WHIRL Magazine: January/February 2018

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NEW YEAR! NEW YOU!

The start of the new year is the ideal time to commit to a healthier you. We asked UPMC Health Plan’s awardwinning health coaches for their advice on putting your best foot forward in 2018. VANESSA WEIR — It’s a new year. Don’t dwell on past failures—be present—and focus on what you can do today!

JENNA VALENZA — Be kind to yourself; imagine how you would support your best friend in his or her health and wellness goals.

RENEE GREENWALD — Start a gratitude journal. Write down one thing per day that you are thankful for, even if it seems like the smallest thing. COREY MUSICO — To increase motivation, reframe your thoughts: “I GET to work out today vs. I HAVE to work out today.” It’s a privilege to be healthy enough to exercise. HILLARY STANDIFORD — When it comes to weight loss, I always say the longer it takes to lose it, the more likely it is to stay off. Stay dedicated and be patient.

LILLY HUTCHINGS — Don’t be afraid to try! The most wonderful successes happen when we get out of our comfort zone. Although we may be faced with barriers, we find our true strength and dedication to our wellness goals when we make ourselves and our health a priority. KIM HARGREAVES — Be proactive rather than reactive. Plan ahead as much as possible when it comes to diet and exercise.

www.upmchealthplan.com

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Choosing UPMC Health Plan means choosing the best doctors, hospitals, and customer service.

When it comes to you and your family, nothing should prevent you from an outstanding health care experience. So when your employer gives you a choice this year, choose UPMC Health Plan. We combine award-winning customer service with in-network access to the world-renowned doctors and hospitals of UPMC. With a combination as good as this, you can’t go wrong.

Find out why more and more people are choosing UPMC Health Plan for the best doctors, hospitals, and customer service. UPMCHealthPlan.com/choose

UPMCHealthPlan.com/choose

*UPMC Health Plan received the highest numerical score among commercial health plans in Pennsylvania in the J.D. Power 2016-2017 U.S. Member Health Plan Studies. 2017 Study based on 33,624 total responses from 8 commercial health plans in Pennsylvania measuring experiences and perceptions of members surveyed January 2017 - March 2017. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. 2017 Best Doctors listing, Best Doctors, Inc. Go to upmchealthplan.com/BEST Nondiscrimination statement UPMC Health Plan1 complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. 1 UPMC Health Plan is the marketing name used to refer to the following companies, which are licensed to issue individual and group health insurance products or which provide third party administration services for group health plans: UPMC Health Network Inc., UPMC Health Options Inc., UPMC Health Coverage Inc., UPMC Health Plan Inc., UPMC Health Benefits Inc., UPMC for You Inc., and/or UPMC Benefit Management Services Inc.

Translation Services ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-855-489-3494 (TTY: 1-800-361-2629). 㲐シ烉⤪㝄ぐἧ䓐䷩橼ᷕ㔯炻ぐ⎗ẍ⃵屣䌚⼿婆妨㎜≑㚵⊁ˤ婳农暣ġ1-855-489-3494炷TTY烉1-800-361-2629炸ˤ

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Follow Riley and Buddy as their two-leggers discover the Fragasso client experience! To watch all six videos in the series please visit www.fragassoadvisors.com or our YouTube page at http://bit.ly/FFAvideo.

@FragassoAdvisors @FragassoAdvisor Fragasso Financial Advisors Fragasso Financial Advisors

We guide. For life. 412.227.3200 | FRAGASSOADVISORS.COM

Investment advice offered through Fragasso Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor. BP-030895 LPL# 1-683877

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TABLE OF

/ CONTENTS

ON THE COVER

32

LOUIS PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHAEL FORNATARO

FEATURES 32 RESCUE TAKES ON A NEW URGENCY See why rescuing dogs is more important now than ever before.

42 WHIRL MAGAZINE’S 2018 AUTO PREVIEW Local dealerships show us the cars you’ll want to drive in 2018!

46 WHIRL MAGAZINE’S 2018 HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE Spend this season focusing on self-care with specials and workshops at studios and spas in your neighborhood.

54 WHIRL MAGAZINE’S 2018 SEMI-ANNUAL EVENT GUIDE We’ve compiled over 200 events to keep you busy through August. While you’re at these amazing events, keep an eye out for our picks for Pittsburgh’s most stylish individuals!

72 INSIDE THE DESIGNS OF ALISHA GWEN Interior designer Alisha Gwen shares her décor inspirations and opens up her Shadyside studio to us.

“To think that kids are watching dog fights and or are participating in them is tragic. What chance does that child have to be a productive member of society when their foundation has been full of horrific cruelty and violence? We HAVE to get to the kids. They are our only hope to stop the cycle.” — Mary Kennedy Withrow, Executive Director, PAART, Pittsburgh Aviation Animal Rescue Team Turn to page 32 to see how you can help rescue dogs!

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PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHAEL FORNATARO

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TABLE OF

/ CONTENTS

IN EVERY ISSUE 12

PUBLISHERS’ PAGE

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HAPPENINGS

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POWERFUL WOMEN OF THE WORLD

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FOOD 26

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FOOD TOUR A PITTSBURGH PIEROGI PARADISE

Celebrating true love is always a crowd pleaser.

See how Stuff’d has turned a hometown delicacy into a full-fledged dining experience.

FINANCE REPORT SPONSORED BY

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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WHIRL ESTATE

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WHIRL WEDDINGS

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WHIRL DIRECTORY

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ONE LAST WHIRL

29 Explore the taste of Lucca, Italy, at Girasole this month!

EVENTS 30

ACHIEVA AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

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ZACHARY’S MISSION’S SHARING HEART GALA

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SYMPHONY SPLENDOR HOLIDAY HOME TOUR’S PATRON PARTY

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THE TWENTY FIVE CLUB’S HOLIDAY A-FLAIR

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Yinz like pierogies n’at? Try these unique flavors at Stuff’d Pierogi Bar!

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PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE HAPPY BLOOM, GIRASOLE, BY MICHAEL FORNATARO

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Offering truly exclusive residences... New Construction Kim Maier 724-776-3686 x241

Melissa Shipley 412-854-7200 x231

New Construction Kim Maier 724-776-3686 x241

Chuck Swidzinski 724-283-0005 x206

Adams Twp. $700,000+

Fox Chapel $619,900

Luxury Paired Villas with maintenance free living and first floor owners’ suites. Only a few homesites remain! Exclusive community in Mars with low Butler County taxes. Directions: I-79, Exit 78, Rt. 228 East towards Mars High School, Left Three Degree, Chatham Court on Left.

Updated 4BR, 3.5BA home tucked away with plenty of privacy. Large, bright rooms. Fully equipped kitchen with breakfast bar and eat-in nook with a private deck. Ample closet and storage space throughout. Oversized 2-car garage. Walkout lower level with gameroom, craft room and tv room. Fairview Elementary.

Jane Siddons Herrmann 412-782-3700 x228

Fox Chapel $680,000

Mt. Washington $525,000

Set on 3.7 acres, this completely renovated stone home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a 3 car garage. Featuring Fox Chapel charm and character with the updates and amenities of today, including a finished game room. Enjoy the convenience of the city, while still having a private oasis in the country.

Metropolitan living at its finest! This gorgeous condo on Grandview Avenue is in the perfect location with easy access to Downtown Pittsburgh for work or play. Unique and rare 2 bedroom Condo with 2 Car Garage! Exposed brick, gorgeous hardwood floors and a complete wall of windows providing a crystal-clear panoramic view of the city.

Melissa Shipley 412-854-7200 x231

Adams Twp. $650,000+

North Huntingdon $389,000+

46 lot single family custom home community with .5 - 1.5 acre lots. Enjoy low Butler County taxes with Mars Schools. Gorgeous wooded setting with tons of trees. 24 acres of greenspace and walking trails! Conveniently located to shopping, entertainment, restaurants and more!

The Villas of Willow Estates epitomizes the highly desired open floor plan and one-level design in a private Cul-DeSac setting. An outstanding value-enhanced offering that is unmatched in North Huntingdon, Westmoreland County. We are located just minutes from Route 30 with easy access to restaurants, shopping and the PA Turnpike.

New Construction Elizabeth Bires & Cindee Perry 724-327-0444 x340 / 229

Clinton Twp. $649,900

Sewickley $379,900

Remarkable all brick home on 3 acres in South Butler School District! First floor den, five fireplaces, 6x6 wine room and 3 stall attached garage. 22x12 screened-in porch, stone patio with built-in grill/ smoker and brick fireplace. In-ground pool, hot tub and gazebo. Elevator included. Very convenient location.

Totally renovated brick Colonial steps to Sewickley Village Shops & Restaurants. New Hardwood Floors throughout the first floor. Open Floor Plan Kitchen featuring Granite Counter Tops & Stainless Appliances. 2 Updated Baths, 3 Spacious Bedrooms with New Carpet & Good Sized Closets. Level Yard, 2 Car Detached Garage.

Jill Stehnach 412-741-6312 x207

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

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soulique...

ISSUE

191

JAN/FEB 2018

PU BL I SH ER Jack Tumpson

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

ED I TO R I N CH I EF Rachel Jones

A S S O C I ATE ED I TO R Matthew Hacke C R EATI VE D I RECTO R Jason Solak

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

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

C O N TR I B U TI N G PH O TO G RA PH ER Sarah Collins

eyetique

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

D I G I TA L M A R K ETI NG CO O RD I NATO R

lyndsey smith, rock’n’soul musician and fashion model

& A D V ER TI S I N G PR O D U CTI O N MA NA G ER Aubray Onderik

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

ED I TO R I A L I NTERN Caitlin Cesa

the world’s finest collection of unique eyewear call 412.431.7888 or fax 412.431.7997 For advertising, subscriptions, and internships. WHIRL Magazine 2549 Penn Avenue, Suite 2, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 412.431.7888 • www.whirlmagazine.com

schedule your eye exam today at eyetique.com 10

All rights reserved. WHIRL Magazine is published 12 times per year by WHIRL Publishing, Inc. Copyright 2017 WHIRL Publishing, Inc.

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PUBLISHERS’

eat big

/ PAGE

HAPPY NEW YEAR Welcome to 2018 with WHIRL Magazine! We are bringing you more ways to connect with like-minded people in Western Pennsylvania in a way we have never done before. Our excitement is over our new way of approaching media, our city and surrounding communities, and our audience. As readers of WHIRL Magazine for more than 16 years, you have been vocal in your interests and love for our editorial. With that in mind, we are focusing on several issues to be at our forefront this year, including cancer research and community support, yoga and healthy lifestyle initiatives, and local art promotion. We are seeking partnerships with community leaders and are actively approaching our media platforms with new enthusiasm for giving others’ platforms access to our WHIRL Magazine audience. One of those partnerships is with PAART, Pittsburgh Aviation Animal Rescue Team, founded by Brad Childs and Jonathan Plesset, the duo who first started rescuing animals from far-flung places with their small airplanes in 2012, and so far, have rescued 6,918 animals and counting from dangerous situations. Since then, Mary Kennedy Withrow has joined the team, and the group is taking off to even higher heights of productivity in rescuing animals. Read about why we are passionate about this issue on page 32. Then, take action and join us as we find ways to help these innocent living entities throughout 2018 by liking and sharing this article on your social media, and best of all, by attending our “Meet PAART” event at ONE WHIRL Studio on Saturday, February 17, or a Valentine’s Happy Hour with dogs, too! The details are on our website, whirlmagazine.com. The Semi-Annual Event Guide takes on new flair with our features on some of the most stylish people we know. Associate Editor Matthew Hacke took note of the event shots and then compiled his favorites, which we know will be yours as well. Bringing everyone in for a photo shoot brought to light the fact that true style highlights the radiance within. That the more the inner self is cherished, the more the outer form glows. That the more your eyes smile when looking at someone else, the more beautiful your own visage becomes. All of these lessons illuminated when these people came into the spotlight. The ability to express one’s inner being with outer attention is something to behold. Have fun reading about these folks, and see why we took the time and energy to make sure their particular little light is shining on page 54. HERE’S TO 2018, AND SUNSHINE!

Christine and Jack Tumpson

bigburrito.com

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PHOTOGRAPH BY CHRISTINE TUMPSON

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With UPMC Hillman Cancer Center behind me, I am

Jason Venturella learned he had two types of life-threatening cancer while on active military duty in Alaska. Because he wanted the best team behind him, he traveled to Pittsburgh and sought treatment with Dr. James Ohr and Dr. Matthew Holtzman at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. Jason underwent HIPEC (hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemoperfusion), an innovative method of chemo pioneered at UPMC that attacks cancer in hard-to-reach places. Today, he is in full recovery. Learn more about the care that made Jason #unstoppable at UPMCHillman.com/Jason.

NCI Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center

AfďŹ liated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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WHIRL

/ HAPPENINGS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY HAPPENINGS We’re shining the spotlight on the best charitable, celebration-worthy events of the season! Local Dunkin’ Donuts franchise owners Heartland Restaurant Group presented a check to the Best of the Batch Foundation. The $ 8,000 donation was made possible by the Dunkin’ Donuts Joy in Childhood Foundation. From left: Mike Zappone, talent acquisition and development manager at Heartland Restaurant Group; Chelsea Halker, marketing manager at Heartland Restaurant Group; Charlie and LaTasha Batch of the Best of the Batch Foundation; and Anthony Braun, chief operating officer/chief financial officer at Heartland Restaurant Group.

Susan Muschweck Interior Design, LLC, received the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Ethics. From left: Susan Muschweck, owner, president, and lead designer; Jillian Staruch, project manager and associate designer; and Allie Dolnack, post-grad intern.

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Allegheny Health Network (AHN) celebrated the 60th anniversary of the arrival of Dr. George Magovern Sr. at Allegheny General Hospital with a look at its history and continued excellence in cardiac care. From left: Dr. George Magovern, Jr., chairman of AHN’s department of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery; Anne Magovern; Jamie Magovern; Abigail Magovern: and George Magovern III.

BY CAITLIN CESA, MATTHEW HACKE, + RACHEL JONES PHOTOGRAPHS FROM GREEN DOT PUBLIC RELATIONS, SUSAN MUSCHWECK INTERIOR DESIGN, LLC, ALLEGHENY HEALTH NETWORK

1/23/18 1:37 PM


The Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cameron Heyward autographed a football for event attendee Brian Sarkis at the annual 65 Roses Sports Auction, which benefits the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The American Cancer Society celebrated the success of the Real Men Wear Pink Pittsburgh campaign, which raised $180,000. Nick Stupakis led the group, bringing in $74,000 himself and finishing second in the nation for individual fundraising! From left: Shannon Salicce, Andonia Aber, Kurt Baumgartel, Nick Stupakis, Nicole Becker, and Carrie Johns.

FedEx Ground served as the 2017 Presenting Fund the Mission Sponsor of the March of Dimes’ Signature Chefs Auction. From left: Sev McMurtry, senior vice president at FedEx Ground, and Lisa McMurtry, who served on the event’s auction committee.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM KRISTIN FALVO, DAWN KEEFER, ARCHIE CARPENTER, SPLURGE

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Splurge celebrated its loyal customers at the 5th Annual Sip and Splurge. From left: Luci Massaro, Alina Massaro, Holly Short Root, Splurge owner Kym Pelcher, Jessica Bonislawski, Pam Gianamore, and Judi Pearson.

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Rose Hoover, Pittsburgh Kidney Walk chair and National Kidney Foundation (NKF) Serving the Alleghenies Board of Directors vice chair, addressed the crowd at the 16th Annual Pittsburgh Kidney Walk. The event raised an astounding $265,000 for the NKF — the most of any Pittsburgh Kidney Walk!

Rita B. Canton, principal/ head of school at Vincentian Academy, (center) celebrated Father Carmen D’Amico (left) and Dr. Yinka Aganga-Williams (right) for receiving the Spirit of Charity awards at Vincentian Academy’s 85th Anniversary Gala.

Canonsburg Mayor David Rhome and Canonsburg Town Park Board President Terri Startare gathered with 200 guests for Canonsburg’s Dining Around the Pool, a fundraiser to support the Canonsburg Town Park and Pool.

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PHOTOGRAPHS FROM PAT & PATTY GALLAGHER, MICHAEL CANTON, MCVOICE, LLC, MIRISCIOTTI PHOTOGRAPHY

1/23/18 1:43 PM


Maggie’s Farm Rum and Pirata Rum Bar collaborated on the creation of Maggie’s Farm Dedication Series Bourbon Barrel Aged Dark Rum Christy Angelo Batch No. 1, which raises money for The Allegheny Center for Digestive Health and Allegheny Cancer Institute in memory of Christy Angelo. From left: Greta Harper, general manager of Pirata, and Tim Russell, founder of Maggie’s Farm Rum.

More than 80 nurses from across the region were recognized at the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing’s 18th annual Cameos of Caring Gala. Jordana Grodek, UPMC Center for Nursing Excellence, (center) received her Cameos of Caring award from Sandra Engberg, associate dean for Graduate Clinical Education, University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, (left) as Holly Lorenz, UPMC chief nurse executive, (right) looked on.

