JANUARY 2015
Meet the Staff The ERCGP staff works hard for our region
LOOKING AHEAD
Credibility grows for local chambers National study finds consumers are 80%
Goodbye 2014 • Hello 2015 Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership
more likely to buy from chamber members
Get Social
ERCGP 2014 Social Media Stats
eriepa.com
ERCGP Board of Directors 2015 OFFICERS Dr. Keith Taylor, Ph.D., CHAIR Marsha Marsh, VICE-CHAIR David Tullio, SECRETARY Mike Weber, TREASURER BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dr. Keith Taylor, Ph.D. Dr. Jay Badams Joel Berdine Dr. Donald L. Birx, Ph.D. John C. Bloomstine Carl M. Carlotti, Esq. Terrence W. Cavanaugh Gary L. Clark Mark Denlinger, Esq. Jim Fiorenzo Charles ‘Boo’ Hagerty Tim Hunter Bruce Kern Charles G. Knight John Leemhuis, Jr. Candace Littell Marsha Marsh
Erie Regional Chamber & Growth Partnership 2014 Signature Events
SAVE THE DATE 4-16
Celebration of Excellence
Thursday, April 16th, 2015 Bayfront Convention Center, Erie, PA
5-20 Annual Golf Outing 9-23 11-5
ERCGP Staff Barbara C. Chaffee President/CEO Jacob A. Rouch Vice President, Economic Development August P. Schiava Vice President, Chamber Linda C. Robbins Financial Officer Benjamin C. Pratt Executive Director, Growth Partnership Division
James E. Martin Bob Mazza Marlene D. Mosco Jack Munch Ken Nelson Rick Novotny Neil Parham James Rutkowski, Jr. Nick Scott, Jr. Ron Steele David M. Tullio Tom Tupitza, Esq. Russell S. Warner, Esq. Michael Weber Scott Whalen, Ph.D. Dr. Julie Wollman, Ph.D. Scott Wyman
Nadeen M. Steffey Director of Marketing and Communications Douglas M. Massey Director, Business Action Team Cathy Noble Event Coordinator Susan M. Ronto Membership Coordinator Brett Wiler Account Executive
Editor Nadeen M. Steffey
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 Peek n’ Peak Resort, Clymer, NY
Design PAPA Advertising PAPAadvertising.com
Fall Member Fest
Advertising Information Brett Wiler Account Executive (814) 454-7191 x137 bwiler@eriepa.com
Wednesday, September 23rd, 2015 Shades Beach, Northeast, PA
Annual Meeting
Thursday, November 5th, 2015 Bel-Aire Hotel & Conference Center Erie, PA
Sponsorships available; contact Brett Wiler at bwiler@eriepa.com for details!
Erie Magazine January 2015
4
Feature Articles Meet the Staff 8 The ERCGP staff works hard for our region Credibility grows for local 10 chamber members National study finds consumers are 80% more likely to buy from chamber members by Scharpiro Group Get Social ERCGP 2014 Social Media Stats by Nadeen Steffey SPECIAL EDITIONs 2015 Board of Directors
IN each issue Erie Ambassador Program
Save the Date 22 Business After Hours 26
16
2
2014 Fall Member Fest Recap
24
Ribbon Cuttings
28
6
Organizational Updates Chamber Report 14 Division Report 18 Growth Partnership Report 23
Proud Investor
New Investors
SPECIAL E DITION
2015 Board of Directors
At the Annual Meeting of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership, the following were elected to serve as your 2015 Board of Directors and Officers. Congratulations!
