A Taste of Pittsburgh- Taste 412 Magazine Summer 2016 Edition (West) by A Taste of Pittsburgh Magazine

HIGHEST END LUXURY MAGAZINE/E-MAGAZINE IN PITTSBURGH

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Nemicolin Woodlands Resort EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

Congratulations

TO THE PITTSBURGH PENGUINS 2016 STANLEY CUP CHAMPIONS

Chic Fashion Trends from the Runway PHOTOS OF THIS SEASON'S STYLES

Perfect Wedding Planning IDEAS ON PLANNING YOUR BIG DAY

Carnegie Mellon University

NEWS UPDATES FROM A TOP UNIVERSITY IN THE COUNTRY

116th US Open Championship and Oakmont Country Club

DUSTIN JOHNSON, THE NEW US OPEN GOLF CHAMPION

Armina Stone

IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, WE CAN BUILD IT

Dr. Antimarino, Bellissimo Plastic Surgery TALKS DEFINING YOURSELF, FAMILY, AND THE LOOK YOU ALWAYS WANTED

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ELEVATE YOUR VACATIONâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;

Virtuoso-style

What memories do you treasure most? Which ones do you recount regularly with family and friends? Extraordinary travel experiences are almost certainly at the top of your list.

Presented by:

Virtuoso and Pittsburgh Travel Gurus,

Gulliver's Travels

412.441.3131 | www.gti.travel

The best travel experiences often start with where you stay. Through its affiliation with the international Virtuoso travel network, Pittsburgh travel agency Gulliver’s Travels brings you this selection of incredible hotels and resorts around the world to fuel your travel dreams. Each offers something unique, amazing—and often unexpected. When you’re ready to venture off the beaten path and create new memories to last a lifetime, you’ll find that working with someone you can trust is vital. Gulliver’s Travels has been customizing enriching experiences for discerning travelers for more than 50 years. Through Virtuoso, its professional travel advisors have insider connections to over 1,000 upscale hotels and resorts like these, plus luxury cruises, tours and more. They can arrange VIP treatment wherever you go and ensure you receive complimentary amenities just because you’re a Virtuoso traveler. Moreover, they will take the time to listen to your aspirations and help you create the perfect trip, leaving you free to sit back and enjoy every moment.

JODHPUR, INDIA

Umaid Bhawan Palace

Built by Maharaja Umaid Singhji as a symbol of the “new” Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace is one of the world’s largest private residences. Today this 64-guestroom Indo–art deco marvel treats its guests to bespoke Taj Hospitality that mesmerizes with an array of experiences like Royal Butler Service, unique dining options and retail therapy. Experience India’s ancient healing wisdom at the Jiva Grande Spa, offering holistic ayurvedic treatments and yoga classes. Stroll the lush English gardens beautified by colorful bougainvillea, play squash with the Royal Trainer, visit the on-site museum, sip fine brandy over a game of snooker and much more.

HOLDERNESS, NEW HAMPSHIRE

The Manor On Golden Pond

The Manor on Golden Pond is a tranquil 13-acre estate overlooking Squam Lake (of On Golden Pond fame). Stay in one of 24 individually appointed guestrooms, many with woodburning fireplaces, whirlpool tubs and private decks with views of the White Mountains. For daytime activities, this charming bed-and-breakfast is perfectly situated for accessing the best that the local New England landscape offers: skiing, sailing, golfing, hiking or antique shopping in nearby Concord. The on-site Seasons Spa offers a variety of sublime treatments, including a maple syrup mud wrap. Dining is in the beautiful Van Horn Room, a Four Diamond Award winner.

LAKE LOUISE, ALBERTA

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Enviably set in the heart of the stunningly pristine Banff National Park, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a jewel unto itself. Splurge for a room on the Fairmont Gold floor, an exclusive hotel within the hotel. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll enjoy private check-in, a dedicated concierge, deluxe breakfast daily and the finest accommodations the hotel has to offer. Outside, the opportunities are limitless, from hiking, canoeing, fishing and rafting in the summer to heli-skiing, dogsledding, ice-skating and sleigh-riding in the dramatic winter months. After a long day in the fresh air, retreat to The Spa at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

COUNTY CLARE, IRELAND

Dromoland Castle

Given its world-class golf, splendid spa, gourmet dining and magical storybook setting next to a glistening lake, there’s not much Dromoland Castle doesn’t have. It’s little wonder this is considered one of Europe’s most desirable destinations. Travelers enjoy thoroughly indulgent comforts, from handmade chocolates and champagne upon request to freshly prepared picnic baskets to unpack anywhere on the 450-acre estate. At the lush spa, enjoy a treatment in the outdoor hydro spa covered by a romantic gazebo, or head to the 18-hole golf course designed by Irish golf legend J.B. Carr and renowned architect Ron Kirby.

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Burj Al Arab

One of the world’s most striking hotels, Burj Al Arab makes for an unforgettable sight, with its sail-inspired design and choreographed color displays. All accommodations are duplex suites — all spacious, all with dedicated dining

and living area, LCD-screen television, butler service, pillow menu, Hermès bath amenities, Jacuzzi tub and more. For a little bit extra you can arrive by sleek Rolls-Royce and enjoy a discreet in-suite check-in, making this one of the most

private hotel experiences you’ve ever had. Activities are endless, including the Talise Spa, a private beach, a water park, shopping and helicopter tours.

Damon Colusci

412.733.4033 | PRIMARYCAREFINANCIAL.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION TURN TO PAGE 20a

Building an Empire

ROMAN IWANYSHYN 412.999.7135 EMPIREROOFINGANDMORE.COM TURN TO PAGE 48a FOR THEIR STORY

Bill Humphries

FOUNDER OF EDDIE MERLOT'S QUALITY FOOD. EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. TURN TO PAGE 10a FOR MORE INFORMATION

PATAGONIA (TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK), CHILE

Explora Patagonia Set among the twisted peaks of Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, explora Patagonia is an ideal base camp from which to explore remote Chilean wilderness. Days center around experiencing the surrounding wonders in small groups on foot or on horseback â&#x20AC;&#x201D; more than 50 different adventures are available,

all accompanied by expert bilingual guides. Return to one of 49 guestrooms featuring native lenga wood, hydromassage baths and captivating views. Take a swim in the heated pool or enjoy a massage before your dinner of local dishes such as lamb, southern king crab and fresh fish.

SONOMA, CALIFORNIA

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is one of the few hotels in the United States to feature natural hot-springs mineral waters flowing directly beneath it, filling its pools and spa. (The Bathing Ritual is a must, as are the signature Kur treatments.) The hotel offers exquisitely manicured grounds and beautifully appointed guestrooms, many with fireplaces. Play the 18hole championship golf course, join a water yoga class or daily guided morning hike, or follow one of the concierge-designed tours of Sonoma. Enjoy a complimentary wine tasting in the living room–style lobby before your inspired dinner at Michelin-star Santé restaurant.

AMALFI COAST (RAVELLO), ITALY

Belmond Hotel Caruso

It’s easy to see why Ravello, and the entire Amalfi Coast, has inspired the likes of Richard Wagner, D.H. Lawrence and Gore Vidal. Belmond Hotel Caruso has long been a favorite of discriminating globetrotters. Just 50 guestrooms and suites make for an intimate ambience, and most of the rooms have a private garden, sea view and terrace. Outside, the infinity swimming pool sits dramatically suspended between sea and sky. Join the head gardener for a private tour of the terraced gardens, enjoy the complimentary boat cruise along the Amalfi Coast, then reserve a romantic candlelit dinner at the open-air Belvedere Restaurant.

ATHENS, GREECE

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel Located within walking distance of the Acropolis, Hotel Grande Bretagne indulges guests with deluxe guestrooms and suites, three distinctive restaurants, two swimming pools and the multi-awarded

GB Spa. Guestrooms feature sumptuous fabrics, original artwork and restored antiques from Christie’s and Sotheby’s. Suite guests enjoy complimentary butler service to help fulfill every request with

impeccable discretion. GB Spa offers exclusive ESPA products and signature body and facial treatments. Alexander’s Cigar Lounge provides a relaxed setting to enjoy fine cognacs and premium cigars.

ST. JAMES, BARBADOS

Sandy Lane

Elegant and exceptional and considered by many to be the Caribbeanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier address, Sandy Lane is set in an ancient mahogany grove overlooking a 1,000-foot crescent of gorgeous white sand beach. With a magnificent 47,000-square-foot spa that lavishly accommodates 14 VIP treatment rooms, a fitness facility and full menu of spa services; 45 holes of championship golf, including two courses designed by Tom Fazio; four restaurants and seven bars; nine floodlit tennis courses; beachside service; and The Treehouse Club facility for kids and teens, Sandy Lane will exceed your expectations.

JAIPUR, INDIA

The Oberoi RajvilÄ s

Situated amid 32 acres of beautiful gardens, pools and fountains, in the peaceful Rajasthani countryside, The Oberoi RajvilÄ s is an oasis of elegance and luxury. With Jaipur as its backdrop, the hotel re-creates the magnificence of princely Rajasthan in a beautiful fort setting, with richly decorated rooms, imaginative and romantic luxury tents and magnificent villas with private pools intimately clustered around courtyards. Rejuvenate with a holistic treatment at the Oberoi Spa, discover your inner self with a yoga session or set out on a leisurely elephant safari. You can also play a game of tennis at the floodlit courts.

LONDON, ENGLAND

The Stafford London Just behind Green Park in St. James, The Stafford London is a delightful countryhouse escape in the heart of London. While you’re just minutes from Mayfair and Piccadilly, you might never know it when you’re ensconced in your Carriage

House suite, crafted from a 17th-century stable courtyard, or your spacious, elegant suite in The Stafford Mews. Be sure to stop in at The American Bar, a gem of a bar serving the “best martini in London” and the famed Stafford Burger.

The service here is spectacular; the concierge team has more than 150 years’ combined London experience between them and will treat you as family.

EXUMA ISLANDS, THE BAHAMAS

Musha Cay and the Islands of Copperfield Bay The entire island of Musha Cay is reserved for just one group of up to 24 guests at a time. Private doesn’t even begin to describe the exclusivity of this pampering retreat; here you’ll have access to 700 acres of lush

island beauty and, as the staff is quick to say, a privacy so rich you’ll seem to disappear. There are five spectacular guesthouses for you and your guests alone, and each has its own private beach and unlimited amenities.

Be as active as you wish — swim in the freshwater pool and, if the sea calls, try snorkeling or taking a WaveRunner out to explore 11 private islands.

HONG KONG, CHINA

The Peninsula Hong Kong

The Peninsula Hong Kong, legendary “Grande Dame of the Far East,” has been impressing travelers with unmatched Peninsula service since 1928. The newly renovated guestrooms boast a classically modern design and the latest personalized technology. The dining options are among the most exclusive and elegant in Hong Kong. Don’t miss the French gastronomy at Gaddi’s and the finest Cantonese cuisine at Spring Moon. Needless to say, Legendary Afternoon Tea in The Peninsula Lobby is a must. Just say the word, and one of the hotel’s signature fleet of 14 extended-wheelbase Rolls-Royce Phantoms will whisk you anywhere you want to go.

R FO A S LE

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PITTSBURGHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PREMIER SELECTION OF PIANOS

a taste of honor

The Iconic Oakmont Country Club to Host its Record 10th U.S. Open Championship in 2025 The United States Golf Association (USGA) today announced sites for the 2025 and 2026 U.S. Open Championships, naming Oakmont Country Club in suburban Pittsburgh, Pa., and Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y., respectively, as the host sites. “Bringing the U.S. Open Championship to Oakmont for the 10th time in 2025 is testament to the quality of this fine golf course and the longevity of the strong relationship the USGA has with the club,” said Diana Murphy, president of the USGA. “It is an honor to make this announcement during the 116th U.S. Open when everyone here can celebrate the Open’s return to this iconic course in nine years.

The 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont will mark the 10th U.S. Open on the iconic H.C. Fownes design, the most of any U.S. club, and the 17th USGA championship. It will be held June 12-15. In addition to 2016, Oakmont previously hosted the U.S. Open in 1927, 1935, 1953, 1962, 1973, 1983, 1994 and 2007. Oakmont’s illustrious past is filled with historic moments, including Jack Nicklaus’ first career victory as a professional in the 1962 U.S. Open, when he defeated Arnold Palmer in an 18-hole playoff. Eleven years later, Johnny Miller scored the lowest round ever posted in any major championship to that time with an 8-under-par 63 in the final round to earn his only U.S. Open victory. Oakmont’s 17 USGA championships are tied for second-most among U.S. clubs, behind only Merion Golf Club, which has hosted 18. Other USGA championships contested at Oakmont include five U.S. Amateurs (1919, 1925, 1938, 1969 and 2003) and two U.S. Women’s Opens, in 1992 and 2010.

Henry Clay (H.C.) Fownes remained president of the club from its inception in 1903 until his death in 1935. His son, William Clay, was the 1910 U.S. Amateur champion and a former USGA president who served as the club’s president until his resignation in 1946. Father and son, who were very close and shared a determination to make Oakmont the sternest championship test possible, tweaked the course throughout their tenure to maintain its exacting standards. “We are thrilled to host the 2025 U.S. Open,” said Ed Stack, president of Oakmont Country Club. “Oakmont and the USGA have had a very special relationship for nearly a century, and we are honored they have chosen Oakmont to host a record 10th U.S. Open in 2025.” The birth of Oakmont is a story of chance. H.C. Fownes began seeing alarming spots in his vision after using a welding torch in 1898, and a doctor gave him a prognosis of just a few years to live. He wanted to enjoy his final years and developed a passion for golf. Later, a second opinion from another doctor lifted the death sentence. After becoming one of the best golfers in the area, Fownes wanted to build a course that would challenge even the most talented players of the day.

Other future U.S. Open sites are: June 15-18, 2017, at Erin Hills in Erin, Wis.; June 14-17, 2018, at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y.; June 13-16, 2019, at Pebble Beach (Calif.) Golf Links; June 18-21, 2020, at Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, N.Y.; June 17-20, 2021, at Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego, Calif.; June 16-19, 2022, at The Country Club in Brookline, Mass.; June 15-18, 2023, at The Los Angeles (Calif.) Country Club; and June 13-16, 2024, at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club in the Village of Pinehurst, N.C. “We are truly honored to return to historic Oakmont and Shinnecock Hills,” said Mike Davis, USGA executive director/CEO. “The architectural genius of both courses offers a complete test of golf for the world’s best players and a fascinating spectacle for the fans. Both the Pittsburgh and New York markets have been very supportive of the U.S. Open. We look forward to history once again being made at these iconic venues.” TASTEPGH.COM

“In keeping with our goal of providing the most comprehensive test in championship golf, we are also honored to announce a return to Shinnecock Hills Golf Club for the 2026 U.S. Open Championship,” Murphy said. “Four previous U.S. Opens there have yielded memorable competitions and worthy champions such as Raymond Floyd, Corey Pavin and Retief Goosen. New York metropolitan area golf fans can anticipate another exciting chapter in their region’s golf history in 2026.”

1 Special Edition 3a

a taste of champions

116th US Open Champion

Dustin Johnson plays his second shot on the first hole during the third round of the 2016 U.S. Open (Copyright USGA JD Cuban)

TASTEPGH.COM

(Copyright USGA Jeff Haynes)

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The third hole of Oakmont Country Club in Oakmont (Copyright USGA John Mummert)

OPEN

a taste of excellence

U.S.

Golf's Finest Champions

1927 U.S. Open Tommy Armour

1973 U.S. Open Johnny Miller

1935 U.S. Open Sam Parks Jr.

Courtesy USGA Archives

1983 U.S. Open Larry Nelson

1953 U.S. Open Ben Hogan

Courtesy USGA Archives

1992 U.S. Women’sOpen Patty Sheehan

1962 U.S. Open Jack Nicklaus

1994 U.S. Open Ernie Els

Past Winners of theU.S. Open Championships held at the Prestigious Oakmont Country Club. Copyright USGA John Mummert

2007 U.S. Open Angel Cabrera

2010 U.S. Women’s Open Paula Creamer

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CONTENTS 24a

Pittsburgh’s Top Power Attorneys Profiling Attorneys of Pollock Begg Komar Glasser & Vertz LLC

32a

A Taste of Sustainability with Giant Eagle

50a

Celebrate Summer with Delectable Recipes

55a

The Blind Side Home Furnishings

Giant Eagle has growing appetite for reducing food waste with innovative programs

US Open Championships Past and Present

We Congratulate the New Champion and take a look at Oakmonts Previous Winners

Pittsburgh Fresh Owner Ling Wollenschlaeger shares some Top Recipes

From Verona, PA to Travelers Rest, SC, Owners Jerry and Diane Laskoski tell their Journey of Expanding their Business

PITTSBURGH’S FINEST BUSINESS LEGENDS

10a 13a

14a

20a 23a

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30a

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31 a

Greg E. Betant Owner of Residential Design and Consulting

Bill Humphries Founder of Eddie Merlot’s Restaurant

Four Generations of Faith, Family, and Philanthropy

John Henne of Henne Jewelers Shares their story of a Coninuing Legacy

Vito Bochicchio, Esquire

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Managing Partner of O’Brien, Rulis and Bochicchio, LLC

Jawn Funyak Building the American Dream at Funyak Landscapes, L.P.

Damon Colusci Founder of Primary Care Financial

Josh and Shari Geldrich Owners of Isle of You Hair Color Studio

Kevin L’Herbier Owner and Operator of Air Duct Maintenance

Jim Knapick Owner and Cheese Czar of Curds and Molds Fromagerie

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Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh East Liberty

A Beautifully Restored Boutique Hotel Incorporating Hometown Culture

A Note from the Publisher Let’s face it, we’ve been blessed. During a recent meeting, my team was discussing our goals for the upcoming year. As our alliances with national and regional brands have grown, and our family of readers expanded, we’ve found ourselves contented, to say the least. When we stop to think about it, stopping our gears from spinning a mile a minute to ponder our success, it seems fantastical that we should be so lucky. The people and institutions of Pittsburgh have brought us good fortune. The city has allowed us to make the acquaintance of countless folks who make a difference. Entrepreneurs. Volunteers. Charity workers. All of whom have touched our hearts in so many ways. And do you know what this has taught me? That anybody can make a difference. There are times I find myself struggling with the enormity of the tasks before us as a society, and the misfortunes that plague many of our brethren. Globally, more than 20,000 children die every day of easily preventable diseases and hunger. More than 750 million adults worldwide are illiterate, most of them women who are barred from access to the realms of higher education by a variety of factors, including poverty and systematic oppression. Even here at home, nearly 20 percent of our children live in poverty which impacts their performance in school, their nutritional needs, even their ability and potential to become contributing and content members of society. It can be overwhelming, trying to contemplate the vortex of disparity in this world. But despite the overwhelming nature of it all, one question returns to me over and over again: “How can we help do good in our world?” Lately, it’s been joined by another idea. “Who better to ask than our readers?” So, there it is. Do you have any ideas? What actions do you think we should take to address poverty here at home and abroad? What do you think we can do to make sure that tomorrow night and the night after, one more child goes to bed with a full belly and free from worries about how they will eat tomorrow? Let us know what you think. Call us. Write to us. Send us a message by email, or through our social media and let’s start brainstorming ways to make meaningful changes in this region and beyond. The laundry-list of problems in today’s world can seem overwhelming. But another thing I’ve learned is that every action has to start somewhere. Let’s get started, shall we?

Sincerely,

Publisher & Founder of A Taste Of Pittsburgh Magazine 412.944.5646

TASTEPGH.COM TASTEPGH.COM

Gregory P. Isner

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The Look of mont precious stone

a taste of design

Prestigious Residential Design

GREG E. BETANT A passion for building “Lego” homes as a young boy leads into a career creating luxury residential designs. Greg always wanted to design beautiful homes with sight line vision, a design technique which gives an unobstructed line-of-sight between an observer and a point of reference. He also wanted to use state of the art finishes and curb appeal, while showcasing his designs and craftsmanship throughout the home. Today, he has proudly taken over 2500 client’s dreams and designed them into masterpiece custom homes. Greg’s home designs range from 2,000 to 20,000 sq. feet. Each project starts with the client’s dream, lifestyle, and wish list. Greg turns their vision into a designer’s blueprint, and works with the builder to construct the ultimate luxury home. His artistic work includes: residential blueprint designs, renovations, builder spec homes, interior design, outdoor living space, pool houses, and home staging. Greg’s personal 6000 sq. ft. estate home serves as a showcase for clients to experience his design techniques, attention to detail, and perfection in creating a beautiful interior and exterior of each home. Greg’s core focus is evident throughout his home. The beautiful enhancement of room design, the ease of traffic flow, and the decorative finishes allow the clients to appreciate his attention to detail and dedication to creating their custom showcase home. Greg enjoys to travel, but finds living in his luxurious home with his beloved Lola, a Bernese mountain dog, is a vacation. He collects cars, art, watches, wine, and enjoys dining out. You may spot Greg at “Pittsburgh Cars and Coffee” or dining at one of his favorite spots.

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Leaving his stunning estate we had to ask, if a client offered to purchase your home furnished, would you sell it? Greg smiled and said, “I always love designing a new home, why not a new one for myself.”

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a taste of pittsburgh

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By Hilary Daninhirsch

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f your image of a steakhouse conjures up uncomfortable wooden chairs, dim lighting and men conducting business deals in a dark and smoky atmosphere, you have not yet been to Eddie Merlot’s. Located in Gateway Center in the space that once housed the former Palomino and Elements restaurants, Eddie Merlot’s is a literal bright spot in Pittsburgh’s steakhouse scene. The décor is cheery and colorful, the floor plan is open and bright, the chairs are cushy and comfortable, and the wall artwork is unique and original. And while many men do frequent the restaurant, you will likely find the majority of patrons to be of the female variety.

the quality of a prime aged steak. It is also very hard to get those marbling scores in the beef. The taste is phenomenal,” explained Humphries. Although the menu is a veritable carnival for carnivores, such as the succulent Braised Short Rib Strogranoff or the Bison Filet Mignon, there are many other options, such as the Cedar-Roasted Salmon, the Vegetarian Gnocchi, and the Niman Ranch Frenched Pork Chops. The chefs are always willing to accommodate special dietary needs. There is also a full lunch menu, a children’s menu, and a scrumptious dessert menu.

And that is the intention. “We really designed the tables, what’s on the tables, the lighting, the design, the colors of the restaurant, all around women,” said Bill Humphries, president of the Platinum Group, which owns the Eddie Merlot group of restaurants. This is because, he said, women control the dining choices almost 2/3 of the time, both at home and in business. The other two demographics Eddie Merlot’s aims to please are the Baby Boomers with a $100,000 plus income, and the occasional diner—most likely a 30-something out for a night with friends or a date. Although the building recently had housed two other restaurants, it was not movein ready.

They also put in a sliding door leading to an outdoor porch. Al fresco diners have a view of a park-like setting right in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh. “We’re adding planters, lighting, and music out on that patio over the summer months to really kick off the patio,” he said. This will include offering lighter fare and putting in an outdoor bar.

And with a name like Eddie Merlot’s, it is indisputable that an extensive wine menu is an important hallmark of the restaurant’s concept, accounting for about 30% of their business, with 50 wines by the glass and 250 varieties of bottles.

Eddie Merlot’s is the only restaurant in the U.S. that offers Greg Norman Wagyu 20 oz. Bonein New York Strip, a superior cut of Australian cattle with a high marble score of 7-9.

“We have different promotions throughout the year that really highlight what we are doing in our wine program,” said Humphries. For example, a summer promotion called ‘Let it Flow at Eddie Merlot’s’ offers wine flights of either three reds, three whites, or three of each (wines with rating scores of 90 plus), for a special price. Other seasonal promotions are offered six times per year.

“A normal prime age beef is rated at about a score of 4-5, and so you’re almost doubling

While a comfortable but chic ambience permeates the dining room, and private

rooms cater to business meetings, the lounge, offering weekend entertainment, is more relaxed and casual. A separate menu, though as equally delectable as the main dining room menu, offers such fare as Prime Cheeseburgers, made from ground Filet Mignon, Strip, and Ribeye Steaks, and small plates like Tempura Shrimp Tacos and Tuna Nicoise. “Eddie Merlot’s caters to people who want to be casual, and it caters to people that want to be very intimate, but it also means ‘I want to be seen’ in the marketplace, too,” said Humphries. Before he became the face of Eddie Merlot’s, Humphries was an executive at Subway, having opened the first Subway in Indiana, becoming the very first franchise

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Humphries and his team made structural changes to the restaurant by expanding the footprint by adding 2400 square feet. “We gutted and added space to really make an imprint of saying, ‘We’re new; it’s completely different than before.’”

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“Quality of food and wine are, of course, major factors that drive in customers, but Humphries knows that atmosphere can set the stage for how patrons view a dining experience.”

operator in the state. Eventually, he became a development agent for Subway; he is still involved with all 850 franchised Subway shops in Northern Indiana and Ohio. So how did a Subway executive from Fort Wayne, Indiana come to open a steakhouse in Pittsburgh?

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While on the board of directors at Subway, his travels in the mid-90s took him around the country, exploring longrange planning in fast food and noting where the trends would be heading in the 2000s and 2010s. “I saw how the fast food business was going to have to change, and so was the steakhouse business,” he said. He started playing with a model of steakhouses, how they would have to re-image themselves in the 2000s. While traveling around the country, he started to develop the concept of

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Eddie Merlots, initially as a hobby. The hobby transitioned to a reality when Humphries opened the first Eddie Merlot’s in his hometown of Fort Wayne, Indiana in 2001, and within several years, branched out into other locations. As for launching into the Downtown Pittsburgh market two years ago, it made economic sense. “We saw what was happening in redevelopment, what was happening in future growth from the technical side of companies coming but also the resurgence of growth of opportunities happening here in Pittsburgh. We just liked all the economic factors of growth in Pittsburgh in the many years ahead,” said Humphries. Plus, Humphries has a soft spot for the Steel City, having been a major Steelers fan since the 1970s.

For Humphries, Pittsburgh Is a Good Place to Be. “Our business still is growing every month in Pittsburgh; we don’t feel like we have even begin to hit our peak of what we can do in the Pittsburgh market-it has been a great unit since we opened”, he said. “We’re very happy to have so many repeat guests and new people are still discovering us on a regular basis as well.” Four Gateway Center, 444 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412.235.7676 | EddieMerlots.com

a taste of results

Partnering with Clients to Achieve Successful Results

Vito S. Bochicchio, Esquire O’Brien, Rulis and Bochicchio, LLC Attorneys At Law Serving Pittsburgh and Philadelphia

O’Brien, Rulis, and Bochicchio, LLC is a regional litigation law firm providing high quality legal representation to clients in a timely, ethical, and cost effective manner. ORB represents self-insured corporations, insurance companies, third-party administrators, and government agencies. The firm believes their clients

are their greatest asset and strives to develop a personal relationship between the legal professionals and the clients. Vito is listed on the “Whose Who’s Among American Lawyers” and the “Best Lawyers in America Consumer Guide.” Notably, he is also recognized on the “Pennsylvania Super Lawyers” list presented by Super Lawyers Magazine, a distinction awarded to only the top 5% of Pennsylvania Lawyers. Mr. Bochicchio earned his degree in 1984 from Duquesne University with a MA and BA in History, graduating Summa Cum Laude. He continued on to earn his Law Degree from Duquesne University School of Law J.D. in 1987. Mr. Bochicchio is a member of the American Bar Association, Pennsylvania Bar Association, and Allegheny County Bar.

Contact Vito Bochicchio at 412.904.5223 or email vbochicchio @orbslaw.com

Along with his successful career as an Attorney, Vito has worked on numerous local, state and national political campaigns and is fluent in Italian. He is the owner, of Big Jim’s Restaurant, named after his late Uncle, which has a real family feel and specializes in comfort foods. Big Jim’s has also been featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” with Guy Fieri on their episode focusing on Long Time Legends around the country. The large portions of food and many varieties keep customers coming back for more. Vito and his beautiful wife, Giovanna, have been married for 24 years and enjoy raising their five children together in Wexford. O’Brien, Rulis, and Bochicchio, LLC 555 Grant Street Suite 120 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 1515 Market Street, Suite 1518 Philadelphia, PA 19102

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Mr. Bochicchio is the managing partner of O’Brien, Rulis and Bochicchio’s (ORB) Pittsburgh office, and oversees the workers’ compensation department. Vito started his legal career working for the Allegheny County District Attorney’s office. Since 1990 Mr. Bochicchio’s focus continues to be with workers’ compensation, establishing a “return to work program”, litigating coverage issues, and consulting employers on how to reduce their workers’ compensation exposure. As an expert in the field, Vito speaks at many seminars regarding workers’ compensation.

Special Edition 13a11

a taste of design

Dream

TASTEPGH.COM

The

American

By Gregg Harrington

“Joe started the business,” said Jawn, “pulling his lawnmower behind his bicycle while he was in junior high.” Eventually the company grew into a standard landscaping company – mowing lawns and planting shrubs, as Jawn puts it – and the brothers joined forces to form their business as it is today, toting a large workforce and crafting outdoor spaces for many customers across the area. Since the formation of Funyak Landscapes, the focus of the business has shifted from general landscaping duties to something much more unique: a combination of property management and landscaping that sees the company crafting one-of-a-kind outdoor living spaces, relying on features such as kitchen areas, water features, recreational sport features and anything else customers can dream up. The trend of outdoor spaces in western Pennsylvania has grown significantly, which Funyak Landscapes reflects in its own growth.

