Profile for Taste of Pittsburgh

Current location:   Latitude: 40.431000   Longitude: -79.922699

Member Since: February 25, 2019

Address
Private

Phone
412 944-5646
gregisner@tasteofvip.com

Birthdate, or Organization founding date
Private

Email

Organization type
Business

Tax ID
Private

Description/Profile/About

We are taking Legends and Legacies and moving it over to a digital platform. I am extremely excited to partner with One World Blue, www.oneworldblue.com. It is a Global Platform where we share stories of people who have made a difference and changed the world to become a better place.
We drive stories regionally through social media as well as nationally and on an international stage for the most exposure and connections with individuals from all over the world. It’s been a world-wide platform but we are putting an extensive amount of energy into regionalizing our platform.
We share stories like yours where we drive them in the Pittsburgh region and other areas to maximize the most possible potential to have your story told. This partnership will allow me to use this technology to continue to inspire and uplift individuals in a day and age where everyone relies on the digital space. We are therefore very grateful and excited to have the opportunity to create this partnership with One World Blue.
You have made a difference to so many people’s lives and one which should be shared with not only the Pittsburgh region but to the world. Your story will touch lives which will bring understanding and healing to those who read and share it. We are looking forward to connecting you with more individuals and communities to share your life and touch them in a deep way.
Please also know that our company structure is one in which we are walking the walk as well and we are giving 15 to 20 % of our company profit to both local, national and international charities.

What would you do to change the world?

Treat everyone with Love, Kindness and Respect to help create a better world one good deed at a time.

This is a place to sing your song and let your voice be heard. Define Coo

Created Initiatives

Communication

Taste of VIP Pittsburgh

Taste of Pittsburgh

We are taking Taste of Pittsburgh and Legends and Legacies and moving it over to a digital platform. I am extremely excited to partner with One World Blue. It is a Global Platform where we share stories of people who have made a difference and changed the world to become a better place.

We drive stories regionally through social media as well as nationally and on an international stage for the most exposure and connections with individuals from all over the world. It’s been a world-wide platform but we are putting an extensive amount of energy into regionalizing our platform.

We share stories like yours where we drive them in the Pittsburgh region and other areas to maximize the most possible potential to have your story told. This partnership will allow me to use this technology to continue to inspire and uplift individuals in a day and age where everyone relies on the digital space. We are therefore very grateful and excited to have the opportunity to create this partnership with One World Blue.

You have made a difference to so many people’s lives and one which should be shared with not only the Pittsburgh region but to the world. Your story will touch lives which will bring understanding and healing to those who read and share it. We are looking forward to connecting you with more individuals and communities to share your life and touch them in a deep way.

Please also know that our company structure is one in which we are walking the walk as well and we are giving 15 to 20 % of our company profit to both local, national and international charities.

2 May 23, 2019

Funded: 1 $250.00

Created Light on the World Spotlights

Students

THE BEST COLLEGE FOR YOU

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

Preparing for college is a huge commitment. However, with an over abundance of local and regional colleges and universities to choose from, making a decision on the best school for you can be made easy by a simple list.

Here is our abbreviated list of 5 colleges leading the way in higher education, including—but not limited to— Allegheny College, Chatham University, Duquesne University, Penn State University and University of Pittsburgh.

1 Apr 19, 2019

Earth

Bob's Diner

Taste of Pittsburgh

The American diner is an institution in this country. Listening to the sizzle of a griddle with a hot cup of joe is as comforting to me as watching a ball game or eating a slice of apple pie.

As you walk into Bob’s Diner, past the cakes and pastries rotating in the display case, you’re likely to see Bob Marshall himself chitchating with the regulars. “Go to Denny’s and see if Denny is there,” jokes Bob as we sit in his newest location in Castle Shannon at 1230 Grove Road. The menu here features all of your favorite breakfast and lunch foods, as well as traditional feel-good supper meals like turkey dinners, stuffed pork chops, meatloaf, and chipped ham sandwiches.

Bob is as captivated by the diner culture as any who frequent his four establishments. It’s what got him into the business. On a trip to Florida in his eighteenth year, Bob came upon a diner in Ft. Lauderdale called Louie’s Diner. Bob describes it like he’s remembering a dream. “The front had a big window, you could see Louie cooking from the outside. He knew everyone’s name and greeted them as they came in, I ate there every morning of my trip.” Bob’s mother Irene helped him out as an adviser from the start. “She was my biggest fan, she helped me get started and I’ve run every plan I’ve ever had by her,” Bob told us.

Recently, Irene passed away at 98 years of age. This has been a big loss not just for Bob,but for the Bob’s Diner family. “It’s like losing the board of directors, your biggest cheerleader, and your mom all at once.”

Bob’s Diner was blessed with Irene’s know-how and good sense from the start, and he’ll carry that philosophy into the future, bringing happy families together just like his, all over Pittsburgh.

