortages will be common, pointing to increased consumer spending.

5. It’s the Year of the Actives With abnormally low volatility and relatively high returns in stocks, we’ve seen an exodus from actively managed mutual funds. We suspect market volatility will rise midyear, driving a resurgence in actively managed mutual funds.

6. Markets are a “First Half, Second Half” Story Stocks run up in the first half of the year, then stumble in the second against harder year-over-year earnings comparisons. Bonds stay low in the first half and rise in the second, when the European Central Bank relaxes its bond buying.

7. U.S. Stocks See Subdued Gains by Year-End Because we see subdued growth for stocks starting midyear, oil staying above $50 a barrel, and U.S. treasury yields steepening in the second half, our equity team is looking to these areas for growth: • Banks in summer as the yield curve steepens • Travel stocks to capture consumer spending • Industrials growing from synchronized global economic expansion • Health care and energy stocks with sustainable earnings-per-share growth estimates • Tech’s torrid growth pace slows in the second half under government scrutiny and harder earnings-per-share comparisons

WE STARTED GOING LOCAL BEFORE IT WAS TRENDY. ABOUT 150 YEARS AGO. At Huntington, we make it a point to work with those who move our community forward. As the #1 SBA lender in our region, we're proud to support local businesses and their efforts to make a difference right here in our neighborhood.

8. Which Market Will Be Right: Bonds, Stocks, or Commodities?

Synchronized global growth could be a catalyst for the commodity market, given higher prices of lumber, commodities like crude oil, and base metals like copper and palladium.

9. Corporate and Municipal Bond Supply Shrink The tax reform law will inhibit corporate and tax-free municipal bonds issuances by capping the corporate interest deduction and eliminating the tax-exempt status of advance refunding, the ability to refund bonds prior to the call date.

10. It’s the Year of the Midwest Economy We see a good year for the Great Lakes region, which is closely aligned with the auto industry, agriculture, exports, and transportation. These areas could see relief after several challenging years, buoyed by tax reform incentives as the global economy heads into its second year of synchronized expansion. — Kim Ravenda Huntington Bank, huntington.com.

Huntington is the #1 SBA 7(a) lender in the region made up of Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, West Virginia and Western PA. Source: U.S. SBA from October 1, 2009 through March 31, 2015. The Huntington National Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. ¥ ® and Huntington® are federally registered service marks of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. Huntington.® Welcome.TM is a service mark of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. © 2016 Huntington Bancshares Incorporated.

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FOOD

/ TOUR

A S TAPLE OF

SHADYSIDE With scrumptious fare and hospitable, familiar service, Shady Grove has delighted regulars and newcomers for over 15 years.

BY MATTHEW HACKE PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL FORNATARO

W

hen Pittsburgh native Matt Turbiner was faced with the decision of either going to culinary school or becoming a partner of a new restaurant, he first consulted some friends in the culinary industry. “Every single chef I spoke with said to me, ‘Open up your own restaurant,’” Turbiner says.

“They explained that the road is so long to get back to that point of opening up your own restaurant.” Needless to say, Turbiner chose the latter option — opening the first Walnut Grill location and eventually Shady Grove — and never looked back.

For someone who got his start working as a drug and alcohol counselor right after graduating from Penn State University, Turbiner is quick to point out that the two passions in his life are people and food. “Counseling and working in a management position in a restaurant are very similar because you meet and work with a lot of different personalities. No day is the same in that sense, but every once in a while, I wouldn’t mind it,” he says amusingly.

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No matter what time of day, the vibrant, downstairs bar and dining area is always packed and bustling with activity.

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SUMMER SALAD +Mixed greens

CHEFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST DISHES Check out some of the signature selections on the Shady Grove menu!

+Grilled shrimp +Goat cheese +Mango salsa

+Dried cranberries +Sunflower seeds +Honey citrus dressing

BLOOMFIELD PIZZA +Tomato sauce +Sausage +Roasted red peppers +Green peppers +Caramelized onions +Fresh mozzarella +Crushed red pepper flakes +Oregano

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Walking into Shady Grove, one can’t help but feel right at home. The two-story restaurant on the corner of Walnut Street and Bellefonte Street features upscale bar food in an inviting atmosphere. “On our menu, you’ll find everything from fresh seafood like mahi-mahi or ahi tuna, to buffalo chicken sandwiches, which are one of our most popular sellers. Although, anything that you put ranch on in Pittsburgh pretty much is going to be a home run,” he continues with a laugh.

SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN SANDWICH +Crispy fried chicken +Housemade bacon pimento cheese +Hot sauce +Lettuce +Tomato +Red onion +House pickles +Breadworks kaiser roll

Aside from upcoming menu changes, which occur bi-annually and follow a strict “one off, one on” rule — “The menu is already so big and the kitchen is small, so I’m at the point where if I want to add something, something has to come off” — Shady Grove is also shifting into becoming the place to be when warmer weather hits.

“This summer is going to be a test in terms of volume because we just added outdoor seating,” says Turbiner. “Our second-floor patio was completed at the end of last summer. It took us two years to get this open — to get through the permits, variances, and building it.

So when it was finally done, I was pretty psyched!”

We’re pretty psyched about plans for live music on the patio during weekend brunches, a welcomed addition to the event calendar that already includes “Wine Wednesdays and Fridays.” And the anticipated crowds this spring and summer will be just as eclectic and time-honored as Shady Grove itself.

“I can walk into Shady Grove at any time and the mean age is always fluctuating. There’s grandmas and grandpas, young guys at the bar, and so on,” Turbiner says.

“Longevity wise, we have done well because there is something on the menu for everyone.” We can’t wait for what’s in store!

Shady Grove, 831 Bellefonte St., Shadyside. 412.697.0909. eatshady.com.

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2/15/18 3:36 PM

March 24, 2018

12 :00 - 4:00pm Help to raise funds and supplies for the coming animal babies!

Humane A nimal Res cue

18th Annu Baby Sho al Wildlife wer Fund raiser

Drop Off Locations: Galleria of Mt. Lebanon - 1500 Washington Rd. Upper St. Clair - Wild Birds Unlimited - 1775 N. Highland Rd. Monroeville - Wild Birds Unlimited - 3848 William Penn Hwy Wexford - Wild Birds Unlimited - 12019 Perry Hwy

Humane

Animal

Rescue

Penn Hills Lawn and Garden - 200 Jefferson Rd. The Mall at Robinson - 100 Robinson Center Dr. Shadyside - Patagonia - 5509 Walnut St.

View our donation wish list: humaneanimalrescue.org/babyshower

DISCOVER the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most spectacular flooring store!

724-586-7777

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Exclusively on Route 8 - Valencia - Just 8 miles North of the PA Turnpike www.ParaccaInteriors.com

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2/15/18 5:39 PM

THE CINDERELLA BALL WHO: Over 450 guests, including 17 debutantes and ball chairs Brette Gillman and Natalie Kelley

Megan Stafford, Cara Levicoff

WHAT: The 92nd Annual Cinderella Ball presented and recognized 17 debutantes, escorted by their fathers, for their combined 724 volunteer hours for this year’s beneficiary, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. After the presentation, guests dined on delicious fare provided by Omni William Penn Hotel Executive Chef Michael Fischetti. Dinner was followed by dancing to music from The Move Makers. The evening concluded at the stroke of midnight with the debutantes, their friends, and family members singing along to Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin.’”

Anna Jovin, Kennedy Wilson

WHERE: Omni William Penn Hotel

Leelah Ohayon, Eliza Worrall

HIGHLIGHTS: Kennedy Wilson was chosen as this year’s Cinderella, and Connor Jones served as Prince Charming. Megan Stafford received the Cinderella Women’s Committee Scholarship, which is presented to the debutante with the most community service hours. Stafford contributed over 70 hours to the volunteer effort at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. — M.H.

Sydney Cleveland-Datesman, Jayme Santoro

“My favorite part of the event each year is watching the reaction of the debutantes’ families to the beautiful presentation and waltz. As a committee member, it’s so gratifying to see multiple generations enjoying an evening together and living in the moment before the girls graduate high school.”

— Christina Rath, publicity chair of the Cinderella Women’s Committee Lilly Sacchini, Eliza Fisher

Emma Thai, Charlotte Everett

PHOTOGRAPHS BY FRANCES DEL DUCA •

Isabel Calihan, Lauren Davies

Brette Gillman, Natalie Kelley

Corinne Heberle, Lauren Delie, Willis Munroe

GO TO PHOTOS.WHIRLMAGAZINE.COM TO VIEW AND PURCHASE ALL OF THE PHOTOS FROM THIS EVENT!

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SYMPHONY OF FOOD WHO: 350 guests, including Diana Irey Vaughn and the Mosites family WHAT: WOMEN of Southwestern PA Symphony of Food treated guests to a delicious six-course meal, donated by Whole Foods Market, Girl Friday Cooking Co., Toscana Brick Oven, Cannon’s Chophouse, Au “Grottens” Cafe & Catering, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Costco Wholesale.

WHERE: Bella Sera HIGHLIGHTS: Mindy’s Mystery Boxes were presented in memory of a WOMEN of Vickie Mannion, Kathy Kanotz, Kym Gable, Southwestern PA member. A rousing paddle Laurie Rushin, Jan Kennedy, Michelle Stoken auction with fabulous prizes — including a fun night out, complete with four tickets to see Shania Twain at PPG Paints Arena, two hotel rooms Downtown, dinner, and wine! — also raised funds for WOMEN of Southwestern PA. The nonprofit has raised and returned over $500,000 to local women’s and children’s organizations.

— R.J. “Kym Gable, our emcee, did a fabulous job of making the paddle auction a very fun time for all.” — Cathy Shader, publicity chair of WOMEN of Southwestern PA

Slovenian Savings & Loan Associates of Canonsburg

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM CYNTHIA SOBERG •

Carolyn Yurkevich, Monica Saporito, Michelle Stoken, Tracey Melograne

Patty O’Kelly, Kathy Peelor, Kathy Welch, Lisa McLaughlin, Tracy Hindman

GO TO PHOTOS.WHIRLMAGAZINE.COM TO VIEW AND PURCHASE ALL OF THE PHOTOS FROM THIS EVENT!

Adopt today!

Emigration– Immigration– Migration on view through April 22, 2018 Highlighting the work of five photographers from the Pittsburgh region who use photographic imagery to document the faces and experiences of multiple generations of immigrants and their descendants. These photographs serve as a lens through which to consider the broader American immigrant experience.

AnimalFriends | 562 Camp Horne Road | Pgh, PA 15237 412.847.7000 | ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

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221 North Main Street, Greensburg, PA 15601 724.837.1500 | thewestmoreland.org Funding for this exhibition has been generously provided by the Hillman Exhibition Fund of The Westmoreland Museum of American Art. image: Naturalization ceremonies, October 25, 2017—USCIS Office in Penn Center, Monroeville, PA. Lynn Johnson, 2017.

a project of:

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2/15/18 6:51 PM

COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL’S SUN & SCHMOOZE: A TROPICAL GALA WHO: Over 400 families and friends of Community Day School (CDS) in Squirrel Hill WHAT: CDS, Pittsburgh’s only co-ed, independent Jewish day school, celebrated its largest fundraising event of the year, raising money to support educational programs and provide tuition assistance for families in need.

WHERE: August Wilson Center HIGHLIGHTS: The tropical-themed gala came together with beach attire, a signature “Ruach Rum Punch” cocktail, Hawaiian meatballs, jerk chicken, and dancing to island tunes. The festivities capped off with the honoring of State Rep. Dan and Debbie Frankel, Community Leadership Award winners, and Dana Himmel, Volunteer of the Year Award winner, who are all parents of CDS alumni! — M.H.