“The sky is the limit on the intricacies of these spaces,” said Funyak, explaining that the company’s specialties cannot be performed by just any landscaper. “With our experience and projects we’ve done in the past, we have really become one of the most comprehensive landscape companies in our region and maybe across the country. Some landscapers are just “good” at what they do, but we make it a point to be the expert in every aspect of outdoor living spaces.” Some of the features Funyak Landscapes offer include custom patios, custom decks, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, pavilions, waterfalls, koi ponds, putting greens, bocce courts, decorative stonework, complete poolscapes and many more. While the company offers many outside-the-box features, they do not all come with every job. Most jobs, however, do feature essential staples such as fireplaces or fire pits, which are built from the ground up by the crew on site and are a primary feature for elegant entertaining of house guests. “Fire features extend the seasons in our area,” said Funyak. “You can use your overall outdoor space much longer than just during the typical swimming pool season. People don’t really use their indoor fireplace a lot to entertain so an outdoor one might be more reasonable. It’s a bigger area so you can entertain more people outdoors than indoors.”

“Since the formation of Funyak Landscapes, the focus of the business has shifted from general landscaping duties to something much more unique: a combination of property management and landscaping that sees the company crafting one-of-a-kind outdoor living spaces.”

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he American Dream is something very well known in this country: start a company from the ground up with hard work and integrity and watch it blossom into a financially viable entity. For Jawn Funyak and his brother Joe, that is exactly what they did with Funyak Landscapes.

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One aspect of Funyak Landscapes that keeps the business growing and evolving is its track record with customer referrals, which was the basis of over 50% of the company’s job source last year alone. This shows that in many instances, the work done by each crew is essentially free advertising, which keeps Funyak and his workers busy. “People trust us and like to have us back for new projects. That’s a good indication of our reputation and integrity.” Another positive for customers is the detailed yet flexible blueprint designs the company offers. While the design process is the same, the company realizes that every customer requires a different approach and make sure to take those into consideration to ensure that every detail of the job is executed correctly. “There are so many features you want to consider in landscaping, it needs to be more than just a sketch,” said Funyak, explaining further that the company can offer up a 3D image of the finished product before an inch of the customer’s property is worked on, if that is the customer’s wish. “As a company, we’ve been very intentional about doing the project right and becoming the company that is honest and has integrity when no one is looking.” The most important aspect, however, is the ability of the company to take care of any and every task within a design job. Every crew is made up of workers with skills ranging from masonry and carpentry to irrigation specialists and horticulturalists. “When they show up to a job, they can do it all,” said Funyak. “Many companies across the country that do the same work we do have to get outside help at some point. What our customers like is that we are a one stop shop; we don’t need to wait for any other contractors to show up.” Funyak also cites that the expansive training and certification each employee goes through is what strengthens the work ethic of each worker and keeps them invested in each job. “They do what they love. It’s taken our staff to a new level and that’s why they’ve been with us for so long.” Funyak Landscapes was founded as a family-oriented company, and continues to be family focused today. Funyak’s son, a recent Grove City College graduate, has become the first second-generation Funyak to join the business and will someday be answering the same questions about the business. “Down the road when he tells the story, he’ll be the second generation.”

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Serving Mars and the Greater Pittsburgh Area Since 1996.

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funyaklandscapes.com Facebook: Funyak-Landscapes-LP Licensed Contractor #PA039636

Special Edition

“People trust us and like to have us back for new projects. That’s a good indication of our reputation and integrity.”

if you can dream it, we can build it. if you can dream it, we can build it. if you can dream it, we can build it.

turn your dreams into reality.

ARMINA ARMINA

STONE

STONE STONE

412.406.8442 780 Route 910 Suite 400 Cheswick PA 15024

412.406.8442 780 Route 910 Suite 400 Cheswick PA 15024 arminastone.com

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ARMINA

a taste of luxury

ARMINA

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W 16 Special Edition 18a

STONE

estern Pennsylvania has recently experienced an inﬂux of rare stone to our region. Opulent Kitchens and bathrooms throughout Pennsylvania are now boasting rare Brazilian, Italian, and Turkish stone pieces. Boutique hotels and high-end restaurants also have access to this wealth of technology and artistry. These exquisite rocks are met by artisanal craftsmen at Armina Stone in Western PA, and from there they go on to transform the region’s homes and businesses into works of art.

Pennsylvania’s largest indoor stone gallery

“If you can dream it, we can build it.” That’s something you’ll hear quite often from Emre Basman, owner of Armina Stone. Their stone gallery also contains state of the art fully-automated masonry devices. The most advanced technology for stone on the planet lives right here in Pittsburgh. It doesn’t take them long, either. A quick look at their online reviews will show anyone in the home improvement industry that this company aims to please. In-house design, templating, fabrication, and installation shrink Armina Stone’s lead times to less than 10 days.

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locations around the globe. The massive facility must Armina a valuable resource for contractors, be seenStone to be is believed. builders, and homeowners alike. With the finest selection Pennsylvania has to offer, this high-end distributor Armina Stone is a valuable resource for contractors, has changed the game. Home decor specialists with an builders, and homeowners alike. With the finest selection international flair and passion for luxury and homeownPennsylvania has to offer, this high-end distributor ers with discerning tastes finally havespecialists a local outlet has changed the game. Home decor withfor an their dreams flair of grandeur. international and passion for luxury and homeowners with discerning tastes finally have a local outlet for their dreams of grandeur.

STONE

estern Pennsylvania has recently experienced an inﬂux of rare stone to our region. Opulent Kitchens and bathrooms throughout Pennsylvania are now boasting rare Brazilian, n, and Turkish stone pieces. Boutique ls and high-end restaurants also have ss to this wealth of technology and try. These exquisite rocks are met by anal craftsmen at Armina Stone in ern PA, and from there they go on ansform the region’s homes and nesses into works of art.

Pennsylvania’s largest indoor stone gallery

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INA

hat really sets Armina Stone apart is their selection of quality stone and their attention to detail. Quality product is useless without really sets Armina Stone apart their thehat craftsmen who shape it, and highisend selection of quality stone and their attention design is nothing without world-class style and to detail. Quality product is useless without taste. The team at Armina Stone also pairs clients with the the craftsmen whoand shape it, and high perfect fixtures, backsplashes accessories to end take their design nothing without world-class style and designs to the nextislevel. taste. The team at Armina Stone also pairs clients with the perfect backsplashes and accessories to take their Pairingfixtures, the highest-quality customer service with designs to the next level. the breathtaking resources given to this shop, it’s easy to see what makes Armina a must-stop destination for Pairing the Unparalleled highest-quality customer service with their clients. in Pennsyvlania, Armina the breathtaking resources given to this shop, it’s Stone’s selection of fine slabs is hand-picked by easy Mr. to see what makes Armina a must-stop destination for Basman himself. Every year he spends months their clients. in some Pennsyvlania, Armina traveling theUnparalleled globe visiting of the most remote Stone’s selection of fi ne slabs is hand-picked by Mr.the stone quarries on the planet to bring Pennsylvania Basman himself. Every year he spends months finest selection available. traveling the globe visiting some of the most remote stone quarries on the planet to bring Pennsylvania the 2016 has seen the expansion of what was already Westfinest selection available. ern PA’s largest selection of high-end granite, to a 40,000 sq. ft. warehouse, effectively tripling their 2016 has seen the expansion of what was already Westinventory. Armina Stone boasts an unbelievable ern PA’s largest selection of high-end granite, to a selection of Granite, Marble, Quartz, Quartzite, Onyx, 40,000 sq. ft. warehouse, effectively tripling their Gemstone Armina and other exotic finds from pristine inventory. Stone boasts anplucked unbelievable locations around the globe. The massive facility must selection of Granite, Marble, Quartz, Quartzite, Onyx, be seen to be believed. Gemstone and other exotic finds plucked from pristine

a taste of freedom

Making Harmonized Financial Decisions Of life’s many concerns and challenges, saving for retirement inevitably falls into one of the most stressful and often overlooked categories. While setting aside your assets for the future can seem like a terrifying and challenging task, having the assistance of an experienced Financial Advisor can make all the difference. Primary Care Financial Group has made it their mission to help people with their entire financial process and make that once challenging task simpler. After graduating in 2002 from Duquesne University, Damon Colusci - President of Primary Care Financial Group – got his career started in the financial industry working as a mortgage banker. After working with mortgages for a little over a year, he then worked as a title agent for two and a half years before becoming a financial advisor. Gaining those experiences early on after school allowed him to obtain valuable tools to help his clients coordinate their financial decisions better. Whether preparing for retirement, setting up a business succession plan or preparing for life’s uncertainties, he found helping people make harmonized financial decisions can have a major impact not only for his clients but for the people close to them as well. He was joined in business by his wife and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ – Melanie Colusci. Melanie earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation in 2003 and the Accredited Estate Planner™ designation in 2016. She is currently a member of the Executive Wom-

en’s Council in Pittsburgh, National Association of Women Business Owners and Women in Insurance and Financial Services. Melanie is also a multi-year Five Star Wealth Manager award winner and has been featured in both the Wall Street Journal and most recently Forbes Wealth Managers Black Book magazine. One may ask how did the name “Primary Care Financial” come about? During a brainstorming session with a client of Mr. Colusci’s the name was given as a possibility and made a great deal of sense. Many of his clients are involved in the medical field as surgeons, RNA’s, pharmacists, physi¬cian’s assistants, etc. He also saw a great deal of importance in handling his client’s financial decisions as if he were a primary care physician in that he would oversee their total financial life and help them find whatever specialists may be needed to cultivate a healthy bottom line. Primary Care Financial Group is devoted to helping those in need of financial services whether it is a large corporation, a small family business or a family/individual. Mr. Colusci has seen first-hand the importance of not only planning for your future, but being prepared for the unforeseen events in life. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT THEIR WEBSITE AT: www.primarycarefinancial.com *Site Currently Under Construction

1518946TM_Jun18 Registered Representative of Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through Hornor, Townsend & Kent, Inc. (HTK) A Registered Investment Advisor Member FINRA/SIPC. 130 Springside Drive, Suite 100, Akron, Ohio 44333. 330-668-9065

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21st Century Financial, Primary Care Financial Group, and Strategic Financial Designs, LLC are independent of HTK Primary Care Financial Group is unaffiliated with TastePGH and HTK and all entities are independent of each other. Trademarks belong to their respective owners. The Five Star Wealth Manager Award, administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC (dba Five Star Professional), is based on 10 objective criteria: 1) Credentialed as an investment advisory representative (IAR) or a registered investment advisor; 2) Actively employed as a credentialed professional in the financial services industry for a minimum of five years; 3) Favorable regulatory and complaint history review; 4) Fulfilled their firm review based on internal firm standards; 5) Accepting new clients; 6) One-year client retention rate; 7) Five-year client retention rate; 8) Non-institutionalized discretionary and/or non-discretionary client assets administered; 9) Number of client households served; 10) Educational and professional designations. Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or awarded. Once awarded, wealth managers may opt to purchase additional profile ad space or related award promotional products. The award methodology does not evaluate the quality of services provided. The award is not indicative of the award winner’s future performance. 1726 Pittsburgh wealth managers were considered for the award; 453(approximately 27 percent of the award candidates) were named Five Star Wealth Managers. To qualify as having a favorable regulatory and complaint history for this award, the person cannot have (1) been subject to a regulatory action that resulted in a license being suspended or revoked, or payment of a fine, (2) had more than a total of three customer complaints filed against them (settled or pending) with any regulatory authority or Five Star Professional’s consumer complaint process, (3) individually contributed to a financial settlement of a customer complaint filed with a regulatory authority, (4) filed for bankruptcy, or (5) been convicted of a felony.

18 Special Edition 20a

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Primary Care Financial Group is devoted to helping those in need of financial services whether it is a large corporation, a small family business or a family/individual.â&#x20AC;?

a taste of freedom

FINANCIAL FREEDOM IS WITHIN YOUR GRASP WITH CAREFUL PLANNING AND BY FOLLOWING SEVERAL KEY POINTS:

WHEN SHOULD PEOPLE START PLANNING FOR THEIR FUTURE AND RETIREMENT TO MAKE SURE THAT THE MAXIMIZE THEIR SAVINGS POTENTIAL AND THEIR FUTURE SAVINGS? Individuals should start saving for their financial future as early as possible -ideally with their first paycheck. I’ll often hear clients say that despite now having much higher income than in their twenties, that’s when they had the most flexibility with their money. If someone’s missed the opportunity to save early, the best time make a plan and to save is right now. This presents a challenge if expenses and lifestyle are established. However, a financial planner can help design different scenarios that may improve your savings strategies without any additional out-of-pocket outlay.

IS THERE PARTICULAR SAVINGS STRATEGY THAT YOU WOULD SUGGEST TO YOUR CLIENTS? IE. CD, IRA … Unfortunately, no. This would be the same as physician prescribing blood pressure medication to every patient they see. Specific recommendations must be done on a case by case basis. Because uncertainty is a part of everyone’s plan, there are some steps that should be taken to prepare for the unknown. A good starting point could be to protect what you already have and what you will earn in the future. This means working with qualified insurance agents and attorneys to ensure that assets and income are fully protected against risks such as disability, death, lawsuits, and creditors. The next priority should be to establish a cash reserve equal to six months of income. This is an emergency and opportunity fund. There are many benefits to maintaining a high level of liquidity, including protecting long term investment accounts from untimely withdrawals. It’s common to encounter some initial resistance when I first suggest this, but the idea is often fully embraced after I ask my clients how they feel after they visualize a bank statement with half of their annual income in it.

3 4

WHEN DO YOU FIND THAT MOST PEOPLE START TO TAKE AN ACTIVE INTEREST IN PLANNING FOR THEIR FUTURE? The late thirties to early forties are where I see the biggest shift towards making finances a priority. At this point they’re established in their careers, have worked 15-20 years, are trying to save for their children’s college education while still paying on their own student loans. Suddenly, they’re halfway to retirement and aren’t as far ahead as they thought they’d be. This scenario occurs across all income levels.

WHAT ARE THE THREE BIGGEST STRESSES THAT WILL DISRUPT YOUR FINANCIAL PLANS: Here are three that could happen, and three that will happen. Three that might happen are a disability; The breadwinner dying prematurely; a lawsuit that takes away a significant part of your assets. These happen with sudden, catastrophic effect. The three that will happen are inflation, taxes, and financial institution costs such as interest, fees, and insurance costs. These slowly erode your wealth over time but the impact can be just as significant.

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1518946TM_Jun18

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 412.733.4033 OR VISIT THEIR WEBSITE AT: www.primarycarefinancial.com

20 Special Edition 22a

LEAP® is a trademark and service mark of Leap Systems, LLC which is an independent affiliate of the Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company (PML). HTK is a wholly owned subsidiary of PML. Trademarks belong to their respective owners. It is important to note that the implementation of any strategies provided as a part of LEAP are designed to help find tax inefficiencies and aid one in reaching their financial goals, but no assurance can be made that these goals will in fact be reached. Individual results may vary.

a taste of style

Isle of You Hair Color Studio offers color, cuts and styling for men, women and kids. oogle “best hair color in Pittsburgh” and the first name you will see, with very good reason, is Isle of You Hair Color Studio. “The Studio” has earned a stellar reputation as the go-to salon for outstanding color, and the story behind the business is one of hard work, passion, teamwork, love and an unending thirst for knowledge. Husband and wife team Josh and Shari Geldrich left corporate careers and opened Isle of You Hair Color Studio in Lawrenceville in 2011. Isle of You Hair Color Studio’s reputation was built on exceptional hair color. Shari’s background as a field trainer and National Education Manager for multi-national hair color companies allowed her to offer color services that go beyond the average. In addition to beautiful traditional color, the Studio quickly became known for daring, cutting-edge, creative fashion color, and difficult corrective color that other salons were afraid of. Under Shari’s guidance, Studio colorists produced results that attracted the attention of industry leaders, Hollywood icons and local celebrities. With Josh at the helm as Business Manager, they were able to form a model that provided growth, and quickly business was booming. Before long, Isle of You Hair Color Studio became the “it” salon for color, gaining appearances on local television, interviews in major newspapers and editorial coverage in several local magazines and publications. Shari’s ability to mix a bowl of color into magic earned the Studio a spot on Pittsburgh’s A List for Best Color, followed by being ranked one of the 15 buzzworthy salons by Pittsburgh Magazine, and spotlighted for hair color. Most recently Shari was recognized as 1 of 4 leading women entrepreneurs by North Hills Monthly. But with that success, they faced a small problem: the business had outgrown the space that the Studio occupied. The answer? Expansion. The couple debated between finding a larger space in Lawrenceville, or opening a second location. After thorough demographic study, Shari, Josh and their advisory team chose Wexford for their expansion. The Wexford home of Isle of You Hair Color Studio is in the Village at Pine, near the Giant Eagle Market District. The team was able to acquire the ideally-located site of a previous salon, providing visibility, easy access from I79, Rt. 19 and 910, plenty of parking, and lots of options for lunch and shopping for guests before or after their appointments. The Studio offers a carefully curated selection of hair care brands: Kevin Murphy, Wella and Sebastian, and recently an-

The toughest part of any salon business is finding stylists who can perform at the skill level expected by discerning guests. Fortunately, Isle of You Hair Color Studio’s reputation attracts top talent, and the team at the Wexford location is no exception. Led by two leaders who have been with the company for some time and see clients in both locations, the Wexford Studio boasts colorists and stylists with impressive resumes that include published editorial work, advanced training from Toni and Guy and Sassoon, a former cosmetology teacher and a Brazilian Blowout educator. “Hire for personality, train for skill” Shari replies, when asked how they managed to find such an extraordinary group of professionals. “We’ve been very fortunate to be able to hand-select stylists with an exceptional skill level and training. We also have new talent; new stylists who are training with us and will be moving into junior stylist roles as their skills sharpen.” The best thing about the Isle of You team, in both locations: they share a genuine fondness for each other. Walk into either salon, and you will feel the camaraderie, the tangible happiness, and the willingness to help each other in the true spirit of teamwork. “Yeah, we all really care about each other,” says Josh. “You can’t fake it, and you can’t force this kind of atmosphere.” How did they do it? “It’s just our company culture,” they reply. “We believe in treating everyone with respect, and trying to provide a place where everyone can learn, grow, and find their creative voice within their professional career.”

3000 Village Run Dr #104, Wexford 724.799.8719 5154 Butler St Lawrenceville 412.781.1024

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nounced the addition of Oribe products to their portfolio. The Wexford Studio also added a new service division: the Bombshell Blow-out Bar at Isle of You Hair Color Studio, offering a comprehensive service menu of blow-outs, formal styling, deep conditioning and spa hair treatments.

21 Special Edition 23a

top power attorneys

DAVID S. POLLOCK

FOUNDING PARTNER

POLLOCK BEGG KOMAR GLASSER & VERTZ LLC

“You can’t always undo the mess people get into, and we all get into messes; but you can make life better for them as they go through it.” INFLUENCE AND LONGEVITY

With sustained leadership spanning more than four decades of family law, David’s success is grounded in dedication to his clients, expansive legal knowledge, exceptional business acumen, and a knack for team and consensus building.

CHARACTER AND COMPASSION

A dedicated volunteer, mentor, and supporter of numerous legal, community, and nonprofit organizations, David’s ubiquitous presence is a trademark of his career and leadership roles.

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Dedicated to Family Law

22 Special Edition 24a

PollockBegg.com

TODD M. BEGG

FOUNDING PARTNER

POLLOCK BEGG KOMAR GLASSER & VERTZ LLC

“Despite my calm demeanor, I have a high level of intensity, drive and motivation my clients have witnessed both in aggressive negotiations between parties and in the courtroom litigating complex cases.” UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE

With more than two decades of Pittsburgh family law experience, Todd’s diverse background rooted in psychology and sociology provides a core for exceptional litigation in high-conflict divorce, custody and equitable distribution cases.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE

Todd passionately devotes himself to his community. Through volunteer work, coaching his children’s teams and being involved in their activities, he gains appreciation for issues families face.

PollockBegg.com

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Dedicated to Family Law

23 Special Edition 25a

top power attorneys

CANDICE L. KOMAR FOUNDING PARTNER

POLLOCK BEGG KOMAR GLASSER & VERTZ LLC

“One of my strengths is my analytical ability. I thrive on making sense out of chaos so that my clients can see their options more clearly.” INNOVATIVE APPROACH

A collaborative family law attorney and certified mediator with a reputation for fierce courtroom litigation, Candice focuses her practice on complex custody issues, collaborative cases, business valuation and high-conflict divorces.

UNWAVERING DEVOTION

A true advocate, contributor and supporter of Pittsburgh, Candice’s mentorship, leadership and abutment pervades charitable, business and community endeavors throughout the city.

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Dedicated to Family Law

24 Special Edition 26a

PollockBegg.com

DANIEL H. GLASSER

FOUNDING PARTNER

POLLOCK BEGG KOMAR GLASSER & VERTZ LLC

“I am reasonable and thoughtful when it comes to settling a case. I am not always a vicious bulldog, but I become one when need be.” FIERCE DEFENDER

Dan is a skillful negotiator and tenacious litigator of complex business valuation, tax and equitable distribution issues in matrimonial law. Clients appreciate his ability to perform quick mental calculations and foresee unlikely twists in complex high net worth cases.

SCHOLARLY PROPONENT

A featured speaker at continuing legal education programs across the country, Dan has authored and co-authored publications and seminar materials on domestic relations law, ethics, evidence and tax law.

PollockBegg.com

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Dedicated to Family Law

25 Special Edition 27a

top power attorneys

BRIAN C. VERTZ PARTNER

POLLOCK BEGG KOMAR GLASSER & VERTZ LLC

“I’m a great believer in preparation. When you go to court you’re establishing a record on which all the decisions in your case will be made, so it’s important to establish a really good record.” COGENT AND SKILLFUL

With an MBA and certification as a valuation analyst, Brian’s aptitude for financial analysis has garnered him a reputation as a sharp negotiator, coveted author and vigorous advocate on complex economic issues within family law.

EXPRESSIVE AND INSIGHTFUL

A prolific writer and lecturer, Brian is author of the book “Frumkes & Vertz on Divorce Taxation,” a nationally recognized legal treatise on tax strategy in family law, and the blog FamilyLawTaxAlert.com.

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Dedicated to Family Law

26 Special Edition 28a

PollockBegg.com

JOSEPH R. WILLIAMS PARTNER

POLLOCK BEGG KOMAR GLASSER & VERTZ LLC

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Each client comes with a unique set of circumstances. I embrace the task of developing a strategic, cost-effective plan to accomplish those goals.â&#x20AC;? DYNAMIC FORCE

As one of the youngest law firm partners in Pennsylvania, Joe is a natural leader with an energetic attitude and legal fortitude to rival his peers. His practice focuses on divorce, custody, equitable distribution and alimony.

ZEALOUS VOLUNTEER

Joe passionately devotes himself to the advancement of the legal community, particularly through the mentorship and leadership of fellow young lawyers and actively participates in public service, networking, educational and diversity endeavors.

PollockBegg.com

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Dedicated to Family Law

27 Special Edition 29a

“There are many different companies that now offer air duct cleaning, but few specialize in it,” said L’Herbier. “We specialize in air duct cleaning and take our business very seriously.” By Gregg Harrington

evin and Debbie L’Herbier were in need of having the duct work cleaned in their newly built Gibsonia home after noticing a buildup of debris in their air ducts. They did some research hoping to find someone who offered air duct cleaning services, but failed to find anyone local to do the job. Little did they know that need for a home service would soon turn into a family business.

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Kevin attended an in depth training program offered by a Michigan-based air duct cleaning company. In 1996, Kevin and Debbie L’Herbier formed Air Duct Maintenance, Inc. Within a year Kevin had more work than he could handle, leaving little time for his family. “Air duct cleaning had such a high demand that I could not continue doing it myself on a part time basis. We knew we had to make a decision, and it was scary. We took a leap of faith, I quit my job and we never looked back.” This year marks Air Duct Maintenance, Inc.’s twenty-year anniversary. The L’Herbier children are now college graduates and working with the family business. Air Duct Maintenance now has nineteen employees with Kevin and Debbie at the helm. In addition to their six air duct cleaning trucks – each

run by a two man crew – they have two service vans that are used for dryer duct cleaning and chimney sweeping services. The company continues to strive to provide the best service possible to their customers by hiring the right people and investing in their training to assure they understand the industry inside and out. L’Herbier states, “We buy the best air duct cleaning equipment available, I want my customers to feel confident that they are getting a professional company and quality service.” Air Duct Maintenance mainly services residential homes, but the commercial side of the company is growing quickly, including jobs in some of the most peculiar places. “We’ve cleaned duct work on boats, trains, tugboatsanything that has duct work,” said L’Herbier. “We work in many different scenarios and that’s what keeps it interesting to me.” Some time after the formation of the company, L’Herbier became certified with the National Air Duct Cleaners Association. Air Duct Maintenance abides by the strict standards and code of ethics that the National Air Duct Cleaners Association sets forth. They stay up to date on the latest air duct

cleaning technologies by attending annual conferences. Air Duct Maintenance has the right tools to complete any type of job while using the best, most up to date equipment in the industry. Over the last twenty years, the industry has expanded in the Pittsburgh market, making the air duct cleaning business a very competitive industry. When asked what makes Air Duct Maintenance stand out from the rest L’Herbier said, “There are many different companies that now offer air duct cleaning, but few specialize in it,” said L’Herbier. “We specialize in air duct cleaning and take our business very seriously.” Air Duct Maintenance has been offering the best in residential and commercial air duct cleaning for two decades and show no signs of slowing down. In the twenty years the L’Herbier family has been supplying the Pittsburgh area with top-notch air duct cleaning, the company has grown very nicely but still abides by the same ethos with which it was founded. “We still have the same philosophy we did in the beginning: to do the best job with the best equipment with the best people.”

724-444-4550 www.airductmaintenance.com

CALL THE AIR DUCT CLEANING SPECIALISTS TODAY!

a taste of gourmet

ONE MAN’S PASSION BECOMES A CHEESE SHOP FOR ALL Featured: Elyse Knapick, Jim Knapick, Ron Brooks

s a lover of cheese, Jim Knapick owner of Curds & Molds Fromagerie (“Fromagerie” the French word for cheese shop) in Saxonburg, started ordering cheeses from all over the world to enjoy in the comfort of his own home. Jim’s passion for cheese caught the attention of his friends who wanted some too, and eventually turned into a 70-member cheese club where enthusiasts could sample new cheeses and learn about them together. When the 150 year old Maurhoff Grocery building became available in 2015, members encouraged Jim to open a cheese shop so others could enjoy the many varieties of cheeses they had discovered. Jim finally took the leap of faith and opened Curds & Molds Fromagerie on October 2, 2015 with a limited inventory of 30 cheeses and his 28 year old daughter, Elyse, running the cash register. Working a full-time job as an engineer, it was important for Jim to find the right person to run his new business. Enter a fellow barbershop singer and friend of Jim’s, Ron Brooks, who put his singing telegram business on hold to become the manager and singing cheesemonger of Curds & Molds Fromagerie. Ron’s retail and marketing experience, plus his easy charm and outgoing personality, turned out to be a great fit. Ron quickly transformed Jim’s cheese shop into a quaint and cozy store, filled with vintage music playing from the antique radio atop the original display case from Mauroff Grocery. Here, customers are encouraged to try free samples of cheese with each other and compare tastes, similar to a wine tasting. Customers can keep track of their favorites by using a Cheese Checklist provided by the store. It’s an experience that brings people together and coming back for more.

259 W. Main St. Saxonburg, PA 16056 | 724.602.2093 Facebook: @CurdsnMolds Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm

What does the future hold for Saxonburg’s cheese shop? More first-rate and awardwinning cheese from all over the world along with gourmet gift baskets, a cheese of the month club, educational events, musical events and more. The Curds & Molds crew – Jim (the Cheese Czar), Ron (the Singing Cheesemonger) and Elyse at the register – invite you to “Skip the trip to the strip” and take a ride to the countryside to historic Saxonburg to enjoy their fun and fabulous cheese shop and all of the other wonderful shops in town. There are always FREE samples, plenty of FREE parking, handicap accessibility from our parking lot behind the shop, always a friendly smile – and maybe even a song waiting for you. We hope to see you soon!

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Today they carry more than 90 varieties of cheese from all over the world and domestic award-winners. Complementary products now fill the shelves: Charcuteries, crackers, oils, vinegars, honey, mustards, nuts, pickles, olives, gourmet salts, par-baked breads and naturally flavored seltzers. Also for sale are homemade pierogies from the award-winning Cop-Out Pierogies in Etna, which feature the shop’s own gourmet cheeses. There’s a lovely area in the rear of the shop that is covered by charming parlor tables and antique pictures where shoppers can stay and eat. You’re welcome to bring your own favorite beverage, or even your own food. In fact, many often gather in the shop’s warm, comfortable atmosphere to enjoy food from not only Curds & Molds Fromagerie, but from the other shops on Main Street in Saxonburg.

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a taste of sustainability

GIANT EAGLE has growing appetite for reducing food waste with innovative and sustainable programs

ot all that many years ago, restaurant and retailer leftovers may have been discarded instead of being delivered to food banks, shelters and soup kitchens and turned into meals for the needy. With the implementation of unique programs, that isn’t the case at Giant Eagle. Last year, the Giant Eagle trucks rumbling through Western Pennsylvania collected and donated six million pounds of food to provide nearly six million meals to area food banks that fed the equivalent of one of every five area residents. With a long-standing tradition of being a responsible steward of the environment, Giant Eagle, Inc. is using innovative initiatives and unique community partnerships to combat food waste and make its food offerings more sustainable. “Giant Eagle strives to reduce waste and operate sustainably while benefitting our communities, and we are excited to do that with something we’re passionate about – food,” said Giant Eagle Chief Sustainability Officer, Shelly Sponholz. “We are pleased to bring this commitment to life through longstanding partnerships with area food banks and through new project pilots including 412 Food Rescue, Produce with Personality and ecologically sustainable seafood sourcing.” Nationally, up to 40 percent of food is wasted, according to an estimate by the National Resources Defense Council, and 171,660 people in Allegheny County alone are food insecure. Giant Eagle is doing its part by expanding its everyday sustainable business practices by revitalizing its focus on hunger relief and waste reduction. Sponholz said that Giant Eagle is tipping the scales with new programs and partnerships.

