IMAGINE THAT! Business notebook: OPC's Reimagine Main Street wins national award
March 26, 2018
Rick Shrum
Observer Reporter
Reimagine Main Street, Observer Publishing Co.’s online advertising and marketing division, marked its fifth anniversary in January in relative silence. But when a belated birthday gift arrived via email two months later, it was time to celebrate.
OPC’s digital ad team was notified March 13 that it took third place in the Best Digital Agency category in the Local Media Association’s competition. Taking bronze was a golden moment for RMS, which was competing with more than 70 news organizations – newspapers (including those in large chains); TV and radio stations; and digital news sites.
RMS also is batting 1.000 in the awards category. This was its first foray into national competition, said Arlea Hoffman, digital strategy director.
Nancy Lane, president of the Local Media Association, said in a prepared statement: “This is a highly competitive contest that recognizes the best in local media when it comes to digital innovation. There is no other contest like it. The bragging rights are huge for the winners.”
Hoffman is part of the five-member bronze-winning team, along with Grace Dalmolin, Melissa Wescott, Cassie Augenstein and Coleen Mehlmauer.
RMS, which has a major partnership with Google, will receive its award at the annual Digital Revenue Summit May 1-2 in Chicago.
Restaurant to open
Keith Williams, Chartiers-Houston class of 1984, is returning to his Washington County roots. He plans a lunch launch of Mammy’s House of Ribs and Catering at noon April 2 at 189 S. Main St., Washington – in a building previously occupied by a restaurant, Jaiden’s Place.
It will be a new location, but certainly not a new endeavor for Williams, the owner and executive chef. He has been in the food-service industry for 34-plus years, first in Pittsburgh then, for 22 years, in Uniontown. He ran Old Williams House of Ribs in Fayette County’s seat, before renaming it honor of his mother, Lorraine Roberson – nicknamed “Mammy” – following her death in 2011.
That business, which did not offer catering, is no longer functioning, but Williams will still be traveling to Fayette. He will continue to work as a chef at Uniontown Country Club.
Mammy’s will have seating for 60 or more, plus takeout and delivery, and will be open daily. There will be specials, including Steak Night on Thursday, Prime Rib Night on Friday, and a Mexican Night to be determined.
The owner pledges that “this is not going to be all about barbecue,” pointing out that the menu includes fish, sandwiches, greens, and mac and cheese.
Hours will be noon to 1 a.m. Monday through Thursday; noon to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday.