WDVE's Cris Winter: Patch Spotlight

Cris Winter is a familiar voice to Pittsburgh radio listeners, having worked in the market for nearly 40 years at WXXP, 3WS, WISH and WDVE. But what about the person behind the voice? What is she like? Patch was curious, so we asked the California University of Pennsylvania graduate and Peters Township resident a few questions.

You've been a staple in Pittsburgh radio for decades. How do you explain your longevity in such a cutthroat business?

A sense of humor, a supportive spouse and a good work ethic, thanks to my parents. My motto: Work when I have to, sleep when I can.

Forgive the cliched question. You've been to hundreds, if not thousands, of concerts over the years. Name five that really stood out to you.

David Bowie Sound & Vision Tour - Star Lake, 1990.

David Bowie front row at the Benedum Center, 2004.

Any one of the 60+ Daryl Hall & John Oates shows here in Pittsburgh and across the country, since 1977.

Gary Moore - Graffiti, 1987 - the guy is simply one of the best guitarist to ever walk the earth.

Al Green - House of Blues, Cleveland 2004 - an absolute religious experience.

Honorable mention: any KIX show, just plain fun!

Favorite thing in Pittsburgh that no longer exists?

The Stanley Theater - by far the best concert venue. Some of the best concerts that I have witnessed happened in that building. The sight lines were great, and the acoustics I felt were always top notch

Most recent book read?

I do audio books and strictly biographies and autobiographies: "Paul Newman: The Extraordinary Life of an Ordinary Man"

Movie you could watch any time?

"Fast Times At Ridgemont High."

Favorite pizza topping?

I am boring - plain cheese and extra sauce. Pizza Shack South Hills, I am talking to you!

Early bird or late-nighter?

I was always a late-nighter, but in the last 10 years or so, I thoroughly enjoy early mornings....when everything is waking up. Nothing better than sitting outside on a crisp cool morning and hearing the birds chirp and sing in the early morning.

Favorite Pittsburgh restaurant?

Altius on Mount Washington. It is the one restaurant that I take all of my out of town friends or celebrate with family and friends. It has the best view of the city, Chef Jess' creations are off the charts delicious and you have to partake in an 'Old Hat' at the bar...so smooth!

Favorite adult beverage?

I love a good IPA.

Favorite Pittsburgh national celebrity, living or dead?

"Chilly" Billy Cardille. As a kid, I loved staying up late on Saturday nights to watch "Chiller Theater" and my Dad was a big fan of "Studio Wrestling. "Y ears later, I had the pleasure of working with Bill. I would love listening to all of his stories from his days at "Chiller Theater" and working on my favorite horror movie, "Night of the Living Dead." He would always grab me coffee from the lunch room and when I would get on the elevator to leave work, he would always tell me "Cris, you go straight home now." My reply: "Thanks Dad, I will". We would laugh. He was the kindest human being. He loved life, working, being silly and making others happy. One year he invited my husband and I to join him at a wrestling event. He made sure that my husband and I personally met every old school wrestler that was there like Bruno and George "The Animal" Steele introducing us as his friends. He was the sweetest man.

Favorite local sports mascot: Steely McBeam, Pirate Parrot or Iceburgh?

Pirate Parrot. I love when he grabs his tummy and moves it around in a circle.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

Choose one: I have never had a cavity, I have never smoked weed and I have never been pull over by the police. Yeah, I am a goody two-shoes.