Season of Giving Gala

Guests have been known to have impromptu push-up contests on the dance floor, or even become engaged at the event, which makes the YMCA’s Season of Giving Gala unlike many other formal affairs. “We go to these kinds of things all the time, but this one is a lot of fun,” said Patty Paytas, who became engaged at last year’s gala to Greg Salerno. This year’s party, which started with a silent auction and reception in the lobby of the Fairmont Pittsburgh’s ballroom Saturday night, was dedicated to the late David Epperson for his life of service and leadership.

“My dad always used to say, “I’m just a country social worker,” recalled his daughter Lia Epperson, who came with her mother Cecelia Epperson. “He was deeply committed to the YMCA, and he made it his mission to put forth its ideals to care for the marginalized and neglected in Pittsburgh and around the world.” The YMCA was the focus of David Epperson’s volunteer work; he was professor and dean of the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work until he retired in 2001. He died in June 2011 at age 76. A video tribute followed a welcome by the evening’s emcee Austin Davis, executive assistant to Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald (with Cathy). The award was presented to the family by Y CEO Kevin Bolding (with Rhonda) and president and CEO of the YMCA of the USA Kevin Washington (with Shelia), as well as Pittsburgh board chair Peggy Joy.

Dinner, a live auction with auctioneer David Riether and dancing to John Parker and the John Parker Band made for a great celebration for a good man. Applauding his memory were former Y president Rig Riggins, former board chair Michael Malone, Lee and Susan Baierl, Mike and Tonie Polite, Bonnie and Tom VanKirk, Dr. Leon and Ann Haley, Jen and Brooks Broadhurst, Carolyn Grady and Elaine and Edmund Effort.

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