There’s been a lot of buzz circulating throughout town concerning the grand opening of Bob’s most recent diner on Grove Road. Including a recent national feature the Wall Street Journal.

From the family business to the family radio show, Bob’s Diner is essentially Pittsburgh. Stop by one of their locations for breakfast, lunch, or one of their specialty seasonal dinner menus. Local businesses serving up comfort food every day of the week is about as good as dining can get. Bob’s Diner is one more gem on Pittsburgh’s culinary food map.

www.EatAtBobsDiner.com

Locations

Carnegie

211 Mansfield Blvd.

Carnegie, PA 15106

412-429-7400

Hours

7am - 8pm Monday - Saturday

7am - 3pm Sunday

Castle Shannon

1230 Grove Rd

Pittsburgh, PA 15234

412-882-7400

Hours

7am - 8pm Monday - Saturday

7am - 3pm Sunday

Kennedy Twp

1815 McKees Rocks Road

McKees Rocks, PA 15136

412-771-7400

Hours

Daily 6:30am - 2pm

South Hills

1870 Painters Run Road

Pittsburgh, PA 15241

412-221-7474

Hours

7am - 8pm Monday - Saturday

7am - 3pm Sunday

1 Apr 16, 2019

Child Safety

The Mel Blount Youth Home of Pennsylvania

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

NUMBER 47 NEEDS NO INTRODUCTION.

Hall Of Famer Melvin “Mel” Blount is a household name in Rivertown. He’s helped Pittsburgh win four Super Bowls, led the NFL in receptions, and has won countless national awards including the NAACP’s Human Rights Award.

We know him, we love him... Now, we’re taking a look at what some call Mel’s greatest work, The Mel Blount Youth Home of Pennsylvania.

Opened in 1989, the Youth Home is a treatment program where young, male victims of abuse or neglect can come recharge their batteries on a working farm. Located on 300 acres in Washington County the Youth Home houses up to 24 males between the ages of seven to 17 years.

When they get to the farm, these children are placed in customized treatment plans. Pre-adolescent campers utilize varying therapeutic techniques such as play therapy activities, music therapy, reality therapy and anger management. Mel sees the camp as an opportunity for children YOUTH to offer short-term emergency shelter as well as long term residency. While visiting, the kids stay in log cabins on the farm and work on goals set forth by the Blount team. They have a chance to work on reestablishing relationships, improving communication skills, learning discipline, accepting responsibility and creating boundaries for themselves.

The Blount Home strives to teach responsibility, knowledge and respect for oneself, to benefit from his life experience in a productive and challenging setting.

MEL BLOUNT YOUTH HOME

6 Mel Blount Drive

Claysville, PA 15323

There are many ways for both individuals and businesses to contribute to Mel Blount’s Youth Home. Beyond financial donations, the Youth Home welcomes individuals who could utilize talents, resources and time in their areas of expertise. Whether you’re a financial planner, carpenter, lawyer, or a nurse, anyone willing can assist Mel Blount in his vision for America’s children.

Items to donate:

Twin sized sheets

Blankets

Pillows

Bath Towels

Wash Cloths

Book Bags

Alarm Clocks

Educational Aides

School Supplies

Board Games

Tennis Shoes

Coats

Jackets

Jeans

Sweat Pants

MEL BLOUNT YOUTH HOME

6 Mel Blount Drive

Claysville, PA 15323

1 Apr 16, 2019

Earth

Whole Foods Spring and Summer Recipes

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

1 Apr 15, 2019

Earth

Bobby Rahal Automotive Group

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

The Bobby Rahal Automotive Group

4709 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

(412) 683-5000

1 Apr 12, 2019

Women

Linda Dibucci Piatt Sotheby's International Realty

Taste of Pittsburgh

Linda Dibucci

Real Estate Professional in Glenshaw, Pennsylvania United States

Expertise, Loyalty, and Integrity

With over 30 years experience, Pittsburgh real estate agent Linda DiBucci is renowned by colleagues and clients for loyalty, professionalism, and knowledge of this dynamic and unique real estate market. Linda and her team's mission is to provide each of our clients with extraordinary service, act with honesty, integrity, and truth. Linda consistently ranks in the top producing agents in the region. Together with Piatt Sotheby’s International Realty, we are your premier destination for all things real estate related in the Greater Pittsburgh area.

3402 Harts Run Road

Glenshaw, Pennsylvania, 15116

United States

412.850.5404

1 Apr 12, 2019

Arts

Taste of Pittsburgh

Taste of Pittsburgh

We are taking Taste of Pittsburgh and Legends and Legacies and moving it over to a digital platform. I am extremely excited to partner with One World Blue. It is a Global Platform where we share stories of people who have made a difference and changed the world to become a better place.

We drive stories regionally through social media as well as nationally and on an international stage for the most exposure and connections with individuals from all over the world. It’s been a world-wide platform but we are putting an extensive amount of energy into regionalizing our platform.

