Age: 41
Occupation: Executive director of Main Street Russellville
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. We’ve lived in Russellville for more than a decade
Family: Husband Christopher (yes, Dr. Housenick at Tech), daughters Paige and Molly
1) What is your favorite book
and why?
I have many favorites, but one that stands out to me is The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey. The author explores love, loss, and the human experience in a magical way. It is beautifully written; I really feel as though I can escape into the story.
2) Dog or cat?
Both – as long the pet is a rescue! Cats have more purr-sonality and contrary to what some people believe they are very loyal. When it comes to dogs, retired racing greyhound. My husband and I were owned by one before we had kids. Greyhounds have a sensitive, independent spirit… much like a cat.
3) What’s the best thing about living in the River Valley?
The people and community. I am a life member of Junior Auxiliary of Russellville. During my active years I was constantly impressed by the generosity and dedication here. I still see it today. We take care of one another and that makes this a great place to live.
4) What’s something no one would ever guess about you?
When I was in junior high I had a poem published. I don’t write poetry now, but when I was in high school I participated in a program at the University of Pittsburgh to study and write poetry.
5) What is your favorite music genre and artist?
I am really digging Knox Hamilton right now since they played the concert downtown in July. My mom loves Motown — The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Supremes — so I listened to that growing up and still enjoy it. I like classic rock and what many would call hippie music: Phish, The Allman Brothers, Gov’t Mule. I missed seeing Jerry Garcia live, but I have seen all the other members of the Grateful Dead perform. I enjoy bluegrass too. Many people don’t realize that before the Grateful Dead Jerry played bluegrass.
6) What do you nerd out on?
Reading, writing, knitting and yarn, and the TV show Parks and Recreation. Leslie Knope is my spirit guide.
7) If you could change one thing about the River Valley, what would it be?
I would like to see people be more open minded and respectful of one another. Let’s embrace our differences, learn from one another, and treat each other well. Treating others with respect, kindness, and civility is far more productive than rudeness or yelling.
8) Where is the one location in the River Valley you would tell a first-time visitor that they must go?
That’s easy — Russellville Downtown. We have such a rich and vibrant downtown. There are plenty of shops to browse or buy and of course the Train Depot and Depot Park. I love when kids come into the depot and a train goes by while they are here, they are so overjoyed.
9) Pizza, tacos, cheeseburger, or fried chicken?
Barbecue. It’s my favorite food group. Barbecue is a food that takes time to create and really perfect. I also love that it can vary depending on the region where it is made. The history of how barbecue started and has evolved in America is fascinating. If no barbecue is around, I would choose pizza — New York style.
10) What is your favorite quote? Could be from an inspirational person or an original.
Aside from almost everything Mr. Fred Rogers has said, here are two of mine:
“Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
~ Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg;
“There’s nothing we can’t do if we work hard, never sleep, and shirk all other responsibilities in our lives.”
~ Leslie Knope
