By Ryan O. Ferguson
DC Inno, Nov 22, 2016
50 on Fire will bring together D.C.'s best and brightest to recognize the disruptors, luminaries and visionaries that are pushing our city forward. ... The 50 on Fire Lifestyle category might be the most fun one. From flowers to beer to clothing, these innovators are making D.C. a city of world-class food and drink, classic style and vibrant community. Check out this year's finalists:
Michael Lastoria - &pizza
&pizza has had quite a year. In addition to opening several new stores in the District, developing a cocktail program for their Chinatown location and announcing new markets in Philadelphia, Baltimore and New York, the homegrown pizza chain just announced a $25 million funding round to boost its expansion. Under CEO Michael Lastoria, the local brand has built a loyal "Tribe" of workers, many of whom have taken &pizza up on the offer of a free ampersand tattoo. The CEO of the fast casual pizza company has also been a prominent voice in advocating for raising D.C.'s minimum wage to $15/hour, and joined Mayor Bowser at the bill signing earlier in the year. ...