AT THE

Meet the newest residents at the National Aviary, and enjoy exciting events and activities, included with admission.

Baby B b Sloth Sl h T Talk lk Daily at 12:30 pm It’s a girl! Meet our new baby sloth up-close and learn about sloths.

Penguin Chick Talk Daily at 2 pm Watch our African Penguin chicks grow and learn all about this adorable and endangered species.

Springdale High School juniors and National Honor Society members Rachel Halapchuk and Hannah Kern collected donations for local nonprofit Beverly’s Birthdays at Sharpsmeade: A Sharpsburg Magical Fall Festival. Donations totaled $2,100 at this year’s event!

President's Day Weekend February 17-19 Get warm with our flock!

Flamingo Fest February 24-25, 11am–3pm Enjoy flamingo themed crafts, games and activities!

Plan your visit at

aviary.org

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

Bring your group! 412-258-9463

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ACROBATIQUE CREATIVE, UPMC, SHARPSMEADE

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Led by Laura Jean McLaughlin, in partnership with PA Council on the Arts, students at Riverview School District’s Junior/Senior High crafted this beautiful, Pittsburgh-centric mosaic, “A Wonderful Day in the Neighborhood,” to be displayed at the Oakmont Service Plaza on the PA Turnpike. The project is part of the Art Sparks program, which places student-created art in Turnpike service plazas across PA.

The 54th Medallion Ball honored all 134 candidates for their commitment to St. Lucy’s Auxiliary to the Blind with an elegant reception at the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown. From left: Gabrielle Pietro, Molly Kelly, Emily Ulrich, Susan Petnuch.

Pittsburgh Area Lutheran Schools (PALS) hosted the PALS 5K Run for Education at the scenic Saxony Farm, where these runners placed in the top of their divisions.

Women In Sports and Events (WISE) honored P3R CEO Patrice Matamoros with this year’s Woman of Excellence Award. From left: P3R’s Patty Marker, Troy Witt, Michele Nichols, Kim O’Dell, Tami Rippy, Chip Burke, Patrice Matamoros, Corey Lev, Katie Zawrotniak, Dee Stathis, Katie Pavlich, Caroline Fitzgerald, Erin Carlin, Kara Viggiano, and Ruth Minyon.

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Dolores Warwick and Laura Kronk joined 125 guests at the Pittsburgh CLO Guild’s Annual Christmas Gathering. Attendees were delighted by dinner, dancing, and entertainment by performers of the CLO’s “A Musical Christmas Carol.”

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM COMMONWEALTH MEDIA SERVICES, ROSEANNE WHOLEY, PALS, MINDY CAFARO, DOLORES WARWICK

1/23/18 1:43 PM


Event founders Jason and Sherry Ott posed with Pittsburgh personality Rick Sebak at Noe’s Night of Light, an annual event that combines local art, music, and cuisine in support of The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center, a nonprofit that ensures the health and wellbeing of medically fragile children in Western Pennsylvania.

The 25th Annual Courage House and Ed Block Courage Awards recognized members of the Holy Family Institute and the Pittsburgh Steelers who have conquered challenges in their lives. From left: Art Rooney of the Pittsburgh Steelers; Ray Morris, Courage House Award recipient; and Sister Linda Yankoski of Holy Family Institute.

The Pittsburgh Opera New Guard, a young professionals group, held its soft launch party at Evangeline. From left: Ronna Pratt, Pittsburgh Opera Manager of Special Events, and Pittsburgh Opera New Guard cofounders Danielle Katz, Hayley Haldeman, Ali Good, and Branden Moore.

Presbyterian SeniorCare Network hosted 400 guests at its annual Your Holiday Home event. The money raised at the event supported the Woodside Place of Washington capital campaign, which funds the creation of a new dementia care community at the Washington campus. Front row, from left: Christine McMurray, Christine O’Brien, and Betty Robinson. Back row, from left: Betty Courson, Connie Simon, Lucy Johnson, Carolyn Campbell, Hila Saxer, Debbie O’Dell-Seneca, Bracken Burns, Donna Lukich, and Pamela Stewart. PHOTOGRAPHS FROM JEREMY HOLDORF, HOLY FAMILY INSTITUTE, DAVID BACHMAN PHOTOGRAPHY, PRESBYTERIAN SENIORCARE NETWORK, GREEN DOT PUBLIC RELATIONS

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Mandi Pryor, executive director of the South West Communities Chamber of Commerce; Gwen Rodi and Rebecca Sray, South Fayette Township Commissioners; and the Pirate Parrot celebrated of grand opening of Dunkin’ Donut’s new South Fayette location.

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The 2017 Celebrating Senior Champions dinner honored individuals improving the lives of seniors in Western Pennsylvania and helping to make the region a model for healthy aging. From left: Karen Wolk Feinstein, Ph.D., Community Champion, and president and CEO of the Jewish Healthcare Foundation, and Deborah Brodine, president of UPMC Community Provider Services.

Realtors Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh (RAMP) Foundation’s Fashion for a Cause at Charming Charlie raised funds for The Veteran’s Place. From left: Carole Wilczek, RAMP Foundation vice president; Elisa Ciotti, RAMP Foundation secretary; Lisa Freeman, RAMP Foundation president; and Jessica DeRita, Charming Charlie manager.

The Pittsburgh Steelers recognized philanthropist John Siebart and his wife, Dr. Mary Beth Malay, for their $1 million contribution to the Chuck Noll Foundation for Brain Injury Research. From left: board member Tony Quatrini, advisory board members Dr. Regis Haid and Dr. Joe Maroon, John Siebart, Art Rooney, and board member Merril Hoge.

Guests sipped fine wines, sampled delicious fare from Pittsburgh’s top chefs, and participated in a high-energy auction to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at A Passion for Wine. From left: Mark Witte, JD Wilson, Patti Forte, Bob Forte, Karen Wilson, Lisa Witte, Cathleen Brzezinski, and Jim Brzezinski.

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Themed “Love Never Dies,” The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Third Annual Chocolate Bar treated guests to an indulgent evening filled with creative sweets and fashions. From left: Jacob Korb of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust; Daniel Walker, Executive Chef at Lidia’s; Jean Porter of Lidia’s; and Ashley Tunney, Private Dining Manager at Lidia’s.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM UPMC, DIANE WITHROW, THE PITTSBURGH STEELERS, KRISTIN FALVO, CRAIG THOMPSON

1/23/18 1:45 PM


Co-chairs Rhonda Bolding and Barb Kalla welcomed hundreds of movie buffs at the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation Western Pennsylvania/ West Virginia Chapter’s Opening Night. The annual fundraiser featured a fun cocktail party, a variety of items up for auction, and a showing of “Murder on the Orient Express.”

Dana Sellitti, owner of SerenDipity Boutique, welcomed friends and clients for a day of sipping Champagne and shopping at the Weirton, W.V., hotspot. From left: Yvette Flaxman, Dana Sellitti with her dog Neko, and Cindy Engler.

Erin Molchany, Carmen Anderson, Sara Davis Buss, Shirl Regan, Rachel Lorey Allen, Mary Anne Papale, and Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto unveiled the newly renovated Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh.

Philanthropic foodies savored local drafts and cocktails from Rivertowne Brewing and Pennsylvania Libations at the Fountain of Youth event, supporting the Homeless Children’s Education Fund’s mission to advance the education of children and youth experiencing homelessness. From left: Marcia and Carlos Carter, and Laura and Joe Zewe.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM LEAH MARETSKY, WILD NATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY, LOREN DE MARCO, KARL NYKWEST, J. APPLE

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Vincentian Academy seniors Marina Eyster, Mark Yakim, and Caroline Elliott created, designed, and executed “Color Run for a Cure.” The event raised funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) and contributed to the students’ completion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. From left: Eyster; Mary Pat Joseph, CFF executive director and Vincentian Academy alumna; Yakim; and Elliott. WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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WHIRL

/ POWERFUL WOMEN OF THE WORLD

POWERFUL WOMEN OF THE WORLD:

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BY RACHEL JONES • PHOTOGRAPH FROM EPICAST

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Gab Bonesso is a modern-day superhero.

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y day, the local comedienne is half of The Josh & Gab Show, traveling to school districts across 10 states (and even to Mexico!) to spread the important messages of accepting and defending others. Bonesso co-created the anti-bullying assemblies with friend and musician Josh Verbanets to be “part comedy, part motivational speaking, part music,” and resonate with the students on a significant level. “You finish the assembly and there is a line of 50 kids waiting to talk to you,” Bonesso says. “These kids just tell me the horrible things they’re going through, whether it’s at home or being bullied at school. I can’t tell you how many kids come up to me and say they are bullied specifically because they have autism. That just kills me so much. I try to speak to that a lot, and I try to speak about standing up for people.” When she was a student herself, Bonesso had a friend who was severely bullied in high school. She stood up for him, which made her the new target for the bullies. “But what they did to me was nothing in comparison to what they were doing to my friend. So I always try to explain that to the kids,” she says. “If it’s something you can handle and someone can’t handle, help.” The concept is one she believes should not just be taught at an elementary level. In a recent TED Talk, Bonesso addressed the issue of bullying later in life. “You expect an 8-year-old to [stand up to bullies] but you, an adult, won’t do it? I hate that double-standard that’s put on kids,” she says. Hoping to someday reach an audience with a wider range of ages and zip codes, Bonesso’s ultimate dream for the anti-bullying movement is to create a scholarship fund specifically for kids who got bullied. “I think school’s hard enough, trying to get into college is hard enough, trying to do all of the extra-curricular activities to get into college is hard enough,” she explains. “When you’re also being harassed at school on the daily and dealing with the depression and anxiety that comes with that, I think you could also use a little help. I would love to do something like that.” Her supportive nature resonates in her stand-up comedy career as well — a career that started with a comedy contest her brother encouraged her to enter, turned into open mic nights at the Funny Bone and weekly showcases at Club Café, then grew to headlining shows from San Francisco to New York City. Most recently, Bonesso released her first comedy album, Everyone’s Dead. “When I co-created Josh & Gab, it was because I had been my mom’s caregiver. It was really important for me to be home with her as much as I could. That’s why the day job was so perfect for me,” Bonesso explains. “Unfortunately, in 2015, my mom lost her battle and passed away. I knew I needed to throw myself into something artistic because that’s who I am. My mom was the biggest supporter of my

I was always more of an artistic, dreamer, weird kid. I know people hate the ‘w word,’ but I love it. I embrace my weirdness. In third grade, I’m carrying a briefcase to school and I also think I’m a T-Rex. I was always to the beat of my own drum. Having experience being bullied, it was important to me to remind kids like hey, that kid’s calling you a weirdo? Well, you don’t get to be an actor if you’re not a weirdo. Or a comedienne. So is being weird a bad thing necessarily? — Gab Bonesso comedy, and I knew I needed to start focusing on my adult stand-up to honor my mom. About two weeks before we were going to record my album, my brother unexpectedly died. That really wrecked my whole family. I sort of used the album as a catharsis to deal with that.” Nervous to expose her edgier side, which her Josh & Gab fans weren’t used to, Bonesso felt relieved to receive overwhelming praise from fans of her adult comedy. She even earned the title of Best Comedian by “Pittsburgh City Paper” — as the only female nominated, we might add. “I’m so appreciative of Pittsburgh and how they let me reinvent myself and be a kid’s performer and a crazy adult performer,” Bonesso says. “This is quite a city.” Giving back to those who helped her, Bonesso makes a point to lift up women and members of the LGBTQ community in the world of comedy, which “is still very much a boy’s club.” She says, “There is a double-standard, and with everything in the news, I can honestly say I’ve had a #MeToo moment within comedy. Guys have definitely been inappropriate. I know there have even been headliners who say, ‘Oh, I can’t have a woman open for me because what if she’s funnier?’ You’re losing opportunities. But, we do try to look out for each other as women.” “[As a producer,] my shows are extremely diverse. I pride myself on that, and I pride myself on trying to have a very safe atmosphere. I will not tolerate hate speech in any form as part of someone’s comedy. I will not let anyone be triggered at my shows. I think if more producers could do that — and I’m sure they do — and we really start looking out for each other, the world is changing.” Gab Bonesso, gabbonesso.com. WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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1/23/18 1:48 PM


FINANCE

/ REPORT

The Downtown Pittsburgh Partnership welcomes retailers to the Market Square Farmers Market and Saturday Night Markets, helping them attract customers and build a local presence.

SHOP AROUND DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH Thanks to its walkable, accessible location, Downtown Pittsburgh has endured substantial growth and created an expansive retail environment for thousands of residents and millions of visitors. Places like Moop, which specializes in canvas and leather bags designed and manufactured in Downtown Pittsburgh, and Boutique La Passerelle, a women’s clothing boutique, have solidified themselves as staples in the area. “Boutique La Passerelle has been growing consistently since opening in 2010, thanks to a solid base of loyal clients and an 24

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increasing population of residents and visitors attracted to the city,” says Adele Morelli, owner of Boutique La Passerelle. “The changing retail landscape has been beneficial for my small businesses and even sparked a wave of new clients looking for quality women’s clothing and accessories.” Waves of new stores are on the rise, too. Peter Lawrence, a women’s boutique by the same team behind Heinz Healey’s, is set to open in March, joining the more than 150 brick-and-mortar and pop-up retailers that provide services, amenities, and fun shopping experiences along Downtown’s streets and sidewalks. As part of its mission to keep Downtown Pittsburgh beautiful, safe, and vibrant, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP) provides outreach and support to this small business community. The PDP offers opportunities for local merchants and businesses to participate in its many events and activities, such as Market Square Farmers Market and Saturday Night Markets, granting access to Downtown’s marketplace and customer base. In fact, that’s how the popular Pittsburgh clothing store Steel City Clothing got its start. “It was always our goal to build an authentic clothing store that represents the uniqueness of the City of Pittsburgh,” says Brandon Grbach, Steel City EDITED BY RACHEL JONES •

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM PITTSBURGH DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP

1/23/18 1:48 PM


Shop beautiful, highquality products in Downtown Pittsburgh, like these bags at Moop.

Clothing CEO and creative director. “Our mission was to become a destination for tourists and locals alike to stop by and purchase a comfy tee, hat, or pennant. It made perfect sense for us to open our first retail location in the heart of the city, Downtown Pittsburgh. We loved the idea of coming into Downtown Pittsburgh with a brickand-mortar storefront after participating in the PDP’s Night Markets for five years.” With its regional headquarters on Grant Street in Downtown Pittsburgh, Huntington Bank is a frequent visitor of the PDP-supported shops and a strong advocate of the organization’s initiatives. — Brian Kurtz Huntington Bank, huntington.com. Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, downtownpittsburgh.com. Moop, 429 1st Ave., Downtown. moopshop.com. Boutique La Passerelle, 417 Wood St., Downtown. shopblp.com. Peter Lawrence, 413 Wood St., Downtown. Heinz Healey’s, 160 5th Ave., Downtown. heinzhealeys. com. Steel City, 625 Smithfield St., Downtown. shopsteelcity.com.

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

DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH’S 1.25-MILE TRADE AREA IS HOME TO:

150+ UNIQUE RETAIL BRANDS

33,000 residents

131,000 EMPLOYEES

27,000 13.4 million annual entertainment visitors

college students

$160 MILLION annual consumer spending

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

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FOOD

/ TOUR

A PIT TSBURGH

PIEROGI PARADISE Pierogies have been a food staple in the region for generations. Stuff’d Pieorgi Bar is taking the traditional dish to the next level with their own delicious spin. BY MATTHEW HACKE PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL FORNATARO

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ierogies and Pittsburgh go together like Heinz ketchup and mustard. Whether you grew up eating the potato-filled, doughy bites, or have been to a Pirates game and watched the 5th inning “Great Pittsburgh Pierogi Race N’at,” pierogies are a fundamental part of the city’s rich food history. Pittsburgh native Gino Riccelli, owner and manager of Stuff’d, saw the perfect opportunity to bring a greater pierogi presence Downtown when a space opened up in the Cultural District. “In Downtown, the restaurant scene is such a niche market, so I was looking to create something different that would stand out,” Riccelli says. “Pittsburgh is such a pierogi town, so I knew this concept and location would be a perfect fit.” When it came time to discuss the vision and direction for his restaurant venture, Riccelli called upon friend and colleague Trevor Getz. “I’ve known Trevor for years being in this industry,” says Riccelli. “I knew he had the culinary experience, so I called him up, showed him the space, and told him about my idea.” Getz, a Buffalo, N.Y., native, immediately resonated with Riccelli’s idea. “I’m Italian, German, and Polish, so I’ve always enjoyed cooking more homemade, traditional, family-style dishes,” says Getz, executive chef of Stuff’d. “When Gino told me about opening a pierogi restaurant, I was in. I grew up making them with my grandmother and had all of her original recipes!” 26

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1/23/18 1:50 PM


Wash down your plate of pierogies with an inventive craft cocktail!