Louis & Lori Plung, Debbie & Joshua Resnick

Alan & Dana Himmel, Dr. Marcie Mitre & Dr. Ken Levin

“All the money raised will support the teachers and students of CDS so they can help secure Pittsburgh’s Jewish future and transform the world.” — Avi Baran Munro, CDS head of school Lou Weiss, Clifford Levine, Dan & Debbie Frankel, Rosanne Levine, Amy Weiss

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM JOE APPEL PHOTOGRAPHY •

Rabbi Seth & Judy Adelson

GO TO PHOTOS.WHIRLMAGAZINE.COM TO VIEW AND PURCHASE ALL OF THE PHOTOS FROM THIS EVENT!

Cranberry Twp. 1237 Freedom Road 724.772.1060

Glenshaw 1400 William Flynn Hwy. 412.486.2700

Murrysville 4807 William Penn Hwy. 724.733.2600

splashshowrooms.com

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WHIRL

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/ FEATURE

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Meet WHIRL Magazine’s

IN THEIR Class of 2018

BY RACHEL JONES | PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL FORNATARO | STYLING BY ALYSSA OTTO

I

’m sure you’re used to opening the March issue of WHIRL Magazine to see our carefully curated list of 13 Under 30, people who are making their mark on Pittsburgh before they reach age 30. But this year, our collection of nominees was bigger than ever! To accommodate, we expanded our annual feature to include even more movers and shakers who are making a difference in the Pittsburgh area. Let us introduce you to these incredible people in their 20s, and you’ll completely understand why the list of honorees could not be trimmed.

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DAN

b

Gorchynsky

Born in Chicago, where he attended traditional schooling during the week and Ukrainian school every Saturday, Dan Gorchynsky spent his most formative years in Door County, Wisconsin. “I will forever and always be a Cheesehead at heart, but have taken on black and gold pride and proudly own a Terrible Towel,” Gorchynsky says. He moved to Pittsburgh to earn a master’s in arts management at Carnegie Mellon University, and currently, he’s obtaining his MBA at the University of Pittsburgh and working as a user experience (UX) designer at American Eagle. His daily work of providing the best experience for all customers also reflects his motivation to improve the lives of his fellow community members.

“Growing up, my family instilled in me the mantra of giving back to your community,” Gorchynsky says. “It is my belief that by aiding in its growth and evolution, one ensures the health not only of the city, but also of those that reside in it, both in the present and future.” Gorchynsky serves as an admissions ambassador for Carnegie Mellon University’s Heinz College, a Children’s Trust member for Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, a member of the inaugural class of Factory Fellows at the Mattress Factory, a New Guard member and avid supporter of the Pittsburgh Opera, and a volunteer for the Highland Park Community Council. “[Pittsburgh] is a microcosm of diversity, exemplified by its many neighborhoods, people, and cultural offerings,” Gorchynsky says. “The city’s commitment to its residents and future makes it truly a unique and great place to live.”

For more information, visit ae.com.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “On any given day, if asked to go out, my go-to’s that never disappoint are: The Vandal for brunch (or any meal, to be honest), Station for wings, and Allegheny Wine Mixer for drinks. Outside of food, weekly and monthly staples of mine include Banjo Night at the Elks Lodge, Bluegrass Night at the Park House, and Emo Night at Mr. Smalls.”

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ALEXANDRA Bortot McCrossin

+ The Junior League of Pittsburgh’s Designers’ Show House is located at 1300 Wood St. in Wilkinsburg and will be open to the public MAY 4-20!

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From her childhood in Murrysville to her current position as the University of Pittsburgh’s leadership annual giving associate, Alexandra Bortot McCrossin holds a strong connection to the Pittsburgh area. “I love living and working in Pittsburgh because I think it’s one of few remaining cities where the ‘American Dream’ is attainable for my generation,” McCrossin says.

Helping to make dreams come true for fellow community members, she volunteers with the Junior League of Pittsburgh. An organization of women committed to volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action of trained volunteers, the organization is celebrating its 95th birthday this year! “We like to remind people that we’ve been in Pittsburgh longer than the Steelers,” McCrossin jokes. Contributing to the group’s collective 7,500 volunteer hours annually, McCrossin’s current focus is on securing food access for households living below the poverty line in the East End of Pittsburgh and supporting Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank’s Produce to the People program in Braddock.

She’s also excited to serve as the current chair of the Junior League of Pittsburgh’s Designers’ Show House committee. The premiere fundraising event took an 11-year break, but it’s returning to invite local designers to revamp a home in Wilkinsburg to become a future community gathering space. “The house is viewed as an ‘anchor property’ and will serve as a catalyst for positive growth within the Wilkinsburg community,” McCrossin says. “The people of Wilkinsburg have welcomed us to the community with open arms, and they are so deserving of this space.” For more information, visit jlpgh.org.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “I could spend hours and hours walking around Frick Park, listening to podcasts. It’s my refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. And, of course, I love the North Shore on Saturday mornings in the fall — Hail to Pitt!”

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CHRISTY Pietryga

Penn Hills native Christy Pietryga studied sociology at Bucknell University but returned home to Pittsburgh to work in the nonprofit field. She found her niche at Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania (VLP), which assists over 2,500 veterans and their families throughout 18 counties in Western Pennsylvania. “The most rewarding aspect of my line of work is the effectiveness of our programs in assisting veterans and their households in the midst of a crisis,” Pietryga explains. “Whether a veteran and their family is experiencing homelessness, housing instability, unemployment or underemployment, or is in need of locating supportive services, we are able to assist in providing or locating the best possible solution.” As the Chief Operating Officer, Pietryga oversees the day-to-day operations of VLP’s 13 Housing, Employment, and Supportive Service Programs to maximize the empowerment of veterans as they navigate the transitions of life. Pietryga is also the co-chair of the Boot Camp Committee, which works with local service providers to help veterans experiencing homelessness find permanent housing in an average of 90 days. With the groundwork for the new initiative laid, the committee is now working on strengthening the system to continuously improve its efforts as Pietryga says her generation does best. “We have new ideas and ways of improving our systems and communities, challenging individuals in ways that they may never have thought before,” Pietryga says. “I believe that the mix of the past, the current, and the possible can bring promising results for Pittsburgh.” For more information, visit vlpwpa.org.

+ Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania honors the men and women who serve our military, their friends and family members, and those who work in the community to support them with the Tribute to Veterans on MAY 23.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “You can usually find me at a spinning class after work at LA Fitness in the South Side. My husband and I really enjoy going to the restaurants on 8th Avenue in Homestead. Our current favorite is Eighth and Hays; their pot roast pizza is incredible!”

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+ Come volunteer with Joel Gray at the Pirates Home Run 5K and 10K on APRIL 14. Mark your calendars for the Pirates African American Heritage Celebration on JULY 13+14, and the Pirates Spanish Heritage Celebration on SEPTEMBER 7-9, too!

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JOEL Gray

Since 2007, Joel Gray has worked in sports on both the collegiate and professional level. Currently, the Pittsburgh native is the community outreach coordinator for the Pittsburgh Pirates, proactively identifying and developing partnerships with the communityat-large with a focus on diverse populations. “I also oversee the Pirates Community Tickets Program, courtesy of MLB’s Commissioner’s Community Initiative and MLBPA’s Players Give Back Program, which grants complimentary tickets to nonprofit and community-based organizations, youth programs, health-related causes, law enforcement, first responders, and active-military and veterans, and their families,” Gray says. “It is a blessing to have the ability to impact many with one simple act of my job, such as hosting a group of youth in the Pirates Charities Suite for an academic achievement. A majority of the time, it is their first experience at the ballpark and/or a professional sporting event.”

Creating those special moments and inspiring youth is an important venture for Gray, and one that extends beyond the borders of Pittsburgh, too.

Through his work with the nonprofit AfricaBookBagz, Gray works to help tackle academic hardships in thirdworld countries through the ideas and inspiration of youth throughout America. “Personally, I strive to provide a bridge of opportunity for growth and development within the next generation,” Gray says. “Through mentorship and volunteerism, my generation is making a difference and providing exposure and insight to various professions and careers that weren’t accessible in years past.” For more information, visit pirates.com/community.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “The Andy Warhol Museum, Carnegie Museum of Art’s Teenie Harris Archive, Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Mt. Washington’s The Summit, Shady Grove, and The Goldmark.”

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JEREMIAH Davis

Poet, spoken-word artist, rapper, teaching artist, social justice advocate — Jeremiah Davis wears a lot of hats.

And he is able to incorporate all of his talents into accomplishing one common goal: bettering local youth.

“The Heinz Fellow role involves me being a social justice advocate within education as a mentor, teaching assistant, and tutor for students at University Preparatory Academy at Margaret Milliones High School,” Davis says. “Finding different ways to help them further progress not just as students, but as people, is what provides the most joy in my position.”

As a teaching artist through the Arts Greenhouse Program at Carnegie Mellon University, Davis teaches music and poetry to high school students, allowing them to freely express themselves and address real world issues that may not be acknowledged otherwise. The Toledo, Ohio, native stays connected to local youth as a coach for Homewood Community sports and is looking to take his work further by earning a master’s degree in social work and his teaching certificate.

“My generation is boldly stepping up to shape the future of Pittsburgh through education, business, politics, community engagement, and more so that it can truly be the inclusive, most livable city that it’s far too often portrayed to be,” Davis says. “What I like best about living in Pittsburgh is that it’s a place wide open for you to create your own opportunities.”

For more information, visit cue.pitt.edu/heinz.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “My favorite places are Spirit Lodge, the trails of Frick Park, Level-Up Studios, Mad Mex, and Showcase BBQ.”

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CHELSEA Cramer The youngest attorney at Alcoa Corporation, Chelsea Cramer advises the company on environmental law, environmental litigation, transportation and maritime law, and commercial law, while also managing historic environmental liabilities.

“Working at Alcoa is incredibly rewarding,” Cramer says. “The work is challenging, substantive, and dynamic, and every day brings something new. Alcoa values its people and its communities, which holds true to my character.” Cramer volunteers with two pro-bono projects: Landlord Tenant Hotline and Best Interests Attorney Project. With the first, she offers advice to people dealing with eviction or poor living conditions, occasionally representing these clients before the Board of Arbitrators. As a Best Interests Attorney, Cramer is court-appointed to represent children in custody battles. To inspire the future lawyers of the area, Cramer is an adjunct trial advocacy coach at Duquesne University School of Law, teaching second- and third-year law students courtroom advocacy skills. Outside of the office, Cramer is an animal foster parent, supports Bellevue Initiative for Growth and Revitalization, and sits on the board with Allegheny CleanWays, a nonprofit making strides to clean up Pittsburgh’s illegal dumpsites and keep our rivers in a natural state. “I think my generation is engaged, active, and conscious about patronizing local businesses and supporting local causes,” Cramer says.

“My generation is informed about and invested in Pittsburgh’s future. We want to see the city thrive.” For more information, visit alcoa.com.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “Right now, my husband and I are on a mission to explore the 33 (and counting) breweries in and around the city. I also like to explore Bellevue. It’s a very old neighborhood with some unique nooks and crannies, stunning old homes, and stellar views of the city.”

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NATHANIEL Carter Jr. Born and raised in North Braddock, Nathaniel Carter Jr. attended Waynesburg University to pursue a spot on the men’s basketball team. But he quit the team during his freshman year, choosing to follow his passion to serve others instead. This journey took him everywhere from volunteering in soup kitchens to completing community projects. After he earned his bachelor’s degree — making him the first of 13 siblings to do so — he continued to focus on working with nonprofits. Carter serves as a board member of North Braddock Cares Organization, a board member of The Housing and Education Resource Programs, Inc., a youth volunteer for Yahweh Ryse, and a mentor at Barrett Elementary School’s after-school program. He’s also currently attending the Pittsburgh Theology Seminary. In 2015, he established This Generation Cares (TGC), LLC, an organization committed to empowering individuals, families, and communities through services, community engagement, and mentorship. “I enjoy providing support for others and developing meaningful ways for others to receive quality, inspirational, and individualized care,” Carter says. “On August 8, 2016, I resigned from [my current] full-time job and began to work for TGC fulltime. I didn’t receive a salary while working at TGC; however, I believed and had faith in the vision.” The leap of faith worked in his favor, as the organization continues to grow and is now entering the pre-construction phase for a community ministry center in the Mon-Valley area!

