Epilepsy Association Mardi Gras Gala
Even though it was two months late, the spirit of Fat Tuesday and the French Quarter was alive Wednesday at the Westin Pittsburgh in Downtown for the 28th annual Mardi Gras Gala.
The party to benefit the Epilepsy Association of Western and Central Pennsylvania transformed the hotel ballroom. Purple and yellow balloons covered the ceiling in the outer hall as nearly 400 guests enjoyed stilt walkers, drinks and appetizers before the ballroom doors opened. The John Parker Band wasted no time in getting everyone on the dance floor after emcee Bob Pompeani (with Lisa) welcomed them to the festivities.
Pittsburgh Technology Council President and CEO Audrey Russo was crowned “king” of Mardi Gras by Jeff Broadhurst to become the latest in a long line of kings who have reigned over the merriment.
“I am so honored to be here,” she said. “During COVID we had an opportunity to fundraise and find where the gaps were for people who were not able to get access to medicine and some of the programs.”
Toni Murphy and Deb RiceJohnson (with daughter Alyssa Cordera) acted as this year’s dinner chairs.
Among those enjoying a second go at Mardi Gras madness were: EAWCP president Peggy Beem, board chair Joyce Bender with her husband, Bill, Sheryl and Jeff Broadhurst, Drs. Page and Kurt Pennell, Laura Miller, Lindsey and Matthew George, Kathy and Louis Testoni, Dr. Patricia Crumrine, Latasha and Charlie Batch, Jennifer and Alan Shuckrow, Ann and Jim Norris, Dr. Latika Davis-Jones with her husband, Maurice, Marianne and Daniel Orie, Deb Caplan, Nancy Zionts, Veronica Villaobos, Beth and John Kocur, Sue and Glenn Goldback, Rich Fitzgerald and Austin Davis.