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1/23/18 1:51 PM


Trevor Getz, executive chef, and Gino Riccelli, owner and manager, of Stuff’d Pierogi Bar

Opening its doors officially last September, Riccelli and Getz were blown away by the immediate success of the establishment. “When I was asking my friends who own restaurants around the city for advice before opening, they told me to ‘just be patient and take your time because success isn’t going to happen overnight,’” says Riccelli. “Incredibly, with Stuff’d, we almost did have an overnight success.” Offering an array of pierogies — from savory to sweet, and fried to boiled — it is easy to see why the restaurant has taken off so quickly. “On our menu, not only do we have an extensive array of pierogies, but we’re always coming up with new ones,” says Getz. The menu includes a bite of any type of cuisine imaginable. While the restaurant’s bestselling pierogies are the cheeseburger, peach pulled pork, and potato cheese, you can also find Asian spring roll, taco, buffalo chicken, and chicken parmesan on the menu. The endless list also features dessert pierogies — if you aren’t stuffed yet! “We change up the dessert pierogies frequently to satisfy customers, but have made everything from s’mores to a cherry cheesecake option,” continues Getz. With such a great reception, Riccelli and Getz have plans to expand both the Stuff’d menu, as well as the restaurant.

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Good morning! Try the Breakfast Pierogi and Bloody Mary.

“Our next idea is to create a seafood pierogi, as well as a vegan and gluten-free menu to go along with our vegetarian option,” says Riccelli. Come mid-February, the restaurant will have a full bar and downstairs space that seats 180, in addition to its current seating and bar area. “We’ve been running out of space, especially when there are shows or sporting events happening, so the downstairs area will be a great addition,” Getz says. For now, the duo behind Stuff’d is enjoying the process and creativity of making sure the restaurant is a must-stop spot in the Cultural District. “The motto in our logo is that we serve ‘Pittsburgh’s Comfort Food,’” Riccelli says. “Pierogies truly are a comfort food for our city, and we can’t wait to continue to go above and beyond creating dishes that our customers love.”

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1/23/18 1:52 PM


FOOD NEWS Pittsburgh Salad

BY RACHEL JONES PHOTOGRAPH FROM GIRASOLE

Peach Pulled Pork Pierogi

A Breakfast Pierogi

little bit of Lucca, Italy, is coming to Girasole! Vince Gerasole recently attended a symposium in Lucca, the hometown of renowned opera composer Giacomo Puccini. Inspired by the life of Puccini — who is known for romantic masterpieces like La Bohème, Tosca, and Madama Butterfly — and the cuisine of Lucca, Girasole will be hosting a special event on SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25 at 12:30 p.m. “We’ve traveled to Lucca to visit his birthplace, sit at the piano where he composed his classics, and drink in the atmosphere that gave rise to the themes and melodies that will forever be associated with the beauty of Italy,” says Patti Gerasole. “Along the way, we collected the classic Tuscan recipes that helped nourish Puccini’s soul and that we will gladly share with our guests.” Indulge in a five-course meal, including wine, as Vince shares stories, videos, and photos from the experience. Singers from the Pittsburgh Opera will also be performing three of Puccini’s famous arias. Patti says the afternoon will be, “Our salute to one of Italy’s most prolific and influential composers, Giacomo Puccini, and the foods of his homeland.” For reservations, call Patti at 412.427.6952.

Stuff’d Hot Banana Peppers

Girasole, 733 Copeland St., Shadyside. girasolepgh.com. Stuff’d Pierogi Bar, 130 7th St., Downtown. 412.586.7041. facebook.com/stuffdpittsburgh. WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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ACHIEVA AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE WHO: Over 180 guests WHAT: ACHIEVA, an organization that supports and empowers individuals with disabilities and their families, hosted its annual awards ceremony to honor individuals and groups who have gone above and beyond on behalf of people with disabilities. WHERE: Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square HIGHLIGHTS: Attendees mingled as they enjoyed a delicious spread of imported and domestic cheeses, chicken and beef sirloin kabobs, roasted tomato bruschetta, and Greek spanakopita. A full cash bar, soft drinks, coffee, and tea were also provided. The awards ceremony followed the meal with WPXI-TV’s Amy Marcinkiewicz serving as the night’s emcee. Awards were given out in categories ranging from community awareness to volunteerism. The biggest award of the night, the “Sattler Humanitarian Award,” honored Beth Fulena of Western Psychiatric Institute & Clinic of UPMC. — M.H. “One cannot attend the Awards of Excellence without being moved by the remarkable honorees. ACHIEVA is appreciative of the talented individuals, organizations, and community groups who share our mission.” — Lisa Razza, ACHIEVA’s director of communications

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM GWEN CORSO-TUNDERMANN •

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Joycie Kellem, Chaz Kellem

Marsha Blanco, Steve Suroviec, Grant Stoner, Michael L. Dever, Claudia Stoner

Beth Fulena, Marsha Blanco

Casey Dye, Erin Ninehouser

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

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1/23/18 1:57 PM


ZACHARY’S MISSION’S SHARING HEART GALA WHO: 240 guests, including emcee Sally Wiggin; Patricia Vince, executive director of Zachary’s Mission, and her husband, Robert; Suzanne and Mike Ward; Walt and Roxanne Vinoski; and John Chamberlin of Ya Jagoff Pittsburgh Podcast WHAT: A silent auction, a basket auction, a wine ring toss sponsored by Vinoski Winery, and the exciting treasure chest brought the fun to the seventh annual event. Featured artist Cliff Dupil of Athena Garden designed a one-of-a-kind table for the silent auction. The live Zack Pack campaign, which creates backpacks filled with creature comforts for families during hospital visits, raised over $10,000!

Dave Beal, Eliza Beal, Grace Beal, Corri Beal

Cliff & Jodi Dupil

WHERE: Duquesne Power Center Ballroom HIGHLIGHTS: The Sharing Heart Award went to 15-year-old Grace Beal for her support of families with medically fragile children. 321Blink made a beautiful video for Beal to commemorate the honor. — R.J. “The need for our services is evident from the continued calls that we receive from hospital staff: ‘These are our families. These are their needs. Can you help?’ We continue to say yes because of our amazing donors who join us for this inspirational event every year to support Zachary’s Mission and the families we help.” — Patricia Vince

Robert & Patricia Vince

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM MARK SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY •

Renee & Michael Hamby

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

FEEBRUARY BRUARY 117, 7, 22018 018

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WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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1/23/18 2:00 PM


WHIRL

/ FEATURE

Larry

“The routine exposure of the children to unfettered animal abuse and neglect is a major contributing factor in their later manifestation of social deviance. You now have 8, 9, 10-year-olds conducting their own dog fights, or being spectators at the fights people are holding ... You want to find the perfect way to desensitize a kid? Give him a puppy and let him raise it. Then let him kill it. I guarantee that will desensitize that kid.” — Sg t. Steve Brownstein of Chicago’s Animal Abuse Control Team

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Rescue Takes on a New Urgency: Why supporting local animal rescues is critical to the safety of our society BY CHRISTINE MCMAHON TUMPSON • PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL FORNATARO

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his article started out as one about our family dog eating chocolate on Thanksgiving and how household items can be dangerous to animals. That topic is still in this issue, as an important reminder to be protective of what your pets consume, especially during holidays like Valentine’s Day and Easter. That information begins on page 38. But the article took a hard turn during a special dinner between friends just before this magazine went to print. Since then, it has led to a year-long partnership with PAART, Pennsylvania Aviation Animal Rescue Team, and WHIRL Magazine to produce special, informative articles published throughout the year accompanied by audience engagement opportunities for the sharing of stories on social media, personal interaction with

PAART at special events, and of course, the adoption and financial support of rescued animals to become part of a human’s home. The crisis with the opioids is the top banner on the news today. How it starts, how to solve it, why people are addicted. Add to this the idea of stress relief, paying bills for things we do not need, and getting into areas of depravity that seem to have the same thread, which also is the one trafficking the guns, opioids, heroin, and dog fighting. It seems that Western Pennsylvania is among the top areas for the dog fighting organization, that being the one that attains, trains with chains, maintains with shame, and then tosses all of that into the middle of a field somewhere out in the middle of nowhere, to put to death in a fight that lasts moments, sometimes.

“There are an estimated 40,000 ‘organized’ dog fighting rings in the United States. Many more dog fighting gambling rings are operated by ‘hobby’ fighters. Then, there are thousands and thousands of ‘back alley’ fighters who introduce children to the cruelty. We have to get to the children. It is our only hope.” — Mary Kennedy Withrow, Executive Director, PAART, Pittsburgh Aviation Animal Rescue Team WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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“Dog fighting is a big problem in Western Pennsylvania. The training of the dogs used in the fighting is harsh and so are the participants.” — Dan Rossi, CEO, Humane Animal Rescue

The image of that much cruelty being poured into the body and soul of an innocent animal, a dog, usually a pit bull, is beyond what most people want to see, and can actually process. Because most of us do not think like that. We do not see cats, rabbits, and small dogs as “bait,” as ways to teach another one of nature’s living entities to kill in an unnatural manner, not to mention, an unnatural prey. The neurological effects resonate throughout not only the animal who is terrorized, and then forced to breed, sending out violent DNA, but also on those who witness the horrific destruction of another living being. For Mary Kennedy Withrow, longtime dog fighting activist, and a leader in the USA for rehabilitating dogs rescued from fighting as recognized by the Humane Society of the United States, puts it directly. “We have to get to the children. It is our only hope. Right now, dog fighting is a form of entertainment for too many of our nation’s children, with Easter Sunday and New Year’s Day as the two biggest days in this country for dog fights. Just think about that.” As the executive director of PAART, Withrow goes on rescues that defy danger, many involving huge drug finds, always guns, always, and hardened criminals. “These are the really violent people who are organized and very sophisticated in being able to elude capture. Throughout the nation, and in half of the states, there is legislation designating dog fighting as racketeering under the RICO statute.” Withrow explains this particular

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governmental enforcement capability enabled the arrest of Michael Vick, and that is why she has drafted a similar bill — HB 1197, which was introduced by State Representative Dom Costa. Withrow hopes to see passage of this legislation this spring. Including dog fighting as a category under RICO gives the federal and state governments surveillance, enforcement, and punitive measures that go beyond what is currently in place. When it comes to community support, Withrow points out the needs on many levels, beginning with education and support for folks who adopt pets. Education is so important. Dan Rossi, CEO of Humane Animal Rescue, highlights the concern for adoption by people seeking a pet for their home that is intended to live with them for the rest of that pet’s natural lifetime. The greater hope is that the animal will be loved, cared for, and treasured, given sweet treats, a warm bed, and human touches. Yet Rossi points out the strict attention and due diligence that has become the norm for his organization because of concerns about adoption for cruel purposes. “We have great stories about pit bulls that have been rehabilitated,” he says, “but we also have ones where smaller dogs are brought in with no teeth because the trainers pull them out.” When met with a silent space at the inability to respond to the horror, he continues, “They do that because they don’t want the teeth of the dog that is being attacked to hurt the fighting dog.”

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Scarlett

“Craigslist is not a safe option to rehome a pet. Reach out to family and friends first and their network of friends. There are too many predators out there. Craigslist makes it very easy for them.” — Mary Kennedy Withrow, Executive Director, PAART

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“People need to keep a close watch on their dogs — at the dog parks, on walks, with other people, everywhere. You hear of dogs going missing, don’t be so sure about that. They get taken.” — Brad Childs, Co-Founder, PAART

“Bait” is not a term Withrow or others in animal welfare prefer. “Dogs are dogs, no one is bait and no one is a predator. I don’t like to demonize any dog. They are ALL victims in dog fighting,” she underscores. Rossi says the same thing, describing the techniques dog fighting trainers use to manipulate an animal’s natural instincts, and literally, its DNA, through isolation, heavy chaining, treadmills, starvation, and beatings. And then, Rossi says, “something smaller is thrown in, like a rabbit or cat. And then it’s on to the smaller dogs, which is why we at Humane Animal Rescue have enforcement agents specifically trained to protect the animals being adopted by investigating who is adopting.” Why is this such a problem? Because, as PAART’s Brad Childs describes, “There are people who will pose as a family, a woman in her 40s and her 8-year-old son, say, who seem like the perfect home for the animal, but they are so far from that.” The nefariousness of the scene described is one that haunts once it is assimilated. We hope that you will join us this year as we bring awareness to the urgency to heal our society beginning with protecting the preciousness of nature’s innocent animals, which in turn may be the way to bring about a good greater than we can imagine, an extinction of the opioid and heroin industries that are eroding the bedrocks of our human society by taking away some of those with great potential. What if every animal rescued meant one human life also saved? The facts and faces on these pages are simple, clear, and true. Gaze upon the eyes, reflect upon the statistics, and what will you do? PAART, nodogleftbehind.org. Humane Animal Rescue, humaneanimalrescue.org.

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Larry’s Tale Hedy Krenn had just met Scarlett that afternoon, and as she told her husband, Jim Krenn, he tilted his head and said, “Like Larry?” Larry is their little chihuahua mix rescue who we have been hearing about for years. But we were never aware of how he came to live among the cool Krenn clan. Hearing the story from Jim, one of the world’s best storytellers, was a life-stopping moment, especially when Hedy flashed photos of little Larry as he told it. “So, Hedy and I have been rescuing dogs, and along the way, throughout the years, we have met some pretty amazing people. One of them called us a couple of years ago and said, ‘Jim, you’re not going to believe this, but we have the perfect dog for you and Hedy. Last night, we got a call that a dog was found in a shoebox in a garbage bin, and that it was all bloody, and was dead. But when we got there, and opened the box, one of its little eyes opened.’” At this, Jim mimics the tiny movements of an eye fluttering. “It’s Larry! He’s alive!” Jim then recounts with his wife the mauls, bites, and wounds that suggested that the tiny animal had been used a bait. “Larry weighs about eight pounds now, but he was in intensive care for a month with so many wounds that he almost didn’t make it, but he is a special one.” Hedy’s signature laugh peals the restaurant, “He sure is! Aww, but sometimes when we remember what happened to him, and how hurt he was, it makes us so sad.”

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1/23/18 6:55 PM


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LOUIS LOVES CHOCOLATE But it is an unrequited love. Two Decembers ago, Louis knocked a large, unopened box of Bob Sendall’s Toffee Taboo off of our dining room table and onto the floor below. There, in a matter of minutes, he devoured the delicious signature concoction, along with the plastic wrapping. When we found him, Louis was swaying back and forth, unable to keep his balance, and his eyes immediately glazed into stares. Alarmed, we threw him into the car and raced to the VCA Castle Shannon Animal Hospital, where we learned of chocolate’s toxicity the hard way. Louis recovered after three days of intensive care treatments with fluids to flush out his system and constant monitoring.

It happened again this Thanksgiving. Louis found a dark chocolate brownie just before dinner, and we were back into intensive care again. This time, we realized that the toxins are dangerous twice — the first time they enter the animal’s body, and then again as they run through the organs, posing a secondary risk of poison as the little body tries to expel them. Here are some items to be wary of with your pets this Valentine’s Day and Easter season: • Chocolate (especially baking chocolate!) • Avocado • Alcohol • Macadamia nuts • Grapes and raisins • Tulip and daffodil bulbs • Carpet cleaners • Lawn and garden insecticides

VCA Castle Shannon Animal Hospital, 3610 Library Road, Castle Shannon. 412.885.2500. vcahospitals.com.

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PSST... WANT TO KNOW A GREAT SECRET? Some of the very best pets are not the itty bitties. Those babies are cute, but sometimes they require the attention and care of human kiddos. Meaning, late night crying, feedings, and lots of teaching, especially when it comes to potty training. But an older or elderly pet can fit right into a family with a right attitude. It is not uncommon for a pet to have to be re-homed after a job transfer, divorce, or death of an owner. While certain behaviors are difficult to negate and relearn, like barking at the trees in the wind, many old dogs can be taught new tricks. When we adopted our older dog Scarlett, the

veterinarian determined her age to be between 5 and 8 years old. We had been told she had never walked on a leash. Within 30 minutes of having her at our home, she was walking confidently alongside our other dogs, on a leash, with a collar and big smile. There are downsides to adopting the elderly, and yes, it is true that they may expire shortly after you bring them into your world. But the life expectancy of every living entity is expanded with love, so check out the animals at Animal Friends, and maybe your home will be enriched by an experienced pet.

Animal Friends, 562 Camp Horne Road, Ohio Twp. 412.847.7000. ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org.

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LIFE WITH DINO Dino is 15 years old, blind, and deaf. He is carried up and down the steps, has a favorite dog bed, and snores so loudly he can be heard rooms away! The love, kindness, and support he gives is indescribable. WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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WHIRL

/ FEATURE

2018 AUTO PREVIEW BY MATTHEW HACKE

THERE’S NO BETTER WAY TO RING IN THE NEW YEAR THAN WITH A NEW CAR! THESE LOCAL DEALERSHIPS SHOW US THE VEHICLES YOU’LL WANT TO DRIVE AWAY WITH IN 2018.

Tickets:

General Admission (17+): $12 Seniors (65+) & Military: $10 Children (6-16): $6 Children Under 6: Free

+ Everyone gets half-priced admission on Monday, February 19!