For more information, visit thisgenerationcares.org.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “No. 1 is Yokoso Japanese Steakhouse with my daughter, Niara, to eat sushi. No. 2 is Point State Park. I enjoy the sight of the fountain and the serenity of the water.”

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HELEN Cestra

As a Multi Million Dollar Producing Real Estate Agent for Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, Helen Cestra helps the people of Pittsburgh find a place to call home. Along the way, she also creates bonds and connections that last long after the transactions are complete, and gets to explore different parts of the city every day.

“As a Pittsburgh native, you can sometimes think you know everything about the city,” says Cestra, who hails from Fox Chapel. “But I’m here to tell you that you don’t. The city has this way of showing you new and unique characteristics.” In addition to admiring her community, Cestra also contributes to its success as a member of Pittsburgh’s 50 Finest class of 2017, a former member of the Girls Hope Young Leadership board, and a committee member for the Howard Hanna Children’s Free Care Fund. “I think the young professional scene in Pittsburgh has a major undertone of giving back,” Cestra says. “I know so many hardworking 20-someyear-olds who take time out of their busy schedules to give back to the community. We really care about the City of Pittsburgh and want to be here for the long haul, so we value the future of the city and the potential that it has.” For more information, visit helencestra.howardhanna.com.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “I live on Ellsworth Avenue, which is walking distance to most Shadyside destinations. On a Saturday night, you can usually find me in a restaurant on Walnut Street or South Highland Avenue. Home really is Fox Chapel, though, and because I work there, I spend most of my day enjoying everything it has to offer.”

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JORDAN Rose

Working out and making connections with others are two pillars in Jordan Rose’s life. And he’s found a way to combine both as the master instructor and general manager at Elevate Fusion Fitness. In addition to training the fitness boutique’s elite group of instructors and managing the class schedules, Rose also teaches a full schedule of classes himself. “I love meeting new people and getting to see them reach their goals,” Rose says. “It brings me tremendous joy to watch people elevate their lives and spirits through fitness.” Outside of the gym, his contributions to the worship team and both teen and young adult ministries at Petra International Ministries strengthen his community involvement and allow him to engage with more people in the area. “This is the city that raised me,” says Rose, who grew up in Point Breeze and attended Taylor Allderdice High School. “Living here allows me to stay close to family and see firsthand the big changes that have come to the city. There are so many restaurants, shops, and events that make Pittsburgh unique, and I feel blessed I get to experience it all. Working here has introduced me to an incredible fitness community here in Pittsburgh that’s full of supportive people who are all trying to make Pittsburgh a healthier place.” For more information, visit elevatefusionfitness.com.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “Some of my favorite places in Pittsburgh are Industry Public House, lululemon, and the North Shore.”

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CAROLINE Fitzgerald Growing up in Squirrel Hill, Caroline Fitzgerald loved sports and the thrill of competition. The lifelong passion continues today, shining through her work as the business development manager at P3R, Pittsburgh Three Rivers Marathon. Her specific role entails collaborating with local and national companies that support the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon and other running events, creating special moments that unite the runners and fans of Pittsburgh.

“The opportunity to get to know our runners, to hear their stories, and then to witness them accomplish their personal goals is humbling,” Fitzgerald says. “A runner crossing a marathon finish line is a physical demonstration of the triumph of the human spirit, and I consider it a true privilege to be part of that magic.”

She shares the magic of sports as a girls’ basketball coach at Shady Side Academy, instilling confidence in her players. And she continues to spread her positive message by staying active in the community. “The youth of this city is committed to making Pittsburgh a more vibrant and inclusive community,” she says. “Every day, when I step outside, I feel like I am part of a community filled with real, hopeful people. I love Pittsburgh because, more often than not, it feels like Pittsburgh loves me back.” For more information, visit pittsburghmarathon.com.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh:

+ MAY 6 marks the 10-year anniversary of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon’s return to Pittsburgh! Track all of the race details at pittsburghmarathon.com.

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“I feel at home when utilizing all of the different trail systems in Pittsburgh. I grew up running along the trails in Schenley and Frick Park, and now as an adult, I use the riverfront trails almost daily. It is a true gift to be able to run or bike along a ‘rail to trail’ site like the Great Allegheny Passage.”

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ERIN

Drischler +

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JORDAN Tomb

One year ago, Erin Drischler and Jordan Tomb created The Garment Project, a unique and empowering nonprofit that curates trendy clothing without sizes on them. “I love and appreciate fashion, and understand the confidence-boosting power of a great outfit,” says Drischler, who grew up in the North Hills. “Clothing and sizing were a huge part of my eating disorder recovery, and I wanted to offer a voice to those still struggling.”

Three national retailers with Pittsburgh headquarters — American Eagle/Aerie, rue21, and ModCloth — have signed on for partnerships, and the duo teases that there’s much more to come in the near future! “We develop relationships with philanthropic retailers to maintain a versatile inventory of clothing and work closely with treatment centers to find candidates for our program,” says Tomb, an Indiana, Pa., native. “This year, we are going to be organizing volunteer events to get more of our community involved and to try some new ideas to help bring confidence to others through clothing.” Throughout their time in the city, they’ve enjoyed the mutual support and encouragement local business owners share with one another. “I believe my generation is doing a phenomenal job of pointing out that a system might be broken or could be done better, and then, instead of waiting for change to come, we create something completely new on our own. Millennials are creative and driven and are playing a large part in the reinvention of Pittsburgh.” For more information, visit thegarmentproject.org.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “We love living on the North Side. It’s our favorite neighborhood to walk around and explore. Each street is unique and every house has its own character.

It’s beautiful. Legends is a favorite restaurant for date nights, Stage AE is a short walk away, and there are plenty of bike trails.”

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JOSHUA Clear

Although he is a reverend, Joshua Clear is “not the Christian that you see in the news and on TV.” Clear says, “I have tattoos. I wear Supreme.

Yes, I love Jesus, and yes, I bump Migos in my car. I am real. I hate fake.” After Jesus radically changed his life, Clear made it his mission to help others experience the same. For three years, he’s served as the college pastor at Amplify Church Pittsburgh City Campus, also known as The U. The U hosts weeknight gatherings at Amplify Church in the Strip District and Duquesne University, creating a safe place for college students of all backgrounds to find community and growth in their faith. “I love being part of a church that loves creating a place where anyone from anywhere can come and feel like family,” Clear says. “The biggest privilege is seeing someone’s life change.” Clear is known for preaching with enthusiasm and “bringing the fire,” and nothing sparks his soul more than knowing his colleagues and friends share a similar passion for life. “People have fire in their stomachs for something more than just things as normal,” Clear says. “People that love all people of all colors. People that aren’t scared to love, no matter the cost. People that actually care for other people.

I truly believe that we can’t help but be passionate when we meet a very passionate Jesus.” For more information, visit amplifychurch.com.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “Can I be real? I am at Chipotle on Baum at least three times a week.

(Laughs) I love being and walking on Walnut Street, but most recently, I’ve been digging Adda. I can spend hours there. They’re doing it right.”

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LAUREN Joseph

Pittsburgh native Lauren Joseph always knows the best events happening in the city. And most of the time, she’s the creative mastermind behind them! As the event and social media coordinator of Dickerson Creative Communications (DCC), she has a hand in designing and executing events for prestigious individuals and nonprofit organizations. “I love knowing that the work I do on a daily basis helps raise funds and awareness for these organizations,” Joseph says of the latter. She takes her involvement one step further by participating in a new volunteer initiative at DCC, where the staff supports different programs in the Pittsburgh area each month.

“We love that our line of work allows us to help local nonprofits, but we also think it is important for us to dedicate some of our personal time to making a difference,” she says. As she continues to expand her philanthropic reach through her career and her community efforts, Joseph is excited to be part of a generation that is determined to make a difference on a local level.

“My favorite aspect about living and working in Pittsburgh is how integrated and connected we are,” Joseph says.

“I think we realize that when our community thrives together, we are able to thrive personally. There is so much happening around us, and I think my generation has the ability to soak that all in and work together to make a positive impact.” For more information, visit dickersoncreative.com.

+ Lauren Joseph and the DCC crew will be hosting Savor Pittsburgh on SEPTEMBER 27!

Come sample dishes from the area’s top chefs, while also supporting women’s and infants’ health research at MageeWomens Research Institute.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “I definitely consider food to be a passion of mine, so some of my favorite places to go in Pittsburgh are restaurants. I love to find new places to eat, along with frequenting my top favorites: Penn Avenue Fish Company, Fat Head’s Saloon, Winghart’s Burger & Whiskey Bar, Chinatown Inn, and Gaucho Parrilla Argentina.”

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CONNER

+ Arthur and Shonda Moats will be serving as honorary co-chairs of the 2nd Annual Cuddles for Kids 5K/10K Run/Walk on JUNE 2! Sign up to participate today.

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Hagins

Conner Hagins’ philanthropic endeavors started at age nine, when he founded Cuddles for Kids. The 501c3 nonprofit makes donations to children’s agencies across the U.S., bringing toys and smiles to those who need them most. “My charity is very grassroots,” says Hagins, a junior at La Roche College. “I do a lot of the behind-the-scenes stuff with huge help and support from my parents. We rely solely on donations, so organizing fundraisers and needsbased initiatives are a huge part of what we do. We don’t have a building or salaries, so your donation goes directly to helping those in need.”

The work includes campaigns with Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Pittsburgh, the Mario Lemieux Foundation, the Pittsburgh Shoebox Project, the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation, and more, in addition to the support provided by local celebrities, athletes, and community members. Since the nonprofit launched in 2009, over $500,000 in items have been donated and $22,000 in grants have been issued. Hagins says the greatest reward the nonprofit brings is the genuine happiness created just by sharing his time with others. And he’s quick to emphasize that there’s no age limit to that feeling! “I recall some people my age always saying they can’t wait to make a difference when they’re older, and I always thought that was funny because you’re never too young to make a difference,” Hagins says. “You just have to have the heart and grind to want to do it. That is happening right here in the 412.” For more information, visit cuddlesforkids.net.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “I’m a sucker for Mt. Washington.

The view of the city is remarkable.

As a sports fan, Heinz Field and PPG Paints Arena are two of my favorite places. Wholey’s, Poros, and Pizzaiolo Primo are a few of my favorite places to eat, and of course, I can’t forget the North Park Lounge.”

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ISAAC Tarbell

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A never-ending quest for knowledge and innovation has fueled Isaac Tarbell’s academic endeavors and his commitment to the community.

After graduating high school in West Middlesex, Pa., he attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania, earning bachelor’s degrees in both Child Development and Family Relations, and Family Consumer Sciences Education; a master’s degree in Educational Psychology; and a post-master’s educational specialist degree in School Psychology. As he finishes his doctoral pursuits in School Psychology, Tarbell currently works as the supervisor of psychological services at Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS). “I work with a wonderful group of psychologists in applying evidence-based practices in mental health, learning, and behavior to help children and youth succeed academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally,” Tarbell says. He remains engaged with students and teachers throughout PPS by volunteering and working with Unified Sports through the Special Olympics, which provides an opportunity for students with exceptionalities to compete in extracurricular activities through track and field events. (He even raised funds for the program by participating in the Polar Plunge last month!) Tarbell hopes to continue making an impact by improving the lives of local youth on all levels. “I truly believe that our generation is adaptable and resilient when it comes to meeting the day-today challenges of work, home, and the world, especially through applications of technology,” Tarbell says. “We are truly consumers of knowledge.” For more information, visit pghschools.org.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “Currently residing in South Side, I love to frequent Carmella’s Plates and Pints!

I also enjoy running through all different parts of the city, especially the Riverside and Frick Park Trails.”

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ALYSSA

+ Join Alyssa Lyon and the PCRG at the 8th Annual Community Development Summit, “Honoring the Past, Planning for the Future,” on MAY 15+16.

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L yon

Hailing from the Bronx, N.Y., Alyssa Lyon moved to the Steel City to study at the University of Pittsburgh and firmly planted her roots in the community. As the manager of community outreach and membership engagement and AmeriCORPS VISTA supervisor at the Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group (PCRG), Lyon bridges gaps between policy and pragmatic community concerns; keeps stakeholders engaged; and ensures neighborhoods in Allegheny County are informed, monitored, and improved. “The most alluring aspect of my job is the ability to influence policy and legislation based upon community input and consensus galvanized through on-the-ground community work and engagement,” says Lyon, who recently earned a master’s degree in public management at Carnegie Mellon University. “Putting a voice to the policy, a voice that rightfully belongs to the people of Pittsburgh, is the most rewarding part of this work.” Lyon stays engaged in the community through multiple roles, including a board member for the African American Alumni Council at the University of Pittsburgh, supporting the community of alumni, while also promoting recruitment and retention of current students and staff; the chairperson for the Board of License and Inspection Review for the City of Pittsburgh, confirming independent oversight to the license and inspections determinations; and a participant in the Hazelwood Initiative, working toward revitalizing the Gladstone Middle School into a valuable community asset. She’s proud to be part of a generation that not only addresses the deprived spaces for young professionals, but also creates opportunities for collaboration and growth.

“The greatest thing it’s accomplished is to highlight individuals, groups, and organizations that have captured the essence of a diversely socioeconomic and sociocultural progressive Pittsburgh.”

For more information, visit pcrg.org.

Favorite Place in Pittsburgh: “I do love being in Hazelwood. Not only have I spent formative years in the area, building relationships amongst residents and local organizations, but I’ve watched the neighborhood transform itself in a way that seeks to maintain the integrity of the community and its inhabitants. The whole process has been admirable.”

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ALISON Mears

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After graduating from Emory University, Alison Mears lived in Atlanta before moving back home to Pittsburgh. “I’m not going to lie, I hated it,” Mears confesses. “I loved the strong backbone and communities that already resonated here, but it just needed a push. [My generation] grew up here in one era, traveled and saw the world growing, and now it is our turn to start the new era of Pittsburgh, giving it the same energy we have.”

Mears definitely fits in the go-getter category herself, accomplishing her goal of opening a boutique spin studio, Steel Revolution, at age 23.

I get to inspire people every single day,” Mears says. “My goal and what drives me is to teach people that the discipline, the power, and the passion they put into a ride should carry through their day-to-day life. If you can ride with purpose, you live your life with purpose.” Bringing a positive purpose to the community, Mears is a lululemon ambassador, a member of Pittsburgh’s 50 Finest for Cystic Fibrosis committee, and a field hockey and lacrosse coach at her alma mater, Shady Side Academy. “I have made the strongest connections throughout the city and that has allowed me to grow my business and allow it to flourish,” Mears says. “People in this city, somehow or another, go from being strangers to being family.

And I absolutely love that.” For more information, visit steelrevolutionpgh.com.

+ Stop by the second Steel Revolution studio location, opening in Lawrenceville this spring!

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “I have two loves: shopping and eating. When I’m not in workout clothes, I’m dressed in clothes from No 14 in Lawrenceville or Max Alto in Shadyside — hands down the two best clothing stores in Pittsburgh! My favorite restaurants are Point Brugge, Piccolo Forno, or Bakersfield.”

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BRITNEE

(Weatherspoon)Nwokeji Born and raised in Clairton, Pa., Britnee (Weatherspoon) Nwokeji has “always had a big heart and big dreams.” She’s accomplished many of those dreams so far, earning a bachelor’s degree in public health and a master’s degree in educational studies, which led to her current pursuit of a doctor of education degree with a concentration in health and physical activity. “My goal is to work in underserved communities, such as my hometown, helping them to thrive,” Nwokeji says. “I want to create healthier, sustainable communities and schools by creating community and personal enrichment opportunities for youth, and identifying effective strategies to eliminate health disparities.”

As a program manager for Health & Prevention in the Community Health division of Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Nwokeji manages community benefits initiatives and teaches community education classes to youth. She also dedicates her time to mentoring a member for National Health Corps — Pittsburgh and mentoring middle school students at Pittsburgh Arsenal 6-8 through the hospital’s Health Rangers program. A proud part of this generation of “change agents,” Nwokeji is excited to live and work in an evolving city like Pittsburgh.

“We all come from culturally diverse backgrounds, but we are willing to work together to make a difference in the Pittsburgh community,” she says.

“We are extremely passionate, and we are willing to put forth the effort to make big things happen!” For more information, visit chp.edu.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “I am a big foodie! Some of my favorite places include Nicky’s Thai Kitchen and Bistro 2 Go. Pittsburgh also has reputable places for jazz. Little E’s and James Street Gastropub and Speakeasy are some of my favorites. The food is also great!”

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CHALIS Henderson

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From a young age, Chalis Henderson’s parents taught her the importance of serving her community, having a heart for others, and helping others whenever she can. “They helped to establish my value system that is rooted in a love for God, and a love for giving to and serving people,” Henderson says. “I have always had a heart for community service and students.” In 2011, she founded the Chalis S. Henderson Scholarship Foundation. Thanks to the support of her community of donors, over $13,000 in scholarships have been awarded to students who are engaged in service to their community, church, and institution of higher learning. A move to Pittsburgh in 2014 sparked a new journey of positive adventures for Henderson, including getting married, becoming a mom, and founding Philanthropy, LLC. The latter is a social venture looking to change the face of philanthropy while also supporting the Chalis S. Henderson Scholarship Foundation.

“We are trained to think that philanthropy is only for the wealthy,” Henderson says. “But when people grab hold to our new definition and new narrative, it’s a beautiful thing!”

The welcoming attitude toward this initiative in Pittsburgh is truly inspiring to Henderson. “My generation is strategically taking advantage of what the city offers and using it for the greater good,” Henderson says.

“It makes me so happy to see people living their passions and changing communities.” For more information, visit redefinephilanthropy.org.

+ Check out the “Faces of Philanthropy” mini-series on YouTube to learn more about Chalis Henderson’s campaign.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “My top three places are: Everyday Cafe in Homewood, Thai Me Up in the South Side, and Cucina Vitale in the South Side — clearly, I love to eat!”

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DAN CHRISTIAN

+ Another GLD pop-up shop may be headed to Pittsburgh soon — stay tuned!

Folger

+

Johnston

Friends Dan Folger and Christian Johnston met growing up in Shaler, Pa., and have grown to become business partners at GLD. “During my senior year at Duquesne, I really switched my focus over to running GLD full-time,” Johnston says, “finding a way to take our childhood dream and make it a reality.” And now, GLD is the leading online provider of urban jewelry. As the creative director, Folger creates content for GLD’s social media and website, while also collaborating with celebrities for jewelry releases. “I really like to see the vision you have in your head come to life with the final outcome of the photo or video that we do,” Folger says. As the CEO, Johnston is involved with both the business and creative sides of the company — from leading the design of all new products, to designing the high-end custom orders for celebrity clients. “I love everything about my job, but most of all, I love seeing how far we have come,” Johnston says. “Starting with our business in a little cardboard box, working out of our parents’ basements, and now working on building that same dream we had, but on a bigger scale, always will keep me going.” The duo stays close to their roots by hosting events in Pittsburgh, including the recent GLD x TGOD popup shop in South Side, which featured a performance by Wiz Khalifa. “I really think my generation is starting to come together as a team and supporting each other a lot more now,” Folger says. “They want to see the city win, and I’ve noticed a lot more events going on that are bringing everyone together. People need to see how important that is.” For more information, visit thegldshop.com.

Favorite Places in Pittsburgh: “I love Downtown a lot. I love our restaurants and the rooftop nightlife.

And how could I forget Pamela’s?

Everyone should go there.”

— Dan Folger “I like going to the Strip District — getting some seafood at Penn Avenue Fish Company or Roland’s, or going over to Giovanni’s and getting a slice of pizza like we used to do when we rode bikes through the city as kids. I always make sure to stop back at Duquesne for a basketball game, and catch some of my old teammates playing. Love going to the Penguins and Steelers games, too.” — Christian Johnston PHOTOGRAPH FROM ZACK LABOS

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WHIRL

/ FEATURE

TRIPLE CROWN E N T E R T A I N I N G EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE KENTUCKY DERBY, PREAKNESS STAKES, AND BELMONT STAKES EDITED BY RACHEL JONES PHOTOGRAPHS FROM HAZEL RODRIGUEZ OF HAZEL PHOTOGRAPHERS

ound the trumpet and find your best hat — horse racing season is upon us! Enjoy Triple Crown entertaining for the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes without leaving the comforts of your home. Host the ultimate race day party by whipping up some cocktails and delicious bites to complement the race on the screen. Check out these recipes that reflect each race’s location and traditions.

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Pegasus statue at Gulfstream Park, Hallandale Beach, Fla.

WH H I R LM A G A Z I N E ..C OM M / WHIRL W H IRL WH IR R

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Y K C D U E T RBY N E K MAY 5, 2018 CHURCHILL DOWNS, LOUISVILLE, KY

ADENA BEEF SLIDER INGREDIENTS 3 ounces of Adena Farms Grass-Fed, Grass-Finished Beef 1 brioche slider roll 1 ounce ketchup 1 ounce mustard 1 filet hydroponic bibb lettuce 1 slice Roma tomato 4 ounces of Truffle Fries Salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS 1. Form the beef into a slider, and season with salt and pepper.

2. On a hot grill, cook slider on both sides for about 2 minutes or until desired internal temperature is reached.

3. Remove from grill and set aside. Toast bun on grill for about 10 seconds on each side.

4. On top bun, place lettuce filet and Roma tomato slice. Place burger on bottom bun and assemble both sides together.

5. Serve with Truffle Fries, ketchup, and mustard.

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TRUFFLE FRIES INGREDIENTS 4 2 2 1

ounces of French fries teaspoons white truffle oil ounces Parmesan cheese teaspoon chopped parsley

DIRECTIONS 1. Set deep fryer to 350ยบF and cook fries until golden.

2. In a small mixing bowl, toss fries with truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.

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GRILLED ASPARAGUS

ROASTED FINGERLING POTATOES

16-ounce cowboy rib-eye steak, cleaned 5 pieces of grilled asparagus 4 ounces of roasted fingerling potatoes Salt and pepper, to taste 2 ounces brown sauce 2 ounces béarnaise

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

5 asparagus spears 1 teaspoon oil 1 tablespoon melted butter Salt and pepper, to taste

4 ounces of halved fingerling potatoes 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary Salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS

DIRECTIONS

DIRECTIONS

COWBOY RIB-EYE INGREDIENTS

1. Season cowboy steak with salt and pepper, and set aside.

2. Set grill on high. Grill steak for about 3 1/2 minutes on each side for medium temperature.

4. Remove steak from grill, and let rest for about 5 minutes.

5. Plate roasted potatoes and grilled asparagus with the steak on top.

6. Serve with béarnaise and brown sauce.

1. Bring water to a boil and add asparagus.

Cook for 3 minutes until tender.

2. Rub asparagus with oil, salt, and pepper.

Put on hot grill and cook until char marks form.