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Last July, the company established a partnership with 412 Food Rescue, an organization that operates in real time to transport food to shelters for immediate consumption. This has enabled Giant Eagle to donate products that traditional food banks and pantries have not been able to accommodate like baked goods or items from its prepared food department. “We provide people who want to help fight hunger with the opportunity to do it, basically within the way they go about their day,” said Leah Lizarondo, co-founder of 412 Food Rescue.

The nonprofit group, an effort by The Brazen Kitchen and Braddock’s Free Store 15104, works with food retailers, wholesalers, restaurants, caterers and schools to collect food that won’t sell but is still good to eat. It takes its name from Pittsburgh’s area code. Pickups range from thousands of pounds of food from a large supermarket retailer like Giant Eagle, to two buckets of potato salad from a neighborhood deli. “We want to rescue every little bit of food,” said Lizarondo.

From ugly to hip, Produce with Personality reduces food waste You’ve probably heard of ugly fruits and veggies. They may not be pretty, but they’re still perfectly tasty and nutritious. And there are lots of efforts to keep these cosmetically challenged foods (think crooked carrots, or misshapen apples) from landing in the landfill because they don’t meet grower beauty standards. As awareness of massive food waste grows Giant Eagle has joined an expanding environmental movement with sales of less-than-perfect produce that may otherwise never be delivered to its stores. This spring, Produce with Personality was introduced with a five store pilot in Pittsburgh, and has recently been expanded to include 11 area locations. “We were noticing this more global trend and we wanted to play our part,” said company spokesperson, Dan Donovan. “We’re always looking for new ways to deliver value to our customers and this ‘ugly produce’ is sold at more attractive prices and is just as taste appealing as its more eye-catching counterparts.” Donovan said the company is still in the early stages of the program but it has been met with enthusiastic customer response. He cited one example, the hugely successful campaign by the French supermarket chain Intermarche, which boosted sales — and buzz — for its inglorious fruits and vegetables program which has been a source of encouragement for Giant Eagle. “Whether you call them surplus, excess, seconds or just plain ugly, these are fruits and vegetables that may face rejection because they’re not considered perfect-looking,” Donovan says. “But it’s the taste that matters.”

More information about Giant Eagle’s sustainable seafood practices can be found at gianteagle.com/sustainable-seafood.

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a taste of intellect

Tips

Interviewing

We reached out to staffing firm owner, Marsetta Schweiger to share a few interviewing tips for today’s graduates. • Turn off your mobile phone before entering the office. It is never acceptable to text, email, make a call, or receive a call during the interview process. This includes both the pre-screen and the interview. • Dress professional for the interview. Gentlemen should wear a suit and tie, or sports jacket and tie. Ladies should select a business dress, suit, or skirt. Always remember, even if the company has a business casual dress code, you are not an employee and should dress for an interview.

Elizabeth Lowman, University of Pittsburgh Law Student, modeling an interview look wearing White House Black Market polka-dot dress with black cardigan

• Arrive 15 minutes early to complete any pre-employment paperwork. Please remember to bring your I-9 identification, reference phone numbers, and any additional attachments for your employment application. • Print a few copies of your resume for your interview. You should never ask the company to print a resume for you, or search for your email attachment. Remember they are interviewing you, and you should be prepared. • Research the company and job description. Prepare a few questions to ask during the interview. Be prepared to outline what skills you have, why you are the ideal candidate for the position, and how you would be a benefit for their team. • Be friendly, use eye contact, shake everyone’s hand, and introduce yourself. Remember to ask for their business card, and the protocol to follow up on the interview. Thank everyone for their time and consideration. • Email a thank you note to the human resources department, recruiter, and the supervisor who interviewed you for the position. Express your interest in the

position, and outline why you would be the best candidate for the position based on the core duties reviewed during the interview. Thank them for taking the time to meet with you and discussing the position. Include your contact information, and express interest in a second interview. • Respect the companies protocol for following up on the interview, and wait for them to call, or email their decision. Interviewing is like marketing a brand. You are your brand, what is your brand saying about you? What is the brand message you want to create? Are they saying the same thing? If not, make some adjustments to ensure you and your brand are creating the same message. Good luck and may your first job lead you to a life time of success. TASTEPGH.COM TASTEPGH.COM

Graduation is a time to celebrate your dedication to receiving your diploma. As family and friends gather to share in your special day, everyone seems to ask the same questions, “Have you found a job? Do you have any good leads? Which companies have interviewed you?”

for Today’s Graduate

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A QUICK NOTE ABOUT

MUSIC

IGUEL DE CERVANTES famously wrote, “He who sings scares away his woes.” This is a sentiment to which we can all relate. Chasing the blues away with your favorite song playing in your car stereo on the journey to work can melt away anxiety. A cool jazz tune playing during dinner can set the mood for a relaxing meal. Graduation ceremonies, weddings, funerals… music hits us deeply on our most vulnerable human levels. It speaks to us. Music is a gift of the utmost importance that we need to pass along to our children. Recently, the Isner kids, Mykah, Zavary, Kambria and Levi got dressed up and picked up their instruments to showcase their talents. The scene was so beautiful we photographed it to share with our readers.

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This family has made a commitment to ensure their children have the gift of music to help foster creativity and academia. Their mother and father Greg and Kami tirelessly take them to weekly rehearsals at The Pittsburgh Music Academy in Carnegie to sharpen their skills. Kami, knowing the importance of a musical influence in her children’s lives encourages the children to practice daily. It can be difficult work, but the rewards are infinite. Language development, increased brain activity, higher test scores and increased spatial awareness are just a short list of the benefits that musical children enjoy. Not to mention, the beauty of a child being able to create art from thin air, what could be more encouraging to a young person?

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Passively listening to music is something we all do throughout daily life, but there is something magical about creating music that not everyone gets the chance to experience. We implore you to dig into the wealth of resources the Pittsburgh community has at its disposal to share with your children and yourselves the joy of creating music.

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SENIOR PARTNERS

Arnold Davis

Co-Publisher/Senior Partne GregORY P. ISNER Publisher and Founder 412.944.5646 Greg@tastepgh.com

Jessica Dernosek

Editor-in-Chief/Senior Arnold Davis knows how toPartner raise the bar. 724.747.4153 You know Jessica@tastepgh.com him as the man who founded Olympia Steel Buildings, creating hundreds of jobs in Southwestern, PA and eventually across the globe. We know him as the man with the heart-of-gold.

Now, he’s helping us raise the bar for the disadvantaged. “I’ve always had a passion for helping the less fortunate,” says Davis, co-publisher of A Taste of Pittsburgh Magazine. “Now, we’ve all got a beautiful opportunity to join together as a community, to help our fellow man.” Davis and our team of event planners are hard at work soliciting donations from local companies, business owners, and everyday community members.

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Arnold Davis Co-Publisher/Senior Partner 844.326.8201 Arnold@tastepgh.com

Together, we Kimberly believe that we can PhilLips change the world—at least in a Sales Director/Partner small way for local families. 412.512.8631 Kimberly@tastepgh.com Join us at our newly launched annual event, Taste the PO BOX 1565 MCMURRAY, PA 15317 | CORPORATE OFFICE: 844.326.8201 Difference: Coats, Cocktails & Info@tastepgh.com View Our E-Magazine at Tastepgh.com to Cuisine, a signature fundraiser collect outerwear for children.

STAFF AND CONTRIBUTORS

Gregory P. Isner Publisher/Founder

Arnold davis Co-Publisher/Senior Partner

Diane Bogut Senior Account Executive/Partner

Jessica Dernosek Arnold Davis Editor-in-Chief/Senior Partner Co-Publisher/Senior Partner Arnold Davis knows how to raise the bar. You know him as the man who founded Olympia Steel Buildings, creating hundreds of jobs in Southwestern, PA and eventually across the globe. We know him as the man with the heart-of-gold.

Kimberly Phillips Sales Director/Senior Partner

Jared Dieffenbach Lead Creative Designer/Partner

Together, we believe that we can change the world—at least in a small way for local families.

Join us at our newly launched annual event, Taste the Difference: Coats, Cocktails & Cuisine, a signature fundraiser to collect outerwear for children.

Stacy Skiavo Contributing Writer/Lead Online Blogger

Jerold Isner Contributing Photographer

Contributing writer lead online blogger Stacy Skiavo Contributing writerS Mykah Catherine Jean Zavary Paul Kent Rebecca Sohn Barbara Isner Hilary Daninhirsch Jermemy D. Wells Billy Jenkins Sarah McLean Crystal Vetterick Amanda Allis Ron Cichowicz Gregg Harrigton Arnold Zegarelli

Reese randall Special Projects Editor

Guests are asked to bring a gently used or new coat as their donation into the event. Proceeds will benefit the East End Cooperative Ministry. We will also be raising funds to donate to the East End Community Ministries (EECM) Food Pantry. Through their food pantry, EECM provides healthy and fresh groceries to local families each year.

NICOLE SMith Associate Publisher Real Estate Division

Celebrate the season with A Taste of Pittsburgh Magazine and bring a coat to donate to Taste the Difference: Coats, Cocktails & Cuisine.

Amie Thompson Contributing Photographer

photographers Brian Volinic | VolinicVisuals Jerold Isner Tiffany Holsen Jessie Picciano Amie Thompson Andy Menarchek Glen Katic Laura Petrilla Editorial interns Kambria Marie Levi Gregory

Taste 412 Magazine is seeking Sales Staff, Writers, Photographers and a Creative force unparalleled in the city. If you have any interest in joining our staff, please contact us at info@tastepgh.com

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amy wingrove Digital Media Director

A WALK OF FEDE

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“From the food, service, and atmosphere, we want everyone walking away saying, ‘this is the best meal I have had in a long time.’”

n the outskirts of Pittsburgh, something special is happening. Nestled in the rolling hills of Irwin hides one of Pennsylvania’s most intriguing restaurant concepts. Cenacolo, the brain child of husband and wife team Steve and Jennifer Salvi has been garnering much attention as of late as word spreads about the authentic Italian dining experience they dish out every day. “We don’t deviate from what we do,” Steve told me, leaning over a two-top in his cozy dining room. “We concentrate on doing our best in making pasta. Cenacolo has only pasta entrees, we supply some of the best restaurants in the city with our pasta, we’re the place to visit.” The Salvi family started this concept in their basement in 2005, launching Pasta Fede, serving lunch only a few days a week. “Fede,” is Italian for, “faith.” The Salvi’s took their leap of faith just a decade ago- and with hard work and some of the best food around, it paid off dividends. “At ﬁrst, my wife and I would prepare everything. Word traveled, without even advertising we were booked three weeks out. So, we ﬁgured we’d give it a try and open up for dinner. Now, our weekends are booked three weeks out.” It’s worth the wait.

The restaurant has recently expanded to a second dining room to accommodate the inﬂux in hungry customers as word has spread about the unique food and ambiance of Cenacolo. “We are a family-run operation that values the time spent at the dinner table with family and friends. Everything we do here is based on how we would want to be treated if we would go out. From the food, service, and atmosphere, we want everyone walking away saying, ‘this is the best meal I have had in a long time.’ We hope your experience here with our food and service surpasses your expectations and we hope you leave rested and in peace.”

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If you haven’t had the pleasure of a warmly prepared dish made with fresh, house-made pasta, you need to stop by Cenacolo to experience this food in a new way. The Salvi’s noodles alone are worth the trip... These are straight-forward dishes prepared exceptionally well. Hand-crafted pasta paired with authentic, unpretentious recipes in a warm atmosphere that hugs a diner and whispers, “welcome.” Who could ask for more?

CONTENTS

SPRING/SUMMER 2016

16 34 52

Armina Stone: “If you can Dream it, We can Build it” Luxury, World-Class Stone Pieces from Around the World

Pittsburgh’s Business Legends A Look at Today’s Professionals who have helped put Pittsburgh on the Map

Carnegie Mellon University New Technology and Research from Today’s Best and Brightest

Chic Spring and Summer Fashion Latest Trends from the Runway

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Neighborhoods with Character

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57 65 82 70 73 80 112 117

Welcome to Wexford: Luxury, Fashion and Good Eats

McCandless Crossing: Booming with Shopping, Restaurants, Real Estate, and More

Oakmont Chamber of Commerce: Bridging a Community

A Night to Remember

The 116th US Open Golf Championship US Men’s Championship visits Oakmont Country Club and a Look at the Top Ten World Ranked Golfers

Taste the Difference: Coats, Cocktails, and Cuisines Raises Hundreds of Coats for the East End Cooperative Ministry

Benefits of Consignment Buying and Selling Black Lamb Consignment, Bringing Buyers and Sellers Together for nearly a Decade

Local Best Selling Author Award Winning Writer Kathleen Shoop

It’s Tee-Time Golf Inspired Cocktails and Dishes for the Avid Enthusiast

In Good Taste with Ling Wollenschlaeger Founder and Owner of Pittsburgh Fresh Talks about Eating Healthy in the Burgh’

Picture Perfect Planning Inside Interviews with the Who’s Who of Weddings for Ideas on Planning your Big Day

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The Blind Side HOME FURNISHINGS

ittsburgh’s interior design market is thriving. A glance at this market would be incomplete without noting The Blind Side Home Furnishings. At the epicenter of this prestigious decor business is Diane Laskoski and her team of talented designers. Join us as we peruse their most recent project in Fox Chapel. The home featured in these pages is a newly completed sumptuous estate nestled on a hill in Fox Chapel, a short 15-minute-drive from downtown Pittsburgh. The Blind Side Home Furnishings design team worked tirelessly for more than two years developing this space with inviting, unexpected features and finishes to create a warm and relaxing atmosphere. The home reflects craftsmanship that has long been absent in many new homes and incorporates their client’s specific tastes and lifestyles into the decor.

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Diane’s team has an eye for detail and their approach to interior design has landed them the Excellence in Craftsmanship- Interior Award from the Master Builder’s Association of Western Pennsylvania, Inc.

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and other national and international awards.The home base of this creativity is tucked away in the quiet town of Verona, just east of Pittsburgh. There, they have a 3,000 square foot showroom that boasts multiple vendor and accessory lines from around the world. Their newest endeavor, Villa Verona Design, is located in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. This European-style studio provides renovations, interior design, furniture and accessories to The Cliffs Communities and surrounding areas.

The Blind Side Home Furnishings | 751 E Railroad Ave, Verona | 412.826.1850 | TheBlindSide.com

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Wherever the project, clients can depend upon The Blind Side Home Furnishings to blend their lifestyle and taste into their dream space. Quality design wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be achieved without the proper team behind the job. To see more of their work and just what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re capable of, please visit their design gallery online at TheBlindSide.com

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Scholars. Creators. Makers.

CMU news

Original image from hipporoller.org

MechE Students Design Water Barrel that Filters as you Roll

photo illustration depicts a water transportation and purification system concept, which uses a double-barrel design to pump water through a filter using the mechanical energy generated by the rolling motion.

Students design water barrel that filters as it rolls. For those who live in regions where water pours from tubes in their homes, it might be difficult to imagine that there are still people on Earth without access to clean water. For these people, clean water is often miles away from their homes. They are forced to walk for hours, carrying full baskets of water, only to spend a few more hours filtering that water before it is safe for their families to drink. Researchers around the world are working hard on developing devices to make transportation easier, and ones to make purification quicker.

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But what about a single device that could do both?

“We had already seen some ideas out there that filtered water, and others that rolled the water using barrels, but we wanted to create something that filtered while you rolled,” said Mechanical Engineering (MechE) senior Deepak Ravi. “Something better than doing the two of them separately.”

Ravi and fellow MechE seniors Anna Mirabella, Jack Kaplan, Veronica Jamie-Lara, and Alex Baker put their heads together and designed the Water Transportation and Purification System.

“The design is basically a big barrel with a smaller barrel inside of it, attached to a handle,” Mirabella said. “As you roll the barrel along, the relative motion between the handle and the spinning barrel pulls dirty water from the outer barrel through a filter and into the inner barrel where it stores the newly cleaned water.” The design uses only a few simple parts and requires no power, only mechanical energy provided by the rolling of the barrel. It uses a Sawyer water filter, which never needs to be replaced, and recycled industrial barrels — food-grade plastic barrels that are normally thrown away. With PVC pipe for the handle, the whole prototype cost only about $200. When mass-produced, the team estimates the total cost at only $40 per unit.

“We’ve decided to make this design open source,” Mirabella said. “If someone wants to manufacture our system and get it down to that $40, none of us would be upset. It would be awesome to have had a small part of something big.” Another way this product will keep costs down for the user is its instantaneous filter. Since the water is already purified en route home, users can empty the clean water into a container, then hand the device off to their neighbor. That way, a single device can be shared among an entire community. The team developed the idea as the final project for their Mechanical Engineering Senior Design course, taught by Associate Teaching Professor Noé Vargas Hernández. The class is required of all MechE majors for graduation and emphasizes the ability to take a project from conception to prototype over the course of a semester. “This wasn’t just a mechanical engineering project for us,” Ravi said. “Some of us are also design minors, so we thought about how it would be filled, and how it would be made. We thought about the user. That’s why we went with a 15-gallon tank; 15 gallons is about a weekly supply of water for a family in the developing world.” “I think that’s one of the best things about being able to work here at Carnegie Mellon,” he said. “All of our different disciplines combine to make the best outcome.” Original article can be found at CMU.edu/News

CMU news

Neuronal Feedback Could Change What We "See" Study from Carnegie Mellon Neuroscientists Could Explain Mechanism Behind Optical Illusions

By Jocelyn Duffy

Ever see something that isn’t really there? Could your mind be playing tricks on you? The “tricks” might be your brain reacting to feedback between neurons in different parts of the visual system, according to a study published in The Journal of Neuroscience by Carnegie Mellon University Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences Sandra J. Kuhlman and colleagues.

halted the feedback of information from the second stage back to the first stage, and allowed the researchers to determine how much of the neuronal activity in the first stage of visual processing was the result of feedback. Twenty percent of the neuronal activity in the visual cortex was the result of feedback, a concept Kuhlman calls reciprocal connectivity. This indicates that some of the information coming from the visual cortex is not a direct response to a visual stimuli, but is a response to how the stimuli was perceived by higher cortical areas.

Optical Illusion Understanding this feedback system could provide new insight into the visual system’s neuronal circuitry and could have further implications for understanding how the brain interprets and understands sensory stimuli.

The feedback, she says, might be what causes our brain to complete the undrawn lines in the Kanizsa triangle. But more importantly, it signifies that studying neuronal feedback is important to our understanding of how the brain works to process stimuli.

Many optical illusions make you see something that’s not there. Take the Kanizsa triangle: when you place three Pac-Man-like wedges in the right spot, you see a triangle, even though the edges of the triangle aren’t drawn.

“This represents a new way to study visual perception and neural computation. If we want to truly understand the visual pathway, and cortical function in general, we have to understand these reciprocal connection,” Kuhlman said.

“We see with both our brain and our eyes. Your brain is making inferences that allow you to see the triangle. It’s connecting the dots between the corners of the wedges,” said Kuhlman, who is a member of Carnegie Mellon’s BrainHub neuroscience initiative and the joint Carnegie Mellon/ University of Pittsburgh Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition (CNBC). “Optical illusions illustrate some of the amazing things our visual system can do.”

However, not all information stays on this forward moving path. At the secondary stage of processing in the visual cortex some neurons reverse course and send information back to the first stage of processing. Researchers at Carnegie Mellon wondered if this feedback could change how the neurons in the visual cortex respond to a stimulus and alter the messages being sent to the prefrontal cortex.

While there has been a good deal of research studying how information moves forward through the visual system, less has been done to study the impact of the information that moves backward. To find out if the information traveling from the secondary stage of processing back to the first stage impacted how information is encoded in the visual system, the researchers needed to quantify the magnitude of information that was being sent from the second stage back to the first stage. Using a mouse model, they recorded normal neuronal firing in the first stage of the visual cortex as the mouse looked at moving patterns that represented edges. They then silenced the neurons in the second stage using modified optogenetic technology. This

Additional authors on this study are Carnegie Mellon and the CNBC’s Diego E. Pafundo, Mark A. Nicholas and Ruilin Zhang. As the birthplace of artificial intelligence and cognitive psychology, Carnegie Mellon has been a leader in the study of brain and behavior for more than 50 years. The university has created some of the first cognitive tutors, helped to develop the Jeopardy-winning Watson, founded a groundbreaking doctoral program in neural computation, and completed cutting-edge work in understanding the genetics of autism. Building on its strengths in biology, computer science, psychology, statistics and engineering, CMU recently launched BrainHub, a global initiative that focuses on how the structure and activity of the brain give rise to complex behaviors. Original article can be found at CMU.edu/News

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When we look at an object, information about what we see travels through circuits of neurons beginning in the retina, through the thalamus and into the brain’s visual cortex. In the visual cortex, the information gets processed in multiple stages and is ultimately sent to the prefrontal cortex — the area of the brain that makes decisions, including how to respond to a given stimulus.

This study was funded by the Knights Templar Eye Foundation, the Howard Hughes Medical Institute Undergraduate Program, the Fight-For-Sight Foundation and the National Institutes of Health’s National Eye Institute (R01-EY024678).

CMU news

EYES ON THE ROAD Pavement riddled with cracks, graffiti on stop signs, icy surfaces that need rock salt: Municipalities must respond to road infrastructure problems that are changing constantly. Christoph Mertz, principal project scientist at Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute, is researching how a smartphone could be a solution for all these issues, and more. “It is essential to get eyes on every road, every year to stay ahead of what could become costly repairs,” said Jason A. Dailey, director of public works for Cranberry Township, about 20 miles north of CMU’s Pittsburgh campus. “Expensive services are available that have on-board tools and sensors, but these are typically out of the price range of the average community.” Mertz’s smartphone-based road infrastructure inspection project examines ways a device as common as a smartphone can give municipalities a fast and inexpensive method for inspecting their roadways. In two basic steps, the technology collects images and then examines the data to identify areas that need care. “Data collection and analysis could take a matter of days, where it would otherwise take months or even years,” Mertz said.

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Using computer vision algorithms, the system analyzes high-resolution images of the road and categorizes them. When looking for road damage, for example, it can quickly discover where the ratio of cracked to uncracked surfaces is high and flag the locations for repair. In other instances, it can find signage that is missing or damaged, or detect snow or slush on the road. Software displays the data using easy-to-read maps and visuals.

“Mertz had demonstrated a viable advancement that may bring inspection technology into the everyday operations, making it not only affordable, but practical,” Dailey said.

A big appeal to Mertz’s system is the simplicity of integrating it with existing procedures. For example, Mertz suggested mounting garbage trucks with smartphones in order to routinely assess the roadways. Similarly, snow plows with smartphones could provide real-time road conditions in winter, which Mertz has already pilot-tested with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Carnegie Mellon’s Traffic21, which is part of Metro21, helps fund projects like this one and others in smart transportation. Its goal is to design, test, deploy and evaluate information and communications technology-based solutions to address the problems facing transportation systems. The institute fuels multidisciplinary collaboration in the area of transportation. Nine students currently participate in the research and specialize in different aspects, from localization to optics. The data the team collects through the project may be useful for other transportation projects, such as research for autonomous vehicles. “The work of Mertz is an ideal example of Traffic21’s vision of research, development and deployment,” said Stan Caldwell, executive director of Traffic21 and Technologies for Safe and Efficient Transportation (T-SET), a National University Transportation Center funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Both organizations have supported Mertz’s research.

The Hillman Foundation helped launch Traffic21 in 2009, and the institute’s focus has been to match the real-world problems of transportation practitioners with faculty and student doing innovative research. In recent news, existing work conducted by Traffic21 and Metro21 was used as part of the City of Pittsburgh’s application for the U.S. Department of Transportation’s “Smart Cities Challenge.” Pittsburgh was recently named one of seven finalists in the federal initiative, which will provide the winning city $50 million to build technology-based systems to address mounting transportation and transit challenges facing cities nationwide. “The exciting stage is deploying the technology in the field, making our region a smart transportation living lab,” Caldwell said. Mertz’s technology has been deployed with the City of Pittsburgh, Marshall Township, Cranberry Township and with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Although potholes will be a sign of spring this year, drivers can imagine a future with fewer bumps in the road thanks to emerging technologies for a safer, more efficient transportation. Original article can be found at CMU.edu/News

CMU news

Even With 24/7 Access, Investors Tend To Put Their Heads In The Sand When Expecting Bad News

Loewenstein and Seppi first introduced the “ostrich effect” in 2009 to describe how investors “put their heads in the sand” to dodge facing their financial portfolios when they’re expecting bad news. The new data documents that ostrich behavior is widely prevalent, even with today’s aroundthe-clock access to financial information, and is a stable personality characteristic in individual investors. Forthcoming in the Review of Financial Studies, the study is the first large-scale investigation into when investors log in to check their portfolios and how logins affect trading activity. “This is the adult version of shaking the piggy bank,” said Loewenstein, the Herbert A. Simon University Professor of Economics and Psychology in CMU’s Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences. “It shows that investing is much more than cold calculations about how to maximize resources when you retire. Short-term fluctuations in portfolio values are an important source of immediate pleasure and pain for investors. Not logging in when the news is likely to be bad is one strategy that investors use to minimize the pain while taking beneficial risks.” The new research examines how and when investors pay attention to their financial portfolios using a large data set of over 852 million observations on day-to-day logins and trades for 1.1 million investors over two years. The researchers found strong evidence that investors exhibit an ostrich pattern in attending to their portfolios. For example, account logins fell by 9.5 percent after a decline in the previous day’s stock market. “With investment decisions gravitating to the digital world, financial attention, whether to good or bad news, becomes a fundamental force that advisers, plan sponsors and financial services providers must grapple with,” Utkus noted.

Investors also paid less attention when the VIX index indicated that future stock market volatility was expected to be high. Men were more likely to exhibit ostrich behavior, as well as older investors, and, perhaps most importantly, investors with greater portfolio balances -- investors with more at stake -- were more likely to look selectively when markets were up. “Attention matters, not only because of its effect on trading, but also because aggregate investor attention behavior can affect how different securities are priced,” said Seppi, the BNY Mellon Professor of Finance in CMU’s Tepper School of Business. “For example, our results suggest that investors not only care about the streams of expected future cash flows from stocks and bonds, but also streams of future information.” The study’s main findings also included: On average, attention was higher after positive stock market returns than after negative returns. However, curiosity and increased account monitoring for potential trading opportunities led investors to log in and pay attention despite predictable bad news after extreme negative market days. Investors whose portfolios consisted only of bonds displayed a reverse ostrich effect; they were much more likely to log in when the stock market was down. This behavior also reflects avoidance of bad news since, for bond-holding investors, a rising stock market represented foregone returns. Investors displayed a strong ostrich effect when it came to multiple logins on weekends. Given that markets were closed, after the first login there was nothing new to be learned. Additional weekend logins do, however, enable investors to “savor” good news. There was a volatility ostrich effect in that logins decreased with the VIX. Also, attention increased with greater news media reporting on the stock market. Patterns in aggregate trading were decomposed in the paper into separate patterns in attention and conditional trading. Investors who displayed ostrich behavior were less likely to trade following market downturns. Thus, the ostrich effect may protect investors from overreacting to adverse financial news.

High average levels of attention and ostrich behavior are both more common in men, older investors and wealthier investors. Ostrich behavior also appeared to be a stable personality trait of individual investors over time. The analysis helps explain a long-standing empirical puzzle about why men tend to trade more than women. Not only do men pay more attention to their investment portfolios than do women, but men are also more likely to trade after they do pay attention. Thus, trading by men reflects elevated financial attention as well as confidence (or possibly overconfidence). Ostrich behavior and equity risk-bearing were positively related. That is, ostriches tended to hold more in equity relative to bonds, and likewise, those with greater equity holdings were more likely behave as ostriches. Pointing to the study’s widespread implications, Sicherman said, “Similar patterns of attention may also arise in other contexts, such as healthcare, where sticking your head in the sand and ignoring negative signals may actually be dangerous.” Original article can be found at CMU.edu/News

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Even with 24/7 access to financial data, investors avoid looking at their portfolios when markets are down, according to new research by Carnegie Mellon University economists George Loewenstein and Duane Seppi; Columbia Business School’s Nachum Sicherman and Stephen Utkus at Vanguard.

CMU news

a teacher if you aren’t designing — that feeds your soul, and a full soul leaves more to pass on to students. One of the best kept secrets is that the teacher learns just as much from students as they do from us.” Larlarb, whose award-winning career includes working on the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics and designing costumes for recent biopic “Steve Jobs” and acclaimed Broadway musical “Finding Neverland,” felt a similar call as Tsu to educate the next generation of costumers.

CMU DRAMA FACULTY WIN 2016 TDF/IRENE SHARAFF AWARDS

“When I came back from the Olympics, after doing something that massive and that impactful on the world, it almost seemed greedy to just keep building my career without giving something back,” Larlarb said. “Part of me was coming to teaching because I wanted to try to instill the things I’d seen and learned and observed and challenge students to be better.” The School of Drama is exceedingly proud to have two such talented women as a part of its community. Tsu’s and Larlarb’s influence is felt strongly in students’ work in the classroom and in productions. In fact, two CMU School of Drama costume students

Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama faculty members Susan Tsu, the Bessie F. Anathan Professor of Costume Design, and Suttirat Larlarb, an associate professor of costume design, have a lot in common. Both women feel passionately about their work as costume designers and educators and both have cited their fathers as strong models of a work ethic that has propelled both to the top of their field. Now, both have won Theatre Development Fund Irene Sharaff Awards; an honor among the highest in American costume design. The TDF Irene Sharaff Awards were founded in 1993 as a vehicle to recognize excellence in the field of costume design. Previous winners include Ann Roth (A 1953) who won the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000 and Brian Hemesath (A 1997) who won the Young Master Award last year.

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This year Tsu has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Larlarb has been awarded the Young Master Award.