We share stories like yours where we drive them in the Pittsburgh region and other areas to maximize the most possible potential to have your story told. This partnership will allow me to use this technology to continue to inspire and uplift individuals in a day and age where everyone relies on the digital space. We are therefore very grateful and excited to have the opportunity to create this partnership with One World Blue.

You have made a difference to so many people’s lives and one which should be shared with not only the Pittsburgh region but to the world. Your story will touch lives which will bring understanding and healing to those who read and share it. We are looking forward to connecting you with more individuals and communities to share your life and touch them in a deep way.

Please also know that our company structure is one in which we are walking the walk as well and we are giving 15 to 20 % of our company profit to both local, national and international charities.

1 Apr 9, 2019

Earth

Louis Anthony Jewelers

Taste of Pittsburgh

Family. Success. Pure Elegance.

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF

LOUIS ANTHONY JEWELERS

The purchase of an engagement ring or any fine piece of jewelry is a purchase done with care. Customers look for quality and a retailer they can trust, what better place to buy a sentimental gift than from a loving family?

The Guarino family of Louis Anthony Jewelers works together to bring their community fine jewelry and timepieces. Louis Jr. and Veronica Guarino, early in their twenties, took a risk and opened their own jewelry store in 1990. Sacrifices were made and much time was given. Veronica sold her engagement ring to raise funds to get the business started.

“Louis Jr. had always worked in jewelry stores,” said Veronica. “He decided that he wanted to take care of his clients better and do it on his own.”

It’s wasn’t an easy ride, but now the family has proudly been working together to sell fine jewelry for 25 years. The family might be business partners during the week, but every Sunday they put business aside and sit down for a family dinner. In addition to Louis Jr. and Veronica, the rest of the business team consists of daughters Amie and Vanessa, son Lou III, and relatives Lea Guarino and Debbie Swoyer.

When the business began, the internet didn’t exist and the children were very young at the time. “I would drive around with the kids to go personally visit Louis Jr.’s customers to let them know about the new business,” Veronica said.

Connecting with new customers was done the old fashioned way. Veronica and Louis Jr. tackled the tedious task of looking up potential clients in the white pages and sending them personal letters or visiting their homes.

Happily married for 34 years, the couple knows a lot about the jewelry business, but needed a little help with new trends, technology, and the social media world. That’s where they are thankful their children stepped in.

“They help us stay up to date with technology trends,” Veronica said.

After college, youngest daughter Vanessa came straight to work for the family business and took over the social media. Vanessa’s decision to join Louis Anthony Jewelers right after school was based on her desire to work with her family and also the businesses growing need for young talent to run the social media department. She has very successfully run that for three years now as it continues to thrive. Vanessa continues to prosper with growing responsibilities, as she has now taken on administrative tasks as well as launching her own company. She followed her parents’ lead and stepped out as a business owner, starting a company called Social Media Diva.

Amie, the oldest among the Guarino children, worked in hospitality after school, but soon joined the family business. Originally her career was in fashion design, but she soon realized her families’ business would allow her to merchandise, design, and fulfill her creative outlook as well as being involved in an environment where she has a vested interest.

Three years ago she took her career step further and designed her own jewelry line called Amelia Jewel. Containing beads and unique elements, each component of the pieces are hand-selected and reflect her personal style. Today, the line is one of the top selling brands in the store.

Lou III has made his own special mark on the family business. After working as a production assistant in New York, his career was at a crossroad. The opportunity to be a part of the family business was something that had always been a constant in his life. He decided it was time to make that move before more time had passed. Six years later Lou III hasn’t looked back. Being responsible for sales, marketing, and on-going education, he continues to excel and contribute greatly to the business.

The closeness of the family doesn’t stop there, to this day a special guest stops by the store each afternoon. Since the store’s opening, Louis Jr.’s parents would visit every day to show their support and check in on their family. After the passing of his father last year, Lou Jr.’s mother still continued the daily visits. “She comes in, has a cup of coffee, sits in the lunch room, and chats with everyone there,” Veronica said.

Louis Jr.’s parents started a tradition of support and love through their consistent dedication over the years. A tradition that has continued to grow within the family and is greatly instill in each of them. This is quite clear when dealing with the Guarino family and the Louis Anthony Jewelers’ team on both a personal and professional level.

When you walk into the store, it’s not like your typical jewelers. Time is taken to get to know each customer and their desires. Guests are greeted with cookies and coffee, and treated like family. Although the store is large and the selection of merchandise diverse, the store retains an intimate feel due to the outgoing nature and natural charm of the sales team. “It is a first name basis store. Customers appreciate being remembered and often stop by just to say ‘Hello,’” Veronica says.

The business has always been located in the South Hills of Pittsburgh, but moved to its current location on North Highland Road in 2000 and has expanded three times since then.

After 25 years of business, many clients still remember the first marketing slogan Veronica created. In 1992, Veronica came up with the “Have we met...yet?” billboard campaign that launched the business to significant success. “No one was using billboards at the time. But it blew up and brought in tons of customers,” said Veronica. Dedication, a personal touch, and a brilliant marketing campaign is what really drove their business to grow at the time. Times may have changed, but billboards of the family with new slogans such as “Generations of Style” can still be found throughout the region.

As Louis Anthony Jewelers enters its’ 25th year in business, plans to celebrate that special occasion with the community are in the works, the family says. It’s such a special occasion that they want to share it with all of those who have helped propel the business to unparalleled success.

By Stacy Skiavo

THE DEDICATEDTEAM

Marian Fuller

Debbie Swoyer

Heather Gorman

Brenda Holt

Eric Hoffman

Andrea Kaczmarek

Lea Guarino

Lou (Geeg) Guarino III

Amelia Guarino

Vanessa Guarino

Veronica Guarino

Louis Guarino Jr.

Mike Matus

1 Apr 9, 2019

Earth

Ruth Scherer Flooring, llc

Taste of Pittsburgh

ENDLESS

ELEGANCE.

CLASSIC

ART

Ruth Scherer Flooring, llc

McMurray • 724.941.7627

1 Apr 9, 2019

Earth

Trapuzzano Italian Chop House and Martini Lounge

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

Pittsburgh’s restaurant boom is gaining momentum every day. Recently, our attention was directed to Shadyside, the location for the launch of a new brand that promises to be one of the most exciting restaurants to open this season, Trapuzzano Italian Chop House and Martini Lounge.

Local entrepreneur, John G. Trapuzzano and his partners: Ben Trapuzzano, Jr., Ben Trapuzzano III, and Michael Trapuzzano have teamed up with Operating Partner Tony Ottaviani, who operates his own concepts in MD and WV. Alongside local Operator/Chef Michael Budway, formerly of the Georgetown Inn on Mt. Washington, they bring us Trapuzzano Italian Chophouse and Martini Lounge.

Located at the former site of The Elbow Room, Trapuzzano Italian Chop House and Martini Lounge offers up fine dining with a casual atmosphere. Specializing in fine steaks, seafood, and classic Italian dishes, the fare is enticingly rich and elegant. In addition to the chef ’s creations you’ll find a full scale Martini Lounge and a premier wine list full of Italian imports as well as some California favorites. The lounge offers a scaled back menu full of Italian-style appetizers, finger foods and authentic flatbreads in addition to the dinner menu.

The menu fits perfectly with the cozy charm of the piano bar style atmosphere which regularly features local, live entertainment. The restaurant is welcoming and approachable. White tablecloths mix brilliantly with the casual ambiance and top-shelf, yet personalized service that leaves you feeling like part of the Trapuzzano family, “La Famiglia.” The Chop House is the perfect destination from business events to family gatherings, as well as those special occasions and intimate moments.

Certain to become a favorite to locals and travelers alike, Trapuzzano Italian Chophouse and Martini Lounge is yet another highlight in the culinary landscape of Pittsburgh.

5533 Walnut St, Pittsburgh, PA 15232

Phone: (412) 688-8727

1 Apr 9, 2019

Men

Joe Hardy Founder 84 Lumber and Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

JOSEPH A. HARDY III

FOUNDER

84 LUMBER AND

NEMACOLIN WOODLANDS RESORT

AT 92 YEARS OF AGE, HE’S STILL A COMMANDING PRESENCE. CHARMING AND QUICK-WITTED, HE TELLS STORIES AND ANECDOTES THAT CAPTIVATE AUDIENCES AS HE YELLS OUT PUNCH LINES AT HIGH-VOLUME, DRIVING HOME HIS EMPHATIC BEHAVIOR. THAT’S AN EXAMPLE OF THE SAME COLORFUL DEMEANOR THAT NO DOUBT HELPED HIM CLOSE COUNTLESS BUSINESS DEALS AND REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS OVER THE LAST FIVE DECADES LAUNCHING HIM TO THE NEARLY UNPRECEDENTED LEVEL OF SUCCESS THAT THE HARDY FAMILY NOW ENJOYS.

NOTABLE QUOTE:

“I want to die broke. For the remainder of my life, I want to enjoy and participate in the giving of money to help improve people’s lives.”

BEYOND BUSINESS:

In 2004 Joe Hardy was named Vice Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of Fayette County where he resides. Hardy lead a multi-million dollar renovation of Uniontown, donating millions of dollars to support street and building improvements and construction of green spaces. He has received various awards from the local community for his charitable donations.

WHAT ARE OTHERS SAYING?

Hardy could turn a room into magnificent surroundings with his vision...When I walked out of that first meeting [I thought], Wow, this man is sensational. He’s going to be a real success, and so is his Company.” -Helen Dolfi, Green Hills Lumber transcriptionist, an excerpt from Nothing is Impossible by Jeffrey L. Rodengen

NOSE TO THE GRINDSTONE

He’ll tell you that the money didn’t come easily. He had to work hard for it. In fact, he still does. Mr. Hardy begins each afternoon by making 50 phone calls to his top-50 producing hardware stores across the country. Is it time for Mr. Hardy to slow down? He says no. “I wouldn’t know how, I don’t know any different.” Plus, it’s exciting for him, he loves business. “I like the score. To try to find out what people want and give it to them, everyone’s different and to figure out what they want, that’s really terrific.”

“WHAT’S MY FAVORITE BUSINESS? THE ONE THAT MAKES THE MOST PROFIT.”

THE SUCCESSFUL ATTRIBUTES OF JOESPH A. HARDY III

PERSISTENCE.

“When you make a mistake, don’t let your ego stand n the way. I’ve had a lot of ideas that didn’t work. Be tenacious.”

CURIOSITY.

“I’m naturally very curious, I wonder, ‘gosh, how in the world does that thing work?’ And that goes right along with staying focused.”

EMPATHY.

“To understand what someone feels, that’s the most important thing. You need to get inside the person’s head and meet them in their area of interest, that’s how you can make deals happen.”

WHAT’S IN STORE FOR NEMACOLIN WOODLANDS RESORT

“We are going to appeal to a future growing middle class. I can see the economy moving forward, and people are going to be opening up more, maybe two or three years down the line. We’re expanding and improving our amenities with a magnificent renovation using the greatest architects and craftsmen. The resort has undergone a major expansion under my daughter’s watch. She’s the one making the moves now; Maggie is the future of Nemacolin.”

2 Apr 8, 2019

Healing

Dr. Dennis Hurwitz

Taste of Pittsburgh

DENNIS HURWITZ, MD.

FOUNDER HURWITZ CENTER FOR PLASTIC SURGERY

CLINICAL PROFESSOR OF PLASTIC SURGERY

DR. HURWITZ HAS BEEN A DRIVING FORCE IN THE ADVANCEMENT OF PLASTIC SURGERY. THE INVENTOR OF THE TOTAL BODY LIFT SURGERY, HE’S CONTINUALLY LOOKING FOR NEW WAYS TO INCREASE PATIENT SATISFACTION, DECREASE RECOVERY TIME, AND ULTIMATELY GET THE BEST RESULTS POSSIBLE FOR HIS PATIENTS. HOWEVER, TO BE IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT OF SOME OF THE MOST INNOVATIVE SURGERIES WHILE MAINTAINING A MEDICAL PRACTICE AND TEACHING, THINGS CAN GET STRESSFUL.

MANAGING STRESS

“When I started the concept of Total Body Lift, there was a paradigm shift from singleoperations to coordinating several together at one time. I had to work out details, get scientific approval… I wrote a book to inform and educate people about this, while at the same time trying to market myself and expand to offices in Los Angeles and Philadelphia. This is extremely stressful and time consuming, with the Today Show sending cameras into my operating rooms, flying back and forth to New York City to appear on national television it can be a lot when you’re the guy out in front. That’s one of the challenges of making serious progress.”

DEVELOP YOUR VISION.

“Ideas, action, and education. You need all the pieces together. When you have a special idea or a process, it’s time to learn more and develop it. When you know you’re at the edge of something special, it becomes necessary

STAY DRIVEN.

“I was driven to succeed because I felt I had a contribution to make. I was sure I was on the right track. I stayed on task, I fi gure that you only have one life, so why not accelerate it?”

SUPPORT NETWORK.

“You need a good team. You also need emotional support from family. Balancing surgery, opening practices, advancing medicine, and a family life… It can be diffi cult. Without a good system in place it’s harder to focus on what you need to get done to advance.”

TOP DOC:

Consistently named one of America’s Best Doctors, Dr. Dennis Hurwitz has been reshaping and restructuring the physical appearance of his patients for decades. The former President of The Allegheny County Medical Society prides himself on his innovation in the field, having developed significant contributions to the science and art of plastic surgery. The results of these transformations are nothing short of astounding.

BUZZ AROUND TOWN:

“The procedures [performed by Dr. Hurwitz] have changed my life. I was struggling with the aging process, and now I feel rejuvenated. I feel younger and fresher, it’s been nothing but a positive thing for my life.” -Tara Gilchrest, former patient at the Hurwitz Center for Plastic Surgery

STICK-TO-ITIVENESS

Both the academic success and the farreaching achievements of the Hurwitz Ccenter for Plastic Surgery weren’t easily-won. “I’m guilty of burning the candle at both ends,” said Dr. Hurwitz. “I’ve been aggressive in advancing the fi eld of surgery academically but also nurturing a practice. Fortunately, when one does well, the other follows.”

NOTABLE QUOTE:

“When we achieve the sought-after result and the improved self esteem of my patients… there is exhilaration like none other in my life.”

1 Apr 7, 2019

Sports

Dick's Sporting Goods

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

An IDEA

That, and a $300 dollar loan from his grandmother’s cookie jar, are what DICK’S Sporting Goods founder, Dick Stack, started with. The rest, as they say, is history.

Nearly 70 years on,

DICK’S is still a

family business.

In 1948, Dick Stack was working at an Army Surplus store. His employer, aware of Stack’s interest in angling, approached the young man for advice on the types of products he’d need to expand into the tackle business. While the 18-year-old with a passion for fishing was eager to share his ideas, his employer was not so receptive.

Disillusioned, the young Stack left his job and, as so many have done when faced with a fork in the road, retreated to his grandmother’s home for guidance and solace. After hearing his tale, and considering his idea, she asked how much it would take to start, then reached into the cookie jar and gave him the seed money to begin.

With nothing but a meager loan, his grandmother’s faith, and a tireless work ethic, Stack started his own bait and tackle shop in Binghamton, NY. From these humble roots his shop grew and prospered, and within a decade Stack had grown his business to include many of the sports and outdoors products you’d find in a DICK’S Sporting Goods location today.

When Ed Stack, Dick’s son, took over the business as Chairman and CEO, he expanded the Company from two stores to over 600, now employing more than 35,000 Associates across the nation. Stack and his siblings took the company public on the NYSE in 2002, a decision that enabled DICK’S to become a national leader in the sporting goods retail industry today. DICK’S Sporting Goods also owns a variety of specialty shops under the Golf Galaxy, Field & Stream, and True Runner banners.

Nearly 70 years on, the company still operates as a family business, proudly serving and supporting athletes and outdoor enthusiasts in each of the communities that its stores serve.

1 Apr 5, 2019

Earth

Empire Roofing

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

ROOFING, SLIDING,

WINDOWS, DECKS.

SIMPLY PUT : AN EMPIRE

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

412-999-7135

www.empireroofingandmore.com

Empire Roofing & More is a one stop shop for your home construction needs. Empire Roofing & More optimizes installation, maintenance, and repairs of the highest quality, completed at affordable prices with on-time delivery, and professionalism. As Roman says, “Complete satisfaction by our clients and customers is the measure of our service. To coin a phrase with deference to NASA, “Failure to satisfy our customers is not an option.”

Empire Roofing & More understands the value of high quality installation and offer best-in class service. They are also determined to give you the best possible experience through customer-focused attention to detail, professional project management, and factory certified technicians.

This requires teamwork, not just from within the Empire team, but from the companies they rely on to manufacture and deliver the products used to make your dream a reality.

For this reason, Empire Roofing & More elects to install products from the largest names and highest quality companies on the market. From a timely response to your initial inquiry until the last piece of equipment is removed from your property you can expect a pleasant and informative experience from Empire Roofing & More.

The dedication to a project on your home is paramount to this team. The desire to provide you with your dream outcomes, and dedication to make your dreams a reality makes Empire Roofing & More one of the top contractors in the area.

412-999-7135

www.empireroofingandmore.com

ROOFING, SLIDING,

WINDOWS, DECKS.

SIMPLY PUT : AN EMPIRE

1 Apr 5, 2019

Women

Ling Wollenschlaeger Founder and Owner, Pittsburgh Fresh

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

Describe Pittsburgh Fresh.

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

What is a healthy Paleo meal?

A Paleo meal is a low-carb, high protein meal. Each of our Pittsburgh Fresh Paleo meals contains all fresh ingredients, including an 8-oz. serving of protein—and the rest is vegetables. We don’t use processed sugar or pre-packaged food.

What’s good for us to eat in between our Pittsburgh Fresh meals?

The biggest thing is to cut out processed foods, anything packaged in a box or items found in the freezer aisle. Plus, try to stay clear of sugar.

Where can we find Pittsburgh Fresh?

We cater Pittsburgh Fresh and prepare between 500-800 meals/week. We are growing into fitness studios and drop off our products at Naturally Soergel in Wexford. In addition to locals, we serve people who travel to Pittsburgh who still want to eat healthy. We drop off at hotels such as the Marriot City Center and The Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel. For a full list of our locations it’s best to visit our website. Our Specialty Gourmet Catering is geared toward a lot of corporate lunches, graduation parties and more traditional catering.

Did you always know being a chef was what you wanted to do?

No, I had no idea I would have a business like this. I grew up in China and moved here during high school. However, as a child my family wouldn’t freeze anything. Everyday my mother would go to the market to buy fresh ingredients. That experience combined with my time working in corporate America and observing my co-workers eating for convenience inspired me to start Pittsburgh Fresh. It was at this point I knew this was what I wanted to do.

What was your journey to get here?

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

What’s your goal with the company?