3. Remove from grill, and brush with butter.

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine potatoes, oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper until seasoning is evenly spread.

2. Set oven to 350ºF, and cook potatoes 15-20 minutes until fork tender.

3. Remove from oven and set aside.

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S S S TA K ES E N K A E R P MAY 19, 2018 PIMLICO RACE COURSE, BALTIMORE, MD

MANGO CRAB SALAD INGREDIENTS 1 1 1 6 6

pound of jumbo lump Crab Meat mango, diced small ounce mesclun lettuce mix slices of blood orange slices of lemon

DIRECTIONS 1. In a medium bowl, toss mesclun mix with the diced mango and Crab Meat.

2. Place tossed lettuce, mango, and crab meat on a salad plate and place fruit throughout salad.

3. Drizzle salad with mango vinaigrette.

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MANGO VINAIGRETTE INGREDIENTS 1 cup fresh mango, diced 1/4 cup orange juice 1/4 cup rice vinegar 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1 tablespoon light brown sugar Salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS 1. Combine first 5 ingredients in a blender and puree.

2. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

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MARYLAND CRAB CAKE INGREDIENTS 1 pound of jumbo lump crab meat 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced small 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 egg 2 teaspoons chopped curly parsley 2 teaspoons sea salt 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS 1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, red bell pepper, parsley, mayonnaise, egg, salt, and pepper until mixed evenly.

2. Evenly divide mixture into 3-ounce portions and form into cakes.

3. In a hot non-stick pan with oil, sear crab cakes on each side until crispy.

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T S N T O A M KES L E B JUNE 9, 2018 BELMONT PARK, NEW YORK, NY

LOBSTER PICATTA INGREDIENTS 1 cup flour 2 whole eggs 6 ounces of lobster tail meat 3 cloves chopped garlic 1/4 cup capers 1 tablespoon roux 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup chablis blanc 1/4 cup lobster stock 5 ounces of angel hair pasta

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DIRECTIONS 1. Place flour in one small bowl. Place eggs in a separate bowl and scramble.

2. Cut the lobster tail meat into 2-ounce pieces.

3. Coat the lobster meat in flour, then egg, then cook in a medium pan with oil.

4. In the same pan, add garlic and cook until light brown.

5. Add capers and sautĂŠ with garlic for 1 minute.

6. Add roux and lemon juice to pan until smoothed out.

7. Add chablis blanc and cook for about 1 minute.

8. Add lobster stock, lower heat, and cook for 2 minutes.

9. Place cooked pasta in bowl and serve with sauce and lobster on top.

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Wolfgang Von Wieser, Corporate Executive Chef, Stronach Group; Tamir Shanel, Executive Vice President, Food and Beverage, Stronach Group; Giovanny Arias, Director of Culinary Operations, Gulfstream Park; and Amy Sanchez, Food and Beverage Supervisor

About the Stronach Group Tamir Shanel, executive vice president of Food and Beverage at The Stronach Group, is part of The Stronach Group’s ongoing commitment to developing unparalleled experiences across its properties. The Stronach Group modernizes and reignites the sport of thoroughbred horse racing with six of the most successful and historic thoroughbred race tracks across North America.

The Stronach Group also hosts two of the biggest horse races in the world: The Preakness Stakes and the Pegasus World Cup Invitational at Gulfstream Park.

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The Preakness Stakes, held at the venerable Pimlico Fields, is part of the Triple Crown of horse racing.

Pimlico is one of the oldest and most historic tracks in the country, having hosted the head-to-head race between Seabiscuit and War Admiral in 1938, which is considered the greatest sporting event in American history. The Pegasus World Cup Invitational is the world’s richest horse race with a purse of $16,000,000.

Altogether, The Stronach Group’s race tracks, restaurants, and special event venues host well over one million patrons every year. And they’re able to do so with world-class service and amenities, and a world-class team.

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S I G N AT U R E C O C K TA I L S

KENTUCKY DERBY MINT JULEP Mint sprigs, sugar, water, crushed ice, and bourbon

PREAKNESS STAKES BLACK-EYED SUSAN Orange and pineapple juice, vodka, light rum, and orange liqueur

BELMONT STAKES BELMONT JEWEL Bourbon, lemonade, pomegranate juice, and lemon peel

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Ron Luniewski and War Story, of Imaginary Stables; Trained by Jorge Navarro

About Xpressbet How do you pick your Kentucky Derby horse? For some, it’s all in the horse’s name. For others, the journey to choosing a horse involves meticulously poring over stacks of stats and trends. But no matter how you pick your horse, one thing is for certain — Pittsburgh-based Xpressbet is the simple and easy way to bet a few bucks on your pick on Derby Day and any other time you get a hot tip.

At Xpressbet, the excitement of a day at the track is combined with the simplicity and convenience of online shopping. Xpressbet provides legal and secure wagering on more than 300 of the world’s premier racetracks, covering everything from Churchill Downs and Santa Anita Park to the UK’s prestigious Royal Ascot meeting and the starstudded Dubai World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

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With Xpressbet, you can pick your horse, make your bets, watch live races, and get paid without leaving home. In fact, with its revolutionary new mobile wagering application, you can now bet any race from any place — the office, gym, supermarket, or anywhere between.

We chatted with Xpressbet President and Pittsburgh native Ron Luniewski to learn more about the company’s history and Pittsburgh connection.

WHIRL: How did Xpressbet come to be? Give us the history.

Ron Luniewski: I have worked in the technology sector throughout my career and spent 14 years working for Ross Perot’s Electronic Data Systems (EDS), one of the premier tech services providers in North America. I started as a software engineer there and ultimately ended up managing

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the group that developed the first round of websites for General Motors, including Chevrolet, GMC, and Buick.

I left EDS and relocated to California and was the fifth person in a start-up company called Youbet, which was one of the first US-based online horse racing wagering companies. At that time, the internet was in its relative infancy and there was no such thing as ‘online wagering.’ During the time I was there, we launched the product that established the current market. We ultimately took the company public, and I became CEO in 2001.

During my time at Youbet, an Austrian-born businessman named Frank Stronach was beginning to heavily invest in US racing properties. Mr. Stronach is an entrepreneur and self-made success story, having founded Magna International, one of North America’s leading automobile parts manufacturers, in 1957.

Mr. Stronach purchased more than a dozen of North America’s premier racetracks, including Santa Anita Park (Los Angeles, CA), Gulfstream Park (Miami, FL), Pimlico Race Course (Baltimore, MD), Golden Gate Fields (San Francisco, CA) and The Meadows (Washington, PA).

WHIRL: You’re headquartered at The Meadows in Washington, Pa. Can you tell us how the business grew from the Meadows location?

RL: In 2002, The Stronach Group contacted me and offered me the opportunity to move from California to

Pittsburgh and transition their account wagering company, Call-A-Bet, from a local telephone betting service to a national powerhouse that would rival Youbet. I jumped at the opportunity, knowing a move to Pittsburgh was great for my family, which at the time included four young children.

I showed up at The Meadows and from there, the rest is history. Through the tireless efforts of our dedicated team, Xpressbet has grown from a small phone betting company to a respected global leader in wagering, with more than $1 billion wagered in 2017.

Being based in Pittsburgh, we’ve had the privilege of utilizing Pittsburgh’s deep pool of talented, hard-working and passionate professionals. Many of our approximately 135 full and part-time team members were born, raised and educated in the Pittsburgh-area, and I take great pride in seeing them start families of their own here, so the cycle may continue for future generations.

WHIRL: What’s next for Xpressbet? What are the future plans or goals?

RL: Our primary goal and focus for the future is to continue growing the sport of horse racing globally.

Our parent company, The Stronach Group, is heavily invested in the long-term success of live horse racing and everything we do at Xpressbet is in support of their philosophy. We will look to achieve that goal by continuing to provide consumers an unmatched online wagering experience.

In addition to its core business of offering its customers wagering on top thoroughbred and harness races, Xpressbet also operates several successful subsidiaries: • XB SELECT: A “whiteglove” online wagering service for high-volume customers.

• XB Net: A businessto-business firm that brings wagering on North American racing to partners in the UK, Australia, Spain, Turkey, Germany and more.

Belinda Stronach, Frank Stronach, and Seal

PHOTOGRAPH FROM MARK SULLIVAN/GETTY IMAGES

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• XBTV: A digital online horse racing network, specializing in race coverage and arming consumers with the information and picks they need to win.

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Beverly Jochynek, Executive Vice President, XB Select

Horse Racing Glossary Before you can host a Triple Crown party, you need to brush up on your horse racing terminology! Check out our cheat sheet, here:

Dustin Fabian, Director of Communications and Senior Racing Analyst

Auction: Many horses are sold as weanlings, yearlings, or two-year-olds at public auction. In 2006, Coolmore paid a record $16 million for a twoyear-old racehorse named The Green Monkey. He never won a race.

Exacta: A wager in which you must pick the first two finishers of a race in the correct order. Since 2000, the average winning Kentucky Derby Exacta has paid $1,001 for a $2 bet.

Jockey: The person who rides the horse in a race. Horses ridden by this year’s leading jockey Jose Ortiz, earned more than $27 million!

Mint Julep: The traditional cocktail of the Kentucky Derby. Create your own using bourbon whisky, mint leaves, sugar, water, and ice.

Kerry Lee Gatten, Senior Manager, XB International; Ron Luniewski, Xpressbet President

Trainer: The person hired to oversee the daily care of a racehorse.

Triple Crown: A series of races consisting of the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes. Since 1919, just 12 horses — most recently, American Pharoah in 2015 — have won all three.

Win Bet: The simplest bet in horse racing. Make your wager and get paid if your horse crosses the finish line first.

Workout: Most elite horses only race every five or six weeks. To stay in shape between races, horses generally have a strenuous exercise, or workout, once a week.

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Anthony Driscoll, Manager, XB Product and Insights

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL FORNATARO

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Bet Any Race From Any Place Bet & Watch the e Races Live Online ne e Bet all the best races including the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, Belmont & more re Watch races live in HD Get free picks & insights from betting experts perts ts Earn Rewards Points with every bet Always free to play with no commitments nts

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866.88XPRESS (866.889.7737) Xpressbet is US-based, regulated and licensed to offer online betting on horse racing events. Free $5 Bet promotional offer is valid through 12/31/18. Open to new Xpressbet account signups only. Free $5 Bet will be deposited as wagering credits upon successful completion of the signup process. Free $5 Bet must be wagered and cannot be withdrawn. Customer has 30 days to use wagering credits. Unused wagering credits will be retracted after 30 days. Must be 18 or older (21 in AL, AZ, IA, KS, NH, ND, WA) to open an account with Xpressbet, LLC and reside in a state where such activity is legal.

Void where prohibited. National Gambling Support Line 800.522.4700.

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Trusted Accreditation.

The 501 (c) (3) non-proďŹ t Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance accredits, inspects and awards grants to approved aftercare organizations to retire, retrain and rehome Thoroughbreds using industry-wide funding.

www.thoroughbredaftercare.org | (859) 224-2756 | Photo by Suzie Picou-Oldham

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WHIRL

/ FEATURE

COLORECTAL CANCER

AWARENESS A CURABLE CANCER â&#x20AC;&#x201D; IF YOU GET TESTED!

BY UPMC HILLMAN CANCER CENTER â&#x20AC;˘ PHOTOGRAPHS FROM UPMC

olorectal cancer is a major public health problem here in the U.S. and specifically here in Pennsylvania.

It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths, and nearly one-third of all adults between the ages of 50 and 75 have not been screened. Interestingly, colorectal cancer is one of the most curable types of cancer, when detected early.

C

The month of March is designated as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Since first designated by President Bill Clinton in 2000, it has grown to become a time of year when thousands of patients, survivors, caregivers, and advocates throughout the country join together to spread colorectal cancer awareness. It has also become a time for many to talk to their friends and family about the importance of screening and for doctors to encourage their patients to get screened.