“Of course it’s a great honor,” Tsu said. “When I think about the number of incredibly talented designers in this country and

some of the people I’m following and the number of designers I’ve been influenced and inspired by, I feel even more honored to be recognized in this way.” Tsu’s career has spanned over 40 years and has included designs for such hits as the original production of “Godspell” and “The Joy Luck Club.” Many of those years she has spent as an educator as well, teaching at Boston University and the University of Texas at Austin, before returning home to her alma mater Carnegie Mellon. “Education is a key to the future and an important thing for us all to maintain and keep healthy,” Tsu said. “My work as a designer and teacher actually feed each other, I don’t believe you can be as effective

won United States Institute for Technical Theater Young Designer and Technician Awards this year. “The Irene Sharaff Awards represent the pinnacle of achievement within the international costume design community,” said Peter Cooke, OAM, Ph.D. and head of the School of Drama. “Awardees Susan Tsu and Suttirat Larbarb are two genuine ‘wonders’ of the costume pantheon. We are thrilled to have them at CMU as visionary teachers, sage advisors and trusted friends.” Tsu and Larlarb will be presented with their awards in a ceremony in New York City on May 20. Original article can be found at CMU.edu/News

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EIGHTY ACRES Kitchen & Bar Contemporary. Fresh. Local.

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For a restaurant that’s only been on the scene since March of 2014, they’ve already garnered a lot of attention from the local media --- all of it positive.

By Hilary Daninhirsch

What restaurant do you choose when you want delectable, contemporary cuisine that sources fresh and local ingredients? Surely you would head into the heart of the city, right? Not so fast. Eighty Acres Kitchen and Bar in Plum offers a unique restaurant experience--it’s a restaurant with an urban vibe that happens to be located in a suburb. But you would never know it from the rustic, inviting décor and the rotating eclectic menu. For Don Winkie, the former head chef at the Tuscan Inn on Wildwood Road in Allison Park, and his wife, Amy Schlonski, owning their own restaurant was a dream that has long been in the making.

In the early part of his career, he was recruited by famed chef, John Trejo, Wolfgang Puck’s right hand man to work and train at The Coyote Café at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The Coyote Café was owned by celebrity chef Mark Miller - it is a long enduring Santa Fe restaurant. Schlonski is originally from Pittsburgh, but the couple met in New Mexico, where she was a student; they decided to return to the area to raise their family. Though Eighty Acres does not sit on eighty acres, the name was inspired by Winkie’s parents’ goat farm in Missouri. After Winkie’s father retired, he bought an eighty-acre farm, a fulfillment of a dream.

they change it up about 5-6 times per year. “Gone are the days of restaurants that have four page menus,” he said. Some sample dinner items include Braised Wild Boar, which had been a staple at Tuscan Inn; Gerber Amish Chicken Breast; Duck Breast; Pappardelle Bolognese; and Jamison Lamb, sourced from the farm of the same name in Latrobe. Lunch is a mouthwatering selection of salads, entrees, sandwiches and snacks, such as roasted beet salad, crab cakes or jerk shrimp tacos. The side dishes are equally drool-worthy, such as the Grass Fed Ribeye Steak, accompanied by Gruyere whipped potatoes,

“Doing our own thing was in the back of our minds, but all the forces of life worked on us, and it was hard to get started,” said Schlonski, who is a social worker by day. But finally the time was right. The couple desired a restaurant with a fresh and original modern concept. While Pittsburgh has many options for good food, the couple knew that there was a dearth of upscale independent restaurants in the eastern suburbs where they resided.

“We want to stay current with the restaurant trends, try to keep things fresh.” -Don Winkie

Inside, the restaurant can accommodate 86, with another 18 at the bar, as well as a private dining space that seats about 30; 30 is also the number of patrons that can be seated on the outdoor patio, weather permitting. Schlonski describes the restaurant as a marriage of both homey and upscale. “A lot of people are pleasantly surprised about the atmosphere. It’s fresh and it’s casual, but we wanted to make it comfortable to come as you are—if you just got off your bike, come on in, or if you’re dressed up for the evening, come on in!” she says. An army brat that traveled overseas with his family, Winkie was exposed to international cuisine at an early age, prompting a love of food and cooking.

“It’s the place where family gathers,” said Schlonski. “He’s since passed away, but the farm is still a significant part of the family identity. It was his resilience and his dream that inspired the name,” she said. The chance they took is paying off. For a restaurant that’s only been on the scene since March of 2014, they’ve already garnered a lot of attention from the local media---all of it positive. Now, their customers are not only east suburbanites but people from all over the city who make the trek out to Plum to enjoy fresh and original dishes. They intentionally keep the menu limited because they cook fresh every day, and

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roasted Brussels sprouts and herbed compound butter. Or, for Sunday Brunch, how about the shirred Eggs---2 eggs baked in creamed spinach, Yukon potatoes and aged cheddar---perhaps with a little bacon jam, pear & arugula crostini on the side? An extensive wine list and cocktails menu rounds out the offerings. They also accommodate their vegetarian customers and those on gluten-free diets. The couple’s vision for the future of the restaurant is to continue to grow and to regularly update the menu. “We want to stay current with the restaurant trends, try to keep things fresh; basically, to continue on the road that we are on. In a restaurant, you have to keep changing and evolving what you’re doing,” said Winkie. eightyacreskitchen.com

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“It was very do-it-yourself,” said Schlonski, adding that the whole family worked on the building, the former Vincent’s Pizza Park, to transform it into an urban farmhouse look, with its whitewashed pine and milk painted barn doors.

a taste of history

U.S. Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open

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to Visit Oakmont for Record 9th Time

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The US Open Championship Trophy

By Ron Cichowicz

2016 World Club Champion and Oakmont Native, Spencer Mellon poses with the US Open Championship Trophy

“It truly is an iconic golf course, with some of the fastest greens in the world.”

The 18th Hole of Oakmont Country Club

“Start with the golf course itself,” said Howe. “It is one of the most true and tough tests for golfers of any golf course in the country. It was designed by Henry C. Fownes—the only course he ever designed—and opened in 1903. Mr. Fownes creation has stood the test of time. If you had been here for the first U.S. Open in 1927 and walked the course today, you would see that it has maintained a similar layout. But it is not just the physical aspects of Oakmont that have remained largely unchained; according to Howe, the club maintains a culture, which at its heart fosters a commitment to maintaining a year-round championship level. “For example, for most U.S. Opens, the course would be closed to members for a few weeks to get it ready for the tournament,” said Howe. “But at Oakmont, the last

day for members to play this year prior to the Open is June 10. Our practices for the tournament will begin June 13.” That culture Howe spoke of permeates Oakmont. The clubhouse displays its championship heritage proudly, lining its hallways with photos and memorabilia from past tournaments including not just the eight previous U.S. Men’s Opens, but two U.S. Women’s Opens and five U.S. Amateur Opens. There visitors and members alike can soak in some of the finest U.S. Open memories, beginning with Bobby Jones’ victory in 1925 or Ben Hogan’s win in 1953; or Johnny Miller’s incredible final round in 1973, when he shot a 63 (still a U.S. Open record) and did not have a score over 4 for any hole. And then there was the classic matchup in 1962 when the youthful Jack Nicklaus shocked the golf world by outlasting fan-favorite Arnie Palmer in an 18-hole playoff. The moment when the now legendary giants of golf shook hands at the conclusion of the match is captured on the Oakmont clubhouse wall, captioned “Changing of the Guard.” Over the years, the U.S. Open at Oakmont has enabled those attending the tournament to watching a virtual

“Who’s Who” of golf show off their talents and Howe expects this year’s 156 competitors to add to the experience. The level of anticipation certainly is there. Howe said he is expecting to credential 1,800 media members from 400 organizations. Television coverage will reach approximately 80 million people in 150 countries. To make the event run as smooth as Oakmont’s greens, Howe—who has been in Pittsburgh since October, 2013 and expects to remain until mid-September—has recruited 5,000 volunteers. Howe added that over the seven days the U.S. Open is at Oakmont (three days for practice, four for tournament play), he expects about 235,000 participants and spectators to attend. “Certainly, the U.S. Open is a boost to the local economy,” he said, “and we couldn’t put on such a quality event without great support of Oakmont, Plum Borough, Allegheny County and even the state. “But for the golfing fan, it’s important to remember that history has happened here in Oakmont and it just might happen again.” TASTEPGH.COM TASTEPGH.COM

he Men’s U.S. Open Championship, perhaps the best known event of the United States Golf Association, returns to Oakmont Country Club for an unprecedented ninth time, June 13-19. According to Charlie Howe, championship manager for the 2016 Open, the special relationship between his organization and Oakmont has been forged over literally decades of great tournaments played at the venue.

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a taste of greatness

THE TOP 10

World Ranked Professional Men's Golfers

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JASON DAY

Current Official World Golf Rank: 1 Best Official World Golf Rank: 1 Events Played: 40 Country: Australia Age: 28 Born: 11/12/87 in Beaudesert, Australia Residence: Forest Lake, Australia; Columbus, Ohio Height: 6-0 Weight: 195 Turned Pro: 2006 Wins: 9 Personal Note: Started golf because of his dad, who passed away when he was twelve

JORDAN SPIETH

RICKIE FOWLER

DUSTIN JOHNSON

Current Official World Golf Rank: 2 Events Played: 55 Country: United States Age: 22 Born: 07/27/93 in Dallas, Texas Residence: Dallas, Texas Height: 6-1 Weight: 185 College: University of Texas Turned Pro: 2012 Wins: 8 Personal Note: Started the Jordan Spieth Family Foundation to raise awareness and financial assistance to military families, junior golf, and special-needs youth

Current Official World Golf Rank: 5 Events Played: 52 Country: United States Age: 27 Born: 12/13/88 in Murietta, California Residence: Jupiter, Florida Height: 5-9 Weight: 150 College: Oklahoma State University Turned Pro: 2009 Wins: 6 Personal Note: His middle name is Yutaka, which comes from his Japanese grandfather, Taka Tanaka

Current Official World Golf Rank: 8 Events Played: 41 Country: United States Age: 31 Born: 06/22/84 in Columbia, South Carolina Residence: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Height: 6-4 Weight: 190 College: Coastal Carolina University Turned Pro: 2007 Wins: 9 Personal Note: He and partner, Paulina Gretzky (Hockey Legend Wayne Gretzky’s Daughter), were named golf ’s most-photographed couple by Golf Digest

RORY MCILROY

HENRIK STENSON

Current Official World Golf Rank: 3 Events Played: 45 Country: Northern Ireland Age: 26 Born: 05/04/89 in Holywood, Northern Ireland Residence: Holywood, Northern Ireland Height: 5-10 Weight: 160 Turned Pro: 2007 Wins: 19 Personal Note: At age 2 made a 40-yard drive, got his first Hole-in-One at age 9, and was the youngest player to rank among the world’s Top 50 golfers

Current Official World Golf Rank: 6 Events Played: 49 Country: Sweden Age: 40 Born: 04/05/76 in Gothenburg, Sweden Residence: Orlando, Florida Height: 6-2 Weight: 190 Turned Pro: 1999 Wins: 13 Personal Note: In 2014, Henrik stepped into the golf resort world by investing in the PGA Sweden National course

Current Official World Golf Rank: 4 Events Played: 46 Country: United States Age: 37 Born: 11/05/78 in Bagdad, Florida Residence: Orlando, Florida Height: 6-3 Weight: 180 College: Faulkner State Community College; University of Georgia Turned Pro: 2006 Wins: 9 Personal Note: Real name is Gerry Lester Watson, Jr., he received the nickname “Bubba” from his father after the former professional football player Bubba Smith

Current Official World Golf Rank: 9 Events Played: 53 Country: England Age: 28 Born: 10/03/87 in Sheffield, England Residence: Sheffield, England Height: 5-11 Weight: 170 Turned Pro: 2008 Wins: 4 Personal Note: Patron and namesake of the “Wee Willetts” group, which helps junior golfers make the transition from the driving range to adult golf courses

ADAM SCOTT Current Official World Golf Rank: 7 Events Played: 43 Country: Australia Age: 35 Born: 07/16/80 in Adelaide, Australia Residence: Crans-sur-Sierre, Switzerland Height: 6-0 Weight: 180 College: University of Nevada-Las Vegas Turned Pro: 2000 Wins: 26 Personal Note: Scott, an avid surfer, once had real-life surfer, Benji Weatherley fill in as his caddie

Stats and information obtained from the Official World Golf Ranking website (www.owgr.com) as of April 19th, 2016

JUSTIN ROSE Current Official World Golf Rank: 10 Events Played: 53 Country: England Age: 35 Born: 07/30/80 in Johannesburg, South Africa Residence: London, England Height: 6-3 Weight: 195 Turned Pro: 1998 Wins: 15 Personal Note: Together with his wife, Kate, they run the Kate & Justin Rose Foundation, which benefits the youth of Orlando through nutrition, education, and new experiences

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e arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t talking about those that hit the most homeruns or run the most yards. In this section we spotlight some of the most influential people in our community. These people truly are pioneers and legends within our ever growing and diverse

city of Pittsburgh. They arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t politicians or athletes, they are the people who faithfully contribute to the growth of one of the most thriving of cities in America. Each and every one of these legends have gone to great lengths to provide for our community, whether it be the small boutique jewelry

store in one neighborhood, or the great service given by one of many exquisite restaurants downtown, or one of the finest surgeons on the east coast, these people are what it takes to build a community.

DAMON COLUSCI

Primary Care Financial Group - Planning for Financial Freedom

amon Colusci’s first year two years in business were difficult, but became the foundation for his financial services business that he owns and operates today. Although he graduated from Duquesne University with a degree in music therapy, Damon discovered he liked finance after taking a position as a loan officer, which led to a career in financial services. During that time, his family ran a transmission repair garage, which opened in 1958. Damon’s grandparents, parents and brother were all involved in the business. Unfortunately, Damon’s grandfather Sam Colusci passed away in the Spring of 2005, without insurance coverage or a formal succession plan, leaving the fate of the family business in jeopardy. Six months later, another tragedy befell the family when his brother was hospitalized with a brain infection that left him permanently disabled. Since the proper financial preparation had not been taken, this forced the family to sell the business at the worst possible time. Fortunately, as one of Damon’s first clients, his brother had taken steps to prepare financially in case he fell ill or was injured and unable to work. Colusci said “some of the few things that allowed my parents to stay home to take care of my brother were the benefits received from the disability and life insurance policies he had purchased only the year before.” Colusci has been asked at times how he has been successful as a young advisor in financial services since starting at the early age of 27. Citing his family’s story and relaying those experiences to his clients, Damon says, “I don’t know if I’m necessarily anything special, I just have my family’s experiences and share that with my clients. Having lived it gives me the conviction to help them make decisions that will have lasting effects on their lives and of those they care about. It’s not only when something bad or good happens that the benefits of planning are realized, it’s in the peace of mind that you carry with you every day.”

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> FAMILY I started my own practice because I wanted to have a place that genuinely reflects my personality and my philosophy about patient care, such as building profound relationships with patients that revolve around trust, sincerity and honest communication. I truly believe I have a responsibility to treat all my patients the same way I would treat my family and to connect with them to ensure I achieve the outcomes they desire and deserve. We created Bellissimo Plastic Surgery to be the type of practice where I would be proud to have my own family treated as patients.

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etropolitan indows A FAMILY LEGACY BUILT FROM THE GROUND UP

ohn attended Duquesne University and during that time he helped pay for his education by working for a company that installed windows. “I was actually a gopher,” John said. “I just cleaned up job sites while they were installing windows, but because of my ambition I wanted to learn the trade.”

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John said during his six years spent with the company, it taught him the necessary skills and after he graduated he decided to go out and start his own business, but he wasn’t alone. During his time at the university John met his future wife Maggie, and she was no stranger to running a family business.

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In 1978 John started Metropolitan Window Company with Maggie by his side. Today, Maggie handles the procurement and sales appointments, and the networking and marketing events.When customers call in, Maggie said she puts herself in the position of the homeowner, “I try to get a visual on every call and understand [their] budget and wish list,” Maggie said.

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Maggie said her father owned an automotive business when she was growing up, and she’ll never forget the dynamic of her mother and father working together while raising her and her seven siblings. That lifestyle helped shape Maggie into the person she is today, and that is why she knew her future ventures with John would be successful.

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John told us that helping homeowners create their particular look is an exciting challenge, and that no two days on the job are alike. He says that’s also what he enjoys about the projects, “The creativity that is necessary to perform certain jobs is very interesting to me,” John said.

From 2007 through 2014, Metropolitan Window Company received the “Super Service Award” from Angie’s list, and it is easy to see why. More than 50 percent of the business Metropolitan Window Company receives is from repeat customers, and homeowner satisfaction has created outstanding feedback over the years.

John said the most common positive feedback that his business receives from customers is how each and every individual in his company is involved through the installation process, and the followthrough is exceptional. “People are amazed that after 37 years I still go out and see the majority of our customers, because I do a lot of the final measurements,” John said. “[But] I love it. I’d rather be out in the field talking to customers than being in my office all day.” John’s youngest son Justin is also part of the team. Justin said his primary focus is on sales and secondary marketing, and he will go into people’s

Justin said when working with homeowners, he strives for the business to come off as a trustworthy company that people look forward to dealing with and ‘doing the job right,’” The company’s dedication to customer satisfaction and work ethic is why Marvin Windows and Doors chose Metropolitan Window Company as the exclusive carrier for its Infinity Fiberglass Windows in the Pittsburgh region.

For almost four decades, Metropolitan Window Company has served Pittsburgh’s metropolis with a mantra of honesty, integrity, and hard work. John and his family care about creating an efficient and comforting home for other families, and because of this they will continue to give unparalleled service. “Growing up, I never knew what ‘old-school’ meant,” John said. “But the older I get, the more I understand what that means.

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homes to present the products that his family’s company has to offer. His customer-first philosophy helps him communicate easily with clients. “We just treat people how they want to be treated,” Justin said. “It’s our face and our company name on everything we do and we want to do the best job, and not stop after the windows are installed.”

homes to present the products to date with windows, doors, and that his family’s company has to siding because this allows proper offer. His customer-first philosophy ventilation and maximum energy helps him communicate easily with efficiency. With the Infinity line by Marvin Fiberglass Replacement clients.to“We just treat howto to date with windows, doors, and homes thethepeople products date with windows, doors, and homes topresent present products Windows, products are proper designed they want to be treated,” Justin because this allows that hishis family’s company has to to siding siding because this allows proper that family’s company has to replicate themaximum look of traditional said. “It’s our face and philosophy our companyventilation and energy offer. His customer-first ventilation and maximum energy offer. His customer-first philosophy wood windows and doors while name on everything we do and we efficiency. With the Infinity helps him communicate easily with line helps him communicate easily with efficiency. With the Infinityline providing modern features and want to do the best job, and not stop by Marvin Fiberglass Replacement clients. “We just treat people how clients. “We just treat people how by Marvin Fiberglass Replacement low-maintenance performance. after the windows are installed.” products arearedesigned they want to tobebetreated,” Justin Windows, products designed they want treated,” Justin Windows, replicate the look of of traditional said. “It’s our face and our company replicate the look traditional said. “It’s our face and our company to to For windows almost and four Justin said whenwewe working with doors while name onon everything dodo and we wood windows and doorsdecades, while name everything and we wood Metropolitan Window Company homeowners, he strives for providing modern features want to do the best job, and not stop and want to do the best job, and not stop providing modern featuresand has served Pittsburgh’s metropolis thethethe business to come off as alow-maintenance performance. after windows areare installed.” low-maintenance performance. after windows installed.” trustworthy company that people with a mantra of honesty, integrity, and hard work. John his family look said forward to dealing with andFor almost four Justin working with For almost fouranddecades, decades, Justin saidwhen when working with care about creating an efficient and ‘doing the job right,’” Metropolitan Window Company homeowners, he strives for homeowners, he strives for Metropolitan Window Company comforting home for other families, served metropolis the has servedPittsburgh’s Pittsburgh’s metropolis thebusiness businessto tocome comeoffoffas asa a has anda because of they will continue The company’s dedication towith mantra ofthis honesty, integrity, trustworthy company that with a mantra of honesty, integrity, trustworthy company thatpeople people tohard give unparalleled service. customer satisfaction and work work. John and hishis family look forward to to dealing with and and hard work. John and family look forward dealing with and and ethic is why Marvin Windows care about creating an efficient and ‘doing the job right,’” care about creating an efficient and ‘doing the job right,’” “Growinghome up, Ifornever knew what and Doors chose Metropolitancomforting other families, comforting home for other families, ‘old-school’ meant,” John said. Window Company as the exclusive because of of this they will continue The company’s dedication to to and and because this they will continue The company’s dedication “But the older I get, the more carrier for its Infinity Fiberglass to give unparalleled service. customer satisfaction and work customer satisfaction and work to give unparalleled service. Windows in the Pittsburgh region. I understand what that means. ethic is iswhy Marvin Windows ethic why Marvin Windows It’s valuing of the past, up,up, Itradition never what and “Growing I neverknew knew what andDoors Doorschose choseMetropolitan Metropolitan “Growing having a good work ethic, and John Company said when maintaining meant,” John said. Window as as the exclusive ‘old-school’ meant,” John said. Window Company the exclusivea‘old-school’ being a good person.” home it is important to keep up “But the older I get, the more carrier for its Infinity Fiberglass carrier for its Infinity Fiberglass “But the older I get, the more Windows in in the Pittsburgh region. understandwhat whatthat thatmeans. means. Windows the Pittsburgh region.I Iunderstand It’sIt’s valuing tradition of the past, valuing tradition of the past, Visit Metropolitan Windows a agood work ethic, and John having good work ethic, Johnsaid saidwhen whenmaintaining maintaininga a having Today at 4672 Clairton Blvd.and being a good person.” home it is important to keep up being a good person.” home it is important to keep up Pittsburgh and online at to date with windows, doors, and MetropolitanWindows.com. siding because this allows proper Or speak with a specialist ventilation and maximum energy directly at 412.655.8411 efficiency. With the Infinity line by Marvin Fiberglass Replacement Windows, products are designed to replicate the look of traditional wood windows and doors while providing modern features and low-maintenance performance.

Recipe for Success

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By Jeremy Wells

Paul Godleski calls his apples “five layers of heaven”. After trying one of the huge handdipped Granny Smith apples, and sharing it around the office, I think my coworkers and I would have to agree. We’re all familiar with candy apples. But take everything you know about the ubiquitous fall treat and toss it out the door. The Applelicious apples are going to redefine treats for you. With layers of crunchy nuts, sweet chocolate, rich caramel, and tart apple, it takes the candy apple to a whole other level. Godleski first started making the apples in 1999, in his home kitchen, which he later turned his basement into an Allegheny County approved kitchen. It all started after a moonlight party where a guest of his took home one of the favors and 2 weeks later the phone rang with a call from a local pharmaceutical company wanting to order 1200 apples as gifts for their employees.

Godleski — who had been a woodworker for years — brought the same passion for craftsmanship he had as a woodworker to his apples and never looked back. He has been making them full time since 2007, after retiring from UPS, and after all these years he’s got the recipe down pat. All of his apples are still hand-dipped in caramel, two layers of chocolate, a topping such as pecans, cashews, or candies, and a ﬁnal drizzle of white chocolate, just to bring it all together. “It’s our passion,” he explained. “We have a passion for each apple and pretzel. That’s why they are still hand-dipped.” Hand dipping gives him “a lot more control of consistency,” yet still allows each apple to take on its own characteristics. “No two apples are alike,” he said, “like a snowﬂake.” “It took months to get the recipe down,” he said, “using different kinds of caramel and chocolate.”

It took him even longer to get the speed down. They’re up to an average of 12 apples an hour now, he says, because of their great seasonal staff. And he needs them. Though he sells a lot of his apples to organizations for fundraisers, or as corporate gifts, recently selling 4,000 apples to a national communications company, his direct online sales have been picking up, as have his weddings. He’s also selling them in some retail outlets, such Shop n’ Save. He also goes out to a lot of craft shows and community festivals this time of year. “Once they get hooked, they love them,” he said with a grin in his voice. For more info on Applelicious, go to www.apples4you.com.

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Building the Future and Protecting the Past: Parkinson Construction

Nigel Parkinson (NP): We have been in business since the early 1980’s – 1983 to be specific. TOP: What influenced your decision to get into the construction business? NP: My background is actually in management. After college and graduate school, I worked with a consulting firm that was engaged with various industries, and eventually I discovered that construction management was my niche. TOP: What types of projects does your company generally perform? NP: Our focus is on large, complex construction projects that are multifaceted. We do a lot of landmark projects and fast-track projects. Some examples of this are the Verizon Center, Nationals Stadium and the Washington, DC Convention Center. TOP: Is there a job that your company has worked on that you are particularly proud of? NP: Well, there are lots, but one project that sticks out most in my mind would be our work on the reconstruction of the Pentagon after 9/11. That was such an emotional time, and to be able to help rebuild a piece of that momentous structure was truly meaningful to us. TOP: What attributes of Parkinson Construction do you feel set you apart from your competitors? NP: We strive to create a culture of pride in who we are and what we do, and we are totally dedicated to

overall customer satisfaction, quality and integrity. When we say we will do something, we get it done on time, efficiently and with the utmost degree of quality and professionalism. Another thing that sets us apart is our dedication to the community. Parkinson Construction partners with DC’s Office on Returning Citizen Affairs (ORCA) which is a program started by the mayor that aims to help citizens who have been incarcerated find employment, housing, education and healthcare once they reenter society. One other involvement of note is our partnership with a local Catholic high school for girls that offers training and internships for young women who wish to pursue careers in engineering, design and the construction field. TOP: Locally speaking your company was in charge of the repurposing and constructing of buildings in East Liberty and turning them into what is now Hotel Indigo. Could you tell us more about that particular project? NP: Hotel Indigo comprises several previously existing buildings merged with new construction. One of our passions is the repurposing of existing structures into something new and functional. This joining of different buildings has created a unique structure in which no two rooms are exactly the same -- they have different ceiling heights, sizes, windows and angles. We believe that we have created a remarkable hotel that exchanges cookie cutter space for interesting areas that project the rich character and history of a distinctive part of the City of Pittsburgh.

For more information on Parkinson Construction please visit their website at ParksinsonConstruction.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/parkinsonconstruction

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Taste of Pittsburgh (TOP): How long has Parkinson Construction been in business?

Locally Owned & Operated Since 1993

Bruce Brothers Tire Pros have been a driving force in Bethel Park's automotive industry for 22 years, but with the company's new location, Scott Bruce's business is servicing more cars than ever on a daily basis. Opened right out of high school with money saved for college, Scott started his company by purchasing pre-owned equipment and made his first profits selling used tires at $10.98 each. Bruce Brothers Tire Pros moved into its new Bethel Park location at 100 Hillside Drive this past July. “We moved from a two-bay store to a ten-bay shop with all state-of-the-art equipment,” Scott said of the new location. With eight additional auto bays at his disposal, Scott stated his team is able to service more than 100 cars a day; a marked improvement over the productivity at the old location. While Scott opened the business on his own, he was able to learn many tools of the tire trade from working alongside his father. “My dad had a business called Wayne's Tire in Peters Township,” Scott explained, further stating he started working at his father's business at 13 years old. This was the source of his income used to open Scotto’s Tire Center in 1993, which was later renamed Bruce Brothers Tire Pros. With its new location, added space and high-end equipment, Bruce Brothers is able to offer customers much more than tires. “We now do inspection, brakes, suspension, oil changes and maintenance.

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We're known as the tire shop of Bethel Park and now we do more than just that; a one stop shop.” The Bruce Brothers website is also a hub for all things relating to the operations of the shop. On top of a list of services and interactive estimate tools, it lists many of the advantages that come with supporting a local shop such as theirs, some of which include growth within the local economy and a smaller environmental impact due to less travel to a big-box store. Scott also takes pride in owning a local business and his rapport with his regular customers. The business' website totes 13 separate testimonials from patrons who have continually supported Bruce Brothers during its two-plus decades of supplying the Bethel Park area with automotive services. The site also offers a news center which gives tips and advice to potential customers on external weather factors and how it affects a vehicle's tires, such as weather and extensive holiday travel.

Scott Bruce, Bruce Brothers Tire Pros

412.835.5511

brucebrostire.com

“Our main focus for advertising has been word-of-mouth and our business has grown quite a bit because of that.”

Excellence. Dr.Quality. Dennis Hutt Flexibility. Podiatrist, Hutt Podiatry

“We’ll help you put your best foot forward.” Flexibility.

Dr. Hutt is a Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine-educated, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center-trained physician and surgeon. He specializes in comprehensive foot and ankle care for individuals of all ages and abilities.

Dr. Hutt brings over a decade’s worth of experience to the Greensburg area, along with a unique vision and perspective that his patients have come to value and trust. Each individual’s concerns, needs and lifestyle are taken into consideration in order for the best foot and ankle care to be provided from Hutt Podiatry. We know that finding the right podiatrist is an important decision in getting you from here to there. That’s why we’re committed to helping you always put your best foot forward. Call and schedule an appointment today.

Excellence. Patient satisfaction ratings have ranked Dr. Hutt as the top-rated podiatrist in both Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.* Recently, he has been named one of America’s Best Podiatrists of 2015.**

Dennis M. Hutt, DPM Owner/Podiatrist 1225 South Main Street, Wellington Square, Suite 101 Greensburg,PA 724-832-8000 huttpodiatry.com

*Healthgrades.com **National Consumer Advisory Board

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Quality.

One-Stop Health Care Dr. Janicijevic’s team at Medi-Help is equipped to provide fast diagnostic services, which is a large part of what makes them valuable to patients. With their own lab, x-rays and ultrasound scans can be taken and test results can be delivered within 15 minutes. They have an ICAEL accredited echocardiography lab as well as general ultrasound and a vascular lab accredited by the American College of Radiology.