Dr. Keith Taylor, Ph.D. ERCGP Chair President Gannon University Dr. Jay Badams Superintendent Erie School District Joel Berdine General Manager Locomotive and Mining Supply Chain GE Transportation Dr. Donald L. Birx, Ph.D. Chancellor Penn State Erie, The Behrend College John C. Bloomstine President Insurance Management Company Carl M. Carlotti, Esq. Vice President National Fuel Gas Dist. Corp. Terrence W. Cavanaugh President and CEO Erie Insurance Group Gary L. Clark Owner Stonebank Management LLC Mark Denlinger, Esq. DevelopErie Appointee Knox Law Firm Jim Fiorenzo President and CEO Hamot Medical Center
Bruce Kern President Curtze Food Service Charles G. Knight Managing Principal Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Company PC John Leemhuis, Jr. Shareholder Quinn Law Firm Candace Littell President Candace Littell LLC Marsha Marsh ERCGP Vice Chair Owner and Realtor Marsha Marsh Real Estate Services James E. Martin Region President Northwest Savings Bank Bob Mazza Owner Mazza Vineyards Marlene D. Mosco President, NW PA Region PNC Bank Jack Munch Vice President Baldwin Brothers, Inc. Ken Nelson President and Publisher Times Publishing Company
Charles ‘Boo’ Hagerty Vice President, Northern Tier Markets UPMC Health Plan
Rick Novotny Executive Director Redevelopment Authority of Erie County and Corry Redevelopment Authority
Tim Hunter President and CEO McInnes Rolled Rings
Neil Parham Senior Community Affairs Specialist Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
January 2015
James Rutkowski, Jr. General Manager Industrial Sales & Manufacturing Company Nick Scott, Jr. Vice President and Owner Scott Enterprises Ron Steele Chief Executive Officer Greater Erie Area Community Action Committee David M. Tullio ERCGP Secretary President Custom Engineering Company Tom Tupitza, Esq. President Knox McLaughlin Gornall Sennett, PC Russell S. Warner, Esq. Managing Partner MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton, LLP Michael Weber, ERCGP Treasurer President Smith Provision Company Scott Whalen, Ph.D. President and CEO Saint Vincent Health System Dr. Julie Wollman, Ph.D. President Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Scott Wyman Regional President Penelec, A FirstEnergy Company
LOOKING AHEAD
Thank you to all of our clients for your support this past year. All of us at Team BSI look forward to upcoming projects in the New Year as we continue to “build our reputation from the ground up!”
Thank you to all of our clients for your support this past year. All of us at Team BSI look forward to upcoming projects in the New Year as we continue to “build our reputation from the ground up!”
Thank you to all of our clients for your support this past year. All of us at Team BSI look forward to upcoming projects in the New Year as we continue to “build our reputation from the ground up!”
Building Systems, Inc. 7335 Old Perry Highway Erie, PA 16509 (814) 864-4851
Building Systems, Inc. 7335 Old Perry Highway Erie, PA 16509 (814) 864-4851
Building Systems, Inc. 7335 Old Perry Highway Erie, PA 16509 (814) 864-4851
www.buildingsystems-inc.net
eriepa.com
www.buildingsystems-inc.net
www.buildingsystems-inc.net
3
Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership
New Investors Gold Level
Superior Health, Inc.
Superior Health, Inc., believes that home care is a progressive alternative to institutionalization; therefore, our company focuses on providing a full range of quality, cost effective health care services to patients within our service coverage area. We also believe patients and families should be treated with respect while we provide care to promote wellness. Tina Atkinson Bell 2917 Windmill Road, Suites 7 & 8 Sinking Spring, PA 19608 PH: (484) 797-1105 / FX: (610) 685-7351 www.superiorhealth.com
INVESTOR Level
Bortnick Construction Inc.
Specializes in industrial and mechanical construction maintenance and fabrication. Russell Nelson 146 Beaver Street Springboro, PA 16435 PH: (814) 587-6023 / FX: (814) 587-3191 www.bortnickconstruction.com
Courtyard Wineries
One unique winery, offering two extraordinary brands – LaCourette and Barjo Bons. The two brands carry through our winery’s distinctive architecture. Our tasting room offers two separate tasting areas creating a comfortable, welcoming environment. Ashlyn Zellefrow 10021 West Main Road North East, PA 16428 PH: (814) 725-0236 www.courtyardwineries.com
Domino Insurance Agency, Inc.
In 1979, James T. Domino sought out to provide commercial insurance coverage to large and small businesses in the tri-state area. This led to the development of Domino Insurance Agency, Inc., which has grown to become a leader in the industry, insuring some of the most complex businesses in the area. In 1994 Domino Financial Services was formed which specializes in Group Life and Health Insurance coverage as well as individual Life and Health Insurance. We are committed to protecting our clients’ assets and providing them with exceptional customer service. Having over 100 years
January 2015
of combined insurance experience, Domino knows how to accomplish this. Specializing in commercial business, able to accommodate all your personal insurance needs as well. Lili Morton 3209 Greengarden Blvd. Erie, PA 16508 PH: (814) 868-4851 / FX: (814) 866-1458 www.domino-insurance.com
Fiske Associates Inc.
