Today, we spoke with two extremely helpful figures in Pittsburgh’s civic anchoring positions. Specifically, the Riverhounds Director of Promotions and Entertainment, Kris Brown, and Director of Business Development in Allegheny County, Elissa DiNello. Both speakers were extremely knowledgeable and helpful with drafting our plans for Carrigart!

Kris Brown (not to be confused with pop star Chris Brown) spoke to us about how local identity was formed by the people who shape our communities through commitment, brand, and a little bit of tactful marketing. The Pittsburgh Riverhounds seem like “just a team,” but there’s an entire team and community behind it that work and cheer proudly. Even more, they offer extremely diverse forms of sports at their F.N.B. Stadium, such as Soccer, Lacrosse, and Field Hockey! The Riverhounds are definitely a key part of local identity for the Pittsburgh community.

Ms. DiNello spoke to us about the different aspects of being a part of community development, whether it be her history, the impacts that she makes every day, or the impacts of those underrepresented. Specifically, her talk about how there’s usually one person who, regardless of praise or appreciation, strives to make their community better. This struck me, as there were people in my community who genuinely just wanted the best for Oley Valley. It’s an extremely heartwarming thing, and I’ll definitely try to find a similar person in Carrigart to pitch our ideas to.