A Hero for Human Rights After the fall of Yugoslavia in the early 90’s, as the United Nations placed general sanctions on Serbia completely eradicating the ﬂow of medical supplies into the region, Dr. Janicijevic answered the call. Through organizations like major pharmaceutical companies and the Serbian Orthodox Church, Dr. Janicijevic was able to funnel over $160 million worth of medications, medical supplies, text books, food, and clothing into the war-torn region.

Innovative, Groundbreaking Healthcare

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As part of the physician’s group that founded the ermergency medicine specialty for physicians in this country, Dr. Janicijevic has helped more than 70,000 patientes in the Pittsburgh area throuhout his career. With a dedication unparalleled in their ﬁeld, the team at Medi-Help has been available to patients every day for more than 30 years.

30 years of Excellence in Medicine

The Medi-Help Staﬀ is Happy to Provide Quality Medical Care for You

Bora Janicijevic M.D., Charles R. Brown D.O., Nenad Janicijevic M.D. FACEP

“Access to immediate medical care is one of the most important functions of medicine. With long waits at emergency rooms throughout the region, more and more patients are turning to urgent services oﬀered by doctors outside of hospital settings.

1691 Washington Road | Mt. Lebanon | 412.835.6900 Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm • Friday 9am-7pm • Saturday 9am-6pm • Sunday 9am-5pm

We have been leaders at the forefront of this medical movement for more than 3 decades

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The trend of private practices oﬀering urgent care has been growing over the last two decades in America, and we have been at the forefront of this movement for more than three decades.” -Dr. Nenad Janicijevic

a taste of the outdoors

By Amanda Allis

What led you to the landscaping business back in 1996? My brother Joe started mowing lawns while he was in junior high at Seneca Valley and built up a substantial customer base. I later joined him in business and we created our own company together. From there it escalated into the business that we have today offering the highest quality and most reliable outdoor services.

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What services does Funyak Landscapes offers? We offer every type of landscaping and outdoor service you can think of. We do complete design, installation and maintenance of; softscapes (ie: planting beds, trees, shrubs and flowers, etc.), landscape lighting, irrigation systems, pavers and decorative stonework, water features and fire features. Our biggest focus – and source of the most pride – is our ability to create a comprehensive luxury outdoor living space.

Do you subcontract out to other providers to aide in the creation of your projects? No, we are able to handle the entire project from start to finish. Eliminating the need for subcontractors allows us to have complete control over timing, quality and maintenance from start to finish and beyond. Do you focus on residential, commercial or a mixture of both? The majority of the work that we do is luxury residential living spaces, but we do some commercial work as well. We are a full service landscaping company and can handle all types of jobs. Tell me what sets you apart from other landscaping companies. What sets us apart from other companies is not only our superior work product, but also our strong company culture and our people. We have focused on creating a culture that requires the highest quality, ethics, accountability and business practices. We have set the bar high for not only creating beautiful

landscapes, but also for our employees and most importantly our customer relationships. The outdoor spaces that you create are works of art. Our object is to create luxury outdoor living spaces that can be enjoyed during the majority – if not the entirety - of the year. Outdoor living has definitely become a trend across the nation. Bringing inside living outside. With that in mind we create outdoor kitchens, fire pits, water features and entire living spaces. With our outdoor kitchens we are able to create not only beautiful, but functional spaces that include everything from cooking features to lighting, water, electrical and even kegerators and wine refrigerators, should the client wish to have such amenities. We are also able to custom build pergolas (wood and steel) and to handle other landscape carpentry. Another unique piece of what we do is to create media walls for customers who wish to have televisions built into their outdoors spaces. It really is an entire comprehensive luxury outdoor living space.

Serving Mars and the Greater Pittsburgh Area Since 1996. funyaklandscapes.com Facebook: Funyak-Landscapes-LP

Licensed Contractor #PA039636

JAMES DOUGLAS AUSTIN

VICE-PRESIDENT, JAMES AUSTIN COMPANY

Enhance Your Decor With Iconic Photographic Landscapes

Corporate Office 115 Downieville Road Mars, PA 16046 724.625.1535 jdaustin@jamesaustin.com

of North America or Pittsburgh

From Award Winning Fine Art Photographer

HOWARD J. BLICHFELDT Bethel Park, PA

Visit www.hjbpix.com • Call 724-518-9086 or Email hjmb95@gmail.com Corporate • Home • Office Traditional Framing OR Images on Metal Available

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James Douglas Austin, Pittsburgh native born in 1961, attended school in the Pine-Richland School District until moving to Randolph-Macon Academy, a United States Air Force military school, in the ninth grade and subsequently graduated in 1979. After high school, Doug graduated in 1983 from Davidson College in North Carolina. While there, he was an active member in the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, and served as captain for the Davidson College Rifle Team. In his senior year, he was inducted into the Davidson College Sports Hall of Fame and graduated with a B.A. Degree in History. In 1986, Doug graduated from Cumberland School of Law, Samford University. Here, he received his Juris Doctorate degree. Upon graduating from law school, Doug served as a prosecutor with the PA Attorney General’s Office, Bureau of Consumer Protection, under both Leroy Zimmerman and Ernie Preate. In 1991, Doug became a partner at the law firm of Yauger and Austin and in 1994 started the law firm, Austin and Henry, which dealt with civil rights and labor law issues. Doug has worked with the PA Bar Association in its high school moot court competition program, and also with the Allegheny County Bar Association’s Law for the People program. In 1992 and in 1994, he was a candidate for the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives. In 2012, Doug was a

candidate for the Pennsylvania State Senate. Last year, Doug was the Republican nominee for District Justice in his hometown area of Richland, West Deer and Hampton Townships. He continues to practice law in Butler and Allegheny Counties and is a member of both the Pennsylvania and West Virginia Bar. In 1996, Doug joined his family’s business, the James Austin Company, which has been in existence since 1889. Presently, he serves as its Vice-President. Along with his brother and two cousins, he cares for the marketing and business operations of the company, which has manufacturing facilities in PA, NC, FL, and, MA. Doug volunteers much of his free time to help local organizations. He serves as a member of the Mars Area Business Association, the Rich-Mar Rotary Club, the Butler County Bar Association, Board of Directors for the Cancer Caring Center and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Pittsburgh and is involved with both the Pittsburgh’s Civic Light Opera serving on its Board of Ambassadors and St. Barnabas Health System as a member of its Community Action Committee. Doug was a member of the Board of Trustees for La Roche College. Additionally, he served as both a member of the Board of Directors for the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Variety Club and Vice President and member of the Board of Governors for the A-Men Corner. In 2002, Doug was named as one of “Pittsburgh’s 50 Finest” by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, in recognition for his activity in the community.

a taste of style

ost people can look much better if they have the right advice on how to enhance their favorable points and subdue their less desirable ones. “If the eye does not admire, my heart may not desire,” is a thought provoking quote. Though not always completely true, there is enough truth in it so that we can know our appearance does play an important part in the image we project. More important is how we are perceived. Speaking of perception, do you remember when Dorothy Hamil did her magnificent spin while skating for the world championship and how her hair, face, figure, costume, and so on, all became one beautiful perfect unit? I call this “Achieving your personal image potential.” I believe the following information will help you toward understanding how to work toward your potential. Most people can look much better if they have the right advice on how to enhance their favorable points and subdue their less desirable ones. The First Step- Have the desire to want to create a change. Get out of your comfort zone and believe that you can look even better, which will lead to improvement in yourself. Without belief and desire, you won’t have the drive the follow through to the achievement of your purpose. You will note that I did not use the word “goal,” but chose instead to use the word “purpose.” I feel that a goal is something definite that you can try to accomplish. It has a specific beginning and ending. For example, you might want to look especially nice for a special event, such as a performance, prom, wedding, or meaningful date; that would be a goal. If you want to constantly keep improving and updating your image projection, which would be your purpose.

The Second Step- Perform an honest (as objective as possible) self-analysis. This would start by viewing yourself in a full length mirror before you dress. Study your size, shape, posture, hair, complexion, and so on. Remember the wonderful phrase that has helped so many people understand their circumstances- “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” So do what you can to eat and exercise according to your needs and desires. If you feel you can’t or don’t want to alter your shape, then learn to dress to compliment your figure, use makeup wisely and wear a flattering and timely hairstyle. Since my forte is hairstyling, I feel it is important to evaluate the length, shape, condition, and color of your hair. How does it adapt to your face and features? How does it balance with your body size, shape, and type? How does it relate to your lifestyle, ability, age, and image? Once you have considered these generalities, you may want to get a professional’s objective opinion by having a personalized consultation. Most stylists will also give you information on specific factors such as your hair texture, abundance, pliability, growth pattern, color, and perm options. It is the gathering of this important information that will help you and your stylist design your look together.

Looking Even Better

The Third Step- Decide on a stylist. The best way to do this is to look at others who have a very together hairstyle and ask them who designed their hair. They will love the compliment of your asking and I am sure will be glad to recommend their stylist. Call the stylist and ask if he or she offers free consultations. Most quality salons are glad to offer this service. Once you have an appointment, arrive at the salon dressed in the image that you want to project, plus bring snapshots or photos of looks you feel are in your desired image statements. Ask the stylist if you are on the right path for your hair type, lifestyle and so on.

By Arnold Zegarelli

Ask questions and explain your purpose. If you are comfortable with each other, make an appointment. Naturally ask what services will be performed and what the cost will be. If you are not comfortable, thank the stylist and try another salon. Ultimately you will get a good overview of how others see you and you haven’t invested any money. The Fourth Step- Make an appointment with the desired stylist, remind him or her of the consultation suggestions that were made and agreed upon, then let the stylist go to work. Watch the finishing process: what liquid styling aids were used, how they were used, what drying process and what tools. Ask the stylist to explain what was used and why. You will not intimidate a good stylist, so don’t hesitate to ask for help. It is good for the image of their business to keep your hair looking great.

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The Fifth Step- After your style has been completed, live with it while making adjustments. Also, make mental notes on what you liked and what you didn’t like. Remember beauty is in the eye of the beholder. There is no right or wrong hairstyle, it either makes you look and feel good or it doesn’t and this should be relayed to your stylist on your next visit.

Continue to pursue your purpose of constant improvement until you reach your personal image potential. The confidence you will feel and compliments received will make the effort worthwhile.

a taste of style

Bear Brandegee 412-877-0464 wardrobe@bearbrandegee.com

Style &

ersonal stylist and image consultant Bear Brandegee explains how heading up her downtown Pittsburgh showroom has been more than Worth it. Bear explains the connection between personal style and confidence, and why she is so passionate about her career. Describe the evolution of your career from working in corporate America—to dressing others for it. As a teen I was fascinated with the branding power of fashion. In my own 20— year marketing career I dressed to mirror the highest level women in my industry. Dressing my message boosted my confidence. I felt powerful and I was. Armed with decades of corporate branding experience, an MBA and a fashion degree, I embarked on my second career dressing women and helping to empower each woman through her wardrobe choices. I’ve curated countless looks for amazing women since 2002. I style women who want to dress for the outcomes she wants in life. I’ve walked in this woman’s shoes—I know what it’s like to have to look appropriate and confident and yet to have no time and perhaps to need help creating a look that enhances her personality, her body and her message. Explain your services and how it works. My clients, whether they are professionals, community leaders

or women who run their families and homes, book a private appointment with me. I provide a highly personalized style and wardrobing experience. It’s elevated club-level styling and shopping that’s all about the client. I do my homework before she ever comes to my studio and have a rack ready with her name on it. It’s a place to start our dialogue about her style objectives. From there we build a capsule that will take her from day to evening; from weekday to weekend. One that projects her voice, her personality and makes her feel on top of the world. I work with the iconic Worth New York collection to create her wardrobe options. As a style strategist and personal stylist what is your mission? How we dress impacts whether we’re hired, our career trajectory and how much we earn in our lifetime. And for those of us not in an office, let’s not forget about the laws of attraction. I help my clients create their signature style to enhance their personal brand, improve their confidence, increase their influence, and ultimately to enhance their personal well being. My clients want to feel confident and comfortable as they navigate their careers and their lives in general. I help them achieve their dreams by creating personalized wardrobes that offer comfortable, chic and timeless options. How does your corporate branding experience translate to helping your clients “dress their message”? Every woman has goals in her life, an agenda, a mission she wants to accomplish. I feel that through guided styling and wardrobing, I can help her find her genuine voice and project herself from a position of personal power. Whether she is dressing for date night, the boardroom, for everyday work, for a gala, or for home life, I help her create a distinctive look that reflects her personality and that fits her lifestyle. I know from experience and research that what we wear impacts our frame of mind and our performance. When you feel empowered, you project that energy. We try to be the person we’re dressed as, so why not dress as the person we want to be?

Worth New York Studio The Diamond Building 100 Fifth Avenue, 10th Floor Pittsburgh PA 15222 www.bearbrandegee.com

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By Hilary Daninhirsch Photo Courtesy of April Hubal _________________________

a taste in fashion

Duckie Brown Collection

Chic

Spring Summer Fashions from the Runway

You know youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve cracked the code on your personal style when....your look is authentic and in sync with your true personality. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when you walk into the room feeling empowered, confident and feeling like you can barely contain your super power!

Gucci was the most recent designer to merge his runway shows for men and women - giving us all permission to dress our inner selves with a little yin and yang to suit our style.

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Bear Brandegee \\ Image & Style Strategist

Michael Bastian Collection

Greg Lauren Collection

a taste in fashion Something that you’re going to see more of is plaid, lots of linen suits as well. Taller guys should go for a slimmer-fitting suit to accentuate longer lines. Walie Yasin // Apparel House

Michael Bastian Collection

Perry Ellis Collection

That is the key of this collection, being yourself. Don’t be into trends. Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way to live. Todd Snyder Collection

Todd Snyder Collection

Gianni Versace

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Michael Bastian Collection

a taste in fashion

One of the must have accessories for spring/summer has to be the choker necklace. This one is particularly high on my list, as I have very fond memories of wearing them in the late nineties/early aughts!!! Slimmer silhouettes and delicate charms replace the heavier, gilded looks of its past incarnation. Chokers also breathe new life into classic styles. Check your jewelry box for a slightly longer pendant or chain and layer for a one of a kind look! Amie Guarino Louis Anthony Jewelers ...The shade marsala appears as a color of choice for men’s and women’s ready to wear, as well as the world of accessories; shoes, handbags, and jewelry. It is extremely refined when used in a variety of tones and pairs particularly well with nude tones, as well as the unexpected contrasting combinations of purples, pale blues or peridot greens. Nicole Fischelif Group Vice President and Fashion Director for Macy’s New York

Fashionable Flowers are blooming in every variety from retro roses and natural botanicals, to exotic jungle orchids and tropical foliage. Dresses, full shirts, simple tops and shorts are covered with flowers in soft vintage-inspired shades or bright pastels fresh from the garden. Floral print footwear is a growing trend with pointed pumps and simple sandals in a bouquet of different colors.

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Greg Andrews Fashion DIrector, Nordstroms Seattle

Michael Bastian Collection

Dennis Basso Collection

a taste in fashion

Styling your wardrobe is key. It’s not always about what a woman is wearing. Oftentimes, it’s about how she’s wearing it. Style is something that each one of us has, all we have to do is find it. Jackie Stone // Phoenix Boutique Custo Barcelona Collection

Nicole Miller Collection

Betsy Johnson Collection

Everyday is a fashion show and the world is the runway. Herve Leger Collection

Monique Lhuillier Collection Monique Lhuillier Collection

Coco Chanel

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Lacoste Collection

412.561.2044 | South Hills

Some people call it

SPRING,

I call it

SELLING SEASON!

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Rob Strohm

412-638-1881 412-963-7655 rstrohm@coldwellbanker.com facebook.com/robstrohmsells

www.robstrohmsells.com

The Place to Be

a taste of pittsburgh

Welcome to Wexford Wexford is split among multiple municipalities and was named after the County Wexford in Ireland. Wexford offers a mix of local shops, salons, spas, restaurants, corporate chains, and a variety of car dealerships. The area has top ranked schools and residents may enjoy parks, shopping, sports, and endless activities throughout the area. Aviva Brick Oven

Off the Hook

Denise’s Golf Academy

Owner Jay Sebes offers Italian dishes, brick oven pizza, soup, salads, & more. Guests may dine in, eat on the patio, meet for happy hour, carry out, or call in for delivery. Aviva offers growlers & six packs to go. They have full service catering for business meetings, graduations, weddings, or special events.

Owners Lisa and Glenn Hawley have earned the title “Pittsburgh Fresh Fish Experts.” Their restaurant offers a raw bar, fantastic happy hour, delicious entrees, & phenomenal wines by the glass or bottle. Award winning Off the Hook has been serving customers since 2013. They have open seating in the lounge and enclosed patio, or call in a reservation for the dining room.

Owner Denise Boeh offers golf lessons for all skill levels. Denise schedules individuals, groups, or kids. Denise’s tutorials can be viewed on YouTube.

16099 Perry Highway 724.799.8849 avivabrickoven.com

908 Warrendale Village Dr. 724.719.2877 offthehookfish.com

JOY Fitwear

Applause Hair Design

A Girl’s Best Friend

Owner Mary Lou Filsinger shares her motto; “You are never too old to try a new adventure.” The s alon offers style, cut, color, waxing, gel manicures and spray tans. Schedule an appointment or walk in.

Owner Denise Sheets creates your jewelry dream. A Girl’s Best Friend sells fine jewelry, designs custom pieces & sells estate jewelry. The name alone makes the ladies smile, A Girl’s Best Friend.

10. N. Meadow Dr. 724.934.0450 applausehairdesign.wordpress.com

The Village at Pine Shopping Center 724.933.4653 agirlsbestfriendjewelry.com

Azemi Salons

Clothes Mentor Wexford

Owner Andrea Zabinski brings affordable fashions to Wexford. Clothes Mentor buys & sells your handbags, shoes, clothing & accessories. Andrea loves to network and inspire women. She lends her time to various charMirror Mirror Boutique ities and enjoys supporting the community. If you Owner Amy Andre Sell offers a chic boutique with fashions, accessories, home decor, gifts, apparel are looking for affordable fashions, designer bags, shoes, or accessories stop by. Follow us on and a wonderful collection of Brighton handbags Facebook @ClothesMentorWexfordPA & sunglasses. Amy’s clients love the boutique. 10974 Perry Hwy 412.477.4277 mirrormirrorboutique.com

11279 Perry Hwy 724.799.8100 clothesmentor.com

Yours to Mine

Isle of You

Owner Karen Marks transformed a barn into a consignment shop offering furnishings, chandeliers, mirrors, art, lamps, china, crystal and more. Looking to sell or furnish your home, business, or buying a gift? Stop in and see Karen’s unique collection.

Grand Opening Owners Shari and Josh Geldrich, open a 2nd salon in Wexford. Specializing in color, training & techniques. Isle of You offers cut, color, makeovers, style, photo shoot sessions, makeup & manicures.

251 Church Road 724.799.8991 yourstomineconsignment.com

3000 Village at Pine #104 724.799.8719 isleofyou.com 5451 Butler Street Lawrenceville, PA 15201 412.781.1024

Grand Opening A trendy women’s athletic wear boutique, which owner Jane Swedish combined her love of fashion and fitness. Located inside Agape and Co. Salon 11279 Perry Highway Suite 307 Wexford, PA 15090 412.607.8634 Follow us on Facebook @JOYFitwear

Massage Envy Wexford Owner Becky Baker offers a relaxing environment as her clients enjoy a facial or massage. Massage Envy Wexford exclusively features Murad Her clients say, “Massage Wexford is the Envy of Massages & Facials” Schedule an appointment or walk in. 1500 Village at Pine Shopping Center #312 724.934.3689 massageenvy.com/clinics/PA/Wexford.aspx

A Farewell toTheresa Gaugler Theresa Gaugler sends a farewell to Pittsburgh and her friends. Theresa has listed her 6 bedroom Treesdale Golf Community Home and plans to move to Palm Beach. Contact Linda Honeywill to tour Theresa’s home.

Berkshire Hathaway - Linda Honeywill Linda Honeywill loves working in real estate. She is a top selling agent with Berkshire Hathaway. Linda & husband Bill list and sell homes in the northern communities of Pittsburgh. Visit their site to view current listings, or schedule an appointment to tour, list, buy or sell your home. 9401 McKnight Road 412.367.8000 ext.237 or 412.736.0112 honeywillteam.com

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Has closed their doors this year. Best wishes & thank you from Dritan Azemi.

North Park on Ingamar Rd. 412.366.2585 denisesgolfacademy.com

We cordially invite you... to create the perfect ring.

Custom Designs You dream it.

We make it come true.

1500 Village Run Rd, Wexford, PA 15090 | 724.933.4653 | agirlsbestfriendfinejewelry.com Near Market District, behind the waterfall

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PITTSBURGH’S FRESH FISH EXPERTS

Owners Lisa and Glenn Hawley opened Off The Hook in 2013 and instantly rekindled their connection with the Pittsburgh community! The restaurant boasts four distinctly different, but equally alluring, dining atmospheres. Guests can choose to make reservations for the main dining room, enjoy dinner on the patio, spend a night at the chef’s table, or belly up to the raw bar and watch oyster chefs enthusiastically shuck. Off The Hook features one of the top wine lists in the city, with 600 bottles and 45 labels available by the glass. The

restaurant won the Wine Spectator award three years in a row. In addition to the fabulous wine program, the bar features fresh-ingredient-based cocktails, hard-to-find select craft beers, and an extensive single malt scotch list. The award-winning restaurant offers fresh oysters from around the United States, as well as, fresh fish flown in daily. The menu also boasts succulent mussels, the best crab cakes in the city, and USDA prime steaks. Off The Hook is Pittsburgh’s Fresh Fish Experts and with one visit you will see why!

908 Warrendale Village Dr 724.719.2877 Offthehookfish.com

A Trendy Women's Athletic Wear Boutique

11279 Perry Hwy Suite 307 Inside Agape & Co. Salon 412.607.8634

a taste of success 724.934.0405

A ROUND OF APPLAUSE MARY LOU FILSINGER It was two and a half years ago when Mary Lou Filsinger was enjoying her weekly wash and blow-dry, when her stylist informed her that Applause Hair Design was for sale. Her stylist asked if she would be interested in purchasing the salon. Mary Lou smiled and said, “I know nothing about the business.” Every week that Mary Lou was in the salon they would continue to ask if she was interested in purchasing it, until one week when Mary Lou finally decided to contact the owner. After six months of negotiations, Mary Lou got her price and became the new owner of Applause Hair Design.

Specializing in all aspects of hair-styling, color, perms, and sets. Quality service in a warm, contemporary surrounding.

“You are never too old to try a new adventure”

Applause Hair Design has been in Wexford for the past 20 years, providing color, cut, style, perm, and sets. They offer gel manicures and spray tans. Contact Applause to book an appointment at 724.934.0450; Walk-ins are also welcomed. Instagram: @ApplauseHairDesign Facebook: ApplauseHairDesign applausehairdesign.wordpress.com

Stop in and Try our Brand New Menu Items

FREE Valet Service During Lunch Hours

Aviva has full catering services for all your social and business needs! Enjoy lunch, dinner or a late night treat in our dining room, outside patio, or lounge. Call us today at 724.799.8849. Express Delivery within a 5-mile radius. Aviva Express now delivers Beer and Growlers! (valid ID required upon delivery) Dine-In Hours: M-TH 11am-9pm FRI 11am-11pm SAT 11:30am-11pm SUN Noon-9pm Happy Hour Specials: M-F 5pm - 7pm in Our Lounge!

16099 Perry Highway, Warrendale

•

724.799.8849

•

AvivaBrickOven.com

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As she informed her family, they were extremely surprised and proud of their Mother. They joked about their childhood memories of their Mom saying, “Always brush your hair before you leave the house.” Her family was so proud of her that they decided to return the surprise and remodeled the salon for her. Sadly, ten years ago, Mary Lou lost her husband, but knows he would be proud and support her decision.

Call for Appointment or Walk-in 10 N. Meadows Dr Wexford, PA 15090

Whatever the reason, join us at Massage Envy and we'll help you manage the side effect of this wonderful thing we call living.

724.934.3689 1500 Village Run Road Village at Pine Shopping Center Wexford M-F 8a-10p | S 8a-6p | Su 10a-6p

412.366.2585

Dritan Azemi closes his salon and sends everyone much thanks for many years of business.

NOW BUYING

Visit Dritan at his Palo Alto location.

casualchicsalon.com

casual.chic.salon

Specializing in furniture and home dĂŠcor. Discover antique trunks, cozy sofas, sparkling jewelry, rustic paintings, and more. With a constantly changing inventory, clients keep coming back for more.

Yours to Mine

CONSIGNMENT

Caosnhthe Spot for your clothing, shoes & designer handbags Shop all of your favorite brands at about 70% less then mall store prices.

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11279 Perry Hwy | Suite 303-304 Wexford, PA 15090 | 724-799-8100

251 Church Rd, Wexford, PA 15090 724.799.8991 yourstomineconsignment.com

/ClothesMentorWexfordPA clothesmentor.com

Discover unique, chic clothing Mirror Mirror Chic Boutique is a one-of-a-kind boutique perfect for Clothing, Jewelry, Accessories & Home Decor.

10974 Perry Highway Wexford, PA

412.477.4277 | Mirrormirrorchicboutique.com

Denise's Golf Academy

PITTSBURGH eMAGAZINE

denisesgolfacademy.com

421-366-2585

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Denise Boeh LPGA Class “A” Teaching Professional Professional Golf Instruction for all ages and abilities for over 30 years. Private lessons, Group sessions, Junior camps, Junior leagues, Playing lessons View tutorials on YouTube

a taste of style

Theresa Gaugler Pittsburgh, Palm Beach, The Hampton’s, Aspen, & NYC are a few of the stomping grounds for jetsetter, Theresa Gaugler. Today you will find her wrapped in the arms of her true love, Ed Carter formally from Greenwich CT, and living in Palm Beach. Together the two share a passion for The Art’s, Charity, Travel, and Fashion.

BUYING SELLING INVESTING Call Linda

412-736-0112 Linda Honeywill When Excellence Counts - Demand The Very Best Palm Beach Zoo Fund Raiser Theresa is wearing a Balmain gown and Giuseppe Zanotti shoes. While Ed is in an Etro tuxedo, Tom Ford bow tie, and Stubbs & Wootton shoes.”

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Contact Linda Honeywill Berkshire Hathaway Office: 412.367.8000 Cell: 412.736.0112 Honeywillteam.com

6262

A Farewell to Pittsburgh

Enjoy The Life Style of Living in North Pittsburgh. Come see why People Prefer the Beautiful North Hills.

Theresa has listed her beautiful 6 bedroom, Treesdale Golf Community home and plans her move to Palm Beach. As Theresa closes the door, she leaves with fond memories of Pittsburgh. Theresa looks forward to seeing her wonderful friends in Palm Beach.

Office: 412-847-2697 Linda@HoneywillTeam.com

www.NorthofPittsburgh.com Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty

12 month FINANCING! pending approval - see store for details

INSTALLATION & FABRICATION GRANITE & QUARTZ

COUNTERTOPS

2 WEEK INSTALLATION Over 225 granite colors available 50,000 pieces in stock!

Theresa and Ed can be spotted on the best dressed list attending the International Polo Club at Wellington. dancing at black tie charity events at Mar-A-Lago and The Breakers. They take in the latest looks at New York Fashion week each year and mingle with artists at Art Basel in Miami. Together the two stroll along Worth Ave. and dine at new chic hot spots.

PA Contracting License #PA111466

OPEN 7 days a week!

MONTHLY SPECIALS!

Pittsburgh Kitchenramma Theresa is wearing Herve Leger Dress, Jacques Vert hat, Chanel handbag, and Jimmy Choo shoes. Ed is in an Etro Shirt & Jacket.

3340 Smallman Street • Pittsburgh • 412-904-4577 • 412-687-2308 www.pittsburghkitchenrama.com • Mon-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-6pm

An eclectic shoppe with unique upcycled gifts, décor, furniture, household items, boutique-style clothing, scarves, jewelry, and flippin cowboy boots.

DISCOV E R 724-586-7777

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

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the area’s most spectacular flooring store!

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Welcome to McCandless Crossing. A booming new center with restaurants, salons, real estate, shops, retail, offices, hotels, entertainment, and residential townhomes.

FIRST WATCH: THE DAYTIME CAFE Serving breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Customers enjoy eggs, pancakes, salads, soups, wraps, sandwiches and their delicious juices. The chefs at McCandless Crossings, Cranberry and Robinson have the customer coming back for more. Visit one of the three locations. 9176 Covenant Ave 412.367.3447 firstwatch.com

STYLE ENCORE MCCANDLESS Looking to sell your handbags, shoes, or clothing? Or wanting to buy items at a great price? Stop into Style Encore McCandless Crossing to buy or sell. Owners Marla Sharpe and Lisa Coughlin have a fabulous team with all your fashion needs. 750 Providence Blvd 412.367.2000 styleencorenorthhills.com

ETHAN ALLEN RETAIL INC.

REMAX SELECT REALITY The ReMax team offers real estate services throughout Pittsburgh and the surrounding communities. Contact ReMax for your real estate needs. 8858 Covenant Ave 724.779.3300 selecthomefinder.com

THE JOINT CHIROPRACTIC Owner David Duffy recently opened The Joint Chiropractic at McCandless Crossings. This is a great place to feel good and learn healthy tips. Contact The Joint Chiropractic today or just walk-in, no appointments necessary. 8874 Covenant Ave 412.364.1329 thejoint.com

9000 Covenant Ave. 412.837.5281 ethanallen.com

DICK’S SPORTING GOODS 830 Providence Blvd 412.548.0012 dickssportinggoods.com

HOME2: SUITES BY HILTON 8630 Duncan Ave 412.630.8400 home2.hilton.com

BONEFISH GRILL 8950 Covenant Ave. 412.536.1881 bonefishgrill.com LOOKING TO JOIN WELCOME TO MCCANDLESS CROSSINGS? CONTACT DIANE BOGUT 412.515.7632

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HATS OFF HAIR DESIGN Owner Sharon O’Keefe designed a trendy salon called Hats Off Hair Design that offers color, cut, style, makeovers, manicures, pedicures and more. Sharon said, “The decision to move to McCandless Crossings has been exciting and business is booming.” 771 Providence Blvd 412.366.3733 hatsoffhairdesign.com

65 65

At Style Encore, we buy and sell gently used womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s casual and business clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories. We carry brand names such as ann taylor, kate spade, chicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, loft, j. crew, the limited, michael kors and many more.