We talked with Dr. Edward Chu, Chief of the Division of Hematology-Oncology and UPMC Hillman Cancer, about colorectal cancer. Dr. Chu has great advice on when you should be screened and why, and information on what studies are underway for this cancer.

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Edward Chu, MD, is a professor of Medicine and Pharmacology & Chemical Biology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Stanley M. Marks-OHA Chair in Hematology-Oncology Research, Chief of the Division of Hematology-Oncology, and the Deputy Director of the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. He specializes in the treatment of GI cancers with a specific focus on colorectal cancer, and he directs the Phase I clinic, where early-phase clinical trials are offered to all patients with cancer.

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WHAT IS COLORECTAL CANCER? Dr. Chu: Colorectal cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues of the colon and rectum. The colon, also called the large intestine, has four parts: ascending colon, descending colon, transverse colon, and sigmoid colon. It’s responsible for the last stages of digestion. The sigmoid colon connects to the rectum and continues the process of removing waste from the body.

Colorectal cancer can occur in any section of the large intestine or in the rectum.

WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS OF COLORECTAL CANCER? Dr. Chu: Some of the early warning signs may include: blood (bright red or very dark) in the stool; a change in bowel habits; weight loss for no known reason; fatigue; diarrhea, constipation or feeling the bowels don’t fully empty; frequent gas pain, bloating, fullness, or cramps. Unfortunately, there are some patients who will not present with any of these warning symptoms, and this highlights the importance of colon cancer screening.

HOW IS COLORECTAL CANCER DETECTED? Dr. Chu: The best detection is early detection, and for colorectal cancer, the gold standard is colonoscopy. Unless you have a family history or another reason that puts you at a higher risk for colorectal cancer, individuals should have regular colonoscopy screenings every 10 years starting at the age of 50. African Americans should begin screenings at age 45, as they present with colon cancer at an earlier age than Caucasians.

The goal of colonoscopy is to identify polyps, which are the precursors for colorectal cancer, and to find colon cancer at its earliest stage. Without detection or treatment, polyps can become cancer that grow deeper into the tissue and then can spread to other parts of the body. A colonoscopy can find these polyps and remove them during the procedure. The tissue samples are then reviewed by the pathologist to detect the presence of any cancer cells, and based on this analysis, we can then determine if any additional treatment is needed.

WHY DO YOU THINK SO MANY PEOPLE ARE RELUCTANT TO GET SCREENED? Dr. Chu: Most patients believe the preparation for colonoscopy is difficult, and we find that women are much more concerned about the prep than men. It is typically done the night before and it requires that you drink a good amount of special fluids that will help to fully empty the colon so that there is a better chance of visualizing the entire colon. The prep has changed over the years, and most patients have commented that it was not as terrible as they originally expected. Here’s the most important reason you should get a colonoscopy: When caught early, colon cancer can be successfully treated and cured in up to 90-95 percent of cases. The preparation is far less invasive and far less problematic than getting treated for colon cancer. A colonoscopy is the only procedure that can find and remove polyps before they become cancerous.

ARE THERE ANY NEW RESEARCH OR FINDINGS INVOLVING COLORECTAL CANCER? Dr. Chu: You should be aware of a test called Cologuard that was approved by the FDA in 2014 as a non-invasive approach to screen for colon cancer. It is the first screening test that detects the presence of altered DNA in a patient’s stool that may suggest the presence of polyps or colon cancer. The beauty of this test is that it is completely non-invasive and can accurately detect the presence of colon cancer about 90 percent of the time. Unfortunately, a colonoscopy is still required to make the diagnosis of polyp or colon cancer.

There is also a great deal of research to use peripheral blood and look for the presence of altered DNA in the same way that this stool test is being used, and I suspect that we will hear more about these blood screening tests in the next few years.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, hillman.upmc.com

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WHIRL

/ FEATURE

Part 1

Special medical series

THE OPIOID CRISIS: HOW IT AFFECTS WESTERN PA TO MAKE PATHWAYS INTO OUR HOMES AND HOW WE CAN STOP IT

BY SVEN HOSFORD

T

he news is full of horrifying statistics about the opioid crisis in America: the number of overdose deaths, the number of pills sold, the number of people in pain who need opioids to function. But people are not statistics. To fully understand this crisis, we need to understand what people are going through, not just how many of them are going through it. Only then can we find the compassion to eliminate the stigma of addiction and work towards honest solutions.

This three-part series chronicles three mothers in their journey up to and over the edge of opiate addiction.

Each was introduced to opiates by her physician, who created, and then largely ignored, the effects of addiction and withdrawal. Each experienced “dope sick,” described by those who have survived it as “hell on earth.” And all of them had to discover for themselves the effective tools for building an opioid-free life, both to conquer opiates and to manage the underlying pain that started the opiate use in the first place.

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For most Americans, the introduction to opiates begins with a prescription and little or no warning of the addiction possibilities.

The Pushers

The front line of the addiction crisis is the emergency room. As an attending emergency physician, Dr. Bryan Doner treats multiple cases of opiate overdose every shift. He prescribes opiate pain prescriptions in small amounts as he treats acute situations.

“The key thing is to only take those as needed,” he explains in a recent interview. “Do not take those on a regular, consistent basis. The problem is the medicine they send you home with, that you take every day, day after day, consistently. Then, one day, you wake up and your body is addicted, and you had no idea this was coming.”

Celeste’s story

Surviving the needle The word she uses to describe her story is “horrifying.” Celeste is professional, well-educated, well-traveled, and from a wealthy family — a mother of two. “If it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone.”

It started with a hysterectomy. She believes she was hooked with the very first needle of pain medicine.

She was craving pills by the time an artery burst 30 days later, “I literally died,” she says. “I wouldn’t be here without blood donations.” The ongoing pain was excruciating, debilitating.

“The prescriptions were very, very generous, for more many many months,” she says.

Gradually, her behavior changed. She became “mean as a snake.” She lied and made up stories to get more prescriptions. She found a local physician, who was also very generous with his scripts.

“My tolerance became so high, the doctors caught on and lowered the dosages.” She met another mother at Whole Foods around then. “We just started talking about pain. She was on painkillers and had a great connection. I did business with her until she introduced me to her dealer.”

“He had anything I wanted. It started with pills, then one day he said, ‘Have you ever tried heroin?’

That became a daily habit that wound up costing us tens of thousands of dollars — all of our savings.” She is deeply embarrassed and ashamed to speak about it.

“I hated my life. I hated my husband. I hated my children. All I cared about was getting more drugs.” The physicians who got her addicted shut her off. No help and no more prescriptions.

ONLY AS NEEDED

Mary’s story

At the hard edge

Christine’s story

Pushing back

Mary knew all about opioids before she got hooked. She had watched her sister sink deeper into opioid madness for over 15 years. “It was a constant cycle of abuse, rehab, then relapse when she found a new source. She lost her kids when she set the house on fire too many times from cigarette burns.”

For Christine, it began with knee surgery as a teenager. “I’ve been in chronic pain since I was 14,” she says, “and I have dealt with it since then — naturally, by myself, nonpharmaceutically. If I’m on opioids, the odds are I’m going to feel good, and if I feel good, the odds are I’m going to hurt myself more. I want to ride the pain and get better.”

Seven years ago, Mary was living in rural PA with a small child and her husband. “One day, I fell to the ground and was unable to get up,” she says.

A childhood of too much ballet and gymnastics finally took its toll on a knee. “My doctor prescribed Vicodin for pain. I took them for a few days.

No problems.”

Six follow-up surgeries did little but give her ample experience riding the pain. As a ballet dancer and competitive runner, she has always been fit and athletic. She now practices yoga regularly and is still in top physical shape, despite the constant pain.

Six months later, she fell to the ground again, this time with back pain.

“The doctor convinced me to take opioids for a couple weeks or months and two Valium a day for muscle relaxing.” They were essential for pain management, he told her.

“I think I was addicted in two weeks.

Once I could get up and walk again, I felt great. Having relief from the pain was wonderful.” Watching her sister’s addiction problems left Mary with a firm determination not to take more than prescribed.

Eight years ago, she chose to have some simple foot surgery. “My kids were in 3rd and 5th grade. I had a husband and a business. The last thing I needed was to be out of it.” She left explicit written instructions that she was not to have any pain medication of any kind.

So it was a shock for her to wake up from the surgery with a morphine drip in her leg. She was nauseous and not thinking straight. “The invasiveness of the morphine was traumatic.

I was throwing up the whole time and had severe constipation. I was thrashing around in severe agony.”

For two days.

Finally, her husband called the doctor’s office.

“They said, ‘You need to get ahead of the pain.’

That I should take one of the 50 oxycontin or 20 blue morphine pills they sent home with me. It was explicitly to stay ahead of the pain.”

Dr. Doner asserts that physicians today are supposed to tell patients to take these pills only “as needed in cases of intolerable pain.”

“Doctors probably aren’t stressing that enough,” he says. “On the other hand, we take most medicine the same time every day or twice a day. That’s how you get better. Then we give them this pain medication. They see every six hours and think ‘if i take this every six hours, it's going to help me get better.’ In fact, it’s not helping you get better at all. It’s just masking the symptoms of pain.”

Sven Hosford will host a panel discussion based on this series at the 2018 World Medical Cannabis Conference & Expo in Pittsburgh at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. “Strategies for Opioid Free Living” will cover the effective tools for building an opioid-free life, both to conquer opiates and to manage the underlying pain which caused the need for opiates. Date/Time: 4/14/18, 3:00-3:50 pm IN PART TWO, WE’LL FOLLOW THE THREE MOTHERS AS THEY EXPERIENCE THE DOPE SICK — THE PHYSICAL EFFECTS OF OPIATE WITHDRAWAL. WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT Meet three artists whose local roots influence the subject matter, materials, and process for their greatest works.

EDITED BY CAITLIN CESA + RACHEL JONES

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JASON SAUER

WILLIAM DEBERNARDI

KIM FOX

Jason Sauer is a classically trained painter living in the Garfield neighborhood.

From large outdoor murals to small Flemish-inspired impressionistic paintings on metal, Sauer can create art from anything. He frequently uses the distinctly American demolition derby as a high-art form. By reclaiming discarded automobiles and transforming them, he conceives performance art that lets fate and happenstance create a sculpture. These sculptures are then set in a calm, sterile museum environment as a record of the brutality of human emotional release. Sauer also works with locally sourced objects, using his art to create a dialogue within his community. pittsburghartcar.com.

Best known for oil paintings, which are couched in observational realism, William DeBernardi’s artwork involves figure-based imagery concerning common human activity and behavior, often within the context of seemingly everyday environments. A Professor Emeritus of Painting and Drawing at Carlow University, DeBernardi has exhibited in various regional, national, and international galleries, universities, and museums. DeBernardi’s recent exhibitions include “An American Festival” at the Penn State University New Kensington Gallery and “People, Places, and Things” at the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art. williamdebernardi.com.

Kim Fox credits her aesthetic, subject matter, and choice of materials to her childhood in rural Western PA. Fox, who earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Printmaking at the College of Charleston, recently started exploring regional arts and crafts with a more rural bent, creating her own patchworks out of vintage tins and salvaged wood. Her tin quilts have been shown in “New Order: Collage Now” at the Future Tenant Gallery and at SPACE Gallery in Pittsburgh; in Providence, RI, in the “Memory Quilt Collage” exhibit; and in “Beyond the Bed Covers” at A.I.R. Gallery in Brooklyn, NY. Fox is also an itinerant art teacher in regional schools, as well as a designer and illustrator. workerbird.com.

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Photographs from Jocelyn Sauer, William DeBernardi, Matt Dayak

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Jason Sauer, A Horse Named Tornado, PPG Paint on Alcoa Aluminum Plate in a Handmade Wooden Frame, 23” X 23,” 2014 Photograph from Jocelyn Sauer

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William DeBernardi, The Mud and Straw of History: Tooth and Nail, Oil on Canvas, 14” X 28,” 2014 Photograph from William DeBernardi

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Kim Fox, Untitled, Vintage Tins on an Antique Mold from the Jeannette Glass Factory, 17â&#x20AC;? in diameter, 2017 Photograph from Matt Dayak

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Broker Associate Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

Lisa Delena, Mina Baker Knoll, Janet Meub, Bianca Hooper

RYAN ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER BENEFIT FOR FOCUS ON RENEWAL WHO: Over 50 people, including board members of Ryan Arts & Cultural Center Jim Lind, Mina Baker Knoll, Tammy Bey, Bianca Hooper, Lisa Dalena, and Janet Meub; Joni Schwager, executive director of Staunton Farm; Seth Rosenberg, executive director of Dreams of Hope; and Matt Turbiner, owner of Shady Grove WHAT: Ryan Arts & Cultural Center, located in McKees Rocks, hosted its African American Celebration of the Arts Happy Hour Fundraiser.

WHERE: Shady Grove HIGHLIGHTS: Hosted at Shady Grove, attendees enjoyed delicious drinks and appetizers, while supporting arts programming at Ryan Arts & Cultural Center at this happy hour fundraiser and artist networking event. The center’s mission is to encourage students of all ages to experience the arts as a means of selfdiscovery and cultural enrichment. — M.H. “It’s great having partners like Shady Grove host an event like this because it shows our growing and diverse network of supporters from all over town who are helping us transform the Ryan Arts & Culture Center into a community-based, but regional, asset for all to enjoy. This amazing facility in StoRox is only seven minutes from Downtown Pittsburgh, yet is often overlooked.”

— Lydia Morin, director of engagement and enterprise at Focus On Renewal (parent organization of Ryan Arts)

Helmet Karim, Jesse Pavlis, Josh Purvis

PHOTOGRAPHS BY CHARLIE MAGOVERN

GO TO PHOTOS.WHIRLMAGAZINE.COM TO VIEW AND PURCHASE ALL OF THE PHOTOS FROM THIS EVENT!

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Adrienne Roberts, Nadia Palmieri, Aurora Smith

Meghan Downey, Aimee Deluca, Lisa Williams, Kelly Rexrode, Ruika Greenfield

FRESH, LOCAL ITALIAN

girasolepgh.com

733 Copeland Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15232 412.682.2130 Lydia Morin, Matt Turbiner

Tammy Bey, Jenifer Davison

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Please visit www.pdjf.org/donation to make a donation.

The Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF) provides ďŹ nancial assistance to jockeys who have suffered catastrophic on-track injuries. These men and women face adversity far greater than their disabilities. Their personal lives and the well-being of their families are changed forever. www.PDJF.org | P.O. Box 803, Elmhurst, IL 60126 | 630.595.7660 Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund is a registered 501(c)3 public charity

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2/15/18 4:38 PM

SOUTHPOINTE AREA • $2,465,000 • MARY EVE KEARNS • 724-941-8800

ADAMS TWP. • $2,200,000 • MARY ANN BRETTELL • 724-452-1100

Nestled on over 4½ rolling acres, this residence masterfully blends indoor and outdoor living in a resort-like setting. Four levels of gracious living; fabulous lower level walks out to the pool area.

Impressive, high-end details and finishes define this magnificent home on 1.9 manicured acres in Treesdale Golf Course community. Amenities include a community center, pool, sports courts, and more.

SCHENLEY FARMS • $1,700,000 • JANICE DECARLO • 412-361-4000

FO X CH A PEL • $ 1 , 6 5 0 , 0 0 0 • S T EPH A N IE VEENI S • 412-963-6300

This exquisitely renovated Italianate home features a new kitchen, all new baths, custom skylights, two laundries, and much more. The master suite offers a steam shower and a dressing room.

Hidden away in the trees, this magnificent stone and redwood home is a private oasis. Walls of windows seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. The luxurious master suite has a walk-in marble tile shower.

PINE TWP. • $899,500 • BETTY MORACA • 412-741-2200 DOWNTOWN • $939,900 • DEBORAH KANE • 412-856-8800 MT. LEBANON • $799,000 • CINDY SUNSERI • 412-561-7400 This impressive Provincial in a sought-after neighborhood offers an expansive rear deck, accessed by both the spectacular family room with soaring ceilings and the main-level master suite with spa-bath.

Enjoy panoramic city and river views in this luxury condominium with remote-control blinds, bamboo floors, chef’s kitchen, 33-ft. terrace, two indoor parking spaces, full-time building staff, fitness center.

This lovely home in Virginia Manor features a stunning two-story marble entry with curved staircase, gleaming hardwood, detailed moldings, a four-season sun room, and updated kitchen and baths.

The Art of Fine Homes HOWARDHANNA .COM WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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HOT HOUSE

FRESH ON THE MARKET This prestigious, 9,000-plus-square-foot home in the golfing community of Nevillewood is a showstopper both inside and out. Check out our exclusive first look at this local masterpiece!

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BY MATTHEW HACKE + KAREN RAK MORRIS â&#x20AC;¢

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM WITALISPHOTO.COM

2/15/18 6:54 PM

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magine waking up each morning, looking out your window, and seeing the breathtaking views of the manicured greens, ponds, and waterfalls surrounding this gorgeous estate. Built along the 18th fairway of the Club at Nevillewood, this home is an entrepreneur’s dream, as it can easily accommodate both business and personal use.

Step inside the home, and you’ll be warmly greeted by the inviting presence of the detailed craftsmanship and décor. Prepare meals in a kitchen that features state-ofthe-art amenities like a built-in Subzero side-by-side refrigerator and freezer, 4-Fisher Paykel dish drawer dishwashers, stainless steel Bosch double ovens, and even heated flooring! Next, walk into the dining room area to sit down and eat with loved ones as you admire exquisite features, such as a two-story built-in bookcase — equipped with a sliding ladder, nonetheless! — and a gas fireplace. After the meal, take family, friends, or business associates to the outdoor entertaining area to sit around the fire pit and make s’mores for dessert.

1061 Meridian Drive, Nevillewood For more information, email Inquiries@18thFairway.com or call 412.980.1118. facebook.com/18thFairwayPittsburgh

At the end of the evening, retreat to the in-home movie theater to stream your favorite Netflix shows or films, or take a short walk to the first-floor master bath jacuzzi for a little rest and relaxation. The home features two sets of staircases to the second-floor bedrooms, which provide privacy for guests staying overnight.

You’ll wake up well-rested and ready to take on the day, but first, make sure to get your workout in before you leave the house! The 40-foot lap pool, gym, and

sauna await. Other incredible features of the home include a tiled and heated garage, and two large second- and thirdfloor bonus rooms, which can be used either as au pair suites, playrooms, yoga studios, or home offices. In fact, each spouse can work from home in their own, separate offices without interfering with one another.

In addition to the home’s amazing features, you’ll gain membership to the exclusive Club at Nevillewood. Not only will you be able to take advantage of the club’s amenities, such as the outdoor patio, indoor grill room, swimming pool, and of course, the nationally ranked golf course, but you can entertain guests and business associates there as well!

The home’s geographical location is just as ideal. Located close to Pittsburgh International Airport, to multiple dining options and retail shops, and only a 12-mile drive to and from Downtown, you’ll be able to get where you need to go as quickly and efficiently as possible.

With an estate that has everything you need to keep your family and your business associates entertained all year round, make this home yours today!

CALLING ALL ENTREPRENEURS! We’re inviting all entrepreneurs to a special Entrepreneurs Open House at this 18th Fairway home on Saturday, March 24, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Nominate your favorite entrepreneur or sign up yourself at whirlmagazine.com.

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SPRINGTIME

BEAUTIES Check out some fabulous, move-in-ready properties that are sprouting up all throughout the region.

The magnificent grounds feature formal gardens and a pergola that lead to the in-ground, salt water pool and outdoor entertaining area.

The property also includes an 1800s guest house, a ranch caretaker’s home, a stable, indoor riding arena, and an equipment garage!

EQUESTRIAN DREAM 641 Hidden Meadow Lane, Ligonier — $4,950,000

For more information, contact Annette Ganassi of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services at 412.551.7300. howardhanna.com.

Situated on 133 acres, this breathtaking home features five bedrooms, six full bathrooms, and two half-bathrooms.

The extravagant great room is surround by finely crafted woodwork and floorto-ceiling windows. The second story of the room also includes an incredible space for a library.

You’ll never run out of space for your favorite bottles of vino in this wine cellar!

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The chef’s kitchen showcases more of the exquisite details that the home has to offer, including beautiful wooden cabinetry and stateof-the-art appliances.

BY MATTHEW HACKE • PHOTOGRAPHS FROM CARMEN NATALE

2/15/18 5:22 PM

Sitting on 20 magnificent acres, this home features six bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and two half-bathrooms.

NATURALLY CHARMING 142 Horseshoe Drive, South Buffalo Twp. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; $998,617

The stone and woodwork details found in the kitchen enhance the rustic feel of the home.

Turn this stunning space into a home office, although it may be hard not to become distracted by the beautiful sights and sounds of the outdoors!

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM MIKE LEONARDI

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For more information, contact Michelle Goetzinger of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty at 412.782.3700.

ThePreferredRealty.com.

Entertain in the bright and open living room, which features windows assembled in horizontal bands.

Walking into this estate, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be mesmerized by the solid construction and craftsmanship, inspired by the designs of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

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This newly renovated farmhouse boasts four bedrooms and three-and-a-halfbathrooms, conveniently located 35 minutes from Downtown Pittsburgh.

DOWN ON THE FARM 117 Wallace Road, Portersville â&#x20AC;&#x201D; $490,000

Enjoy meals with friends or family, and get lost in the stunning views as you gaze out the windows.

The gorgeous foyer greets you as you enter through the front doors.

The hardwood flooring and crown molding details enhance the rustic feel of the home.

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For more information, contact Kevin Chechak of Northwood Realty Services at 412.367.3200. northwood.com.

The custom, hickory kitchen includes granite countertops, double ovens, induction cooktop, convection microwave, dishwasher, sink disposal, and stainless steel appliances.

The warm tones and hues in the bathroom complement the ceramic features.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM MIKE LEONARDI

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A historical and culturally significant property, the four-bedroom, twoand-a-half-bathroom main home sits on 161 acres of land.

SCENIC ESCAPE 45 Chesterfield Drive, Scenery Hill — $2,200,000

For more information, contact Kate Blazer of Piatt Sotheby’s International Realty at 412.471.4900. piattsothebysrealty.com.

In addition to the main house, the property includes a renovated farm home and one of the oldest log cabin barns in Washington County.

Use this Revolutionary War-era log cabin for parties and gatherings!

A horse lover’s dream, check out the property’s four pastures, six-horse stable, indoor riding arena, and tack room.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM AJ BRACH, RYAN MCINTYRE, GENE YUGER

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/ WEDDINGS Ashley and Max met during their time as students at Mercyhurst University.

ASHLEY BRUDY & MAXWELL KHURI When Maxwell Khuri decided he was ready to begin a lifetime of happiness with Ashley Brudy, he planned the perfect engagement. During Ashley’s 30th birthday celebration, surrounded by their friends and family, Max surprised the birthday girl — and nearly everyone else in attendance! — when his toast turned into a proposal. “He started out the toast by thanking everyone that came, continued to give a little speech about me, and before you know it, he stopped the toast abruptly and then he got on one knee,” Ashley explains. “I was completely surprised, to say the least.” On the day of their long-awaited nuptials, a violinist played “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from “The Lion King” as Ashley walked down the aisle. The groom chose the song as another sweet surprise for his bride.