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

What do you suggest for a Pittsburgh Fresh dinner party at home?

Herb marinated pork tenderloin with salt, pepper and olive oil—roasted and sliced and served for the main entrée, with a side of roasted brussels sprouts with honey roasted Dijon mustard.

To finish it off, I would include spaghetti squash or a baked sweet potato casserole—it’s like mashed potatoes, but healthier.

Share a helpful cooking tip.

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

I love my…[fill in the blank].

Pittsburgh Fresh team! They include my chefs, as well as my packaging, marketing and office teams—they are the best!

What’s your biggest reward?

When I see our customers really enjoying their meal—it makes me feel good.

1 Apr 4, 2019

Men

Greg Hiebert

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

OWNER SEARS CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING AND GARGE SOLUTIONS

WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS?

I have owned Sears Carpet and Air Duct Cleaning franchise since 2001 and the Garage Door Solutions franchise since 2007. We have a 20 year contract as a Sears franchisee. Although we are backed by the national brand Sears, we are a locally owned and family run business. My sons Brad and Greg Jr. both graduated from college and stayed in our business. My goal is to leave them a legacy business.

All of our clients get top quality, upstanding service from a business that’s right here in their community. We are a family and treat our clients the same way. We also do many charitable works with Light of Life, the Pittsburgh experiment, and we donate our services to many good causes around the city.

On september 17th, 2004 Greg Heibert’s business, Sears Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning and Garage Solutions, was completely destroyed by a massive flood that hit the millvale area. In february 2014, disaster struck again when heibert’s business was consumed by fire.

WHAT WENT THROUGH YOUR MIND WHEN YOUR BUSINESS WAS DESTROYED FOR THE SECOND TIME IN 10 YEARS?

“It was almost like, ‘What’s next?” But it was OK. And I just had to have faith that God was bigger than that disaster and we would get through it.”

HOW DID YOU REBUILD AGAIN?

“After the fire, we didn’t fully shut down, we rebuilt in a new location on Marys Avenue in Fox Chapel. It was really encouraging how all of our employees, friends, and other businesses in the area showed their support. We cannot thank everyone enough and stress that the kindness and willingness of everyone to help in our time of need got us through that disaster. We were determined to become a better company for our staff.

1 Apr 4, 2019

Men

KYRK PYROS

Taste of Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

THE SKY I S T H E L I M I T

MEET KYRK PYROS. BUSINESS OWNER, ENTREPRENEUR, AND ALL-AROUND

NICE GUY OPENS UP ABOUT WORK, MOTIVATION, AND BUILDING A LEGACY.

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

“I was shocked when I saw the salaries they were offering. Going into business for myself was obvious,” said Kyrk from his newly-built offices in Crafton. Ever since that day he’s been busy.

He turned his building job into KP Builders, Inc., a major player in the Pittsburgh construction market. He also owns and operates the George Washington Hotel in Washington PA, a building he restored, staffed, and launched as a re-imagined hotel, venue, and sanctuary for everyone from vacationing out-of-towners to brides and grooms from around the country. And if you’re already shaking your head thinking of that work load, we won’t bother telling you about how he coaches wrestling, flies planes, and owns a third company, Allegheny Crane, (…and yes, once again, they’re one of the largest and most successful outfits in the area.)

But if you ask Kyrk if he feels satisfied or proud of what he’s accomplished? A simple, “no,” will be his reply. If you inquire about how large his companies are becoming, he’ll say, “I want the best, not the biggest.”

He cuts straight to the point as we talk. His answers aren’t calculated, they roll off his tongue honestly and sincerely. Even though I’m nearly two-decades his junior he stares me in the eye and calls me “sir,” when we talk.

As he speaks about his employees, he talks humbly. It’s not easy getting a job working for him. The interview process- no matter the business- is lengthy and intimate. Kyrk tries to dig into the people who apply to work with him because he wants to understand them and get the best out of his workers. His employees will tell you the same thing.

“Kyrk is an inspiring person,” said Kimberly Rowan, Offi ce Manager at Kyrk’s administrative center. “He encourages each employee to be the best version of their self. He treats everyone with the utmost dignity and respect and he doesn’t believe in failure. So, if something doesn’t work the first time, he’ll just fi nd a better way to do it.”

“I’m always trying to build a team,” Kyrk told us. “I want winners around me. I hired my old wrestling coach, Dave Colley who was one of my mentors. Some of our best employees are old customers of ours too.”

“In his business relationships, he calls everyone, ‘friend,’” said Colley. “I really respect him. He considers himself a warrior in the pursuit of trying to service people. He’s a kid at heart which makes him fresh every day. He wants exciting ways to make money. He works to please people and to make sure people have a good income.

He’s very generous, he’s always trying to give people things, send people on trips, whatever it is… he gives, gives, gives.” Walking through their offi ce, one can’t help but notice the workers are brimming with positivity. The walls of the building are adorned with inspirational quotes from the likes of Henry Ford and other business moguls that employees have hand-picked to stay inspired.