The 2018 Pittsburgh International Auto Show From FEBRUARY 16-19, the David L. Lawrence Convention Center will host the 2018 Pittsburgh International Auto Show! The four-day event showcases over 35 of the hottest brands of cars, trucks, and SUVs on the market. Make sure to stop by the venue’s “Galleria Exotica,” which will feature vehicles from brands like Ferrari, McLaren, Lamborghini, and even a rare 1,200 horsepower Hennessy Venom GT and Henry Ford III’s personal Ford GT. Plus, bring the whole family and enjoy celebrity appearances and autographs, local sports mascots, interactive simulators and exhibits, and so much more! Pittsburgh International Auto Show, pittautoshow.com.

+ Dancing with the Cars On FEBRUARY 15, the Greater Pittsburgh Automobile Dealers Foundation (GPADF) will host Dancing with the Cars. This annual charity event gives attendees an exclusive sneak peek at the 2018 Pittsburgh International Auto Show, while raising funds for the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Charities — Autism Society of Pittsburgh and Allegheny Valley School. Last year’s PVGP and Dancing with the Cars raised $405,500! Tickets include two free drinks, access to seven bars and six gourmet food stations, entertainment by two bands, and of course, a special look at The Auto Show! For tickets and more information, visit dancingwiththecars.org.

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PHOTOGRAPHS FROM GREATER PITTSBURGH AUTOMOBILE DEALERS ASSOCIATION

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2018 INFINITI QX50

2018 AUDI Q5

Audi Pittsburgh, A #1 Cochran Premier Brand 2018 Audi Q5 One look — and test drive! — of the fully redesigned 2018 Audi Q5 and you’ll see why it is the most awarded Audi SUV model on the market.

Key Features: DRIVING MADE EASY

• 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with a manual shifting mode

• The “Traffic Jam Assist” feature will make

Cochran Infiniti Galleries 2018 Infiniti QX50 Hitting the market in February 2018, you’ll want to take home the 2018 Infiniti QX50 as soon as it makes its way onto the lot!

Key Features: UNBELIEVABLE UPDATES

• Complete redesign of the interior and exterior • The world’s first, publicly available variable compression ratio engine, which is designed to both boost performance and reduce fuel

INCREDIBLE DRIVING ASSISTANCE QX50’s ProPILOT Assist suite includes: • Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, which monitors distance and closing speed to the vehicle ahead, as well as detects pedestrians in the path of the vehicle This feature also provides audible and visual warnings, • and is capable of bringing the vehicle to a complete stop in some cases to help fully avoid contact • Distance Control Assist, which maintains set distances selected by the driver by pushing back the acceleration pedal when the vehicle ahead is closer than the preset distance • Lane Departure Prevention and Active Lane Control, which uses a camera to monitor the QX50’s position in the lane • Lane Departure Prevention can go as far as easing the driver back into their lane, if it senses movement without signal • Active Lane Control can help drivers maintain their lane during windy conditions or on uneven roads

rush hour on the Parkway a breeze! It provides gentle acceleration, braking, and steering guidance between 0 and 40 mph. The feature also evaluates road congestion with assistance from the vehicle’s on-board radar sensors and cameras.

STYLISH RIDE

• The virtual cockpit includes a 12.3-inch, full-

color display that will show your full navigation map by using Google satellite imagery • Audi Smartphone Interface allows access to compatible smartphone’s features, such as navigation, phone, music, and select third-party apps. VEHICLE ACCOLADES

• 5-Star Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

• 2017 IIHS Top Safety Pick • NWAPA Best SUV Award

Audi Pittsburgh, a #1 Cochran Premier Brand, audipittsburgh.com. Audi Washington, a #1 Cochran Premier Brand, audiwashington.com.

Cochran Infiniti Gallery of North Hills, cochraninfiniti.com. Cochran Infiniti Gallery of South Hills, cochraninfinitiofsouthhills.com. PHOTOGRAPHS FROM #1 COCHRAN

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2018 S560 S-CLASS

Comfort Control,” which Bobby Rahal Automotive • “Energizing syncs up stereo, interior lighting, Group: Mercedes-Benz climate control, seat massages, and ventilation to six different “Comfort of Pittsburgh Wellness” preset programs

2018 S560 S-Class

Packed with new, luxurious additions, stay up on automobile industry trends with some of the best safety technology features around.

KEY FEATURES: LITTLE LUXURIES • Hot-stone massaging seat • 64 interior ambient lighting options • An air balance fragrance system and energizing comfort • Burmester high-end 3D surround sound • mbrace ® concierge service for restaurant reservations or tickets for sporting events

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SAFETY FIRST

• Adaptive cruise control • Steering assist • Emergency stop assist • Lane change assist • Speed limit assist • A route-based speed adaptation •

system that can reduce speed based on map data “Pre-Safe Plus,” inflates the seat bolster when an impact is detected. The feature moves the passenger up to 2.75 inches away from the crash zone and the Pre-Safe Sound will omit an interference signal in an effort to prevent hearing loss.

ADDED BONUS

• Brake assist with cross-traffic function • Evasive steering assist • Blind spot assist • Lane keeping assist • Park assist • Car-to-X communication Bobby Rahal Automotive Group: Mercedes-Benz of Pittsburgh, mercedesbenzofpittsburgh.com

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM BOBBY RAHAL AUTOMOTIVE GROUP: MERCEDES-BENZ OF PITTSBURGH

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2018 LEXUS RX-350

Rohrich Lexus 2018 Lexus RX-350 Already the No.1-selling luxury vehicle in the country, the 2018 Lexus RX-350 comes equipped with state-ofthe-art components that set it apart from the rest.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ROHRICH LEXUS

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Key Features: TECHNOLOGY AT THE FOREFRONT • The Lexus Enform Remote mobile app lets you lock and unlock doors, start the engine and climate controls, find your vehicle in a parking lot, and monitor guest drivers • With the touch of a button, you can remotely check the status of your vehicle’s doors, windows, moon roof, trunk, and hood, as well as the vehicle’s current fuel level, odometer, or trip mileage

• The vehicle’s heads up display (HUD) •

projects images forward of the driver, speed limit, current speed, navigation info, gas, and lane keep assist The vehicle’s voice commands give you the ability to control many features in the RX-350 navigation, radio, phone, and temperature, all the while keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road

Rohrich Lexus, rohrichlexus.com

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WHIRL

/ FEATURE

whirl magazine’s

HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE 2018 Exploring the Importance of Self-care BY RACHEL JONES

We say it all the time, a casual farewell without any sentiment behind it: “Take care.” But these two words need to be our mantra in 2018. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so how do you expect to be there for others — on a personal or professional level — if you haven’t been there for yourself first? Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Take your dog for a walk, set aside some time for meditation, schedule a massage — anything to soothe mental stress and re-energize your spirit. We’re not the only ones encouraging the practice! Zeb Homison, owner of Yoga Factory Pittsburgh, says, “Self-care is hugely important these days! There are so many ways to lose your self-awareness in our world. What you eat, how you treat yourself, how you think about yourself, and what you do — these all have a huge impact on your whole self.” Make a positive change this season with workshops, classes, and self-care tips from these local experts.

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The Barre Code

CLASSES OFFERED: -TBC (strength-based workout that incorporates HIIT and plyometric exercises) -Brawl (cardio kickboxing sequences plus strengthening work for the thighs and glutes) -Barre Code (full-body workout to lengthen and strengthen muscles) -Burn (a Barre Code class held in a room heated to 95ºF) *NEW FOR 2018: Interval Brawl (a mix of kickboxing-inspired moves from the signature Brawl class and cardio intervals in easy-to-learn combinations and sequences for any fitness level)

The Barre Code is hosting a Bring Your Boy to the Barre class throughout Valentine’s week, so you can sweat with your sweetie. Plus, The Barre Code is part of Carnegie Museum of Art Wellness Days on MARCH 4!

The Barre Code, 741 Providence Blvd., McCandless Crossings, North Hills. 412.364.4230. 804 S. Aiken Ave., Shadyside. 412.802.8585. thebarrecode.com.

“At The Barre Code, we are a community of women, supporting each other inside and outside of the studio. We want you to walk into our classes and forget about your long to-do list and take the 50 minutes just for you to build not just physical strength, but mental strength as well. Taking time each day for yourself is important, so you can be the strongest version of yourself.” — Meredith Ward Ley, The Barre Code

Clearly Pilates CLASSES OFFERED: -Private and Semi-private Pilates Equipment Sessions (all equipment offered) -Pilates Mat — Beginner and Beyond Beginner -Pilates Stick — Barre

-SPIN® -SPIN®-LATES

Try the Most Very-est Beginner Pilates 8-week Session! Starting FEBRUARY 4 OR 5, you’ll learn the Classical Pilates Level 1 Mat and Reformer Order through a mix of lecture and movement. Space is limited, so sign up today at clearlypilates.com.

-SPIN®-Stretch -Buns and Guns (Spinning® and Body Blade®)

Clearly Pilates, 409 Broad St., Suite 110, Sewickley. 412.999.0215. clearlypilates.com.

“I acquired an interest in whole food, plant-based nutrition after watching two dear friends battle cancer and noting that their doctors prescribed this eating plan as a way to fight their cancer and stave off other diseases and inflammation. I’m studying to earn my certification from Cornell University’s Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies in Plant-Based Nutrition, and am hoping to help clients from the inside out and the outside in by providing tools and information on eating better to feel better.” — Clare Westwood, Clearly Pilates

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Elevate Fusion Fitness This boutique fitness studio offers Pittsburgh’s only VersaClimber classes. Salúd Express offers smoothies, juices, bowls, and more for pre- or post-workout snacks. And thanks to a partnership with Lululemon, clients can shop for athletic apparel onsite.

Try the 30-minute group class on the VersaClimber machine for a full-body workout choreographed to a pumping playlist. Elevate Fusion Fitness, 5247 Butler St., Lawrenceville. elevatefusionfitness.com.

“For us at Elevate Fusion Fitness, selfcare is not just about being physically fit. We feel your mind and spirit also need to be fed. Our goal is to create a community of like-minded individuals, encouraging each other to reach their goals and striving to maintain a healthy and beautiful way of life.” — Jordan Rose, Elevate Fusion Fitness

Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh

CLASSES OFFERED: -Hatha I -Hatha II -Movement Breath Meditation +500 Hour Yoga Teacher Certification starts this April! Look for Ayurveda Yoga Consultations, which is the science of the natural world, as well as Ayurvedic and Cooking workshops. Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh, 300 Beverly Road, Mt. Lebanon. 412.344.7434. hipyoga.org.

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“Yoga and meditation not only keep our bodies healthy, but also help us process the information that we take in every day. We learn how to incorporate new ideas and experiences into our lives while letting go of what doesn’t serve us. Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh also offers training in Ayurveda, the science of the natural world. Ayurveda helps to balance the elements within us with those found inherent in the world around us to maximize wellness.” — Kate Kill, Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh

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one whirl studio Offering a multitude of workshops and services that support healthy lifestyles and community connections, ONE WHIRL Studio also sells the Safe Yoga Block, ONE WHIRL Leggings, and Yoga Mat. Also available is the BootBud, which is patent-pending and recommended by orthopedic surgeons for those who wear medical walking boots. In a partnership with A Glimmer of Hope, ONE WHIRL Studio is honoring breast cancer patients with a three-month, complimentary program of meditation, yoga, emotional therapy, and nutrition. Self-care and wellness practices like filtered water, essential oils, healthy skincare products, fitness clothing, massage, and manicures will also be included. The debut group of eight women will be followed by the ONE WHIRL Studio team for input on the effectiveness of these practices, and the data will be used for research purposes.

ONE WHIRL Studio, 5314 Butler St., Upper Lawrenceville. onewhirlstudio.com

SALT POWER YOGA CLASSES OFFERED: -Heated Power Vinyasa -Warm Flow -Restorative Yoga (held at the Sewickley studio, Fridays at 7:30 p.m.) -Candlelight Yoga (a Heated Power Vinyasa class practiced in the dark) -Everybody Yoga (an all-inclusive class for all ages and abilities) -Happy Hour Yoga (weekly, donationbased music class at the Seven Fields studio with proceeds going to a different charity each month) -Yoga on the House (free weekly yoga classes at each studio)

Beginners or seasoned yogis looking for a refresher course can take the monthly, free ABC Workshop. Schedules will be updated online! While you’re on the site, sign up for the Restorative Yoga and Healing Touch Workshop FEBRUARY 3 at the Sewickley studio and the Fascia Release Workshop on FEBRUARY 24 at the Sewickley studio. Salt Power Yoga, 203 Highpointe Drive/Blvd., Seven Fields. 724.584.1624. 533 Beaver St., Sewickley. 724.584.1624. saltpoweryoga.com.

“At Salt Power Yoga, we welcome all to come and practice in our community. Taking care of yourself looks different for every body. We want all to feel they can take care of themselves at Salt, being present with breath and trusting their body, so they can in turn take care of and serve others outside of Salt.” — Rachel Bekelja, Salt Power Yoga

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schoolhouse yoga CLASSES OFFERED: -Gentle Yoga -Meditation

Schoolhouse Yoga’s workshop schedule is packed this month! FEBRUARY 2 Moon Salutations with Kendell Romanelli at the North Hills studio

-Level 1 Yoga -Level 2 Yoga -Prenatal Yoga -Mommy & Me Yoga -Yin Yoga -Kundalini Yoga -Flow Yoga -Ashtanga Yoga

Schoolhouse Yoga, 2215-2217 Murray Ave., Squirrel Hill. 5923 Baum Blvd., East Liberty. 7210 McKnight Road, North Hills. 412.401.4444. schoolhouseyoga.com.

FEBRUARY 3Һ4 Ashtanga Yoga Workshops with Kino MacGregor at Union Project FEBRUARY 11 Family Yoga Workshops with Bailey Zembower at the Squirrel Hill studio Teen Yoga Workshops with Bailey Zembower at the Squirrel Hill studio

FEBRUARY 16 Kundalini Yoga and Acupuncture with Kendell Romanelli and Qiong Wang at the North Hills studio FEBRUARY 17 Partner Meditation Workshop with Joni Sturgill at the East Liberty studio FEBRUARY 18 Prenatal Partner Yoga Workshop with Brenda Maser at the East Liberty studio

“Just like flight attendants tell their passengers, ‘Be sure to put on your own oxygen before helping others,’ it’s important to take care of yourself so that you’re able to take care of others. Yoga, in particular, teaches us to keep our bodies strong and our minds focused and peaceful so that we can bring these qualities to our personal relationships.” — Leta Koontz, Schoolhouse Yoga

South Hills Power Yoga

schoolhouseyoga.com east liberty squirrel hill north hills

CLASSES OFFERED: -Heated Power Vinyasa Flow -Non-heated Power Vinyasa Flow -Gentle/Restorative Yoga -Kids’ Yoga -Prenatal Yoga -Free Meditation Classes

-Comprehensive 200 Hour Teacher Training Certification -Continuing Education Programs recognized by Yoga Alliance South Hills Power Yoga offers regular retreats, and a Restorative & Reiki Workshop is in the works for this winter. The exact date is still to be determined, so stay tuned!

classes range from beginner to advanced gentle to challenging

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The sewickley spa Offering a luxurious variety of facials, massages, and body therapies, The Sewickley Spa focuses on resultsoriented skin care and the ultimate stress relief. Try the Magnificent Pamper Package, which includes a signature spa facial, Lipallure™Treatment, Swedish body massage, back exfoliation treatment, and heated hand and foot therapy. Complete the visit by adding on an awardwinning manicure or pedicure! The Sewickley Spa works with The Skin Center to perform injectable treatments. Stay tuned for an educational open house on the treatments this spring! The Sewickley Spa, 337 Beaver St., Sewickley. 412.741.4240. sewickleyspa.com.

“We hear it often: ‘I take care of everyone else but neglect myself.’ For over two decades, we have been perfecting the art of selfpreservation. It begins with the belief that our guests deserve the very best in every aspect of what we have to offer. As our daily pace quickens, our cortisol levels rise. It is imperative to breathe deeply and recharge our batteries.” — Dorothy Andreas, The Sewickley Spa

“Taking time to pause and check in with oneself is selfcare. That is what the practices of yoga and meditation allow practitioners to do.” — Stacey Vespaziani, South Hills Power Yoga

South Hills Power Yoga, 3045 W. Liberty Ave., Dormont. 412.207.9535. 4145 Washington Road, Peters Township. 724.260.0011. southhillspoweryoga.com.

Meet your match at ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org.

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

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Steel Revolution CLASSES OFFERED: -45-Minute Power Beat -60-Minute MADE OF STEEL There’s a second Steel Revolution studio coming to Pittsburgh! Look for the second location to open in Lawrenceville’s new Arsenal 201 this spring. Steel Revolution, 731 Copeland St., Shadyside. 412.802.0519. steelrevolutionpgh.com.