Building restoration, preservation, and exterior maintenance company. Services include all types of masonry/stone repairs, slate roofing, copper work, and stained glass window preservation. Dana Fiske 10651 Lake Pleasant Road Waterford, PA 16441 PH: (814) 796-6639 / FX: (814) 796-3415 www.fiskrestoration.com
Gigliotti’s Italian Restaurant
Gigliotti’s is an Italian restaurant with a high accent of seafood. A great place to bring your family or for a date. Reasonable prices. Great Food. John Gigliotti 1325 State Street Erie, PA 16507 PH: (814) 528-5209 / FX: (814) 528-5217 www.facebook.com/pages/Gigliottis
JVP Culinary Innovations
JVP Culinary Innovations, LLC is a catering business that focuses on the use of fresh and local ingredients. JVP Culinary specializes in home events and off premise events for 10-300 people. Joe Perino 3322 Maple Street Erie, PA 16508 PH: (814) 450-7573 Email: jvpculinary@gmail.com
Konzel Construction
Municipal Water / Wastewater Construction Shelly Konzel 1921 Powell Avenue Erie, PA 16505 PH: (814) 836-5880 / FX: (814) 836-5899
LOOKING AHEAD Lake Erie Mortgage
Ross Blake Associates, Inc.
Megan Marsh 3330 West 26th Street Erie, PA 16506 PH: (814) 923-4203 / FX: (814) 923-4264 www.lakeeriemortgage.com
Ross Blake PO Box 1173 / Chautauqua, NY 14722 PH: (716) 357-2265 www.performancefeedbacktraining.com
We are an independent mortgage broker.
Improve employee performance: We work with manager whose employees become defensive when asked to improve their performance.
Make-A-Wish Greater PA & WV
We grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy. Jan Stork 1001 State Street, Suite 502 Erie, PA 16401 PH: (814) 868-9474 / FX: (814) 866-0490 www.wish.org
Multiscope Document Solutions
No Dress Code Studio’s Signature Screenprinting
Roman Glass 1001 State Street, Suite 620 Erie, PA 16507 PH: (814) 315-0318 www.facebook.com/NoDressCodeStudios
Dine-in scenic restaurant overlooking the North East Marina on Lake Erie. Enjoy authentic Caribbean food, jumbo lump crab cakes, prime rib, steaks, and slushy island drinks. Open to the public, year round seasonal catering available. Diane Diroll 111950 East Lake Road North East, PA 16428 PH: (814) 725-4627 / FX: (814) 725-2651 www.crayzparrot.com
Mulitscope delivers state-of-the-art document, paperless and hardware technology solutions to organizations throughout the country. We are dedicated to helping our customers create efficiency, improve production and add to their bottom line with tailored document solutions. Michael Grisnik 135 Technology Drive Canonsburg, PA 15317 PH: (724) 714-6473 / FX: (888) 515-7120 www.multiscope1.com
The CrayZ Parrot Restaurant
Wildlife for Everyone Endowment Foundation Wildlife for Everyone raises money for youth education, wildlife education, wildlife habitat, scientific wildlife research, and land preservation. Peg Hosterman 341 Science Park Road, Suite 103 State College, PA 16803 PH: (814) 238-8138 / www.wildlifeforeveryone.org
A proud pArt of erie’s history since 1896
Opportunities Unlimited of Erie We provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Services include supported employment and competitive employment through three business lines; janitorial, commercial laundry and specialty floor care.
David Sawtelle 2185 West 8th Street Erie, PA 16505 PH: (814) 878-2070 / FX: (814) 878-3439 ouerie.org
traditional Values & cutting edge solutions Quality • service • Performance 1425 W 8th St Erie, PA 16502
eriepa.com
Ph: 800.666.3691 or 814.452.3691
reedsales@reedmfgco.com
5
AMBASSADORS
Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership
Erie Ambassador Program Erie Ambassadors serve the community through volunteer activities that positively impact the community and support the mission of the Erie Regional Chamber & Growth Partnership. The Erie Ambassador program is designed to train community professionals & citizens interested in the history & promotion of our region. The course examines aspects of the community, providing in-depth information from some of Erie’s top civic leaders. Erie Ambassadors undergo a nine-session community training course. Curriculum topics may include, but are not limited to: US Border Patrol, 12th Street corridor history, Erie Western PA Port Authority, DonJon Shipbuilders, Entertainment, Arts & Culture, Tourism, Presque Isle, US Coast Guard, Economic Development System, Erie Water Works, Penelec, Fitness - YMCA, City of Erie & Erie County Political Systems, Tom Ridge Environmental Center and the Bayfront Maritime Center. Upon graduation, Erie Ambassadors are considered an Investor of the Erie Regional Chamber & Growth Partnership for one year (if not already employed by a current investor). If the Ambassador is not currently employed by an ERCGP investor, they can choose to become an Investor after the initial year is complete. We ask that all Ambassadors commit to attending a minimum of two Business After Hours, two Ribbon Cuttings and volunteer a minimum of two times when requested per year. Ambassador graduates are welcome to attend a current session, if it was not offered or if they missed that session during their enrollment period. A continuing education session will be attempted at least once a year. The Spring training course begins at the end of January with classes offered every other Tuesday evening from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. To become an Erie Ambassador, contact Cathy Noble, Event Coordinator, Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership at (814) 454-7191 ×146 or via email, cnoble@eriepa.com.