Inspiration was the main message Kyrk had for us when we asked him if he had any advice for our readers. His reply: “Every day, right off the bat you need a win. If you have too much to do for a day, get a win fi rst. The phone call you have to make, or maybe it’s going to the gym. Pull something positive out of that fi rst task and move on from there.”

Kyrk went on to emphasize the importance of a positive attitude. Without which, he claims building a strong business can be hard to do. “You have to be an optimist,” he reminded us. “Be a team player. I don’t ask anyone to do anything that I can’t or won’t do on a daily basis. Nobody works for me, they all work with me. That’s a major key to running a successful company.”

1 Apr 4, 2019

Earth

Nemacolin

Taste of Pittsburgh

It’s probably easier for us to explain what Nemacolin Woodlands Resort doesn’t offer. “We don’t have the ocean. But, we’re working on it,” remarked Joseph Hardy, founder of Nemacolin Woodlands Resort at a recent presentation at the Falling Rock Hotel. He’s right. One of the greatest international resorts in existence is certainly brimming with amenities. It has a Five Star rating and includes what has already been named “Best Hotel in Pennsylvania,” by Business Insider for 2015. To further guild the lily, the club has recently undergone more than $30 Million in renovations, improvements, and enhancements of new and existing attractions to appeal to guests from all walks of life.

One of the nation’s highest-ranked golf courses, five-star restaurants, and five diamond hotels now has a bit more company. If guests had anything to want for previously, their demands now are certainly being met. Maggie Hardy Magerko, owner and operator of the resort is seeing to it that Nemacolin’s reputation for magnificence doesn’t just resonate locally, but on an international scale.

Nemacolin offers the best in golfing, fine dining, nightlife, and leisure. The Laurel Highlands are now home to the lap of luxury. The 2,000-acre resort boasts majestic vistas, unparalleled art collections, museums, even a zoo… But the ever increasing standards of the Hardy family have driven even the most elegant of resorts to ever-escalating heights.

The property-wide improvements are the largest expansion in the resort’s history. New amenities have been added, guest rooms have been renovated ($1 Million went to improve the presidential suite, alone), and meeting spaces for conferences have been completely revamped.

Recently added amenities include a Holistic Healing Center where guests can engage in organic wellness programs while at Nemacolin. Acupuncture, holistic massage, meditation, Reiki and more are incorporated seamlessly into daily routines so guests can leave feeling not only refreshed, but also healed.

In golf news, recent adjustments to what was already ranked Number 5 of the top 100 golf resorts by Reader’s Choice has taken this club to a whole other level. Even more expansion is on the horizon as the legendary, Pete Dye has commissioned work on a ninehole expansion of Nemacolin’s Mystic Rock golf course, which has been consistently named one of America’s top 100 courses by Golfweek and Golf Digest.

Another notable renovator is the late architect Michael Graves whose design team has worked tirelessly to draft plans for new properties to be built at Nemacolin grounds in the next year or so. Exquisite duplexes will soon dot the landscape bringing more folks into the Nemacolin family.

The resort has been home to US Presidents, entertainers, jet-setters, and multi-national businesses but is also a welcome space for the public. “We want everyone to come here,” Mr. Hardy told us. Whether you enjoy the lifestyles of the rich and famous, or you just love the great outdoors, most anyone’s palette for adventure can be satiated by the grandeur that is Nemacolin Woodlands Resort.

https://www.nemacolin.com/

866.344.6957

1 Mar 31, 2019

Men

Greg Isner Founder Taste of VIP Pittsburgh

Taste of Pittsburgh

Greg Isner

Founder Taste of VIP Pittsburgh

www.TasteofVIP.com

Early on in his career Greg worked as an Engineer until the age of 23. Greg then stepped out to be an entrepreneur and opened a couple of restaurants in North Carolina. He started publishing magazines in the Carolinas and in 1994 started publishing in the Pittsburgh region.

Greg also then opened up restaurants in Pittsburgh, founded Taste of Pittsburgh Magazine and was one of the largest direct mailing companies in Pennsylvania. Greg printed hundreds of different products that have been in Barnes and Noble, Nemacolin, and in countless homes in the region.

Greg's new project is the VIP Taste of Pittsburgh Marketing and Advertising Program. For businesses throughout the US, local business owners may enroll in the advertising program and get their product and business in front of 20,000 people by mail and 6,000 front door homes for a very affordable and attractive cost which will produce results and ROI.

He has interest in Real Estate as an investor and has lived in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania for 25 years. Greg has 4 beautiful kids and continues to lead the entrepreneur lifestyle making a difference in the projects and lives he engages in.

To Contact Greg he may be reached at 412 944-5646 and by email at gregisner@tasteofvip.com

1 Feb 25, 2019

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