Yoga Factory Pittsburgh “[Self-care] starts by taking a step back and slowing down. Notice your habits and see if they serve you or take away from you. Then, you have a chance to make a change. You practice that every time you step on to your mat. The change starts from within!” — Zeb Homison, Yoga Factory Pittsburgh

Yoga Innovations CLASSES OFFERED:

-Candlelight Yoga

-Power Flow Yoga

-Meditation

-$5 Cash Power Flow

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-Mommy & Me Yoga

-Basic Yoga

-Power Prenatal Yoga

-Power Fusion Yoga

-Acoustic Power Flow

-Pay What You Can: Warm Flow Yoga

-Rhythm & Flow

-Restorative Yoga

-Teen Yoga

-Rockin’ Power Flow -Kids’ Yoga

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“We believe that you can’t take care of your physical without taking care of your mental. In every class, we try to encourage riders to let go, to be selfish within the walls of our room for 45 minutes, and to change their attitude to ‘I can’ instead of ‘I can’t.’ The most difficult challenges to work through, both mentally and physically, give you the best and most rewarding result. Take care of yourself mentally, and the sweat, the reward, will follow after and feel so much better!” — Alison Mears, Steel Revolution

International Asana Champion Zeb Homison hosts the Yoga Asana and You workshop on FEBRUARY 17! Join Homison for a morning yoga class, followed by a workshop-style breakdown of Asana, how it benefits your mind and body, and what to be aware of as you go from class to class. Don’t miss a weekend of workshops with Leslie Kaminov, APRIL 21Һ22. An internationally recognized lecturer and teacher, Kaminov will join Yoga Factory and Exhale Pittsburgh for a weekend of exploring breath, anatomy, and the mind-body connection.

CLASSES OFFERED: -Bikram Method

-HIIT

-Vinyasa

-Intermediate Hatha

-Restore

-Kids’ Yoga (AKA Yoga Monsters!)

Yoga Factory Pittsburgh, 3418 Penn Ave., Lawrenceville. 412.513.5000. yogafactorypittsburgh.com.

Look for insightful workshops this spring, including Arm Balancing and Inversions in March and April, Bare it All: Women Only Naked Yoga in April, and Hellingar Workshop in May. Yoga Innovations, 102 Broughton Road, Bethel Park. 412.851.9642. yogainnovations.com.

“Self-care is the pillar of our yoga practice. We pride ourselves on being a welcoming and nonjudgmental community, providing classes at all hours of the day and workshops to help further understand the principles of yoga. Our teachers go above and beyond to connect with students, and our events allow students to gather together with a common intention in mind.” — Claire Baer, Yoga Innovations

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WHIRL

/ FEATURE Through February 10 ANNUAL BUTLER C O U N T Y E L E M E N TA R Y SCHOOL ART SHOW Associated Artists of Butler County — Butler Art Center 724.283.6922

Through February 11 WICKED Benedum Center, 412.456.4800

Through April 15 PITTSBURGH CLO’S WORLD PREMIERE O F U P A N D AWAY CLO Caberet, 412.456.6666

Thursdays Through July 26 PITTSBURGH IMPROV JAM Cabaret at Theater Square 412.456.6666

WHIRL’s semi-annual

February 2 GROUNDHOG D AY S P E C I A L Mad Mex Locations madmex.com

February 2-March 30 L I V E M U S I C F R I D AY S Backstage Bar at Theater Square 412.456.6666

February 2-July 27 S A L S A F R I D AY S Cabaret at Theater Square 412.456.6666

February 3 SOUND SERIES: JENS LEKMAN The Andy Warhol Museum 412.237.8300

IMBIBE NORTH SIDE Mattress Factory mattress.org

WINTERFEST WEEKEND Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 866.344.6957

BY MATTHEW HACKE PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL FORNATARO STYLING BY ALYSSA OTTO

2018 is already shaping up to be a busy year in the ’Burgh. We’ve compiled over 200 events to look out for, from now through the end of summer. In collaboration with this year’s guide, we selected 11 individuals in our community who make stylish, but most importantly, charitable impacts on our community. See what events they’ll be attending and the causes they’ll be supporting this year!

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WICKED — A U T I S M - F R I E N D LY PERFORMANCE Benedum Center 412.456-2670

February 3-March 24 LIVE MUSIC S AT U R D AY S Backstage Bar at Theater Square 412.456.6666

February 4 WORDS & PICTURES: B R YA N C O L L I E R A N D S A N D R A N E I L WA L L A C E Carnegie Library Lecture Hall 412.622.8866

February 5 CAFÉ SCI Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

H O L LY W O O D S P E C I A L EFFECTS SHOW Byham Theater, 412.456.6666

February 8 T H E S PA C E B E T W E E N Contemporary Craft 412.261.7003

M U LT I P L E C H O I C E : DANCE/MACHINE August Wilson Center 412.456.6666

MUSICAL THRONES: A PA R O D Y Byham Theater, 412.456.6666

February 9 2 1 + N I G H T: S E X , LOVE, AND SCIENCE Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

SOUND SERIES: THURSTON MOORE: MUSIC + RADIO RADIEUX: FILM The Andy Warhol Museum 412.237.8300

19TH ANNUAL HEART OF CARING LUNCH Benefits Citizen Care, Inc. Sheraton Pittsburgh Airport Hotel, 412.446.0702

February 9-10 BODIOGRAPHY PRESENTS: DOORS AND WINDOWS Byham Theater 412.456.6666

Saturdays and Sundays, February 3-25 P E N G U I N S O N PA R A D E

February 10 O N E N I G H T S TA N D

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium 412.665.3640

Benefits Attack Theatre Ace Hotel Pittsburgh 412.281.3305

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FIERCE, FEMININE & FREE WORKSHOP Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

PA R T N E R Y O G A Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

Ace Hotel Pittsburgh, 412.237.8300

B R E A K FA S T I N B E D : LOV E S M E , LOV E S ME N O T Mattress Factory, mattress.org

February 12 B R O A D WAY & B E Y O N D : MARIN MAZZIE AND JASON DANIELEY Caberet at Theater Square 412.456.6666

February 13 24TH ANNUAL MARDI GRAS GALA Benefits Epilepsy Foundation of Western/Central PA Westin Convention Center Hotel Downtown, 412.322.5880

February 14 VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY SPECIAL Mad Mex Locations, madmex.com

VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY C H A M PA G N E D I N N E R AT L A U T R E C

“ My style is laid-back and mobile. I’m always on the go, so I need shoes that are comfy, yet stylish.”

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 866.344.6957

VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY AT N E M A C O L I N Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 866.344.6957

February 15 PITTSBURGH I N T E R N AT I O N A L A U T O SHOW’S “DANCING WITH THE CARS!” Benefits Autism Society of Pittsburgh and Allegheny Valley School David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 412.963.8909

CHANCELOR HUMPHREY FOUNDER AND PHOTOGRAPHER OF KEEPPITTSBURGHDOPE

February 11 V I N TA G E VA L E N T I N E S WORKSHOP

February 16 HISTORY UNCORKED: ROARING ‘20S Heinz History Center heinzhistorycenter.org/events/ history-uncorked

Look for Chancelor @

Spring 2018 (Exact date TBA!) C R E AT I V E S D R I N K Location TBA creativesdrink.com

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RICHARD PARSAKIAN OWNER OF EONS FASHION ANTIQUE

“ My current favorite event in Pittsburgh is ‘Ecolution.’ The event is a celebration of Earth Day. For this show, I curate up to 20 local artists who create wearable fashions with sustainable, recycled, and repurposed materials.”

February 16-19 P I T TSBURGH I NTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW David L. Lawrence Convention Center PittAutoShow.com

February 16-25 S WA N L A K E W I T H THE PBT ORCHESTRA Benefits Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Benedum Center, 412.456.6666

February 17 PA R T N E R M A S S A G E WORKSHOP Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

CUPIDS & CANINES Benefits Humane Animal Rescue and The Bow Wow Buddies Foundation Westin Convention Center Hotel Downtown campbowwow.com/ pittsburgh-north/cupids-canines/ cupids-canines

2018 PITTSBURGH HEART BALL Benefits American Heart Association Wyndham Grand Hotel Downtown pittsburghheartball.heart.org

THE RACE TO ANYPLACE Benefits The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Heinz Field, 412.395.2886

D I AV O L O A R C H I T E C T U R E IN MOTION Byham Theater, 412.456.6666

L A T H E AT R E W O R K S I N T H E M O U N TA I N T O P August Wilson Center 412.456.6666

ICED TEES WINTER GOLF OUTING Benefits Western PA Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation Diamond Run Golf Club 724.741.6160

W P C N H F ’ S 2 N D ANNUAL CHILI COOK-OFF Benefits Western PA Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation Diamond Run Golf Club 724.741.6160

Look for Richard @ April 19 4TH ANNUAL ECOLUTION FA S H I O N S H O W Fairmont Pittsburgh, pittsburghearthday.org

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S H E LT E R : C R A F T I N G A SAFE HOME C L O S I N G C E L E B R AT I O N Contemporary Craft 412.261.7003

MANIFESTING LOVE WORKSHOP Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

“By day, I love straight-leg jeans and tees accented with blazers or leather jackets. By night, I’m dramatic and extra, so sequins, deep V’s, high-slit skirts, exposed backs, and big tulle skirts are all fair game — but not all at once!”

February 17-18 N AT U R A B I S S É O X Y G E N BUBBLE EVENT Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 866.344.6957

TANISHA JACKSON WRITER, ARTIST MANAGER, AND CONSULTANT

February 18 I N T E R N AT I O N A L P O L A R B E A R D AY Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium 412.665.3640

February 18-22 FITNESS ADVENTURE R E T R E AT Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 866.344.6957

February 21 NEW & NOTED: M A R K W H I TA K E R Carnegie Library Lecture Hall 412.622.8866

February 21-March 3 BUTLER COUNTYWIDE HIGH SCHOOL ART SHOW Associated Artists of Butler County — Butler Art Center 724.283.6922

February 22 N AT ION AL M AR GAR ITA DAY Mad Mex Locations & Kaya bigburrito.com

February 22 C AT C A F É Benefits Humane Animal Rescue Threadbare Cider and Mead House threadbarecider.com/event/ cat-cafe

B O L LY W O O D B O U L E VA R D Byham Theater, 412.456.6666

February 23 WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE National Aviary, aviary.org

February 23-24 C A R N I VA L O F A N I M A L S Byham Theater 412.456.6666

Look for Tanisha @ June 15 RHYTHM & GROOVE August Wilson Center culturaldistrict.org/awc

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SUMAN GOLLA M.D., ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR IN THE DEPARTMENT OF OTOLARYNGOLOGY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH SCHOOL OF MEDICINE

February 23-25 SHOWCASE NOIR

“ I try to combine color and accessories with my outfits, while maintaining as much comfort as possible.”

August Wilson Center 412.456.6666

February 24 ENGINEER THE FUTURE Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

F AY E T T E C O U N T Y HEART BALL Benefits American Heart Association Nemacolin Woodlands Resort fayetteheartball.heart.org

February 26 TEN EVENINGS: SUSAN FALUDI Carnegie Music Hall 412.622.8866

February 27 P OSTSECRET: T HE SHOW Byham Theater, 412.456.6666

February 27-March 4 THE BODYGUARD Benedum Center, 412.456.4800

March 1 CRUSHED GRAPES W I N E TA S T I N G FUNDRAISER Benefits Sisters Place, Inc. One PPG Place, 412.233.3903

March 2 2 1 + N I G H T: M E D I E VA L T I M E S Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

March 2-3 F E AT H E R O F F I R E August Wilson Center 412.456.6666

O S C A R N O M I N AT E D SHORT SUBJECTS Olin Fine Arts Center 724.223.6546

March 2-4 PITTSBURGH H U M A N I T I E S F E S T I VA L Multiple Locations 412.456.6666

March 2-25 I N S I D E PA S S A G E Provident Charter School 412.362.1713

Look for Suman @ February 17 2018 PITTSBURGH HEART BALL Wyndham Grand Hotel Downtown pittsburghheartball.heart.org

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Benefits McGuire Memorial Fairmont Pittsburgh 724.843.0365

J C C B I G N I G H T: K I C K OFF YOUR BOOTS! Benefits Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh 412.697.3510

GOLDEN HEART GALA Benefits Vincentian Home, Vincentian Marian Manor, and Vincentian de Marillac LeMont Restaurant 412.548.4056

March 3-April 8 HEISENBERG Pittsburgh Public Theater 412.316.1600

“I like to wear classic pieces with an edge. I’ll add some bohemian flavor or a touch of vintage to mix up a classic look.”

March 4 WE ARE THE XX: M U LT I P L E C H O I C E L E T ’ S TA L K August Wilson Center 412.456.6666

March 6-11 WA I T R E S S Benedum Center 412.456.4800

March 7 SOUND SERIES: M A R Y H A LV O R S O N ’ S CODE GIRL The Andy Warhol Museum 412.237.8300

WA N G R A M I R E Z Byham Theater, 412.456.6666

HEDY KRENN REALTOR AT COLDWELL BANKER

March 3 SPECIAL AUCTION FOR MCGUIRE MEMORIAL

March 10 J U I C I N G F O R H E A LT H Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

W IN T E R M E LT DOW N PAR T Y Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 866.344.6957

SOUND SERIES: CORNELIUS Carnegie Lecture Hall 412.237.8300

2018 SPRING GALA Benefits Wesley Family Services Westin Convention Center Hotel Downtown 412.302.5160

Look for Hedy @ July 2018 (Exact date TBA!) A N I M A L F R I E N D S ’ B A R K N ’ AT Location TBA ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org

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SHAYLA HAWKINS OWNER AND PRINCIPAL PLANNER OF {SHE} SHAYLA HAWKINS EVENTS

“ Galentine’s Day is an intimate fashion event at my favorite boutique, No. 14, in awrenceville. This girly, frilly, invitation-only soir e is the perfect girls night out to get pretty and shop new, chic items with other fashionistas and featured stylists.”

March 10-11 S PA C E O U T: ASTRONOMY WEEKEND Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

March 11 SOUND SERIES: LIVE! O N S TA G E J O N AT H A N R I C H M A N , F E AT U R I N G TOMMY LARKINS ON THE DRUMS! The Andy Warhol Museum 412.237.8300

WORDS & PICTURES: MELISSA SWEET Carnegie Library Lecture Hall 412.622.8866

March 12 CARMEN CUSACK Cabaret at Theater Square 412.456.6666

March 14-18 IN HOUSE: THE GLUE FACTORY’S DANCE — T H E AT E R P R O J E C T @ M AT T R E S S F A C T O R Y Mattress Factory Annex Gallery corningworks.org

March 14-August 18 VISUAL VOICES: T R U T H N A R R AT I V E Contemporary Craft 412.261.7003

March 16-25 PITTSBURGH BALLET T H E AT R E : N E W W O R K S Benefits Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre August Wilson Center 412.456.6666

March 16-April 6 W TA E ’ S P R O J E C T BUNDLE-UP ONLINE AUCTION Benefits WTAE’s Project Bundle-Up projectbundleup.org

March 17 AWA K E N T H E GODDESS WITHIN Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

S T. PAT R I C K ’ S D AY S P E C I A L Mad Mex Locations, madmex.com

Look for Shayla @

PITTSBURGH F E S T I VA L O P E R A 4 1 S T SEASON PREVIEW Falk Auditorium, Winchester Thurston School, 412.326.9687

February 3-4 G A L E N T I N E ’ S D AY No.14 Boutique no14boutique.com

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Benefits ACHIEVA Westin Convention Center Hotel Downtown, achieva.info

March 18 EMPTY BOWLS Benefits Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and Just Harvest Rodef Shalom Congregation pittsburghfoodbank.org

“ My general style is comfy, conservative, and tailored. I love investing in individual pieces and re-inventing them year after year. I'm not brand specific, but I tend to love the cut and fit of a Prada shoe — just saying!”

March 19 PITTSBURGH OPERA FA S H I O N S H O W Benefits Pittsburgh Opera Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters 412.281.0912

March 22 LIFE’SWORK BLACK & WHITE GALA Benefits Life’sWork of Western PA Rivers Casino lifesworkwpa.org/events

RACE TO THE F I N I S H PA R T Y Benefits Susan G. Komen Jergel’s Rhythm Grille 412.342.0500

TRANSFORMING W O M E N ’ S H E A LT H Benefits Adagio Health Omni William Penn Hotel 412.253.8164

HANDBAG HAPPY HOUR Benefits A Glimmer of Hope Foundation Walnut Grill, Bridgeville 800.454.6746

March 22-24 CITYSCAPE Trust Arts Education Center 412.456.6666

March 24 V I N TA G E P I T T S B U R G H Heinz History Center heinzhistorycenter.org/events/ vintage-pittsburgh

WA S H I N G T O N H E A LT H SYSTEM CHARITY BALL Benefits Women’s Health Services Hilton Garden Inn, Southpointe 724.223.3875

GLASS SLIPPER BALL Benefits Treasure House Fashions, Living in Liberty, and CEED DoubleTree by Hilton, Cranberry 724.935.6100

Look for Marhsa @

April 27 A L E X I S J O Y D ’ A C H I L L E F O U N D AT I O N G A L A

MARSHA SIMONDS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS/ADMINISTRATOR AT WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA HOME HEALTH ASSOCIATION (WPHHA)

PITTSBURGH PROMENADE AUCTION

Omni William Penn Hotel alexisjoyfoundation.org

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CELINA POMPEANI KDKA-TV MORNING TRAFFIC ANCHOR AND PENSTV HOST

“ Classic, chic attire is definitely my style. You can’t go wrong with the classics! Sometimes I like an edgy look as well.”