The cinematic theme continued as the couple exchanged traditional vows on the patio of Longue Vue Club. “The readings we chose for our readers included an excerpt from one of our favorite books, ‘The Alchemist’ by Albert Camus, and a line from one of our favorite films, ‘Good Will Hunting’,” Ashley says. Personal elements like these made their day extra special. “It’s the little touches throughout the day that meant the most!”

Ashley and Max served a vanilla cake with mixed berry compote — yum!

To keep the extras from going to waste, Ashley made stickers that read “Eat Cake For Breakfast” and used them to seal the leftover slices in napkins, a tradition that she and her mom carry out for themselves at every wedding they attend.

“Max and I love movies and musicals.

One of our favorite movies is ‘Good Will Hunting,’ and this is one of the sweetest lines in any movie!”

The couple chose cool tones for their day, selecting shades of sand, lavender, and rose for the bridesmaids’ dresses and gray suits for the groomsmen.

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BY CAITLIN CESA •

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM EVA LIN PHOTOGRAPHY

2/15/18 5:25 PM

Kara and Gerry danced for the first time as husband and wife to Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud,” the song that played during Gerry’s proposal.

Kara’s striking gown was custom-made to fit her vision and took over a year to perfect!

Keeping with their theme of classic elegance, the couple chose a black and white color scheme, accenting their reception space with gold touches and arrangements of white florals.

KARA KISTY & GERRY RAYMOND Two years after Kara Kisty and Gerry Raymond had their first date at the Capital Grille, the couple returned to the restaurant — and the same booth, actually! After an evening of drinks and laughter, Gerry surprised Kara with a drive to Mt. Washington, where rose petals and candlelight set a romantic scene. A photographer captured the moment as Gerry got down on one knee to ask Kara to be his bride. The surprises didn’t end there, however. Gerry then took Kara to the rooftop of Sienna Mercato, where the couple celebrated their engagement with friends and family! “It was amazing, thoughtful, and so romantic,” says Kara. The romance of Gerry’s proposal carried over into the couple’s wedding day, highlighted in the delicate lace and intricate cutouts of Kara’s gorgeous,maid-style Galia Lahavmer gown. Following their Heinz Chapel ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktail hour on the rooftop of Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh, where Kara and Gerry made their grand entrance before mingling with loved ones. “I loved this idea because it allowed us to spend more time with our guests,” Kara explains.

“I really recommend this nontraditional idea to future couples!”

The bridal party dressed in simple, yet stunning, black and white ensembles.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM KRISTI TELNOV

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“When I put it on, it was the only dress that I could imagine myself walking down the aisle in,” Marissa says of the fit-and-flare gown with beaded and embroidered tulle overlay.

After taking photos outside, the bride and groom stayed back to savor some time alone. “The day seemed to fly by, so getting a chance to take in that moment for just the two of us made the wedding even more special.”

Marissa custom-designed the labels on the miniature wine bottles they gave out as favors. “The wine was a Pink Catawba blend from the winery I used to work at that perfectly fit our color scheme.”

MARISSA MORRISETTE & JON WOLFF

Instead of a cookie table, the couple had an entire room at Fox Chapel Golf Club to display over 250 dozen cookies homemade by loved ones.

The love story of Marissa Morrissette and Jon Wolff began at Penn State Behrend, where they were in the same classes and clubs on campus. After three years of dating, the couple returned to their alma mater for a sentimental engagement. “Jon thought there was no better way to propose than to bring me back to where it all started,” Marissa explains.

“He planned an elaborate scavenger hunt that led me to each building on campus that held some significant meaning to us. I ended up at the Lion Shrine, where a montage of romantic scenes from Disney movies played. When the video ended, I turned around and there he was, down on one knee.” For their own happily ever after, the couple created a vintage, romantic feel with a blush color palette and gold filigree décor. Marissa’s champagne-colored gown swirled across the dance floor during her first dance with Jon to “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran. “Our first dance is one of our favorite memories,” Marissa says.

“It was a special moment when everyone else around us just seemed to fade away, and we were focused on each other and the love we have together.”

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PHOTOGRAPHS FROM LEANN MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

2/15/18 5:26 PM

Jessie was a real-life Cinderella in these Christian Louboutin glass slippers with Swarovski crystals.

JESSIE NOVICK & TERRY WENSEL For Jessie Novick and Terry Wensel, happily ever after began when Terry swept Jessie off her feet during an enchanted evening of dancing at Station Square. Over six years later, the couple made their love official with a fairytale wedding. Jessie walked down the aisle of St. Paul’s Cathedral in full princess glamour, wearing an intricately beaded mermaid-style gown with a layered chiffon skirt. A custom-made cathedral-length veil, adorned with Swarovski crystals and white pearls, topped off her bridal look. Gold and crystal décor pieces — as well as a monogrammed ice sculpture! — made their Omni William Penn Hotel reception magical. Since they met on the dance floor, Jessie and Terry knew their first dance as husband and wife had to be extra special. They took dance lessons for six months at Arthur Murray Dance Studio to prepare for their performance to Ellie Goulding’s “Love Me Like You Do.” Their performance was flawless, but Jessie and Terry’s favorite memory from the occasion is simply sentimental. “When we walked to the balcony in the ballroom at the Omni William Penn Hotel and saw all of our friends and family looking up at us, it was breathtaking,” Jessie says. “That’s a moment we will never forget.”

Elegant arrangements of roses and hydrangeas topped the tables in the ballroom of the Omni William Penn Hotel.

“Try to enjoy yourselves and don’t stress so much,” Jessie says. “Your wedding day is the best day of your life.”

Jessie and her bridesmaids joined Terry and his groomsmen for a combined bachelor/bachelorette party in Las Vegas just before the wedding!

DETAILS IN WHIRL DIRECTORY, PAGE 94 | SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING FOR WHIRL’S CONSIDERATION AT WHIRLWEDDINGS.COM.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ANGIE CANDELL OF LA CANDELLA WEDDINGS

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/ DIRECTORY

schoolhouseyoga.com

Cheers to a lifetime of love and happiness!

east liberty squirrel hill north hills

classes range from beginner to advanced gentle to challenging

REAL WEDDINGS

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ASHLEY BRUDY & MAXWELL KHURI

KARA KISTY & GERRY RAYMOND

Accommodations Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh Bridesmaids’ Dresses Sorelle Bridal Salon Bride’s Gown Bridal Beginnings Cake Bella Christie and Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique Catering, Ceremony, & Reception Longue Vue Club Entertainment DJ Mackey-Sasser Florals Farmer’s Daughter Flowers Hair & Makeup Hannah Conrad Beauty Jewelry Frost & Co. Photographer Eva Lin Photography Rehearsal Dinner Piccolo Forno Stationery Blush Paper Co. Videographer ShoFilms

Cake Bethel Bakery Catering, Reception,& Rentals Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh Ceremony Heinz Chapel Entertainment DJ Petey C Florals Mt. Lebanon Floral Hair Swank Hair Studio Honeymoon Santorini, Greece Jewelry Casa D’Oro Makeup Adrienne Pace Photographer Kristi Telnov Transportation All Star Limousines Videographer ShoFilms

PHOTOGRAPH FROM LEANN MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

2/15/18 5:27 PM

Adorable floral crowns are the perfect way to top off a flower girl’s ensemble!

MARISSA MORRISSETTE & JON WOLFF Bride’s Gown MB Bride & Special Occasion Cake Frosted Envy Catering & Reception Fox Chapel Golf Club Ceremony Saint Mary of the Mount Church Entertainment Elite Show Band Florals Gidas Flowers Hair Pretty Hair Salon Honeymoon Jamaica Linens Mosaic, Inc. Makeup Valarie Panei Professional Makeup Artist Photographer Leeann Marie Photography Tuxedos Calvin Klein Videographer Alyssa Kramer

JESSIE NOVICK & TERRY WENSEL Accommodations, Catering, & Reception Omni William Penn Hotel Cake Bella Christie and Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique Ceremony St. Paul’s Cathedral Entertainment DJ Digital Dave Hair & Makeup Fluhme Glam Bar Lighting Encore Event Technologies Linens Mosaic, Inc. Photographer Angie Candell of La Candella Weddings Rehearsal Dinner Eleven Rentals All Occasions Party Rental Stationery The Branding Agency Tuxedos Calvin Klein Videographer Just Hitched Wedding Films PHOTOGRAPH FROM KRISTI TELNOV

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ONE LAST

/ WHIRL

A POSITIVE

VOICE

Local hip-hop artist Gallo Locknez's upbeat and inspirational raps have earned him opportunities on and off the basketball court.

I

f there is one thing that Gallo Locknez enjoys about making music and performing, it is inspiring people through positive messages. “At all of my performances, I always have the crowd chant a positive affirmation because it’s very important to instill that kind of mentality in people,” Gallo says. The rapper and producer, who made the Pittsburgh area his home with his wife and two young daughters three years ago, writes witty and clean lyrics to convey his positive outlook on life. “I don’t curse in any of my music,” he continues. “You will never hear me cursing.”

Born in New York City and raised in Northeastern PA, Gallo’s passion for music came from his father. “My father was a jazz musician, so he was always playing music and had gigs when I was growing up. I picked up what I could, but I was a hard-headed child, though. I’m not going to lie,” he says amusingly.

While Gallo’s father tried to teach him different music techniques, he really took the reins by himself. “I used to rap for fun with my brothers, but then I really taught myself how to rap and

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make beats. One day, I went into school with a little track I put together and everyone was like, ‘This isn’t bad!’ and my passion just took off from there.”

Gallo’s interest in rapping quickly evolved. He was signed by producer Rockwilder, who has worked with incredible artists like Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and 50 Cent, which led to opportunities for TV placements and eventually a few rap contests. One of the most prestigious contests he won was a national hip-hop contest called “Green For All,” centered around the theme of keeping the environment clean. “When I won, I was interviewed by BET.com and was able to shoot the video for my winning single, ‘Ima Push.’”

In over five years, Gallo has turned his craft into a professional career. He has since released an album, titled March Forth, and signed a contract with the NBA to produce raps for its social media platforms after big games. His raps serve as a recap of games, with smart and informative lyrics, and many of them have already garnered millions of views on Instagram.

“I’ll watch the game, and right after it ends, I’ll write a rap re-capping it,” says Gallo, who is an avid Knicks fan himself. “Once I complete the beat and rap, I send it out to the videographer who puts it all together so that it is ready to be posted the next morning.”

There is no stopping Gallo, who is already hard at work on his next album, which is set to be released early this year, called GallosWorld. And we’re excited to see how he continues to carry out his theme of positivity and inspiration. “I have skits and experiences that I talk about in my music and how I overcame them,” he says. “When people listen to my music, I hope that they can find the same type of inspiration to overcome any obstacles or challenges they’re facing.”

Gallo Locknez, gallosworld.com

@gallo_locknez @GalloLocknez /GalloLockNez1

BY MATTHEW HACKE •

PHOTOGRAPH FROM GALLO LOCKNEZ PHOTOGRAPHY

2/15/18 5:28 PM

ENTHUSIASM UNCURBED.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even try to suppress your excitement when behind the wheel of the 2018 INFINITI Q60.

Its refined performance and exhilarating drive put you in complete control of the road, though the same cannot be said for your emotions.

C O M P L I M E N TA R Y P I C K U P, D E L I V E R Y & LO A N E R V E H I C L E S COCHRAN INFINITI GALLERY NORTH HILLS 11740 Route 19, Wexford, PA 15090 | 724.933.2222 | cochraninfiniti.com

COCHRAN INFINITI GALLERY SOUTH HILLS 3220 West Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15216 | 412.245.3636 | cochraninfinitiofsouthhills.com

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Elegance is an attitude Mikaela Shiffrin

The Longines Master Collection

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