The first Northside Heroes Gala, presented by Destiny of Faith Church, took place on Saturday, September 29 at the Omni William Penn Hotel to honor the accomplishments of four prominent figures in the Northside community.
Photos by Ashlee Green
The evening’s festivities took place in the William Penn Ballroom and featured a three-course meal, a silent auction in support of Destiny of Faith and music by the OLD SCHOOL BAND.
“I know it’s my 37th anniversary in ministry, but I didn’t think I wanted to do it alone,” said Reverend Dr. Brenda J. Gregg, Destiny of Faith Senior Founding Pastor.
Gregg praised the other honorees: Amber J. Farr, director of One Northside, The Buhl Foundation, Dr. MiChele R. Holly, principal at Sterrett Classical Academy and William D. Thompkins, retired executive director of The Pittsburgh Project, as talented, hardworking individuals and mentors in the Northside who represent the outreach, education and corporate worlds.
“My key thought is: Everyone reach one,” said Gregg. “We want to make the Northside the best neighborhood. If every neighbor does one thing, we can change the city by changing the Northside.”
Northside Heroes Gala honorees from left to right: Amber J. Farr, Rev. Dr. Brenda J. Gregg, William D. Thompkins and Dr. MiChele R. Holly
Invitations for the event
Guests begin to gather at the VIP reception starting at 5 p.m. in the William Penn Ballroom
A representative from Destiny of Faith helps with the silent auction.
Silent auction in support of Destiny of Faith Church.
From a statement by Rev. Dr. Gregg: “This evening we honor persons who have worked tirelessly in our community and are charting the course for future generations.”
Guests gather to celebrate the self-determination and successes of the evening’s honorees.
Attendees honoring the diverse Northside community and talents of its residents
Rev. Dr. Gregg referred to honorees as “prominent figures in the struggle for equal rights and justice through their own outstanding careers.”
Celebrating the great work going on in the Northside
Jackie DesChamps, event co-chair, introduces the evening’s speakers
Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Mitchel Nickols: “It is not every day that we can say we’re among heroes.”
Pastor Deborah Moncrief sings a psalm to the crowd.
Guests dress in their best to praise the gifts and talents of the Northside community.
Preparing for an evening of celebration
The evening’s youngest attendant
The OLD SCHOOL BAND setting up for its performance. From left to right: Albert Weir on bass, Fletcher Tomlin on drums and vocals, Flo Wilson on lead vocals and Leonard Johnson III, keyboardist and bandleader.