March 24, 25, & 31 BREAKFAST OR LUNCH WITH THE EASTER BUNNY Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium 412.665.3640

March 25 DUQUESNE LIGHT C O M M U N I T Y D AY Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

March 26 TEN EVENINGS: MOHSIN HAMID Carnegie Music Hall 412.622.8866

March 26-29 PA S TA F E S T Casbah, casbahpgh.com

March 27 THE PEACHERINE RAGTIME SOCIETY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS: MASTER OF SILENT COMEDY Olin Fine Arts Center 724.223.6546

March 27-April 1 RENT Heinz Hall, 412.456.4800

March 28-30 2018 SPRING BREAK F R E E D AY S The Andy Warhol Museum 412.237.8300

March 29-April 1 PAW PAT R O L Benedum Center, 412.456.6666

April 2 CAFÉ SCI Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

April 3 MAD MEX DINNER F O R PA R K I N S O N F O U N D AT I O N W E S T E R N P E N N S Y LVA N I A Benefits Parkinson Foundation Western Pennsylvania Mad Mex, Shadyside 412.837.2542

April 4 MUMMENSCHANZ IN YOU & ME Byham Theater 412.456.6666

Look for Celina @ February 17 2018 PITTSBURGH HEART BALL Wyndham Grand Hotel Downtown pittsburghheartball.heart.org

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April 7 LUPUS LUNCHEON & FA S H I O N S H O W Benefits Lupus Foundation of Pennsylvania Fairmont Pittsburgh 412.261.5886

April 9 TEN EVENINGS: VIET THANH NGUYEN

“I love attending any event in the city that supports its thriving fashion industry. Whether it be for Pittsburgh Style Week or an event at Philip Pelusi, it’s always great to see uninhibited style shine through.”

Carnegie Music Hall 412.622.8866

April 10 M A K S , VA L & P E TA : CONFIDENTIAL Benedum Center, 412.456.6666

MURIEL MAZE MARKETING DIRECTOR OF PHILIP PELUSI SALONS

April 10-16 DRAGONS LOVE TA C O S A N D O T H E R STORYBOOKS Multiple Locations 412.456.6666

April 12 BRIT FLOYD Benedum Center, 412.456.6666

April 13 FA M I LY G U I D A N C E ANNUAL SPRING GALA Fairmont Pittsburgh, 724.396.4241

Y W C A O F G R E AT E R PITTSBURGH’S 150TH ANNIVERSARY GALA Benefits YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh YWCA Greater Pittsburgh Headquarters, 412.391.5100

April 14 Q-BALL 2018 Location TBA quantumtheatre.com/q-ball

FA M I LY H O U S E GIFTING GALA Benefits Family House J. Verno Studios 412.647.0389

STUDENTS OF THE YEAR GRAND FINALE Benefits The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Gateway Clipper Fleet — Empress, 412.395.2877

W I L D K R AT T S — L I V E ! Benedum Center 412.456.6666

Look for Muriel @ August 2018 (Exact date TBA!) STYLE WEEK PITTSBURGH 2018 styleweekpittsburgh.com

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*Hair by Joe at Philip Pelusi of Squirrel Hill

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WPCNHF’S 4TH SEMIANNUAL CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT Benefits Western PA Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation Cornerstone at Tonidale, 724.741.6160

BODYTRAFFIC Byham Theater, 412.456.6666

B E AV E R C O U N T Y MARCH FOR BABIES

DEMEATRIA BOCCELLA CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER OF FASHIONAFRICANA

Community College of Beaver County, 412.506.8612

A L LY B A L L Benefits Allies for Health + Wellbeing The Pennsylvanian 412.345.7456

OUT OF HAND: REMIX Contemporary Craft 412.261.7003

April 15 WESTMORELAND/ INDIANA COUNTIES MARCH FOR BABIES

“I like a classic look. But, I would describe my style as chic with an artistic edge when dressing for events.”

Hempfield Township Park 412.506.8614

DI SNEY JUNIOR DANCE PA R T Y O N T O U R Benedum Center 412.456.6666

April 16 LACHANZE Cabaret at Theater Square 412.456.6666

April 18-May 5 BUTLER COUNTY ANNUAL SPRING ART SHOW Associated Artists of Butler County — Butler Art Center 724.283.6922

April 19-22 FITNESS ADVENTURE R E T R E AT Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 866.344.3957

April 19-May 20 HAMLET Pittsburgh Public Theater 412.316.1600

April 20 THE NEW DO + F R A N K E L AWA R D S RECOGNITION

Look for Demeatria @ March 12 PITTSBURGH REGIONAL AUGUST WILSON MONOLOGUE COMPETITION

Benefits City Theatre Company Heinz Field Club Lounge citytheatrecompany.org

Point Park University, billnunntop.com

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BREWER’S BALL Benefits Cystic Fibrosis Foundation — Western PA Chapter Circuit Center & Ballroom 412.321.4422

C E L E B R AT E L A ROCHE GALA Omni William Penn Hotel 412.536.1092

“As one of the founding organizers of The Bark Shadyside Pup Walk, it’s definitely an event worth checking out. Not only does it benefit Humane Animal Rescue, it has become a huge community event in conjunction with The Neighborhood Flea and Great Shadyside Yard Sale.”

21+ NIGHT

TORI MISTICK BLOGGER OF WEAR WAG REPEAT AND CREATOR OF INSTAMISTICK

Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

April 20-22 PITTSBURGH UNDERGROUND F I L M F E S T I VA L Regent Square Theater and Melwood Screening Room reelq.org/puff

ART & WINE WEEKEND Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 866.344.3957

April 21 BOW WOW BINGO Benefits Animal Friends Edgewood Country Club ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/Events

G A R D E N M E D I TAT I O N Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

IGNITE YOUR L I G H T R E T R E AT Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

April 21-22 F LY I N G F I S H C L A S S I C Benefits Cystic Fibrosis Foundation — Western PA Chapter Yellow Creek Trout Club, Inc. 412.321.4422

April 22 LENDING HEARTS’ BRUNCH FOR HOPE Benefits Lending Hearts Vallozzi’s Pittsburgh lendinghearts.org

B R E A K FA S T I N B E D : PLANET ORGANIC Mattress Factory, mattress.org

B UT LE R C OUN T Y MA R C H FOR B AB IE S WA L K North Boundary Park 412.506.8612

PITTSBURGH MARCH & RUN FOR BABIES Heinz Field, 412.506.8610

Look for Tori & Lucy @

April 7 T H E B A R K S H A D Y S I D E P U P WA L K Liberty School Lot (on the corner of Ellsworth Avenue & Ivy Street), thinkshadyside.com

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April 26 S T. B A R N A B A S F O U N D E R ’ S D AY

April 29 ERIE MARCH FOR BABIES

May 6 CLEARFIELD COUNTY MARCH FOR BABIES

M O T H E R ’ S D AY SUCCULENT WORKSHOP

Benefits St. Barnabas Charities Pittsburgh Marriott North Cranberry, 724.444.5521

Penn State Behrend 412.506.8612

Clearfield County Fairgrounds 412.506.8615

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

April 30 B O N V O YA G E : A RED CARPET E V E N T C E L E B R AT I N G T E D PA P PA S A N D PITTSBURGH P U B L I C T H E AT E R

MERCER COUNTY MARCH FOR BABIES

MAECENAS XXXIV

P E R S E V E R AN C E . GR AC E . P UR P OS E . AWAR DS Benefits Parkinson Foundation Western Pennsylvania EngineHouse 25, 412.837.2542

5TH ANNUAL ROCK ’N ROLL LEGENDS Benefits Cancer Caring Center Jergel’s Rhythm Grille 412.622.1212

April 26-27 C O R P O R AT E C U P Benefits Cystic Fibrosis Foundation — Western PA Chapter Printscape Arena at Southpointe 724.745.6666

April 27 GALLERY CRAWL Cultural District 412.456.6666

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION L U N C H E O N A WA R D S Benefits Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation Western Pennsylvania/ West Virginia Chapter of Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation Headquarters crohnscolitisfoundation.org/ chapters/wpawv

Benefits Pittsburgh Public Theater Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown, ppt.org

May 4 21+ NIGHT Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

May 4-5 THE 38TH ANNUAL SEWICKLEY HOUSE TOUR Multiple Locations 412.396.9874

May 4-6 UPMC PRESENTS WEST SIDE SIDE STORY SUITE + IN THE NIGHT + FANCY FREE WITH THE PBT ORCHESTRA Benefits Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Benedum Center, 412.456.6666

May 5 GALA OF THE GOLDS

Buhl Farm Park, 412.506.8612

WHEELING MARCH FOR BABIES Oglebay Park, 412.506.8610

May 7 CAFÉ SCI Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

VINCENTIAN C O L L A B O R AT I V E SYSTEM SR. EILEEN CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC Benefits Vincentian Home, Vincentian Marian Manor, and Vincentian de Marillac Pittsburgh Field Club 412.548.4056

May 8 PA R K I N S O N ’ S F U N D R A I S I N G D AY AT C H I P O T L E Benefits Parkinson Foundation Western Pennsylvania All Western PA Chipotle Locations, pfwpa.org

May 9 H O LY F A M I LY ACADEMY’S SAINT JOSEPH THE WORKER BANQUET

Benefits Pittsburgh Festival Opera Pittsburgh Golf Club 412.326.9687

Manchester Craftsman’s Guild 412.307.0230

Olin Fine Arts Center, 724.223.6546

A LT O O N A / JOHNSTOWN MARCH FOR BABIES

April 28 C U LT U R E D C O C K TA I L S

Altoona Curve’s Peoples Natural Gas Field, 412.506.8615

Benefits Propel Schools’ Afterschool Programs & PostSecondary Scholarships Propel Montour Middle and High Schools, propelschools.org

Benefits Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Benedum Center, TrustArts.org

C I N C O D E M AY O SPECIAL

W&J CHOIR AND C A M E R ATA S I N G E R S PERFORM MOZART’S REQUIEM

F AY E T T E C O U N T Y MARCH FOR BABIES

Mad Mex Locations madmex.com

Mt. Macrina, 412.506.8614

May 5-6 RUN TO CURE CF

KULU MELE — AFRICAN DRUM AND DANCE

Benefits Cystic Fibrosis Foundation — Western PA Chapter Downtown Pittsburgh crowdrise.com/ runtocurecf2018

Olin Fine Arts Center 724.223.6546

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May 10 POWER OF PROPEL

May 12 MANIFESTING MIRACLES Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

S TA M P O U T H U N G E R , LETTER CARRIERS FOOD DRIVE Benefits Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank Collections at Donors’ Mailboxes stampouthungerfooddrive.us

Benefits Pittsburgh Opera Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters 412.281.0912

May 13 2018 SUSAN G. KOMEN PITTSBURGH RACE FOR THE CURE Benefits Susan G. Komen Flagstaff Hill at Schenley Park 412.342.0500

GO RED FOR WOMEN LUNCHEON Benefits American Heart Association Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown, 412.208.3595

GIRL SCOUTS W E S T E R N PA A WA R D S O F DISTINCTION Benefits Girl Scouts Western PA Omni William Penn Hotel Downtown, 800.248.3355

M O T H E R ’ S D AY SPECIAL

May 18-20 PITTSBURGH BALLET T H E AT R E S C H O O L’ S PRE-PROFESSIONAL SHOWCASE

Mad Mex Locations, Kaya, Casbah, Soba, Umi, Eleven bigburrito.com

George Rowland White Performance Studio, Point Park University 412.281.6727

May 14 2ND ANNUAL PRESSLEY RIDGE S P O R T I N G C L AY S SHOOT

May 19 WA S H I N G T O N COUNTY MARCH FOR BABIES

Benefits Pressley Ridge Seven Springs Mountain Resort 412.872.9400

May 16 YA N N I 2 5 — ACROPOLIS ANNIVERSARY CONCERT TOUR Benedum Center, 412.456.6666

May 17 PROPEL SCHOOLS — AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM ART SHOWCASE Mattress Factory propelschools.org

A U S T I N ’ S P L AY R O O M S LUNCHEON & FUNDRAISER Benefits Mario Lemieux Foundation Mario Lemieux Foundation Headquarters, 412.281.3466

May 17-20 EQT CHILDREN’S T H E AT E R F E S T I VA L Cultural District, 412.456.6666

May 18 HISTORY MAKERS A WA R D D I N N E R Westin Convention Center Hotel Downtown heinzhistorycenter.org/events

North Strabane Township Park 412.506.8615

May 19-21 PITTSBURGH E A R T H D AY Various Locations pittsburghearthday.org

May 20 2018 PITTSBURGH M U S C L E WA L K Benefits Muscular Dystrophy Association Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium,412.823.3094

THE RAINBOW FISH Byham Theater 412.456.6666

THE YOUNG KING Trust Arts Education Center 412.456.6666

May 22-23 C O C K TA I L S A N D COUTURE FOR A CAUSE Benefits A Glimmer of Hope Foundation’s Home for Hope Fairmont Pittsburgh, 800.454.6746

May 22-27 RODGERS + HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA Heinz Hall, 412.456.4800

W HI R L / J ANUARY/ F E BRUARY 2 0 1 8

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May 25-26 Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School’s Spring Performance Byham Theater, 412.281.6727

June 9-10 PITTSBURGH PRIDEFEST & EQUALITY MARCH

May 26 G A R D E N M E D I TAT I O N

Benefits Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh Liberty Avenue, Downtown 412.322.2800

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

May 27 BODY & SOUL LOVE Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

LGBTQ+ YOUTH PROM The Andy Warhol Museum 412.237.8300

May 31-July 1 WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S LONG L O S T F I R S T P L AY (ABRIDGED) Pittsburgh Public Theater 412.316.1600

June 1-10 DOLLAR BANK THREE R I V E R S A R T S F E S T I VA L Multiple Locations, 412.456.6666

June 4 CAFÉ SCI Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

S T. B A R N A B A S C HAR ITAB LE GOL F O P E N Benefits St. Barnabas Charities Conley Resort & Golf 724.444.5521

VA R I E T Y ’ S 3 3 R D ANNUAL GOLF I N V I TAT I O N A L Benefits Variety — The Children’s Charity Fox Chapel Golf Club 724.933.0460

June 6 2 0 1 8 W E S L E Y F A M I LY SERVICES GOLF TOURNAMENT Benefits Wesley Family Services Laurel Valley Golf Club 412.302.5160

June 8 G R E AT N I G H T G A L A Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh greatnightgala.org

LARRY RICHERT CELEBRITY GOLF CLASSIC Benefits American Cancer Society Longue Vue Club, 412.919.1042

June 12-17 ON YOUR FEET! Benedum Center 412.456.6666

June 15 U R B A N G A R D E N PA R T Y Mattress Factory mattress.org

June 16 ART OF THE BRICK OPENING Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

June 17 COMMUNITY G A R D E N PA R T Y Mattress Factory, mattress.org

F AT H E R ’ S D AY S P E C I A L Mad Mex Locations madmex.com

June 18 LIFE’SWORK OF W E S T E R N PA 2 7 T H ANNUAL GOLF I N V I TAT I O N A L Benefits Life’sWork of Western PA Treesdale Golf & Country Club 412.471.2600

LIGHTS OUT C E L E B R AT I O N

HANDBAG HAPPY HOUR Benefits A Glimmer of Hope Foundation Walnut Grill, Wexford 800.454.6746

June 22 21+ NIGHT Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

June 22-July 1 T I TA N I C Benedum Center, 412.456.6666

June 24-28 FITNESS ADVENTURE R E T R E AT Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 866.344.6957

June 28-July 22 P I T T S B U R G H F E S T I VA L OPERA 41ST SEASON Falk Auditorium, Winchester Thurston School, 412.326.9687

June 29-July 1 GAMMA PICKLEBALL CLASSIC Benefits Parkinson Foundation Western Pennsylvania David L. Lawrence Convention Center, pickleballclassic.org

June 30 TA I C H I F O R H E A LT H & R E L A X AT I O N Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

July 4 4 T H O F J U LY FIREWORKS FUN

Pittsburgh Playhouse of Point Park University, 412.392.8000

Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

27TH ANNUAL BOB POMPEANI CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC

July 6 GALLERY CRAWL

Benefits Citizen Care Residential Program Chartiers Country Club 412.446.0702

June 20 T R A N S P O R TAT I O N , BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION A WA R D S L U N C H E O N Westin Convention Center Hotel Downtown, 412.506.8614

June 21 S N O W B A L L D AY Carnegie Science Center 412.237.3400

Cultural District, 412.456.6666

July 6, 14, 18, & 19 P I T T S B U R G H F E S T I VA L OPERA PRESENTS: LA BOHÈME Falk Auditorium, Winchester Thurston School pittsburghfestivalopera.org