Find us on Facebook

750 Providence Blvd Pittsburgh, PA 15237 Located in McCandless Crossing 412.367.2000 Style Encore North Hills

FWR0316_TasteofPittsburghAd.indd 1

3/9/16 1:58 PM

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Voted Best Beauty Salon, Best Nail Salon, Best Family Owned Business by the Trib Total Media 2015 Reader's Choice Awards

Women and Mens Hair Coloring Highlights Balayage/Ombre Women, Men and Children Haircuts Gel and Acrylic Nails Pedicures Waxing Hair Extensions Sunday: 11-3 Monday & Wednesday: 10-9 Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 9-9 Saturday: 8-5 771 Providence Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412.366.3733 hatsoffhairdesign.net

Hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind custom furnishings for your home or business.

RELIEF. ON SO MANY LEVELS. No Appointments. No Insurance. Open Nights and Weekends.

412.364.1329 McCandless Crossing 8874 Covenant Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15237

thejoint.com

Visit esspa.net for a $20 Free Gift

The only Green Certified Organic Day Spa in Pittsburgh. Full Hair Salon Services, Hungarian facials, massage, nail, skincare and European wax treatments at 'The 3rd Best Spa in America'.

Sustainable, Reclaimed Lumber | Unique Colorado Blue wood | Small gift items by Local Artisans Village of East Side plaza, 6401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 Phone: 412.361.2020 www.whistlingduckfurniture.com Email: info @whistlingduckfurniture.com

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Aspinwall Community Business District, 17 Brilliant Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 412.782.3888 www.esspa.net

Since 1978

A & S Carpet Collection ascarpetcollection.com

A & S Carpet Collection is locally owned and operated. We are committed to achieving 100% customer satisfaction by taking the time to listen to our customers. Serving Allison Park, North Hills Pittsburgh, Pine & Richland Township, Fox Chapel, Gibsonia, Shadyside, Squirrel Hill & Wexford.

An authorized dealer of

4848 William Flynn Highway Allison Park, PA 15101

(724) 443-2200

Motorized Retractable Awnings & Tent Rentals

DOVECOTE

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Aspinwall

FREE INSTALLATION

AffordableTentAndAwnings.com 412.299.8500

6006 Centre Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15206 412.363.2993

20 Brilliant Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15215 412.781.1777

COMPETITION. It Grills, It Steams and It Smokes

There's just no competition for the Holland Grill. It's the easiest, safest, healthiest way to enjoy your favorite grilled foods. In fact, most foods never need turning, simply close the lid and cook by time.

GUARANTEED PERFORMANCE • Stainless Steel Cooking Grid and Cast Iron. Burner Guaranteed for the Life of the Grill • Durable Construction - Made in the USA • Models Available In L.P. or Natural Gas

DOBOSH CENTER 520 E. Bruceton Road - Pleasant Hills Mon & Thur 8:30-8 PM Tue, Wed, & Fri 8:30-5 PM Sat 8:30-4 PM

412.655.7570 doboshcenter.com

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Capristo Salon and Wellness Spa 5850 Ellsworth Avenue Shadyside Pittsburgh, PA 15232 412 361 8722

a taste of giving back

By Crystal Vetterick

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Impressive And Unforgettable Are The Only Words To Describe The Spectacular Outcome Of Taste The Difference: Coats, Cocktails & Cuisine.

charity event I personally attended. This event hosted by Taste 412 Magazine was held at Hotel Indigo in the revitalized East Liberty this past December. Upon arrival guests were greeted by the courteous and attentive Hotel Indigo valet attendants as well as cheerful hosts at the check in counter who directed guests to the event. Very warm and inviting as it was decorated with holiday cheer, the hotel itself was chic and attractive. The set-up of the entire event was charming and elegant with white lights and fire pits outside to keep guests warm while enjoying the crisp winter air of the city. A slide show played throughout the event in gratitude of all those who donated and sponsored the event. The most splendid of presentations were the cuisines brought in by several of Pittsburgh’s finest restaurants such as The Carlton. These tasty items ranged from upscale fine cuisine of oysters and meat dishes from five star restaurants to local olive oil boutique shops to a plethora of desserts for guests to indulge in. We must not forget the complimentary drinks provided by Taste 412 Magazine for the event as well as a fully stocked bar presented by Hotel Indigo for the festivities. The band, The Five 6, kept the crowd dancing and caroused until the early morning hours, playing many hits ranging from pop song covers to your favorite classics.

WELCOME AND CONGRATS TO ALL INVOLVED WITH THE 116TH US OPEN

Though attending several charity events this one had the most amazing turnout. The impeccable food, music, ambiance, and donations created a great evening. I would like to thank Hotel Indigo for providing the guests with outstanding service as well as all the sponsors that supplied drinks and cuisines for all attendees. Most importantly an immense thank you should be given to every attendee that donated a coat for the East End Cooperative Ministry. This truly was a successful night for all!

DISTINCTIVE. EXCLUSIVE. UNMATCHED. LUXURY REDEFINED. HAIRCUT & STYLING · CHEMICAL AND CONDITIONING · CUSTOM HAIR COLORING SALON NAIL CARE · MASSAGE · FACIALS / MAKE-UP · PERMANENT MAKE-UP WAXING · SPECIAL OCCASION HAIR & MAKE-UP · SUNLESS TANNING

The Village of Eastside 6343 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 412.362.6684

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While guests that boasted over 300 in attendance enjoyed fine live music and that plethora of food I spoke of, they were here for a cause to help our city’s less fortunate. This event was held for the East End Cooperative Ministry. The ministry has expanded over the years into educational programs, drug and alcohol prevention programs, violence prevention, and Summer Day Care for our youth in the city to show them a better future. All attendants of the event were asked to bring new or barely used coats to for children and adults. That night, together, we had collected over 300 coats for East End Cooperative Ministry that were piled high in a truck brought by Mike Fanto of Tower Auto Sales.

Pittsburgh's First and Only Digital Graffiti Photo Wall Photo Booths, Giant Photo Wall and Green Screen Rentals

Committed to the Future 1954

2014

412-530-5190 gemsentertainment.com Facebook: gemsentertainmentpgh gemsentertainmentpgh@gmail.com

2559 Route 88, Finleyville, PA 15332 | 724-348-2000 | www.wgtomko.com

Businesses, check out NherePLUS to have your events & specials featured locally Download the app to find out what's going on Nhere you!

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displayed, the stalwarts of the industry, past and present. From century-honored manufactures like Baker, Kittinger, Karges and Councill to more recent signatures like that of Maitland-Smith, Chelsea House and Theodore Alexander. The pieces come from homes where beauty and respect for fine things were the first ingredients of home décor. Now, in a world of limited resources, finding second homes for out grown or no longer needed furnishings is simply smart living. “Our customer base is a true pleasure to work with”, says Ms. Sohn. “They are knowledgeable, curious and smart buyers and sellers. They understand the secondary market and develop an affinity with one another through their appreciation for quality.” The concept of consignment has been around for years. Simply defined, it is the resale of owned goods (e.g., furniture and home décor) by a third party (e.g., Black Lamb). This form of selling has come to the forefront as the result of three factors: 1) the decline of quality furniture in the new market accompanied by escalating prices; 2) the surge in eclectic design and self-directed decorating trends and 3) environmental concerns and regulations associated with the harshness of furniture production. Consumers are seeking value and uniqueness in the items they choose for their homes and wish to remain environmentally astute. When you are relocating, downsizing, redecorating or liquidating, consignment is an option worth considering. The specialists at Black Lamb can be reached at 412-276-6699 or blacklambconsignments.com. In addition to consignment services, the company offers personal property appraising and valuations that are recognized in any court in North America. Benefits of Consigning for Buyers • Provides products of exceptional value at reasonable prices • Brings quality no longer found in newly manufactured pieces • Offers one-of-a-kind, “storied” items that could otherwise never be purchased elsewhere • Helps create the fun and satisfaction of “the find” • Affords a means of being environmentally aware and acting responsibly • Ensures a constant flow of ever changing and interesting inventory almost daily

According to Ms. Sohn, the store was founded on the premise that quality and craftsmanship are timeless attributes and furniture, holding these characteristics, was meant to last forever. Throughout her 7,000 square foot showroom you will find, beautifully

Benefits of Consigning for Sellers • Provides a discrete and professional manner of liquidating • Provides an appealing display and proper merchandising of one’s items • Brings transparency and accountability to the liquidation process • Provides a constant flow of clientele unlike one time estate sales and auctions • Consistently generates the high returns to the seller

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or nearly a decade, Black Lamb has been helping homes of distinction meet their liquidation needs through the process of consignment. From its charming East Main Street location, in the borough of Carnegie, founder and owner, Rebecca Sohn, has been bringing together sellers and buyers of fine furniture and home décor.

Work With Our Experts To Design Your Own One of a Kind Custom Piece...

Short and Sweet Strong coffee calls for small cups — and spoons to stir in some sugar. An exclusive design, this espresso set is handcrafted by makers in the famous ceramics village of Bat Trang, Vietnam.

Custom Jewelry You dream it, we create it!

All Work Done on Premises

South Hills Jewelers Where Pittsburgh Gets Engaged

Since 1982

www.SouthHillsJewelers.com 5247 LIBRARY ROAD • ROUTE 88 • BETHEL PARK 412-833-1588

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MONDAY - FRIDAY 10-8 • SATURDAY 10-6

Prong Retipping $14.95 per prong

Chain Repair & Soldering $18.95 per break

(some exclusions apply)

Jewelry Insurance Appraisal (with photo) $59.95 per item

Watch Battery Replacement $6.54 (some exclusions apply)

Ring Sizing $42.95 (up 1 size) $18.95 (down) (some exclusions apply)

FREE Ear Piercing

with purchase of starter earrings only

$24.95 +tax

5824 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh Mon, Wed, Fri–Sat 10–6 Tue, Thu 10–8 Use this logo for reductions only, do not print magenta. Do not reduce this logo more than 35%. Magenta indicates the clear area, nothing should print in this space. 412-421-2160 You may reduce the logo to 30% without the tag and strap lines. Color of Wood Block Motif critical match to Pantone 1805. pittsburgh.tenthousandvillages.com Letters print Pantone Process Black.

AUTHENTIC TANG SOO DO

LEARN. EXERCISE. LIVE WELL. Serving Pittsburgh For 45 Years.

What Can You Give Yourself and Your Family For a Lifetime?

Get Started Now

$19.95 Includes Free Uniform

Special Message To Parents:

• Positive • Concentration Attitude • Responsibility • Respect • Self Control • Balance

For Adults:

at an early age. Tang Soo Do can help build the strength necessary to negate the peer pressure our young people face in today’s society. This could be a priceless gift for those you love. Give your child the gift of physical and emotional strength at C.S. Kim Karate. It would please us greatly and be our honor to guide your children in the art of Tang Soo Do. No one can teach you or your children better!

Monroeville: McMurray: 412-373-8666 724-942-3444

Bethel Park: 412-854-1616

Greentree: 412-922-7770

• Stress Relief • Physical Fitness • Patience • Self Defense

Indiana: 724-422-1479

North Huntington: Oakmont: Washington: Sarver: 724-864-2700 412-828-2130 724-504-9498 724-222-7000

412-373-8666 • www.CSKimKarate.com

White Oak: 412-678-1757

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For Students:

Professionals and Physicians agree that Tang Soo Do will help your child become the best they can be! One way to show true love towards your children is to let them possess

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an EMPIRE

SIMPLY PUT : AN EMPIRE HOW EMPIRE ROOFING’s ROMAN IWANYSHYN FOUNDED THE FASTEST GROWING HOME-IMPROVEMENT START-UP IN PITTSBURGH.

Empire Roofing & More is a one stop shop for your home construction needs. Empire Roofing & More optimizes installation, maintenance, and repairs of the highest quality, completed at affordable prices with on-time delivery, and professionalism. As Roman says, “Complete satisfaction by our clients and customers is the measure of our service. To coin a phrase with deference to NASA, “Failure to satisfy our customers is not an option.” Empire Roofing & More understands the value of high quality installation and offer best-in-class service. They are also determined to give you the best possible experience through customer-focused attention to detail, professional project management, and factorycertified technicians. This requires teamwork, not

just from within the Empire team, but from the companies they rely on to manufacture and deliver the products used to make your dream a reality. For this reason, Empire Roofing & More elects to install products from the largest names and highest quality companies on the market. From a timely response to your initial inquiry until the last piece of equipment is removed from your property you can expect a pleasant and informative experience from Empire Roofing & More. The dedication to a project on your home is paramount to this team. The desire to provide you with your dream outcomes, and dedication to make your dreams a reality makes Empire Roofing & More one of the top contractors in the area.

412-999-7135 empireroofingandmore.com TASTEPGH.COM

ROOFING, SLIDING, WINDOWS, DECKS.

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Join Us as We Celebrate 45 Years of Helping Children and Families Reception and Auction Fred Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College

Sunday, May 22, 2016, 5:30 p.m. Adelphoi Arnold Palmer Spirit of Hope Award will be presented to Adelphoi Founding Fathers Fr. Paschal Morlino, O.S.B., Jim Bendel, & Ralph Scalise

31st Annual Adelphoi Golf Classic In Honor of Nellie Briles

Laurel Valley Golf Club

Monday, May 23, 2016

For more information or to register, please call 724-804-7109 or e-mail carol.palcic@adelphoi.org, or visit www.adelphoi.org

Adelphoi Helps Troubled Youth Succeed of his success. “The Promise Program gives you so many options. They really give you a solid foundation for your future. Everything is explained clearly and they make it easy. You have to do your research and know

Randy is excited and incredibly thankful for the new turn in life Adelphoi has offered him. “I’m really thankful for all the help Adelphoi has given me, and its changed my life. Without the Promise Program especially, I probably wouldn’t have graduated high school, let alone gone to college. My whole future is different now, and I like the way it looks.”

Currently enrolled in WCCC studying Welding Engineering Technology, Randy will graduate in 2017if all goes according to plan. “The Promise Program let me dual-enroll in 12th grade and take summer classes, so I’m kind of ahead of the game,” he explained. “I really like welding and working with my hands. It’s something my whole family is into. I was looking forward to getting a job and apartment in the Greensburg area once I graduated.” Randy stressed the helpfulness of Adelphoi and the Promise Program as an integral part

what you want to do and ask the right questions, but once you do that, they help you with everything from the paperwork to answering hundreds of questions.”

Throughout Randy’s placement, he worked at Eat-n-Park, attended welding classes at Westmoreland County Community College, and earned his driver’s license. Proceeds from the Adelphoi Spirit of Hope Reception and Auction and the Golf Classic benefit the Nellie Briles Fund, which helps Adelphoi youth develop career readiness and vocational skills.

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Randy E., 18, from Freedom, Beaver County, PA, credits Adelphoi with rescuing him from a self-described “messed-up” situation in life and setting him on a better course. After experiencing issues with family members at home, he was placed at Adelphoi’s Vincent Home in April 2014. In March 2015, he transferred to Independent Living at Margaret Home and on January 30, 2016, Randy was discharged to his apartment.

In addition to a bright future, Randy is anticipating mending his relationship with those back home. “Adelphoi put a strong focus on rebuilding my relationship with my family. I plan to contact old friends who were positive people in my life, and just try to rebuild a positive life without all the old negativity from before.”

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a moment of H

aving a dream of success is the best of beginnings. As Shawn Achor said “The more you believe in your own ability to succeed the more likely it is that you will.” Local author Kathleen Shoop epitomizes just that. Knowing that she was passionate about writing and had a voice that needed to be heard she decided to take on the daunting task of becoming a writer and she was not willing give up until she was at the top of the best seller’s list. Her twenty years of experience as an educator provided her with many tools needed to accomplish this task. And accomplish it she has.

Starting out with several stories in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series she was able to let her name be seen across the literary world.

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She quickly picked up steam and had a very fast forming following. The publication of her first novel in 2011 - “The Last Letter” - was a turning point that would solidify her standing in the literary community. No matter if readers loved it or not they could not stop talking about the book and its characters.

Kathleen’s love of writing began at a very young age. Her father wrote every day while she was growing up which made a large impact. Then during a trip to California while in college she went on a multitude of adventures that she thought would make for fantastic stories. She determined that once she was finished with her dissertation she was going to add her dream of writing to her list of things to do.

The Words and Wonder of Kathleen Shoop By Amanda Allis

After her dissertation was completed and she received a PhD in Reading Education she began to write her first book, but sadly nothing was to come from that piece. Fortunately, even through the chaos and tribulations of daily life she was determined to keep writing. After some time had passed she decided to try publishing her books on her own. Within her first month of publishing “The Last Letter” she had sold over 2,000 copies. From there her popularity soared with no signs of slowing down. Over the last 5 years she has published numerous novels and collaborated on several other pieces. Kathleen specializes in the genres of historical fiction, women’s fiction and romance. Kathleen has been awarded Independent Publisher Book Awards, Eric Hoffer Book Awards, Indie Excellence Awards, Next Generation Indie Book Awards, Readers’ Favorite and the San Francisco Book Festival. Kathleen has been featured in USA Today and the Writer’s Guide to 2013. Her work has appeared in The TribuneReview, four Chicken Soup for the Soul books and Pittsburgh Parent magazine. She has managed to become an unbelievable success on top of being an amazing mother to two beautiful children and an indispensable member of the Oakmont community. (The Last Letter, The Road Home, The Kitchen Mistress (coming 2016); After the Fog, Love and Other Subjects, Home Again, Return to Love, Tending Her Heart; Novellas in a collection with 2-4 other authors: Bliss, Holiday Bliss)

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BRIDGING

A COMMUNITY By Amanda Allis

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Each town, borough and city needs a resource to which they can refer to in times of question, curiosity or need. In the small town of Oakmont, that has been the Chamber of Commerce for over a hundred years. It was started in 1905 as a Board of Trade. In 1956 the group petitioned the court to change their charter and it was officially renamed the Chamber of Commerce. Since then, the Chamber has been instrumental in not only preserving the businesses that have been here for many years, but ensuring that they continue to thrive while also cultivating the start of new businesses. They are actively involved with the community and have monthly networking events that all of their 304-members are invited to attend. Not only are you able to find amazing clothing boutiques and small town barbershops in their network, but through this booming Chamber you can also find top of the line attorneys, accountants and much more. The Chamber is also responsible for many local activities and events. One such event being Oakmont’s Hometown Christmas. Which is not only a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season, but a fantastic chance for all of the local shops and vendors.

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Summer Tissue - who has been the Director of the Oakmont Chamber of Commerce since 2009 and a member since 2007 - is the ultimate “go to” woman if you need a question answered about virtually anything in town. The fact that Oakmont is a small town (roughly 7,000 residents) allows the Chamber members to get to know each

other personally and create a feeling of loyalty to each other and their local network. This is also due largely in part to the work of the Chamber.

“WITH THE RETURN OF THE US OPEN GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP TO OAKMONT COUNTRY CLUB THIS JUNE, THE CHAMBER WILL BE VERY BUSY MAKING THEIR PRESENCE KNOWN DURING THE EVENT.” They will be helping to guide people to the best restaurants and shopping in town as well as any other needs that they may require. In advance of the event they will also field many calls asking for referrals for hotels and other local services. The Chamber’s ultimate goal is always to keep those attending the U.S. Open shopping and dining locally. And in addition, they work diligently to showcase all that. Oakmont has to offer so that visitors will wish to make a return trip to explore the town further. With its beautiful brick streets lined with decorative lampposts and loads of historical charm, Oakmont is a quintessential Rockwelian town and definitely a destination to be remembered. With a Chamber that is so invested in the town there is no way it could be forgotten.

Oakmont Chamber of Commerce 504 Allegheny River Blvd, Oakmont, PA 15139 412.828.3238 oakmont-pa.com

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the big day

picture perfect

planning

By Reese Randall/Contributing Fashion Editor

From the location, dress and bridal bling, to the flowers and cake— A Taste of Pittsburgh magazine has your glow-to-guide to planning your big day details.

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new bride knows what’s ahead of her. Planning and more planning—and her wedding day should be full of beauty and indulgence. Here, we help her with insider interviews from Pittsburgh’s who’s who of weddings, including Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, Anne Gregory for the Bride, Louis Anthony Jewelers, Madison Ave. Cakes and Allison McGeary Florist.

The Couple’s Happy Day at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. Photo courtesy Smitten Chicken.

ceremony & reception

luxelocation Patio reception. Photo courtesy of Araujo Photography.

Regal reception. Photo courtesy of Caryn Azure Photography.

The Woodlands Spa at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. Photo courtesy of Nemacolin Woodlands Resort.

Setting the Table. Photo courtesy of Caryn Azure photography.

Just married. Photo courtesy of Smitten Chicken.

resort—we can make that happen.” From start to finish of the wedding planning Domasky and Opar meet with the bride and groom to review everything from their décor preferences (through their ThemeWorks department) and desired activities to the menus for the rehearsal dinner and ceremony. “We will make sure the planning is easy for them and done well, so all they have to do is show up and have a great time,” says Domasky. A couple can make a whole wedding weekend of it. From a welcome reception or rehearsal reception on

Friday to all-day activities throughout the day on Saturday, to a farewell breakfast on Sunday, there is plenty to do, including pampering spa services for the bride and golfing or shooting for the groom. With an average of 40 total weddings planned per year at the resort, making a call to Domasky and Opar sooner than later is advised. “Most of time our weddings are planned 6-8 months in

advance and some plan a year out,” says Opar. With every wedding, the duo creates a customized aesthetic and theme for every couple. “From our accommodations to every aspect of planning, including the meal—we have a great culinary team—our ceremonies and receptions are anything but cookie cutter,” says Domasky. “At the end of the day we want our bride and groom to really enjoy their day.” —RR

For more information or to request a Nemacolin Woodlands Resort Wedding Package proposal visit www.nemacolin.com/weddings-and-social, or call 724-329-6359. Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 1001 Lafayette Dr., Farmington; 866-344-6957, nemacolin.com.

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eciding on where to hold your nuptials is one of the most important aspects of your wedding—next to picking the date, of course. Many brides opt to keep a traditional sequence of events by holding the ceremony at a church or synagogue with the reception to follow at a venue or restaurant, for example. However, the trend has also been to select a single location and hold both the ceremony and reception in one singular spot. Our region offers a bevvy of places to do just this, however one of the best and most beautiful locations to plan this dual capacity event is Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in the Laurel Highlands. Deemed a backyard oasis, as well as a destination location, Nemacolin is central to brides coming from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Washington D.C. and Virginia. “This is mostly where our brides come from and they treat it like a destination,” says Christina Domasky, Director of Social Events and Certified Wedding Designer at Nemacolin. Domasky is half of the dynamic duo that plans every wedding at the resort. Bobbi Opar also works as the Director of Social Events and Certified Wedding Designer and says, “We make the bride’s big day as stress-free and easy as possible. With both the ceremony and the reception here at the

the wedding dress Allure gown with all-over lace, featuring an embellished high neck, scalloped lace back and opening with multiple keyhole button enclosures.

bridal beauties “A huge bridal fashion trend in color right now is blush—it’s really big,” says Gregory Cherico, president of Anne Gregory for the Bride. If there is anyone who is an expert in bridal fashion it’s Cherico. The Erie native opened his first bridal salon in Boca Raton, Florida in 1978 where he exclusively carried Priscilla of Boston. In 1997, he returned to the region to open Anne Gregory for the Bride in Mt. Lebanon and named it for his mother, Anne. He moved the salon to Dormont in 2010. Over his prosperous career, trends in bridal dresses have changed.

Eugenia Couture full satin, high-low wedding dress with delicate, hand painted roses on skirt and bodice and soft gathered tulle over skirt and bodice.

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“Years ago there were always two seasons: fall and winter and spring and summer leaving a drastic difference as to what dresses looked. The fabrics were heavier for fall and winter with more lace and beading, while spring and summer showed lighter fabrics,” says Cherico. Today, many designers do one collection a year and they call it the ‘all-seasons’ and anything goes at anytime.

“For a long time now, women like to bare their shoulders, as well as show off a sexier neckline. You’re starting to see necklines with sheer illusions, bateau necklines and V-necks, which are popular, too,” says Cherico. Separate pieces with corsets and skirts are trending as well. Beyond providing the trends at his sought-after salon, the mission at Anne Gregory the Bride is putting forth the very best effort to make certain every bride that comes through its doors experiences the highest standard of service and fashion options all while embarking on the journey of finding the perfect gown. “We curate an array of dresses and provide a phenomenal service beginning with a private setting in a beautiful room where I sit and visit

Anne Barge, Blue Willow gown with beaded bodice, sleeveless Sabrina neckline with full A-line skirt of organza.

for awhile before we start trying on dresses,” The preference at Anne Gregory for the Bride is to work by appointment. From there, Cherico and his assistant, Stefany Mandarino (also the salon’s resident baker—ask for her to create something decadent and jaw-dropping for your big day) establishes a firsthand relationship with the bride and her mother. “If you are fortunate and lucky enough to still have your mother, bridal dress shopping is the perfect mother and daughter time,” says Cherico who knows about family time—his sister Marianne Sutto is the general manager. He notes that when the bride brings along an entourage of 10

Watters twopiece dress features an ivory Zuzu lace top and champagne stretch satin lining with three-quarter sleeves and skirt made of soft netting and tulle, with a sweep train.

people to dress shop, she’ll get 10 different opinions and the bride hasn’t even seen her self in the mirror, yet. “Come to us and make it a private or intimate time. Allow your entourage to see your dress on your wedding day,” says Cherico. “There are so few surprises today, let your wedding gown be the biggest surprise for your grand entrance!” —RR

2975 West Liberty Ave., Dormont 412-531-3160 annegregorybrides.com

Rosa Clará strapless fit-and-flare satin and silk organza dress with textured flare and a horsehair hem.

“Buying an engagement ring can often be a stressful experience for individuals or couples,” says Louis Guarino III, of Louis Anthony Jewelers. For more than 25 years the family owned, full service retail jewelry store has strived to provide their customers with the most relaxed and comfortable experience possible. “Once they pull up a seat at our oneof-a-kind Bridal Bar we offer them a refreshment and encourage them to browse our extensive selection of designer mountings.” They engage customers in conversation that provides insight into their style, personality and taste. “We get to know

precious stones

the wedding ring ual style and we’re especially seeing a resurgence in popularity among oval diamonds right now.” There are far more options in bands for both men and women now than there have ever been. Women are turning to the idea of stackable bands that flank the engagement ring and also look substantial when worn on their own. Guys are becoming adventurous in opting for details like black diamonds and gold accents. “When it comes to the big day brides have a plethora of options in jewelry,” explains Guarino. “Many brides opt for a classic diamond tennis bracelet as most

Platinum and diamond mounting with oval brilliant cut center diamond.

wedding gowns tend to limit necklace options and for something more unique some brides accent their hairdo with a diamond brooch.” Guarino along with his team are excited to invite each bride and groom to experience the different ways to add style and substance to the couple’s big day. —RR

our customers in a way that goes beyond knowing more than just their names.” This is crucial in ultimately helping us assist them in choosing the right ring,” explains Guarino. The team at Louis Anthony Jewelers has a warm and welcoming approach that resonates with people and is unique to the Louis Anthony experience. When asked about trends this year, Guarino says there is a much less traditional approach to bridal in 2016. “Women are more likely to branch out into fancy shaped stones in an effort to express their individ-

Platinum 1.00 cts total weight diamond eternity band (great for stacking).

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Gents polished white gold wedding band with yellow gold trim.

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the wedding cake undivided attention to each bride’s cake. With their busiest time falling between May through October, Becker describes designs and flavors brides can look forward to in the coming months. “Rustic themes and ivory is becoming more popular than white, but white is still the most requested cake flavor,” says Becker. Her most requested cake combination is white cake with raspberry filling. In the summer months, Becker makes fresh fruit and pastry cream filing mixed in with fresh fruit, such as blueberries, strawberries and blackberries. “I’ll also make a chocolate butter cream and a decadent chocolate ganache,” says Becker. “In the fall we’ll do carrot cake with cream cheese filling.” Most of the cakes created at Madison Ave. Cakes are custom designed, including handmade edible flowers and lace hand piping, to edible lace they mold and apply to the design of the cake. “Often times we’ll take silicon and create a three-dimensional mold from a piece of jewelry, such as an heirloom brooch and make an edible rendition of it, then fix it to the cake,” says Becker.

tiers of joy

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hic and sweet, the cake has it’s own special moment during the reception when guest gather around and the photographer gets a close-up of the newlyweds as they slice into the cake’s delicious layers for the first time as a couple. From one happy couple to another, Nancy and Paul Becker—owners of Madison Ave. Cakes are the dynamic duo behind the Perrysville-based bakery. They bake up every type of cake, from custom cupcakes and grooms cakes, to wedding cakes. From inception to construction, they can bake simple to extravagant showstoppers. “Paul is the baker, but I come up with a sketched concept and design,” explains Becker. She also executes the sculpting and several intricate details made separately, then applied to the cake. “I do all of the decorating, too and I love it,” says Becker, who opened the bakery in 2012 and named it for their 8-year old niece, Madison. With three parttime decorators Becker limits herself and their team to no more than two weddings per weekend to provide

Apple blossoms, roses and delicate fondant ruffles highlight an ivory and peach fondant covered cake.

Three tier buttercream cake with modern dots. Photo by Meaghan Elliot. Apple blossoms, roses and delicate fondant ruffles highlight an ivory and peach fondant covered cake.