July 6-15 THE FULL MONTY Benedum Center 412.456.6666

July 7 M U LT I P L E C H O I C E : BEASTS

MINDFUL YOGA Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 724.329.6411

July 8 PITCH FOR HOPE Benefits A Glimmer of Hope Foundation PNC Park, 800.454.6746

July 10 LUPUS CHALLENGE GOLF OUTING Benefits Lupus Foundation of Pittsburgh The Club at Nevillewood 412.261.5886

July 13, 15, & 21 P I T T S B U R G H F E S T I VA L OPERA PRESENTS: RHINEGOLD BY R I C H A R D WA G N E R Falk Auditorium, Winchester Thurston School pittsburghfestivalopera.org

July 14 7TH ANNUAL ONE WHIRL YOGA F E S T + H E A LT H Y LIFESTYLE EXPO Point State Park 412.431.7888

July 16-19 PA S TA F E S T Casbah, casbahpgh.com

July 17-22 BRIGADOON

July 23 S T. C L A I R H O S P I TA L’ S GOLF CLASSIC Benefits St. Clair Hospital Foundation St. Clair Country Club 412.942.2465

July 27-August 5 DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Benedum Center 412.456.6666

July 28 3 0 T H A N N U A L F A M I LY F U N R U N / WA L K F O R EPILEPSY Benefits Epilepsy Foundation Western/Central PA PNC Park,412.322.5880

July 28-29 S H O P ’ N ’ S AV E WESTMORELAND COUNTY AIRSHOW Benefits Feherty’s Troops First Foundation Arnold Palmer Regional Airport 724.539.8100

July 30 13TH ANNUAL MARCUS L. RUSCITTO C H A R I TA B L E F O U N D AT I O N G O L F I N V I TAT I O N A L Benefits Marcus L. Ruscitto Charitable Foundation St. Clair Country Club 724.243.5048

Benedum Center, 412.456.6666

July 20 S T. C L A I R H O S P I TA L’ S 21ST ANNUAL SUMMER SWING Benefits St. Clair Hospital Foundation St. Clair Country Club 412.942.2465

July 20 & 22 P I T T S B U R G H F E S T I VA L OPERA PRESENTS: ARABELLA BY RICHARD STRAUSS Falk Auditorium, Winchester Thurston School pittsburghfestivalopera.org

August 3 N AT I O N A L I PA D AY Mad Mex Locations madmex.com

August 24 RUM, ROCK, AND REGGAE VIP K I C K - O F F PA R T Y Forbes Avenue, Market Square 412.303.6456

August 25 RUM, ROCK, AND REGGAE CONCERT Forbes Avenue, Market Square 412.303.6456

July 22-26 FITNESS ADVENTURE R E T R E AT Nemacolin Woodlands Resort 866.344.6957

August Wilson Center 412.456.6666 WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT One of an artist’s greatest attributes is the ability to create beauty even from seemingly unattractive situations. These three artists do just that, turning weathered materials and ordinary situations into extraordinary pieces. EDITED BY CAITLIN CESA + RACHEL JONES

DAMION DREHER

Born and raised in Clairton, Damion Dreher is a Brooklyn-based painter whose newest work draws upon the underlying beauty of urban decay. Inspired by weathered signs stuck on abandoned buildings, defaced advertisements layered on subway platforms, and graffiti in dive bar bathrooms, he builds his work through various media to create layered narratives through fragmented visual clues. The layers, although torn and sometimes almost unintelligible, help to convey a message of resilience, defiance, and even hope. Dreher will be participating in an upcoming residency at Bunker Projects starting in March that will be followed by a solo exhibition. damionismyname.com.

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ROBERT WRIGHT

KYLE ETHAN FISCHER

Born in Hazelwood, Robert Wright (1943-2006) was a prolific and self-taught artist whose paintings, drawings, and multimedia works converged the natural world, spiritual scenes, and everyday city life in compelling, bold compositions that reveal a new dimension on each viewing. Often working in series, creating dozens of variations on a subject, Wright took inspiration from his perspective of Pittsburgh’s hillsides, regional flora and fauna, local and international news, and his exposure to religious imagery. In Wright’s color-driven worlds, flickering birds, levitating cars, beaming angels, and contorted expressions result in a stirring journey. An exhibition dedicated exclusively to his work will open at Jesse Best Gallery in Homestead with a reception on FEBRUARY 10 from 5-7 p.m. Organized by collector Patrick McArdle and independent curator Brittany Reilly, the show will celebrate the life and creative spirit of Wright through a selection of over 100 works on paper, paintings, and found objects, which the artist often used as his canvas. Guests will include the artist’s sister, and proceeds will support mental health awareness. Jesse Best Gallery, 216 E. 7th Ave., Homestead.

Kyle Ethan Fischer’s artwork encompasses dynamic, process-based paintings, sculptures, performances, and installations. With both European Catholic and Kespukwitk of First Nation backgrounds, his spiritual and cultural life is a central theme to his art. For the past 10 years, Fischer has been a member of the Studio Mechanics Union, working as a scenic painter and sculptor on critically acclaimed films such as the adaptation of August Wilson’s “Fences.” Most recently, he worked as the lead sculptor on the upcoming Richard Linklater film, “Where’d You Go, Bernadette,” starring Cate Blanchett. kylefischerart.com

Photographs from John Spiziri, Mary Catherine Thompson, Crista Pisano

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Damion Dreher, Miss Monroe, Mixed Media on Panel, 24” X 36,” 2017 Photograph from Damion Dreher

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Robert Wright, Untitled, Acrylic Painting on Board, 24”x24,” Exact date unknown (created during the later part of the artist’s life) Photograph by Michael Fornataro

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Kyle Ethan Fischer, Wolf, Found Wood, 15’ X 10’ X 3,’ 2016 Photograph from Kyle Ethan Fischer

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/ FEATURE

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INSIDE THE DESIGNS

ALISHA GWEN BY MATTHEW HACKE •

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ERIN ALVAREZ

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est Virginia native Alisha Gwen’s knack for interior design began as a young child, when she could often be found transforming cardboard boxes into miniature dream homes or rearranging the furniture of her bedroom. Getting even more creative in her teen years, Gwen would find inspiration from reading the house plan section of Southern Living magazine and then design floor plans for pretend clients. “I have always known I was going to have my own company, so it was never a matter of if, but a matter of when,” Gwen says. After attending West Virginia University and receiving a degree in interior design and entrepreneurship, Gwen moved to Pittsburgh, where she turned her dream of owning her own business into a reality. Her impressive residential projects, including individual room redesign, small to large remodels, and new construction, as well as her smaller commercial jobs, have taken her throughout the region and across the country. “Although primarily based in Pittsburgh, I’m always willing and eager to travel for a great project,” Gwen says. “I have collaborated with clients all over West Virginia, up and down the East Coast from DC to the Carolinas, and on both Florida coastlines.” Gwen’s chic and elegant work has garnered much attention in the interior design realm, including a gig on the HGTV reality program, “Showhouse Showdown,” and most recently, a 10-page spread in HGTV Magazine. We recently caught up with the interior designer to learn more about her professional accomplishments, as well as some home decor tips just in time for 2018! WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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/ FEATURE the loft in my home for two years, and before that, out of another local design studio.

YOU’RE ORIGINALLY FROM WEST VIRGINIA. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO SET UP SHOP IN PITTSBURGH?

WHAT IGNITED THE SPARK IN YOU TO START ALISHA GWEN INTERIOR DESIGN? I grew up ‘in the family business,’ so I witnessed firsthand what it was like to create something from nothing — to work relentlessly at something you are passionate about. Although the car dealership business is drastically different than interior design [laughs], running any business takes an understanding of how to lead, and I learned by observing.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS? I’ve been out on my own for about four years now. I opened my studio on Ellsworth Avenue in Shadyside in September 2016. Prior to the studio, I worked out of 74

When I moved here almost eight years ago, it was because my best friend had landed a job here and we had made a pact that once one of us landed a job, that was the city we were going to move to. She landed the job first, so we found an apartment in Shadyside and I moved here with no job to speak of. After two months, I was hired at a local firm as a Junior Interior Designer. Fast forward two years later, I landed an HGTV television gig on “Showhouse Showdown.” The reality show competition focused on two designers who were given the same budget to work on identical houses. We had six rooms to design and decorate from the ground up. I modified both the kitchen layout and the master bathroom from what was on the house plans to better the design and stand out from the competition. In the end I chose not to sacrifice my aesthetic for the sake of winning. Once the show aired, I began obtaining clients of my own. I have remained in Pittsburgh because of the lasting relationships I have made both personally and professionally. I am also very close with my family, so I am only two hours away and get home every chance I get, which was another plus of setting up shop here!

HOW DID YOUR RECENT FEATURE IN HGTV MAGAZINE COME ABOUT? The magazine had previously published a photo of my work. I kept in contact and reached out again later on with professional photos of the project that was featured once it was complete, and expressed why I thought it would be a great fit for their readers. Thankfully, they agreed immediately! Once the project was given the green light, they

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scheduled the shoot and flew down two editors, a photographer, and a stylist from New York City. The entire shoot took two days! I have a few more projects they are considering, so I hope to build and maintain a relationship with the magazine to gain further national exposure.

WHAT HOME TRENDS ARE YOU FORECASTING FOR 2018 IN INTERIOR DESIGN? To be honest, I don’t pay much attention to trends per say because I don’t follow them. I pay more attention to the latest and greatest plumbing fixtures and fabric cleaning technology, for example, than I do what is ‘trending’ in paint colors. I focus my energy on helping a client discover his or her individual style, whether it’s trendy, modern, traditional, or a mix! I tend to air more on the side of traditional for the main investment furniture pieces in a space, and incorporate ‘trendy’ items in the form of accessories and pieces that won’t break the bank. A good mix between high and low and traditional and modern will always be trending for me! Locally, from a design perspective, I have noticed a trend of families passing along the same design aesthetic from generation to generation. Therefore, I have made it my mission to challenge clients to think outside the box and allow me to help them define their own aesthetic! Alisha Gwen Interior Design, 5823 Ellsworth Ave., Shadyside. 412.503.3432. alishagwen.com.

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Mary & Frank Clements

SYMPHONY SPLENDOR HOLIDAY HOME TOUR’S PATRON PARTY WHO: Over 75 guests, including event co-chairs Cathy Trombetta and Diane Unkovic; Lynn and Joe Smith; Susan and Judge Alex Bicket; Ann and Sam Zacharias; Kathy and Judge David Cashman; Jill and Chuck Brodbeck; Jan and Rocky Bleier; Jean Horne; Barbara Barry; Jamie and Dr. George Magovern; Patrick Gray; Lou Guarino; Stephanie Marcus; Diane and Dan Deiseroth; and Linda and Chris Miller. WHAT: The patron party kicked off the Symphony Splendor Holiday Home Tour, an in-depth look at eight architectural masterpieces located in Mt. Lebanon’s historic Virginia Manor neighborhood. The annual event benefits the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. WHERE: The Virginia Manor residence of Mary and Frank Clements HIGHLIGHTS: The event offered guests a preview of the tour a few days before it officially opened. Upon arrival, they were greeted by garlands and flowers galore — covering every nook and staircase! The group mingled in the two-story library, savoring an elegant buffet catered by The Duquesne Club while piano man Rick Purcell capped off the evening with delightful tunes. — M.H. “We all give a standing ovation to Mary and Frank Clements whose splendid party kicked off our 4th Symphony Holiday Home Tour on the perfect note!” — Diane Unkovic, party co-chair

Joe & Lynn Smith

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM DIANE UNKOVIC AND JEAN HORNE

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

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Dan & Diane Deiseroth

Dennis & Diane Unkovic, Cathy & Robert Trombetta

4005 PARK PLACE | INDIANA TOWNSHIP | CUSTOM-BUILT HOME | $850,000

LINDA DIBUCCI REALTOR® 412.519.5800 (M) 412.850.5404 (O) LDIBUCCI@SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM 3402 HARTS RUN ROAD GLENSHAW, PA 15116

MARK JENNINGS, BROKER OF RECORD | PIATT SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY 3402 HARTS RUN ROAD | GLENSHAW, PA 15116 | 412.850.5404 (O) | PIATTSIR.COM | PITTSBURGH@SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is Independently Owned and Operated. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully.

Rocky & Jan Bleier

girasolepgh.com

FRESH, LOCAL ITALIAN Judge David & Kathy Cashman

733 Copeland Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15232 412.682.2130

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Judy Woffington, Dani Grego, Jill Nolan

THE TWENTY FIVE CLUB’S HOLIDAY A-FLAIR WHO: 160 guests WHAT: Attendees sipped bubbly at the Champagne Bar; shopped merchandise from Carl Herrmann Furs, Designs by Myrna, H and M Designs, Me and My Shadow, and Jewelry Thief at the Twenty Five Club Market Place; and purchased decorative bags containing items worth $50 or more in support of the organization’s mission. After a delicious lunch, Amanda Gillen, director of education at the Frick Museum, presented sketches to the group from the Frick’s exhibition, Undressed: A History of Fashion in Underwear. WHERE: The Duquesne Club HIGHLIGHTS: The afternoon raised close to $50,000 for the Twenty Five Club’s mission to support projects for frail babies at MageeWomens Hospital. Since it launched in 1939, the Twenty Five Club has supported newborn medicine, neonatal research, and clinical care. Recent funds enabled research for procedures to be done in utero, especially for spina bifida, and additional treatments are now being done for addicted babies as well. — R.J. “Whenever I attend a Twenty Five Club event, I see familiar faces who, like me, are so happy to wrap our arms around this most generous and caring organization. We can enjoy even more because we are helping to save lives and give these babies a better chance for a healthy one.” — Barb Mendlowitz , The Twenty Five Club Publicity Chair

Leslie Davis, Myrna Davis

PHOTOGRAPHS BY SARAH COLLINS

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

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Susan Fitzsimmons, Shannon Mahramas, Jeanne Caliguiri

Tina Galli, Emily Galli, Doris Shepherd

Michel Franklin, Arlene Sokolow, Barb Mendlowitz

Ali Kszastowski, Stacy Klein, Lara Kovalcheck, Amy Smiley

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/ ESTATE

PERFECT FOR

PETS Whether you’re looking for a spacious home in the suburbs or pet-friendly spot in the city, these properties are a purr-fect match for you and your tail-wagging companions!

Cuddle up with your pet in the living room as you take in the views of the surrounding city neighborhoods.

For more information, contact Bakery Living, a development by Walnut Capital, at 412.347.4432. bakeryliving.com.

A SWEET SPOT Bakery Living, 6480 Living Place, Bakery Square — Starting at $1,200 per month

Located across the street from the former Nabisco Bakery building, Bakery Living is comprised of two separate buildings and filled with multiple layout options with micro-, one-, or two-bedroom units.

PET PERKS: • Pet relief areas • Pet wash station • Neighboring walking trail that leads to Walnut Street

The chef-grade kitchen includes quartz countertops, mobile islands, and energy-efficient Kenmore appliances. The bedrooms come equipped with great walk-in closets, natural woodinspired flooring, and nine-foot ceilings. 80

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Steps away from Mellon Park, walking your canine companion will be a breeze. Afterwards, wash their paws in the building’s doggie shower and mud room!

• Complimentary treats in the lobby • Occasional "yappy hours" and pet-related events • Pet-friendly stores across Penn Avenue at Bakery Square

BY MATTHEW HACKE • PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ALYSSA FLORENTINE, MARIE KING,

CHRIS LITHERLAND, DENNIS MARISCO

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The transitional kitchen and living room area featured here showcases the high-end appliances, cabinetry, and hand-crafted artistry.

BRIGHT FUTURE Lumière, 350 Oliver Ave., Downtown —Units Starting at $225,000 *Photos are a representation of the property to be built.

For more information, contact Piatt Sotheby’s International Realty at 412.471.4900. lumierepgh.com.

The interior of the units can be custom-designed for a limited time based upon three distinct styles: transitional, modern, and modern rustic. This depiction of the full bathroom features the modern rustic finish.

PET PERKS: • Rooftop pet walk • Pet grooming areas

Wake up to the sights and sounds of Downtown in this stunning master bedroom. The rooftop deck on the 17th floor will be ideal for summer parties as guests lounge around the fire pits or pergola.

RENDERINGS FROM MILLCRAFT HOSPITALITY SERVICES

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Lumière — which means “light” in French — will be Downtown Pittsburgh’s newest star come late 2019. The property, located at the site of the former Saks Fifth Avenue, will house 86 residences with the option of one-, two-, or three-bedroom floor plans. WH I R LM A G A Z I N E .C OM / WH IRL

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With four bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms, this custom-built home is a pet’s paradise! It sits on four acres adjacent to Cooper’s Lake Campground, minutes from I-79, McConnells Mill State Park, and Moraine State Park.

TRANQUIL RETREAT 124 Currie Road, Slippery Rock — $279,000

For more information, contact Lynette Veri of Northwood Realty Services at 724.776.9705. northwood.com.

The cozy kitchen features stainless steel appliances, plenty of wooden cabinetry space, and a five-shelf pantry.

The expansive yard space provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Enjoy family meals in the dining room, complemented by engineered hardwood floors and an abundance of natural light.

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PET PERKS: • Custom-built pet nook • Located on 4 acres of land This custom-designed pet nook is a paws-itively ideal spot for your pet to take an afternoon cat nap.

• In close proximity to local and state parks

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM LYNETTE VERI

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Sitting on 10 acres of secluded, wooded property, this cul-de-sac dream home boasts three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms.

TUCKED AWAY 335 Red Oak Court, Monroeville —$950,000

For more information, contact Stefani Lingafelt of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services at 412.271.7600. howardhanna.com.

Enjoy date night in with the lower level entertainment epicenter, featuring a full bar, kitchen, and movie theater.

PET PERKS: • Sits on a 10-acre property • Surrounded by forest adorned with bridges and gazebos

A spacious, refrigerated wine vault? Cheers to that!

The gourmet kitchen extends into the sunken dining room, great for entertaining and hosting dinner parties.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM MARK HOLEWINSKI

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Discover this five-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom Victorian home, located in the heart of Central Sewickley.

A VICTORIAN GEM 230 Thorn St., Sewickley — $1,100,000

For more information, contact Susie Reuter and Beverly McQuone of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty at 412.741.6312. ThePreferredRealty.com.

Exquisite details in the kitchen, such as original hardwood floors, crown molding, and exposed brick, complement modern updates like the stainless steel appliances.

Keep company with a good book in the charming family room, equipped with bay windows and a lovely fireplace. Sit out on the massive, mahogany-floored front porch with your guests and pets!

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PET PERKS: • In close proximity to pet-friendly shops and parks in Downtown Sewickley The fenced-in backyard includes a beautiful brick patio surrounded by lush greenery.

• Fenced-in backyard

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM JOE INDOVINA PHOTOGRAPHY

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Your front door is the entrance to Frick Park with this spectacular — and newly renovated! — brick home with three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and two half-bathrooms.

PRIME PARK PROPERTY 7405 Reynolds St., Point Breeze —$569,000

PET PERKS: • Located across the street from the 644acre Frick Park • Near countless miles of hiking trails and a fenced-in, off-leash dog park

For more information, contact Albert Anthony Real Estate at 412.422.3430. albertanthonyrealestate.com.

New windows pour natural lighting into the sleek living room. Enjoy warmer days on the front yard watching bowling games from across the street!

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM DOUG BOOTH

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The first floor master suite comes with a large walk-in closet and storage space, as well as a soaker tub, separate shower, and dual vanity.

The updated kitchen features a center island sink, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances.

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/ WEDDINGS 2

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NETTIE MOORE & MITCH MERCER Looking to bring all of their friends and family members together for a special celebration, Nettie Moore and Mitch Mercer knew they needed a large reception space in a unique setting. The solution? A picturesque destination wedding in Savannah, Ga., the halfway point between the bride’s parents in Florida and the couple’s home in Pittsburgh, which is also near the groom’s parents in Bluffton, S.C. “Hiring a wedding planner saved my life and my sanity,” Nettie says with a laugh. “It’s well worth investing in a planner, especially if you’re out of state.” Over 200 loved ones traveled to the ceremony at St. Anne Catholic Church and reception at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa. Nettie looked stunning in her trumpet-style Le Spose Di Gio gown, which featured an elegant bow on the back. She and her bridesmaids carried bouquets of white and pink roses, ranunculus, and anemones with eucalyptus, which complemented the marsala and rose quartz color palette of the day. While guests mingled during the scenic, river-side cocktail hour, Nettie and Mitch retreated to a restaurant inside the reception venue that overlooked the crowd. “It was just the two of us,” Nettie says. “It was nice to breathe, take a break, and take it all in.” 86

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1. Nettie and Mitch dated for two years before he proposed during their family vacation in Florida. 2. “We wanted a very natural, Southern look with lighter fall colors,” Nettie says. 3. Twelve groomsmen and 12 bridesmaids supported the couple on their special day. 4. “We had a live wedding painter, who painted our first dance,” Nettie says. “It was amazing!”

BY RACHEL JONES •

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE HAPPY BLOOM

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1. The couple’s 325 guests received adorable peach pie pops from Pittsburgh Sweet Treats as favors. 2. During dinner, Jenna and Jimmy sat at an elegant sweetheart table. “Find a moment during your reception to pause together as a couple and look around at your party!” Jenna says. “The day went even faster than we could have imagined.” 3. The Farmer’s Daughter created beautiful, textured bouquets of roses, dahlias, lisianthus, sliver dollar eucalyptus, delphinium, thistles, and succulents. 4. Jenna dazzled in a fit-and-flare Sottero and Midgley gown, covered in glittery lace appliqués, pearls, and Swarovski crystals.

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JENNA PLACHA & JIMMY MURACO Mutual friends introduced Jenna Placha and Jimmy Muraco at a Halloween party one Friday night. They didn’t immediately make plans for an official first date, so fate decided to step in. “We quickly realized that our weekend plans were the same!” Jenna says. “We both ended up at the Penguins game on Saturday and the same Steelers tailgate on Sunday. Before parting ways and heading into the Steelers game, Jimmy asked if he could see me again.” They dated for almost two years before Jimmy proposed during a breathtaking hike through Swallow Falls State Park, and plans for a warm-weathered wedding were set in motion. “We used a variety of purples, blues, greens, pinks, blushes, and gold to accentuate all of our décor [at the Omni William Penn Hotel reception],” Jenna says. “Our wedding coordinator at the William Penn, Corey Makrush, was so detail-oriented and made sure that everything was impeccably well-coordinated for our big day.” The Black Tie band kept the dance floor packed, and the fun continued with an after-party at the Urban Room in the Omni William Penn Hotel, complete with Piccadilly frozen yogurt, Reuben and brisket sliders, and tunes by DJ Eric Wenning.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM EVA LIN PHOTOGRAPHY

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CAITLIN MCMANUS & BILL BRUNNER While tailgating for a Tim McGraw concert with friends, Caitlin McManus parked by Bill Brunner and felt an instant connection. They dated for three years, but when their relationship became long-distance, they mutually decided to part ways. Four years later, Bill stumbled upon a box of keepsakes from Caitlin, which included ticket stubs, cards, and the piece of paper from when she first gave him her phone number. He texted her, and their love picked up right where it left off. Caitlin and Bill said “I do” before friends and family at the Oak Lodge in Stahlstown. The bride radiated in a Hayley Paige gown, featuring iridescent, sequin flowers on the bodice and an alabaster, tulle skirt. “It spoke to my own colorful, singular style while allowing me to feel beautiful and glamorous,” Caitlin says. “Don’t worry about being traditional, just be you.” For a unique guestbook, Caitlin and Bill invited loved ones to sign the tailgate of the truck Bill was driving when they first met. “It had so much sentimental value for both of us. So when he did sell it, he removed the tailgate and sold the truck without it!” Caitlin says. “Our story began at that tailgate, and we started a new chapter of our lives together with it as well.”

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1. “It’s amazing to say the words and fully commit to your best friend and the love of your life,” Caitlin says. “In that moment, it was like we were the only two people in the room. It was truly magical.” 2. “I wanted the bouquets and centerpieces to look like you just picked a bunch of wildflowers and lush greenery while walking through a summer field,” Caitlin says. “We also had feather accents throughout.” 3. The couple’s “dreamy, bohemian wildflower theme” came together naturally. “We didn’t really plan that from the beginning, it just developed into this ethereal vibe.” 4. The couple shared a first dance to “Free/Into the Mystic” by Zac Brown Band featuring Joey + Rory, while the father-daughter dance was to a song composed and recorded by Caitlin’s father.

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PHOTOGRAPHS FROM SASHA DANIELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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COURTNEY ROMANO & ALBERT VIVADIO II Albert Vivadio II’s proposal to Courtney Romano during a sunset gondola ride through the Grande Canal in Venice, Italy, set the tone for their romantic wedding back home in Pittsburgh. Courtney walked down the aisle, which was covered in red rose petals, in an Eddy K. Couture gown from Milan, Italy. She complemented the beaded bodice and customized cap sleeves of the ivory show-stopper with a couture, crystal-and-rhinestone-encrusted tiara and a cathedral-length veil accented with crystals. Pop rock violinist Nate Goodrich set an elegant scene as the couple professed their love, flanked by crystal pedestals and large bouquets of baby’s breath. When it came time for the reception in The Oliver Ballroom, a fun, party atmosphere took over. “The ballroom featured uplighting of candle glow, tables adorned with silver tablecloths and majestic centerpieces of hydrangeas with red roses, and hanging crystal adornments surrounded by black tea light holders and a beaded, diamond band around the top,” Courtney says. She credits the day’s perfection to her wedding planner – who is also her best friend! – and the dedicated staff of the Embassy Suites Hotel by Hilton Pittsburgh Downtown. “A wedding planner is a necessity,” Courtney says. “The entire Embassy Suites staff stepped in and exceeded all of our expectations.”

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“We wanted our wedding to be a true celebration with family and friends, forgoing many usual wedding traditions,” Courtney says. “A party vibe was enjoyed by all!”

LEA GUARINO & RICK BLATZ When Lea Guarino and Rick Blatz met at the River’s Casino, luck was definitely on their side! A chance encounter and compliment of Lea’s dazzling smile turned into nearly three years of dating before Rick surprised her with an equally dazzling engagement ring. As an ode to their meet-cute, the couple planned a casino-themed wedding. Casino tables provided after-dinner entertainment, and lottery tickets were gifted as favors. “My mom and I also made a card box that looked like a slot machine,” Lea says. “Everything was sparkly and blingy.” For Lea, a shining memory from the day was when her father sang one of her favorite Italian songs, “Volare,” with the accompaniment of a mandolin player. Having family and friends share in the love they have for each other made the entire day extra special for Lea and Rick, and having their help through the planning process made everything even more enjoyable. “There are way too many things to do yourself, so pass off some duties to others,” Lea says. “Also, trust that your vendors will do their job successfully. If you hire professionals, they will know what is right. Don’t try to control everything.”

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Lea found her gorgeous, glittery gown at Sorelle Bridal Salon. “It was my ‘OMG’ dress that I didn’t say for any others.”

DETAILS IN WHIRL DIRECTORY, PAGE 90 | SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING FOR WHIRL’S CONSIDERATION AT WHIRLWEDDINGS.COM.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM JAMES K. OF BIG DAY ENTERTAINMENT, PHOTOGRAPHS BY DANELLE

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REAL WEDDINGS

Courtney’s bouquet of giant calla lilies served as a tribute to her grandmother, who also carried a bouquet of calla lilies on her wedding day.

NETTIE MOORE & MITCH MERCER Accommodations, Catering, Lighting, & Reception The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa Bride’s Gown Boca Raton Bridal Cake Savannah Custom Cakes Ceremony St. Anne Catholic Church Decorations & Florals Harvey Designs Entertainment The Heather Hayes Experience Hair & Makeup Eye Do Makeup & Hair Honeymoon Hawaii and California Jewelry Henne Jewelers; Orr’s Jewelers Live Painting Wed on Canvas Photographer The Happy Bloom Planner The Event Group Rentals Beachview Event Rentals Stationery Nota Bene Fine Paper Boutique Videographer I Thee Film

JENNA PLACHA & JIMMY MURACO Accommodations, Catering, Lighting, & Reception Omni William Penn Hotel Cake Oakmont Bakery Ceremony First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh Decorations All Occasions Party Rental Entertainment Black Tie Band; Wenning Entertainment Favors Pittsburgh Sweet Treats Florals The Farmer’s Daughter Hair Tina’s Hair Designs Honeymoon Jamaica Makeup Hannah Conard Photographer Eva Lin Photography Planner Corey Makrush Stationery Nota Bene Fine Paper Boutique Transportation Molly’s Trolleys Videographer ShoFilms

“Believe it or not, my cake came from Market District,” Lea says. “On display was a fake, fivetiered cake with sparkles all over and our initials as the topper. The top tier was real, which we cut!”

CAITLIN MCMANUS & BILL BRUNNER Bridesmaids’ Dresses Bella Bridesmaids Cake Bella Christie and Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique Catering & Rentals JPC Event Group Ceremony, Lighting, Reception, & Rehearsal Dinner Oak Lodge Entertainment Mike McCormick; Jeremy Ganss Productions Florals Ridgeview Acres Farm Hair Salon Bawse Honeymoon US Virgin Islands Makeup Dessa Marie Artistry Photographer Sasha Danielle Photography Planner Aced Events Videographer Vows to Video

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PHOTOGRAPHS FROM JAMES K. OF BIG DAY ENTERTAINMENT, PHOTOGRAPHS BY DANELLE

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Jenna’s bridesmaids fit her purple color scheme perfectly.

COURTNEY ROMANO & ALBERT VIVADIO II Accommodations, Catering, Ceremony, Reception, & Rehearsal Dinner Embassy Suites by Hilton Pittsburgh Downtown Bride’s Dress Eddy K Couture Bridesmaids’ Dresses The Exquisite Bride Cake Grandview Bakery Entertainment Nate Goodrich of Steven Vance Entertainment Florals Donati’s Florist Hair Philip Pelusi Salons Honeymoon Australia Jewelry Yuri Jewelers Lighting PSAV Services Linens Linen Hero Makeup Hopestar Makeup Artistry Photographer James K. of Big Day Entertainment Planner BBG / MZR Luxury Event Planners Rentals All Occasions Party Rental Stationery RSVP Greensburg Tuxedos Men’s Wearhouse Videographer Aaron Dudas of Big Day Entertainment

LEA GUARINO & RICK BLATZ Bride’s Gown Sorelle Bridal Salon Cake Giant Eagle Market District Caterer The Fluted Mushroom Ceremony Epiphany Catholic Church Entertainment Kelli Burns Entertainment LLC Florals Donati’s Florist Hair & Makeup Dani’s Hair Loft Honeymoon Jamaica Jewelry Louis Anthony Jewelers Photographer & Videographer Photographs by Danelle Reception Circuit Center & Ballroom Tuxedos Men’s Wearhouse

PHOTOGRAPH FROM EVA LIN PHOTOGRAPHY

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MAKING AN IMPACT D

riving through the city, you’ve probably met eyes with one of Pittsburgh’s top sports heroes. Ben Roethlisberger, Francisco Cervelli, and Kris Letang, portrayed in black and white alongside powerful messages like “Organ Donation Nation,” “A Small Sacrifice That Can Make a Big Impact,” and “The Penguins Have Found Something Worth Fighting For,” respectively. The impactful billboards, along with a slew of city-wide events, are part of Play It Forward Pittsburgh, an educational campaign that emphasizes the importance of registering as an organ donor. Cindy and Rob Citrone started the initiative when Rob’s father endured the anxiety-filled waiting game that is being on an organ transplant list. “It doesn’t matter who you are — the organ transplant waitlist process is complicated, stressful, and heartwrenching for all transplant patients and their families,” Rob says. “We wanted to change that. Pittsburgh is world-renowned for its transplant centers. We are a city of championship sports teams and ‘championship’

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transplant teams. We want to make Pittsburgh a city of organ donor champions as well.” As minority owners of the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Citrones first asked the team and the Rooney family to back their project. An immediate “yes” from the Steelers, followed by similar responses from the Pirates and the Penguins, fell in line with the Citrones’ initial mission. “The idea was to unite three major professional sports franchises with common goals and common messaging over a three-month period to create a movement, create social impact, and move the needle in organ donation. Everything after that snowballed,” Cindy says, as more than 30 local and national universities, nonprofits, and businesses joined the cause. The Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins donated the proceeds of their 50/50 raffles, which totaled over $150,000. Along with the project’s initial success,The Citrone Family Foundation announced a $2 million gift to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC with an agreement to match

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$1 million in donations, launching a revolutionary network to improve pediatric liver transplant outcomes for patients around the world. The Starzl Network for Pediatric Excellence, named in honor of Pittsburgh’s own father of modern transplantation, Dr. Thomas Starzl, will ensure that Pittsburgh continues to be the leader in the field of transplantation by allowing centers to develop and share the best practices, patient outcome data, and research. “Organ donation — and more wonderfully, organ transplantation — is a solvable problem!” Cindy says. “With more efforts like ours, an increase in registered donors, as well as educated donors, we could eliminate all waitlists and save countless lives. We want to keep the momentum of the movement. Pittsburgh has demonstrated what true organ donor champions they are. We would like to use their success as a model for other cities. We also would like to come to the teams and the city again and unite to tackle another social impact issue.” Play It Forward Pittsburgh, playitforwardpgh.org.

BY RACHEL JONES •

BY THE NUMBERS More than

117,000 people are currently on the national organ transplant waitlist More than

7,700 of those are in Pennsylvania

22 Americans die every day waiting for lifesaving organs

40-50 percent of Pittsburgh residents are registered organ donors, 10 percent below the national average

PHOTOGRAPH FROM DUANE RIEDER

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