Vintage lace and pearls complemented by fresh roses and hydrangeas.

Thai-inspired cake featuring a lotus flower motif, large sugarpeonies and hand-sculpted elephants.

“Our strongest offering is the ability to bake anything. With a 3-6 month lead time, the couple can come in for a general consultation,” explains Becker. “I’ll draw a sketch and a create a cake just for them on their big day.” —RR Madison Ave. Cakes 994 Perry Highway, Perrysville 412-364-3287 madisonavecakes.com

Two-tier design with wrapped pearl motif and large sugar peony.

the wedding flowers

floral fantasy

All photos provided by Allison McGeary Florist.

creative meeting is when McGeary outlines the general parameters of design, such as the color and feel of the wedding to confirm its theme. McGeary chose a rustic theme for her nuptials when she was married in a barn in 2004. She carried a huge bouquet of antique hydrangea. “They’re like mop heads and 16 inches wide. I would never tell one of my brides to carry it—but it was perfect for me!”

McGeary suggests using English garden roses to brides planning on marrying in the spring or summer. “They’re gorgeous—as are peonies, viburnum and sweet peas.” As for the fall and winter months, she suggests amaryllis, dahlia, antique hydrangeas and kale. “Yes, kale,” says McGeary. “Kale is a fresh surprise and it’s a fun element to mix things up with,” she says. “I just love to mix and play with flowers!” —RR

Allison McGeary Florist 3625 Butler Street, Lawrenceville 412-621-6427 allisonmcgeary.com

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lowers are a large part of both the ceremony and reception. It’s important to find a florist that can execute your floral fete no matter how big or small. Enter Allison McGeary of Allison McGeary Florist, experts at designing the perfect wedding floral aesthetic. “There is a personal taste each bride wants her signature look to be,” says McGeary, owner and creative director. McGeary meets with the client to set up the parameters of the design as she and her two main designers work together to brainstorm stunning floral combinations that will complement the bride’s preferences. “Lately, brides are mixing metallic accents with their flowers, along with a mix of candle light— from votive to mercury glass in a variety of heights and sizes,” says McGeary. With a core crew of six, a strong support team of admin and a set crew for weekends, the floral shop services roughly 40-50 weddings per year— give or take. This includes floral and event design services. “We can handle all the visuals of the wedding,” explains McGeary. “We don’t do the planning of time schedules, but we can implement details including the selection and rental of the lighting, chairs, chargers, glassware and all the visual elements to create the total environment for every wedding.” With a preferred lead time of six months, McGeary and her team have met with brides as late as a month before the big day and pulled it together. “But, six months to a year is best,” she says. As part of their service, Allison McGeary Florist includes a sample session three months prior to the wedding. “We put the setting together, from the linens and chairs to the flatware and stemware along with the floral to see how the words on paper [from the initial creative meeting] have developed into the physical form. This is when we tweak the floral and its color ratio eliminating any potential surprises,” says McGeary. During the initial

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a taste of music

The Pittsburgh Music Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Concerto Workshop Held at Wallace Memorial Presbyterian Church

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his project began in 2014 to provide intermediate and advanced students the opportunity to perform concerto literature as soloists with a professional string quartet or chamber orchestra. Almost every serious music student studies concerto, but rarely have the opportunity to experience the thrill of performing with an ensemble. We at the Pittsburgh Music Academy believe that it is an important event in a musicianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development and that is why we are committed to this workshop.

Events Pre-Twinkle Camp Saturday, May 14 at PMA from 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been thinking about adding music to your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education, our half-day camp will help both of you get a good foundation in the Suzuki method of music education. This camp was specifically designed for parents and children to do together and is a perfect way for 4 - 8 year olds to begin music lessons and to choose an instrument.

Cello Fury Junior/Senior Rock Camp 4 weeks of camp offerings between PMA East and Carnegie Locations Cello Fury Rock Camp, run by the members of Cello Fury, a rock/classical crossover group, provides young string players a musical experience beyond the traditional, classical style of playing. Each day, campers play in a rock orchestra, practice with their own rock bands, and participate in masterclasses and daily workshops.

The Greater Pittsburgh Suzuki Institute July 30th thru August 5th at Shady Side Academy This is a user-friendly institute held in a state-of-the-art high school. We offer a wide choice of instruments and daily free parent education sessions as well as help arranging child care. Our emphasis on Chamber Music is somewhat unique and allows for a great deal of personal musical growth as well as fun for all who participate. Contact Kiki Barley with questions or visit pghsuzukiinstitute.com

Chamber Music Intensive Camp

Locations The Pittsburgh Music Academy 412.429.2122 pghma.com

Carnegie 1100 Washington Avenue, Suite 111 Carnegie, PA 15106

East Church of the Redeemer 5700 Forbes Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15217

South Summerfield Commons 2589 Washington Road, Suite 415 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

The Intensive camp is a day camp. It is geared toward advanced students entering grades 7th-12th, who play the violin, viola, cello, piano and flute. Students should be prepared for a full week of hard work and personal growth as a musician. Contact Carrie Walsh Erdely with questions or visit pghma.com

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August 1st thru August 5th at Shady Side Academy

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320 Castle Shannon Blvd. Mt. Lebanon, PA 15234

412 -344-0233

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a taste of design

a family

TRADITION

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By Jeremy Wells

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“We’re small,” Morrison said. “It’s me and my installers. It’s not like you get passed off to somebody else. You get lots of personal attention. Dad taught me that from the beginning.” You might say that beginning was 40 years ago, in 1975, when he joined his father in the business. But that would, of course, ignore the numerous hours spent learning the ins and outs of the now 58 year old business during his youth. “I grew up in the business,” Morrison explains. “Whether it was summers in high school, or college break, I was always working around the business.” That heritage and experience extends to his staff and suppliers. His staff is experienced and knowledgeable craftsmen, and he feels that experience is one of the things that set them apart. One of his installers, like himself, is the second generation in this business. His father had worked for Morrison’s father when they were both young men so he, too grew up in the business. He’s also sourced his tile from the same supplier for years, he explained. If that weren’t enough, he’s also supplier of two of the oldest names in American built custom cabinetry, RUTT and Woodmode.

“Basically anything residential. Anything cabinet related,” he said. While they specialize in renovations, they can do new construction projects as well. In fact, custom designed wine racks and the construction of climate controlled wine rooms is one of the surprising services this “kitchen and bath” shop specializes in. He can offer everything from basic wine racks to testing tables, custom designed etched glass doors, and rolling ladders, and all of his wine racking systems come with a limited lifetime warranty. It’s this combination of diversity and experience that he feels keeps them in business. Most of his business actually comes from referrals, he explained, and folks he’s worked with in the past also approach him regularly about other projects. “They keep coming back,” he said. Part of that is the quality of the work and the products, but part of it is something else his dad taught him; that is taking care of the customer. Morrison doesn’t charge for a consultation the way some other folks do, and he always guarantees his work. He explained that some folks have asked him “How long is your guarantee?” “It doesn’t matter,” he said. “I’ll come back and take care of it.”

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orrison Kitchen and Bath is a family run shop. They’ve been specializing in home remodeling and cabinetry installation since 1957, when Mark Morrison’s father, Clayton, opened his doors for business.

But while he may be a traditionalist when it comes to his work ethic and business style, he isn’t stuck exclusively in the world of kitchens and bathrooms, despite the business name. Morrison can also help with the design and installation of wine cellars, libraries, home offices, living rooms and other projects.

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a taste of design

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“We’re small,” Morrison said. “It’s me and my installers. It’s not like you get passed off to somebody else. You get lots of personal attention. Dad taught me that from the beginning.”

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Morrison Kitchen & Bath 5121 Clairton Blvd., Pleasant Hills 412.884.4545 morrisonkitchens.com

Hog father’s

113 CAVASINA DR CANONSBURG, PA 1301 JEFFERSON AVE WASHINGTON, PA

3000 TOWN CENTER BLVD CANONSBURG, PA

1500 W CHESTNUT ST, #911 WASHINGTON, PA 1669 N ATHERTON ST STATE COLLEGE, PA

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www.hogfathersbbq.com

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Stan Prestogeorge Spills the Beans

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Dave - Coffee & Tea Expert

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By Billy Jenkins

Prestogeorge Coffee Roasting Company, formerly of Monroeville and Greensburg, has been a staple in the city for over sixty years. The wholesale and retail purveyor of over two hundred freshly roasted beans and over three hundred loose leaf teas credits their friendly and qualified staff with their success and overwhelming customer satisfaction. “Our specialists will take you by the hand and walk you through the process of selecting the perfect beans or leaves. They will

Sotos - Master Roaster for 20 years

even brew a cup for you just to make sure you are getting the best tasting product we can offer,” says Prestogeorge.

revolution for a better tasting cup of tea. That is where Prestogeorge believes we are now, and Prestogeorge Coffee Roasting Company is up to the task.

He notes that before the big coffeehouse chain stores swooped in, that pre-packaged cans of Maxwell House ruled the roost. Consumers were left with few options back then, settling on beans and leaves that may have sat on store shelves for months before being purchased. Once the boom hit, people wanted a better tasting cup of coffee.

When I ask about his unique last name, he tells me that when his grandfather came over from Greece, an overzealous Ellis Island immigration official renamed the family Prestogeorge. Prestogeorge and his staff however, stand ready to service the tired and thirsty, and they’ll get your name right too.

At Prestogeorge, you will walk out with freshly roasted beans every time. A fresh roast of coffee comes out of the roasters every half hour. “The biggest shift I have seen in my 35 years is that these days there is a far more educated consumer,” says Prestogeorge. The quest for a better cup of coffee then led to the

Prestogeorge Coffee & Tea 1719 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Strip District 412/471-0133 prestogeorge.com

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Stan Prestogeorge, owner and operator of the Prestogeorge Coffee Roasting Company located in the Strip District knows his way around a roaster. He comes from a long line of Master Roasters. Like his father before him, Stan has spent nearly his entire life around coffees and teas.

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1800 Main St., Canonsburg Southpointe

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3519 Butler Street, Pittsburgh

1616 Mt. Nebo Road, Sewickley 599 Dorseyville Road, Pittsburgh

1014 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh

100 Adios Drive, Washington 5980 University Blvd, Moon 1014 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh

Craft Bier

Of Bavarian Kings

Come experience freshly brewed Hofbräu Bier. 2705 South Water Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 hofbrauhauspittsburgh.com • (412) 235-7065

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Brewed the same way since 1589

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recipes

Go for the Greens Caprese Salad

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10 Fresh Cherry Tomatoes Cut in Half 3/4 lb Fresh Mozzarella Sliced into small wedges 1 bunch Fresh Basil Black Olives Salt and Pepper Extra-virgin olive oil Balsamic Glaze, for drizzling

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Mix fresh tomatoes and mozzarella into bowl. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze over top. Spread basil leaves and black olives over top.

recipes

Clubhouse Skewers 1/2 cup Teriyaki Sauce 1/2 cup Honey 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder 1/2 pinch Ground Ginger 1 Red and 1 Yellow Bell Pepper, cut into 2 inch pieces 1 Large Sweet Onion, peeled and cut into wedges 1 1/2 cups Whole Fresh Mushrooms 2 pounds Filet Mignon, cut into 1 inch cubes Cracked Pepper In large plastic bag, mix teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ginger. Place red bell peppers, onion wedges, mushrooms, filet in the bag with the marinade. Seal, and refrigerate for 24 hours.

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Preheat grill for medium-high heat. Discard marinade, and put meat and vegetables onto skewers. Lightly oil the grill. Grill skewers for 10 minutes, turning every so often, or until meat is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

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cocktails

The Hole-in-One Mint 1 3/4 ounce tradicional reposado tequila 1 ounce pineapple juice ½ ounce green chartreuse ½ ounce simple syrup ½ ounce fresh lime juice Mint Sprig

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Combine all ingredients into a shaker with ice. Shake. Strain into glass over cobbled ice. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.

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COME FOR THE FOOD. STAY FOR THE

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1200 GRANDVIEW AVE - MOUNT WASHINGTON (FORMERLY THE TIN ANGEL) 412.381.1919 VUE412.COM

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Monday: Closed Tuesday - Thursday: 4:00pm - 10:00pm Friday & Saturday: 11:00am - 12:00am Sunday: 11:00am - 9:00pm

a taste of food

Ling Wollenschlaeger

Founder and Owner, Pittsburgh Fresh By Reese Randall | Food Photography by Michael Fornataro

What is a healthy Paleo meal? A Paleo meal is a low-carb, high protein meal. Each of our Pittsburgh Fresh Paleo meals contains all fresh ingredients, including an 8-oz. serving of protein— and the rest is vegetables. We don’t use processed sugar or pre-packaged food. What’s good for us to eat in between our Pittsburgh Fresh meals? The biggest thing is to cut out processed foods, anything packaged in a box or items found in the freezer aisle. Plus, try to stay clear of sugar. Where can we find Pittsburgh Fresh? We cater Pittsburgh Fresh and prepare between 500-800 meals/week. We are growing into fitness studios and drop off our products at Naturally Soergel in Wexford. In addition to locals, we serve people who travel to Pittsburgh who still want to eat healthy. We drop off at hotels such as the Marriot City Center and The Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel. For a full list of our locations it’s best to visit our website. Our Specialty Gourmet Catering is geared toward a lot of corporate lunches, graduation parties and more traditional catering. Did you always know being a chef was what you wanted to do? No, I had no idea I would have a business like this. I grew up in China and moved here during high school. However, as a child my family wouldn’t freeze anything. Everyday my mother would go to the market to buy fresh ingredients. That experience combined with my time working in corporate America and observing my co-workers eating for convenience inspired me to start Pittsburgh Fresh. It was at this point I knew this was what I wanted to do.

What was your journey to get here? I graduated from Penn Sate in 2005 with a major in economics and a minor in international business, which led me to a corporate job. When I decided to change my career path I attended the Culinary Art Program at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh at night. When I graduated, I became a personal chef. I prepared meals for Jenn Murzyn, owner of CrossFit Athletics Pittsburgh from whom she learned the Paleo diet. From there things progressed and I opened Pittsburgh Fresh in 2013. By 2015 I added our catering company—and that’s when I quit my job. To make it even more challenging, I was pregnant the whole time I started Pittsburgh Fresh.

Ling Wollenschlaeger, founder and owner of Pittsburgh Fresh.

What’s your goal with the company? I want to teach my daughter’s, Ava and Cora to eat healthy. Not only for my family, but also for everyone. With every meal I give the option of carbs a customer can select. We put all fresh ingredients and make it ourselves in our kitchen located in Brookline.

Orange glazed salmon with grilled zucchini and steamed rice. Ava (standing) leans in to give Cora a big sister kiss. (Photo by Dusanee Weinheimer)

Share a helpful cooking tip. If you’re looking for a good replacement for dairy, coconut milk is great alternative.

Do you serve any local celebrities? Yes, we’ve served a few Steelers during their off-season. What’s a hot menu item for spring? Chicken bruschetta with spaghetti squash, diced tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Name a dish under 500 calories that has over-the-top taste? We change our menu frequently, but our turkey in vodka sauce with coconut milk and crushed tomato with basil would be a definite option.

What do you suggest for a Pittsburgh Fresh dinner party at home? Herb marinated pork tenderloin with salt, pepper and olive oil—roasted and sliced and served for the main entrée, with a side of roasted brussels sprouts with honey roasted Dijon mustard. To finish it off, I would include spaghetti squash or a baked sweet potato casserole—it’s like mashed potatoes, but healthier.

A hot bowl of turkey chili.

I love my…[fill in the blank]. Pittsburgh Fresh team! They include my chefs, as well as my packaging, marketing and office teams—they are the best!

Pork chops with broccoli and sweet potato hash.

What’s your biggest reward? When I see our customers really enjoying their meal—it makes me feel good.

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Describe Pittsburgh Fresh. We are a Paleo meal delivery service offering a convenient way to eat healthy and delicious, non-processed food. Our customers don’t need to handle meal preparation or unnecessary trips to the market, because we do it all for you.

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251 Old Mill Road, A Rare Opportunity to Acquire this Majestic and Timeless Estate. Situated on 20 Secluded acres in the Heart of Fox Chapel Borough

RARE OPPORTUNITY GRAND 20 ACRE ESTATE IN THE HEART OF FOX CHAPEL

Linda DiBucci

Coldwell Banker 4960 Route 8 Allison Park, PA 15101 412.519.5800

Linda DiBucci (412) 487-0500 ext 221

Coldwell Banker ©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services fully supports the principles of 4960theRoute 8 Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker Logo, Fair Housing Previews International, the Coldwell Banker Previews International logo and “Dedicated to Luxury Real Estate” are AllisonColdwell Park, Banker PA 15101 registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 412.519.5800

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(412) 487-0500 ext 2214960 Route 8 Linda DiBucci Coldwell Banker

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Allison Park, PA 15101 (412) 519.5800 or (412) 487.0500 ext 221

“When You Care Enough To Build With The Very Best”

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As leaders in the construction market, with unsurpassed standards, KP BUILDERS construction team will tackle any commercial, industrial or residential project with conﬁdence and diligence. The multi-layered team can take your project from inception to turn-key completion; plan it - build it - decorate it!

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a taste of luxury

LUXE LUXE

FOR LESS

FOR LESS How to build equity in your home without breaking the bank.

How to build equity in your home without breaking the bank.

Janine Hayes at Lifestyle Kitchens has been teaching homeowners how to increase their home’s equity for decades. She creates everything from custom resurfaced kitchens to personalized color profiles and home staging. These days custom kitchen refacing is taking up most of her time. As it turns out, custom refacing is one of the least-invasive ways to give your home a makeover, increase your home value, do Janine Hayes at and Lifestyle so without lengthy remodels and a large monetary investment. homeowners how to increase Lifestyle Kitchens does it better than anyone.

Kitchens has been teaching their home’s equity for decades. She creates everything from custom resurfaced kitchens to Customization is key for Lifestyle Kitchens, a division of personalized colorusesprofiles and home staging. These days parent company JWH Equity Builders, LLC. Janine the finest appointments, from the finest kitchen hardwoods, refacing to custom is taking up most of her time. As it custom cabinets designed and built with granite/quartz countertops. turns out, custom refacing is one of the least-invasive ways to Janine makes luxury affordable. give your home a makeover, increase your home value, and do As always with Janine, customer service is what keeps her so and without lengthy and a large monetary investment. clientele base coming back spreading the word.remodels “From conception to completion,Lifestyle I’m there theKitchens whole time,” does Janine it better than anyone. told Taste of Pittsburgh. And that helps the homeowner. Her personal guidance of the comprehensive options afforded to her clientsCustomization is invaluable. Her install isteams keycanfor Lifestyle Kitchens, a division of customize anything while utilizing the latest company JWH Equity Builders, LLC. Janine uses the in refacingparent innovations. The ultimate goal is to guide homeowners into the most affordable finest appointments, from the finest hardwoods, to custom designs while maximizing the opportunity to cabinets designed and built with granite/quartz countertops. build equity in their home.

Janine makes luxury affordable.

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As always with Janine, customer service is what keeps her clientele base coming back and spreading the word. “From conception to completion, I’m there the whole time,” Janine 412.335.1079 told Taste of Pittsburgh. And that helps the homeowner. Her www.lifestyle-kitchens.com personal guidance of the comprehensive options afforded to her clients is invaluable. Her install teams can customize anything while utilizing the latest in refacing innovations. The ultimate goal is to guide homeowners into the most affordable designs while maximizing the opportunity to build equity in their home.

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Ruth Scherer Flooring, llc McMurray • 724.941.7627

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“WHETHER WE’RE DESIGNING OUR CLIENTS A CUSTOM BACKSPLASH, OR WE’RE SIMPLY CARPETING THEIR LIVING ROOM, THEY CAN EXPECT THE BEST FROM US, PERIOD.”

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trends trends RIGHT RIGHTUNDER UNDERYOUR YOUR FEET FEET

RIGHT UNDER YOUR FEET

Driving through Pittsburgh these days, it’s impossible to miss construction projects popping up everywhere. Pittsburgh is seeing an increase in population for the first time inthese decades. familiesto move our neighborhoods Driving Drivingthrough throughPittsburgh Pittsburgh these days, days,As it’s it’snew impossible impossible to miss missinto construction construction projects projects and others upgrade their homes, people everywhere are walking all over Ruth Scherer… that is to say, popping poppingup upeverywhere. everywhere. Pittsburgh Pittsburghisisseeing seeingan anincrease increaseininpopulation populationfor forthe thefirst first they’re walking on her products. time timeinindecades. decades. As Asnew newfamilies familiesmove moveinto intoour ourneighborhoods neighborhoodsand andothers othersupgrade upgrade their theirhomes, homes,people peopleeverywhere everywhereare arewalking walkingall allover overRuth RuthScherer… Scherer…that thatisisto tosay, say, they’re they’rewalking walkingon onher herWe products. products. sat down with Ms. Scherer, owner of Ruth Scherer Flooring LLC in McMurray to learn a bit about what has kept her in business for more than 30 years in the South We Wesat satdown downwith withMs. Ms.Hills. Scherer, Scherer,owner ownerof ofRuth RuthScherer SchererFlooring FlooringLLC LLCininMcMurray McMurrayto to

learn learnaabit bitabout aboutwhat whathas haskept kepther herininbusiness businessfor formore morethan than30 30years yearsininthe theSouth South “Lots of reasons,” said Scherer as we sat down in her showroom last month. “For Hills. Hills. starters… Style. You can’t satisfy customers without top of the line inventory. That consistently our products. carry every major brand and we’re “Lots “Lotsof ofreasons,” reasons,”said saidmeans Scherer Scherer as aswe wesat satupdating down downininher hershowroom showroomWe last last month. month. “For “For very diverse in our product selection.” starters… starters…Style. Style.You Youcan’t can’tsatisfy satisfycustomers customerswithout withouttop topof ofthe theline lineinventory. inventory.That That

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means meansconsistently consistentlyupdating updatingour ourproducts. products.We Wecarry carryevery everymajor majorbrand brandand andwe’re we’re The showroom very verydiverse diverseininour ourproduct product selection.” selection.”backs up her story. Looking around we saw every type of flooring we could think of. Exotics , hand-scraped woods and area rugs lined the aisles. ceramics, botharound residential were displayed elegantly The Theshowroom showroombacks backsDurable up upher herstory. story.Looking Looking aroundwe weand saw sawcommercial every everytype typegrades of offlooring flooring throughout the newly expanded store. Silk, wool and synthetic carpet swatches we we could could think think of. of. Exotics Exotics , , hand-scraped hand-scraped woods woods and and area area rugs rugs lined lined the the aisles. aisles. created a maze of beautiful textures for customers to use in their dream homes. Durable Durableceramics, ceramics,both bothresidential residentialand andcommercial commercialgrades gradeswere weredisplayed displayedelegantly elegantly throughout throughout the the newly newly expanded expanded store. store. Silk, Silk, wool wool and and synthetic synthetic carpet carpet swatches swatches Ruth then reminded us, “without a skilled craftsman’s abilities and an artistic created createdaamaze mazeof ofbeautiful beautifultextures texturesfor forcustomers customersto touse useinintheir theirdream dreamhomes. homes. approach to the application, these are just materials. Which brings me to my staff. These professionals are a big part of what propels this business. Their skills have Ruth Ruth then then reminded reminded us, us, “without “without aa skilled skilled craftsman’s craftsman’s abilities abilities and and an an artistic artistic carried us for 30 years.” approach approachto tothe theapplication, application,these theseare arejust justmaterials. materials.Which Whichbrings bringsme meto tomy mystaff. staff. These Theseprofessionals professionalsare areaabig bigpart partof ofwhat whatpropels propelsthis thisbusiness. business.Their Theirskills skillshave have carried carriedus usfor for30 30years.” years.” That’s right, Ruth Scherer Flooring LLC provides top quality service no matter the size of the job. “We typically service many high-end estates in the area, but we want to work with everyone who makes up the South Hills and surrounding communities. That’s That’sright, right,Ruth RuthScherer Scherer Flooring Flooring LLC LLC provides provides top top quality quality serviceno noon matter matter the At Ruth Scherer Flooring LLC we prideservice ourselves beingthe the right flooring store size sizeof ofthe thejob. job.“We “Wetypically typically service service many many high-end high-end estates estates in in the the area, area, but but we we want want for any job.” to towork workwith witheveryone everyonewho whomakes makesup upthe theSouth SouthHills Hillsand andsurrounding surroundingcommunities. communities. At AtRuth RuthScherer SchererFlooring FlooringLLC LLCwe wepride prideourselves ourselveson onbeing beingthe theright rightflooring flooringstore store for forany anyjob.” job.”

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THE CARLTON

30 30 Years Years at at the the Top Top

For 30 years, Kevin Joyce and his For 30 years, and his dedicated teamKevin have Joyce been pleasing dedicated team have been pleasing guests at The Carlton. Conveniently guests Conveniently located atin The OneCarlton. BNY Mellon Center, located in One BNY Mellon The Carltonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daily changing Center, menu, The Carltonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s changing menu, extensive wine daily list and polished yet extensive wine list and polished yet friendly service have kept residents friendly service have kept residents and visitors returning again and again! and visitors returning again and again! The Carlton is s a proud recipient of The Carlton is s a proud recipient of the Distinguished Restaurant Award the Distinguished Restaurant Award of North America and has won the of North America andofhas won the Wine Spectator Award Excellence Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 21 straight years! Complimentary for 21 straight parking for years! dinnerComplimentary guests and parking for guests complimentary dinner limousine serviceand to complimentary limousine service to all Cultural District performances all and Cultural Consol District Energy performances Center make and Consol Energy Centerformake The Carlton an ideal choice pre The Carlton an ideal choice for pre event dining. event dining. Immaculately crafted dishes using Immaculately dishes warm using fresh seasonalcrafted ingredients, fresh seasonal ingredients, warm ambiance, timeless atmosphere and ambiance, timeless atmosphere friendly, recognizable staff helpand to friendly, recognizable staff help to keep this restaurant on the short list keep this owned restaurant on destinations! the short list of locally dining of locally owned dining destinations!

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THE CARLTON THE CARLTON One BYN Mellon Center

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One500 BYN Mellon Center Grant Street 500 Grant Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412.391.4099 412.391.4099 www.thecarltonrestaurant.com www.thecarltonrestaurant.com

Glass Act

By Reese Randall

Ten Thousand Villages works with artisans to preserve their cultural traditions, and Phoenician glass from the Hebron Glass & Ceramic Factory in Hebron, West Bank is a great example of this beautiful work. At Ten Thousand Villages supporting artisans who create stylish and unique pieces is part of its focus to feature handmade, fair trade products. “I think the Phoenician glass will be a great focus—and we have new glasses from them this month,” says Jennifer Legler, store manager at Ten Thousand Villages (TTV) in Squirrel Hill. Legler is referring to the Hebron Glass & Ceramic Factory, a family run business since the late 1800’s that produces traditional Phoenician glass pieces. Traditionally, these pieces were given as wedding gifts because of their beauty. Recycled glass is used and metallic compounds are added to create a chemical reaction. The result is the unique color and patterns specific to each piece. The process of finding the right blend is reserved for the masters of this art. In the 1940’s the cost of the compounds increased and the interest in traditional gifts dropped, making Hebron Glass one of the only producers of this technique. Fortunately, they are able to employ 100 full-time employees through their workshops. Artisans work in one of the three Hebron workshops and a few are able to work from their homes. Each of the Phoenician glass pieces is lead free and food safe. Visit Ten Thousand Villages on Forbes Avenue (between Shady Ave. and Murray Ave.) in Squirrel Hill.

Hebron Glass & Ceramic Factory artisan demonstrates glass blowing.

Phoenician Coast Glass Vase ($79)

Phoenician Blue Glass Carafe ($79)

For more information call 412.421.2160 or visit tenthousandvillages.com.

Phoenician Green Glass Carafe ($69)

Phoenician Green Wine Glass ($39)

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Holy Land Sands Candleholder ($34). Created with sand from the Holy Land, this versatile candleholder can shine bright—or be bold and used as a stemless wine glass.

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TIMELESS JEWELRY BRILLIANT CUT

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5523 Walnut St. Shadyside 412.681.8111 whitehousesalon.com

A TAILORED SUIT WINS EVERY TIME: A TAILORED SUIT Few men can wear somethingWINS right EVERY off the TIME: rack. Few men can wear Thesomething chest, the sleeves, the right off the rack. pant-legs... all ofthe these fitting The chest, sleeves, the on the garmentalland fabric of pant-legs... of these fitting your is notand likely. It’sof on choice the garment fabric your choice is measured not likely. It’s important to be important to be measured by your tailor and have them by your tailor and that haveisthem create something as create something that is as unique as you are. unique as you are.

FITTED SLEEVES: A properly fitted sleeve FITTED SLEEVES: Ashould properly fittedthe sleeve reach root of should reach Keep the root of a the thumb. about the thumb.visible Keep about a the half-inch below half-inch visible below the sleeve line of your jacket. sleeve line of your jacket.

409 Smithfield Street

409 Smithfield Street Pittsburgh Pittsburgh 412.338.2255 412.338.2255

SHIRT SHIRT STAYS: STAYS: These the little These are theare little pieces of plastic pieces of plastic that that are inserted the collar are inserted in the in collar it a straight, to give ittoagive straight, clean line. Use them, clean line. Use them, a beautiful suit can a beautiful suit can be ruined with the be ruined with theof a frumpy distraction distraction of a frumpy collar. collar.

MATCHING SHOES/ BELTS: People are starting to get MATCHINGbolder SHOES/ BELTS: with their style selections, but a to surefire People are starting get waywith to tietheir a nice suit bolder style together isbut to have shoes selections, a surefire and belts that match way to tieother a nice suit with each and go together is to have seamlessly with shoes the suit and belts that wearing. match you’re

PROPERLY TIED TIES: The Windsor, The Balthus, The Four-In-Hand... PROPERLY Whichever knot TIED TIES: you’re using, pull Windsor, itThe up firmly until it Therests Balthus, The against the Four-In-Hand... collar of the shirt. A loose tie isn’t Whichever knot youpull any you’redoing using, favors. it up firmly until it

rests against the collar of the shirt. A loose tie isn’t

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with each other and go seamlessly with the suit you’re wearing.

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34 Special Edition 36a

find us at giant eagle market district

EASY MANGO AND BASIL SORBET DE SC RI P T ION

Using just a small amount of anise flavored Thai basil in this bright sorbet adds delicious complexity. You can also substitute equal parts sweet Italian basil and mint for this specialty basil.

I NGRE D I E NT S

2 (10 ounce) packages frozen mango chunks, slightly thawed Zest and juice of 1 lime 2 tablespoons thinly sliced Thai basil leaves 1 cup unsweetened soymilk Place mango in a food processor, and pulse until broken into tiny pieces. Add lime zest and juice and basil, and purĂŠe until just combined. With the food processor running, slowly pour in soymilk until mixture becomes thick and creamy. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 30 minutes before serving. Serves 6

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M E T HOD

35 Special Edition 37a

THE S K Y

IS THE LIMIT MEET KYRK PYROS. BUSINESS OWNER, ENTREPRENEUR, AND ALL-AROUND NICE GUY OPENS UP ABOUT WORK, MOTIVATION, AND BUILDING A LEGACY.

E AN CR Y

“I was shocked when I saw the salaries they were offering. Going into business for myself was obvious,” said Kyrk from his newly-built offices in Crafton. Ever since that day he’s been busy. He turned his building job into KP Builders, Inc., a major player in the Pittsburgh construction market. He also owns and operates the George Washington Hotel in Washington PA, a building he restored, staffed, and launched as a re-imagined hotel, venue, and sanctuary for everyone from vacationing out-of-towners to brides and grooms from around the country. And if you’re already shaking your head thinking of that work load, we won’t bother telling you about how he coaches wrestling, flies planes, and owns a third company, Allegheny Crane, (…and yes, once again, they’re one of the largest and most successful outfits in the area.)

yrk Pyros wasn’t happy with the engineering jobs he qualiﬁed for. He made more money than that in a summer working construction. So, like any entrepreneur would do, he turned down the positions and went into business for himself. A scary thought to some, but to Kyrk, it was the only move to make.

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But if you ask Kyrk if he feels satisﬁed or proud of what he’s accomplished? A simple, “no,” will be his reply. If you inquire about how large his

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companies are becoming, he’ll say, “I want the best, not the biggest.” He cuts straight to the point as we talk. His answers aren’t calculated, they roll off his tongue honestly and sincerely. Even though I’m nearly two-decades his junior he stares me in the eye and calls me “sir,” when we talk. As he speaks about his employees, he talks humbly. It’s not easy getting a job working for him. The interview process- no matter the business- is lengthy and intimate. Kyrk tries to dig into the people who apply to work with him because he wants to understand them and get the best out of his workers. His employees will tell you the same thing. “Kyrk is an inspiring person,” said Kimberly Rowan, Office Manager at Kyrk’s administrative center. “He encourages each employee to be the best version of their self. He treats everyone with the utmost dignity and respect and he doesn’t believe in failure. So, if something doesn’t work the first time, he’ll just find a better way to do it.” “I’m always trying to build a team,” Kyrk told us. “I want winners around me. I hired my old wrestling coach, Dave Colley who was one of my mentors. Some of our best employees are old customers of ours too.” “In his business relationships, he calls everyone, ‘friend,’” said Colley. “I really respect him. He considers himself a warrior in the pursuit of trying to service people. He’s a kid at heart which makes him fresh every day. He wants exciting ways to make money. He works to please people and to make sure people have a good income. He’s very generous, he’s always trying to give people things, send people on trips, whatever it is… he gives, gives, gives.” Walking through their office, one can’t help but notice the workers are brimming with positivity. The walls of the building are adorned with inspirational quotes from the likes of Henry Ford and other business moguls that employees have hand-picked to stay inspired. Inspiration was the main message Kyrk had for us when we asked him if he had any advice for our readers. His reply: “Every day, right off the bat you need a win. If you have too much to do for a day, get a win first. The phone call you have to make, or maybe it’s going to the gym. Pull something positive out of that first task and move on from there.” Kyrk went on to emphasize the importance of a positive attitude. Without which, he claims building a strong business can be hard to do.

The George Washington

Lifting You to New Heights

When You Care Enough to Build With the Very Best

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“You have to be an optimist,” he reminded us. “Be a team player. I don’t ask anyone to do anything that I can’t or won’t do on a daily basis. Nobody works for me, they all work with me. That’s a major key to running a successful company.”

37 Special Edition 39a

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DR. JEFFREY ANTIMARINO Special Edition 38 40a

> THE LOOK YOU ALWAYS WANTED

Shadyside

Monroeville

5301 Fifth Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15232

4225 Northern Pike Monroeville, PA 15146

Your partner in defining you.TM

844.496.6647 www.BellissimoPlasticSurgery.com

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Bellissimo Plastic Surgery provides a full spectrum of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures including injectables and Medi Spa services. Dr. Antimarino and his staff maintain a commitment to provide state of the art surgical and nonsurgical techniques with a warm and caring atmosphere.

39 Special Edition 41a

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a touch of the tropics JUST ARRIVED!

Where Breakfast Begins.

From around the world. With hues and hints of the rainforest, new jewelry, scarves and bags are ready for all your summer destinations — backyard jungle to exotic escape. Art Studio Necklace INDIA

Moving two doors down July 1. Same store, just bigger!

Letters print Pantone Process Black.

25% OFF one item

with this coupo n 1002372

Offer valid at participating stores until 6/30/2016. Not valid with other discounts, or on the purchase of gift cards, Oriental rugs, Traveler’s Finds or consumables. One coupon per customer per day.

20-176 Taste of Pittsburgh Summer Ad Ten Thousand Villages Pittsburgh 2.325” x 9.775” 4C © Ten Thousand Villages Permission to use this resource as it appears. Any alterations or use of graphic elements apart from this design must be approved by the Ten Thousand Villages Marketing Department, (717) 859-8170.

VISI T US ONLINE AT EATATBOB SDINER.C OM Castle Shannon 1230 Grove Rd Pittsburgh, PA 15234 412. 882. 7400

South Hills 1870 Painters Run Road Pittsburgh, PA 15241 412.221.7474

Kennedy Township 1815 McKees Rocks Road McKees Rocks, PA 15136 412.771.7400

Carnegie 211 Mansfield Blvd. Carnegie, PA 15106 412.429.7400

Donut Shop Kenmawr Plaza McKees Rocks, PA 15136 412.331.7400

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5824 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh Mon, Wed, Fri–Sat 10–6 Tue, Thu 10–8 Use this logo for reductions only, do not print magenta. Do not reduce this logo 412-421-2160 more than 35%. Magenta indicates the clear area, nothing should print in this space. You may reduce the logo to 30% without the tag and strap lines. pittsburgh.tenthousandvillages.com Color of Wood Block Motif critical match to Pantone 1805.

41 Special Edition 43a

a taste of royalty

Pittsburgh Serbian Prince, Dr. Bora Janicijevic

Belarus Princess, Iryna Zhurak By Milano Karlo Blzic

I TASTEPGH.COM

f there were a Serbian King living in Pittsburgh, his address would have to be on Blairmont, in Upper St. Clair. That’s what I concluded coming home from my third Janicijevic wedding, each one so very special, but this one a night befitting the “Crown Prince,” Dr. Bora!

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As I recalled fairy tale stories from my former career as an elementary school librarian at Edgeworth Elementary School in Sewickley’s Quaker Valley School District, I couldn’t help but notice the similarities of how the wise, generous, kind, loving, and very fair rulers of the kingdom (this time in the real form of Drs. Nenad and Milena Janicijevic) were always richly rewarded for their good deeds.

The first blessing started off with one of the most gorgeous summer days, according to radio and TV announcers. That was good news to all the attendees who knew they would be guests at an outdoor wedding reception later in the day, and certainly a relief for the Janicijevic/Zhurak families from the fear of heavy lightening and rain witnessed only a few days earlier. As I backed my car out from my garage into the street, I again heard on my car radio, “A perfect day in Pittsburgh!” I couldn’t help but pause then bless myself, and I heard a not-so-silent mumble coming from my lips, “and they so deserved it, thank you Lord!” I left my home early, after warnings about the construction along so many routes leading to Pittsburgh’s Holy Trinity Cathedral. Even though I was quite early, I was surprised to see that the wedding party had already arrived, as they too, had been fearful of the same traffic conditions, besides knowing that another wedding was also scheduled for the same day. V.Rev. Fr. Rajko Kosic had been needlessly concerned about everything being on time.

On my way into the church, I passed the most beautiful blonde bride, like a model, “Princess” Iryna Zhurak of Mr. Konstantin and Doctor Valentina Zhurak from the Republic of the Belarus, who looked stunning in her svelte white satin gown. Iryna, who studied at the Uni¬versity of Pittsburgh after earning her Master’s Degree from Belarus, has been a software engineer working at Google in Pittsburgh since 2011. I was warmly welcomed by Drs. Nenad and Milena, and young Dr. Bora and his Kum, Dr. Borislav Janicijevic from Canada. Quickly I found my eyes fixated on the beautiful aisle ahead, decorated with long white toile and flowing white ribbons on the rosettes. The white looked so pristine picturesque, with all the colorful icon saints smiling down from above.

It wasn’t too long before we saw the hands of the wedding couple tied as one, and heard V. Rev. Frs. Dragan Filipovic and Rajko Kosic chanting, “O Lord our God, crown them with glory and honor,” and declare Bora

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To the angelic choir singing of “Dostonjo Jest,” the bride was escorted down the aisle by her mother, Dr. Valentine Zhurak. Iryna’s father, sadly, was unable to make the long journey.

43 Special Edition 45a

a taste of royalty

and Iryna “King and Queen of their own household, their dominion, their family.” And after hearing the Gospel lesson about Christ’s miracle at the wedding feast in Cana, they drank from the common cup three times, symbolizing that from that moment on they would share equality from the same cup of life.

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Throughout the wedding ceremony, the Holy Trinity Choir sang heavenly under the capable direction of Bob Topich, but especially so as the bound and crowned couple followed the priests around the sacramental alter table three times, taking their first walk together as husband and wife, following in the footsteps of Christ, “Isaije Likuj…” and of course, my favorite part of “Slava Tebi Hriste Boze,” for the third and final, eternity-ringed-journey around. It’s such a highlight of the ceremony! The bride and groom were followed by their loving witnesses bearing candles, and before you knew it, the choir sang “Mnogaja Ljeta” and Fr. Rajko allowed the newlyweds their special kiss to the boundless joy of all. Energized kolo dancing followed not only on the

44 Special Edition 46a

church steps afterwards, but long into the night at the Janicijevic home, where such an air of gaiety and joy prevailed. Nothing was left wonting to any guest. The back yard had been transfigured yet again for this wedding, now with an additional huge, stone-stepped, white-tented courtyard above to complement the lower tented area below. Guests mingled at first on the lower area that besides the huge tent, also featured a newly cement-circled area, with a copper-toned, white lights and ribbons decorated pagoda in the green shrubbery and flower filled garden. We gaily listened to the Master of Ceremonies, Steve Capuzzi, and his fine band of merry-makers, while we imbibed in cocktails and refreshments and wonderfully rich, imaginative hors d’oeurves throughout the afternoon. Many of the Janicijevic’s long-time friends from Pittsburgh’s American Serbian Club and their own Medi-Help medical practice staff were outstanding in aiding and helping out, doing their best to make the whole event special. Special mention must be made here of Baby Jake, grandson of Drs. Nenad and Milena, who stole the hearts of all present, not only in church, but throughout the day and evening for being such a great baby. Up to the upper level we traveled for a fine dinner in the enormous white tent with so many white lights, white tablecloths, and incredible white-flowered centerpieces at each table. Afterward there were wonderful speeches by the bridal party and then Dr. Nenad told of the pride and joy he and Dr. Milena felt in seeing all three of their children doing so well in their respective careers and married off to such wonderful spouses. Dr. Nenad wished Bora and Iryna every joy and happiness like he and Milena shared, especially their long-standing “best friends” status. Everyone cheered afterwards, as they had done when Kum Borislav toasted the cou-

ple, when Iryna’s cousin Natalia Antropova shared childhood reminisces, and when Valentina Zhurak, the bride’s mother, and Tatyanna Shutova, the bride’s grandmother, spoke from their hearts via their interpreter, Iryna’s aunt, Olga Antropova-Allds. Both visitors from Belarus gave loving blessings and spoke of how proud they were in Iryna’s many mathematical and engineering accomplishments and her wise choice for a husband. No glass slippers were lost at the all night dancing that I know of, but then, I left before midnight. I had been ready to go about 9:30 PM after saying all my ‘thank yous’ and ‘goodbyes,’ but just then Stevie and

his orchestra started playing “Ajde Jano” and I dropped my purse for just one more kolo, one more circle of love dance! What was the Disney-like magic? (A mixture of the slivovitzmixed, ginger ale and toasting champagne perhaps?) I don’t know, but the euphoric feeling lasted all the way home. All night long I smiled to myself, reviewing over and over in my mind the happy joy filled day.

May they live happily ever after! “Ziveli, Svatovi!”

Dr. Bora Janicijevic carries on the legacy of his parents at Medi-Help” 1691 Washington Road Mount Lebanon PA 15228 (412) 835-6900

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I had to share it with you and our American Srbobran readers, who know of the many good deeds of the Janicijevic family over the years because I knew you, too would be happy to learn that young Dr. Bora found a perfect bride in his Iryna!

45 Special Edition 47a

an EMPIRE TASTEPGH.COM

ROOFING, SIDING, WINDOWS, DECKS.

46 Special Edition 48a

HOW EMPIRE ROOFINGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ROMAN IWANYSHYN FOUNDED THE FASTEST GROWING HOME-IMPROVEMENT START-UP IN PITTSBURGH.

412-999-7135 empireroofingandmore.com TASTEPGH.COM

mpire Roofing & More is a one stop shop for your home construction needs. Empire Roofing & More optimizes installation, maintenance, and repairs of the highest quality, completed at affordable prices with on-time delivery, and professionalism. As Roman says, “Complete satisfaction by our clients and customers is the measure of our service. To coin phrase with reference to NASA, “Failure to satisfy our customers is not an option.” Empire Roofing & More understands the value of high quality installation and offer best-in-class service. They are also determined to give you the best possible experience

through customer-focused attention to detail, professional project management, and factory certified technicians. this requires teamwork, not just from within the Empire team, but from the companies they rely on to manufacture and deliver the products used to make your dreams reality. For this reason, Empire Roofing & More elects to install products from the largest names and highest quality companies on the market. From a timely response to your initial inquiry until the last piece of equipment is removed from your property you can expect a pleasant and informative experience from Empire Roofing & More. The dedication to a project on your home is paramount to this team. The desire to provide you with your dream outcomes, and dedication to make your dreams a reality makes Empire Roofing & More one of the top contractors in the area.

47 Special Edition 49a

Visit PittsburghFresh.com

Grilled Lamb Chops

Caprese Salad

Mango Chai Pudding

Caprese Salad

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+ Ripe colorful cherry tomatoes

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+ Fresh mozzarella cheese (Pearl)

+ Fresh basil leaves

+ Coarsely ground fresh black pepper

+ Extra-virgin olive oil

+ Coarse sea salt

Grilled Lamb Chops

+ Fresh thyme leaves

+ Garlic cloves, crushed

+ Fresh rosemary leaves

+ Extra-virgin olive oil

+ Coarse sea salt

+ Lamb chops

Mango Chia Pudding

+ Unsweetened almond milk

+ Sweetened shredded coconut

+ Chia seeds

+ Fresh ripe mango

+ Honey

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+ Coconut milk

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The facility includes 135 guest rooms spread out between the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s six floors, featuring many pieces of locally made graphic design and printing around the premises.

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Photography Courtesy of Roy Engelbrecht

a taste of comfort

By Gregg Harrington Hotel Indigo has been growing its brand of boutique hotel experiences since 2004, including the company’s East Liberty location. A stay at Hotel Indigo is unique and memorable, with many amenities and features inspired by a plethora of different design elements.

The facility includes 135 guest rooms spread out between the hotel’s six floors, featuring many pieces of locally made graphic design and printing around the premises. Pets and service animals are allowed for a $25 nonrefundable deposit. Housekeeping will not be a bother for a pet staying in the hotel – duties will only be performed when a pet is not in the room. Among other amenities offered are valet parking, with unlimited in and out privileges, a free hotel shuttle within a three-mile radius of the premises, and a 24-hour fitness center for guests. The meeting spaces are a big attraction for Hotel Indigo as well, with flexible space for any size meeting, reunion, reception, or any other get-together for up to 100 people. Disabled accessibility is a priority for the hotel, offering 10 accessible rooms with plenty of disabled accessible parking available to any guests who would require it.

The hotel also houses Wallace’s Taproom, a prohibition-era themed bar and restaurant headed by executive chef Jose Rodriguez. Rodriguez is no stranger to the hotel business, as his father worked as a hotel general manager in the Dominican Republic. Rodriguez’s talents have taken him all over the world – and earned him many dignified culinary awards and scholarships - which eventually led to his finding employment in the kitchen of Mansions On Fifth. From there, further honing his craft, Rodriguez was extended an invitation to join the Hotel Indigo family and has been hard at work at Wallace’s Taproom ever since. As the food and beverage director of the Hotel Indigo, Rodriguez carefully crafts every dish served to customers, even down to the growing and planting routines used by the local farms sourced for Wallace’s Taproom. The products used from around the city exudes the seasons, flavors and distinction of the Pittsburgh region, making an experience here much more than just a meal. Foods for all palates are offered, from the lunch and dinner selections such as steak, hand-held meals, and salads to the breakfast menus featuring the restaurant’s own signature breakfast plate. Local companies such as Zeke’s Coffee, Mediterra Bakehouse, Thoma’s Meat Market, Turner Dairy Farms, Emerald Valley Artisans and Red Ribbon Soda are sourced to make every aspect of the restaurant’s menu a true Pittsburgh experience. Wallace’s Taproom also boasts a fun smattering of events such as Live Music Thursdays, American Ballparks and Brews, and Woof, Purr and Hoppy Hour, which gives guests an opportunity to socialize their four-legged friends. With a plethora of glowing reviews from individuals, couples and families who have stayed at the Hotel Indigo, it is no secret that the hard work of the team within comes through the unique experience of a stay at the hotel.

123 N Highland Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 | 412.665.0555 | www.indigopittsburgh.com

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The Pittsburgh location of Hotel Indigo – sitting tall at 123 North Highland Avenue in East Liberty – is a beautifully restored boutique hotel in the heart of the historic local neighborhood, full of decor and design touches that showcase the entertainment and philanthropic history of Pittsburgh. Hotel Indigo’s company mission seeks to blend the experience of a boutique, one of a kind hotel with the global availability of a reliable hotel chain. Each room feature plush bedding, spa-inspired showers, ergonomically designed desk chairs and complementary WiFi; handy for guests who are hard at work or those who are looking for just the right attraction to spend some time. The casual yet sophisticated restaurant and lounge has a large array of offerings and include local cuisine with the backdrop of East Liberty’s unique characteristics in view. The hotel is conveniently located near such destinations as the Carnegie museums, Phipps Conservatory, Heinz Chapel, St. Paul’s Cathedral, East Liberty Presbyterian Church, Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh.

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a taste of a design

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a taste of a legacy

Family. Faith. Philanthropy. From Henneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s origins on Penn Circle in East Liberty, to Filbert Street, to its current 3500 square foot store in the heart of Shadyside on Walnut Street, the business has a legacy of longevity, a trusted Pittsburgh name for 129 years.

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By Hilary Daninhirsch

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“The business continued to evolve—because of the wealth in the area, it developed into a fine jewelry store.” In 1899, Henne’s grandfather, Rudolph Gerard, was born, and the family continued to live above the store. Family lore tells how R.J. donated to the Little Sisters of the Poor, even when he did not have enough money to pay the bills, but he still managed to keep the business afloat during the Depression.

From Henne’s origins on Penn Circle in East Liberty, to Filbert Street, to its current 3500 square foot store in the heart of Shadyside on Walnut Street, the business has a legacy of longevity, a trusted Pittsburgh name for 129 years. Owner John Henne is a fourth-generation jeweler. Henne’s great-grandfather, Rudolph Joseph, apprenticed as a watchmaker and learned how to regulate railroad pocket watches. “In 1887, he put $5.00 down to purchase a building in East Liberty,” said Henne. R.J. Henne repaired watches as well as eyeglasses, as he was also a trained optometrist.

“Henne Jewelers remained in its original location for 91 years, until 1978, after which time Henne’s father, who by then had taken over the business and still occasionally works alongside his son, made the decision to move to Filbert Street in Shadyside. A move to the current Walnut Street location was completed in 2003.”

Today, Henne Jewelers offers not only a wide selection of fashion, fine, luxury and custom jewelry but they also have a watchmaker on the premises, several goldsmiths who do custom design, and they offer both repair work and appraisals. More than 1/3 of their business is concentrated in wedding and engagement rings, a facet of the business that Henne sought to expand when he came on board in 1992. But working in the family business was not the path Henne originally followed. Though he worked in the store when he was just 12, doing everything from cleaning toilets to working the bow machine, he pursued accounting for three years after college. Though his father did not pressure him to join the family business, Henne ultimately decided that that is where he belonged, join-

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Those are the building blocks that have given Henne Jewelers in Shadyside a firm foundation in the jewelry business, making it a destination shopping experience for loyal customers from all over Pittsburgh and well beyond.

Henne Jewelers remained in its original location for 91 years, until 1978, after which time Henne’s father, who by then had taken over the business and still occasionally works alongside his son, made the decision to move to Filbert Street in Shadyside. A move to the current Walnut Street location was completed in 2003.

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a taste of a legacy

ing two sisters and working alongside his father, which he calls “…my own form of business school.” Now, three of his four sons, Jack, 15, Luke, 12, and Mark, 10, can often be found helping out on the floor or behind the counter, potentially laying the groundwork for a fifth-generation of jewelers. Although Henne never met his great-grandfather, family stories passed down through the generations gave him an insight into the kind of man he was, a man whose values inspired Henne’s own business credo. “He really was service-oriented and very much invested in giving back to the community,” said Henne.

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“Giving back and philanthropy has been a big part of the heritage that has been passed down; it is part of our core values. We believe we’ve been blessed, and our faith tells us we are to give back to those less fortunate than us,” he said. Many of the charities Henne Jeweler’s support revolve around the family’s Christian faith as well as organizations that support the poor. In addition, because the

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community has supported Henne’s for well over a century, they choose to support the community right back. “We give to those organizations that are near and dear to our customers’ hearts—if a customer approaches us, we certainly try and participate to the extent that we can,” said Henne. Taking care of their employees is also paramount to the business model; some of the 23 employees have been with Henne’s for 40 years. In 1920, Henne’s great-grandfather gifted a pocket watch to his son for his 21st birthday. Today, Henne keeps his grandfather’s pocket watch on his desk, regularly pulling out and winding it. “It is a tangible piece of him. It helps to remind me of his character and the legacy he passed on.” “People won’t care about sales but your character, who you were, how you gave back to customers, to employees,” he continued. “That is the legacy I am proud to have been taught by my predecessors; I hope I live up to what they have taught me.”

“Taking care of their employees is also paramount to the business model; some of the 23 employees have been with Henne’s for 40 years.”

Liven up your bath with the best and the brightest faucets, fixtures, tile, hardware and accessories.

Cranberry Twp. 1237 Freedom Road 724.772.1060

splashshowrooms.com

Glenshaw 1400 William Flynn Hwy. 412.486.2700 • Murrysville 4807 William Penn Hwy. 724.733.2600 Splash is a division of Nicklas Supply, Inc. • Serving greater Pittsburgh since 1956

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Clean, fresh and fun to wake up to!

recipes

WATERMELON AGUA FRESCA

Description

TASTEPGH.COM TE OF PITTSBURGH | Spring 2015

This light, refreshing drink popularized in Mexico, is a terrific thirst quencher on a hot summer day. The trick to making agua fresca (Spanish for â&#x20AC;&#x153;fresh waterâ&#x20AC;?) is to infuse the water with fruit essence without turning it into a smoothie or a slushy drink. Serves 6

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Ingredients

6 pounds seedless watermelon, cut into 2-inch pieces 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey Ice cubes for serving

Method

In a blender, combine half of the watermelon and 1 cup cold water and blend until smooth. Pour through a strainer into a pitcher; discard solids. Repeat with remaining watermelon and 1 cup cold water. You should have about 8 cups juice. Stir in lime juice and agave and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve well-chilled over ice.

recipes

GRILLED SALSA DRUMSTICKS

Perfect for a picnic or back-porch supper, let family and friends reach for a platter of these drumsticks marinated in salsa and orange juice that can be served hot, room temperature or cold.

TE OF PITTSBURGH | Spring 2015

Serves 4

Ingredients

8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 lbs) 1/2 (16-ounce) jar 365 Everyday Value Organic Salsa 1/3 cup 365 Everyday Value Organic Orange Juice 1 tablespoon expeller-pressed canola oil 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

Method

In a large bowl, toss together all ingredients; cover and chill 8 hours or overnight. Preheat grill to medium heat. Grill chicken, turning frequently, until cooked through and deep golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.

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Description

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Fox Chapel Marine Expands.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re gonna need a bigger boat.

loating on the Allegheny River watching the ﬁreworks after a Pirates game... I can’t think of anything more relaxing. Boating culture is alive and well in Pittsburgh... With our three rivers come many boating outlets, marinas, and slips to house a wide-variety of vessels. We caught up with Fox Chapel Marine to hear about their rich boating history, as well as the expansion of their operation to the South Side Marina. As the Fox Chapel Marina has become more popular, a plan of expansion has taken shape. The South Side Marina will see the crew at Fox Chapel Marine manning another expedition, this time on the Monongahela River. Located near the bustling SouthSide Works section of the Monongahela, the new Marina will offer boaters access to a currently untapped section of the river as well as the shopping and leisure of the SouthSide Works.

1366 Old Freeport Rd. Pittsburgh | 412.967.1500 www.FoxChapelMarine.com

TASTEPGH.COM

As you approach the Fox Chapel Marine, it becomes apparent that there’s a lot more going on here than just boating. For many in the Pittsburgh boating community, The Marina is a destination. The Marina is not simply a place to store their boats. The place is brimming with amenities: a day spa, wellness center, private pool, and a restaurant are all located on the campus. The Marina is more like a small resort than a storage facility.

the

New Face

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of Nemacolin

After More Than $30 Million in Improvements, The Resort that put Farmington on the Map is Sweeter Than Ever.

Carat Cake.

Trade in your old stones and get market value towards the rocks you deserve.

Frost &Co Diamonds

Clark Building, Suite 212 | 412.471.2234 www.frostdiamonds.com

giovanni's PIZZA AND PASTA

Voted #3

in the Nation at the North American Pizza & Ice Cream Show!

HAIR 路 NAILS 路 SUGARING 路 WAXING 路 FACIAL

Krebs Center, Suite 570, 3515 Washington Rd McMurray, PA 15317 724.941.2550

Dennis Hurwitz, M.D. Castle Connelly Guide to Medical Specialists: 2002-2016 Best Doctors in America: 2002-2016 Pitt Plastic Surgery Faculty Award Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery Past President: Allegheny County Medical Society Ohio Valley Society of Plastic Surgeons Pennsylvania Society of Plastic Surgeons 172 Scientific Publications Fellow: American Board Plastic Surgery Author: Comprehensive Body Contouring, 2016. Springer.com Specializes in Facelift, Rhinoplasty, Breast & Buttock Augmentation & VASERlipo Director: Hurwitz Center for Plastic Surgery with Certified Operating Room

3109 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh HurwitzCenter.com 412.802.6100

SERVING HOMES OF

DISTINCTION FOR NEARLY A DECADE

Rebecca J Sohn

323 EAST MAIN STREET CARNEGIE | 412.276.6699 BLACKLAMBCONSIGNMENTS.COM

BLACK LAMB CONSIGNMENTS OWNER CARRIES ONLY THE FINEST FURNITURE AND QUALITY GOODS THAT LAST A LIFETIME

10% OFF One Hour HydraFacial MD Detoxify Rejuvenate Protect

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* Botox & Dermal Fillers

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(724) 935-5288 1025 Wexford Plaza Drive Wexford, PA 15090

www.aboveallsalon.com

Craft Dough. Our dough is made fresh daily and is never used until our aging process is complete. This guarantees a flavorful crisp crust that is the backbone of any great pizza. When you combine our crust with homemade sauce, quality cheeses and house roasted meats and vegetables, you will smell and taste the difference whether you dine-in, take-out, or take-n-bake.

TIMELESS JEWELRY A FULL LINE OF LUXURY

SHOP MOCKANDCO.COM

WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE-HAIR SALON-SKIN SPA AND CUSTOM MEN’S WEAR Anna, Shelly, Amanda & Diane would like to Welcome new associates Terri Bell, Licensed Esthetician and certified Alexandria Professional Sugaring Practitioner Pasquale Calabro, Custom Fitter of Men’s Suits, Jackets, Pants & Shirts BOTOX · JUVEDERM · PHOTO FACIALS · LASER HAIR REMOVAL · PRECISION HAIR CUTS · CORRECTIVE COLOR HAIR CARE PRODUCTS · AIRBRUSH MAKE-UP · AND NOW BODY SUGARING AND PARAMEDICAL SKIN TREATMENTS

McDowell Shops 4067 Washington Rd., McMurray

724.969.6943

Medical Director, Mark Hilborn MD 724.288.8704

opalrosespatique.com

724.678.4145 724.222.5522 ASK FOR DIANE OR DAN FOR MORE INFORMATION TURN TO PAGE 42a