I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of the Erie Ambassador Program this fall! I have lived in Erie my entire life and am pleasantly surprised about the new information that I have received about our city, our history, and what may be in store for Erie in years to come. I have enjoyed all of the ambassador sessions and find myself speaking about the various things that I have learned and endorsing the credibility of Erie Water Works, Penelec, the Port Authority, the Coast Guard, the Erie Playhouse, the Erie Philharmonic and the Erie Art Museum. I am also impressed with the people that are affiliated with those organizations and their drive for making Erie a wonderful place to live and experience. My opportunity to connect with new professionals and Erie advocates who share the same passion for Erie as I do has been an added bonus to this program. It is refreshing to be amongst a group of people who believe that there is no better place to live, raise a family, work and play, than Erie. - Carla LaBoda, Erie Bank The Erie Ambassador Program is a great way to remind people about the wonderful resources that we have right here in Erie. Sometimes we get bogged down with everyday tasks but I’ve been reenergized to enjoy a dinner and a play this weekend at the Erie Playhouse. Thanks for reminding me to enjoy the city especially during the holiday season. - Darrell Thorpe, MSM, Erie Insurance Group The Erie Ambassadors is truly a great program to get involved with. Since signing on I’ve not only been able to meet a wide variety of individuals from various organizations throughout the community, I’ve also been able to gain a better understanding of an assortment of different businesses within Erie. It made me realize that some of the businesses and organizations that I thought I was familiar with, I really only knew a small fraction about. I was especially surprised with the extent of FMC technology, and what they offer the community and abroad. I find it extremely interesting learning more about the community that we live in and a lot of times overlook. We don’t realize how much we honestly have to offer, and what keeps us thriving. The program is helping me to become more insightful into our region, and will hopefully help me be able to convey my newly acquired knowledge to others. - Jenny Sholtis, Erie Times News The moment I heard about the Ambassador Program I was excited to learn more and enroll. Learning about Erie’s state of the art water system, the quality of her arts
January 2015
LOOKING AHEAD
and architecture, the diverse cultures, the huge roll Erie played in our nation’s history. Balancing preservation of Erie’s eco structure and history with the growth and development planned for the future, one thing stood out, her people. Sharing the experience with my Ambassador classmates, seeing the proud look on an owners face as the ribbon is cut proclaiming their hard work open for business, all economic and cultural pieces joining together to embrace the tapestry we weave for the future. It’s easy to enjoy a lifetime of discovering the many assets of the Erie Community, the Ambassador Program opens the door. - Roberta Yetman, Senior Helpers I cannot tell you how delightful the Erie Ambassadors class has been for me. We are new to Erie, from Connecticut, as my husband became the Chief Investment Officer for Erie Insurance. Wow and wow! From viewing the Coast Guard Station to The Brewerie at Union Station (ghost tour) and water treatment facilities and gosh The Erie Art Museum! I had not stepped into the art museum until last week and I WILL BE BACK and soon. Today, as we toured the YMCA facility downtown, and moved out to the early childhood education facility and then the Glenwood facility, I thought, wow how lucky is Erie to have Tammy Roche heading up the Y, and what a great asset to this community! All of the individuals we met today play a KEY role in reaching our community and drawing them near. I have learned SO much about Erie, its rich history and the fact that is has a VERY bright future! Perhaps, best of all, I have confidence in the areas growth and the leaders who are taking us there. Nice job to ERCGP and all of the participating businesses taking part in this educational process! I am becoming a HUGE ambassador for Erie and telling many I see and meet to “join the program”. - Kelli C. Postema Everything about Erie is new to me, and the ambassadors program has literally opened doors into the workings of my adopted city. Arriving for the tour of the Erie Waterworks Wasielewski Water Treatment Plant, I was surprised to find a building with a style and space to rival a cathedral - a cathedral devoted to creating drinking water. Aside from being truly beautiful, the treatment plant has been completely retrofitted with a modern membrane treatment system which works like millions of super fine straws. I was surprised, impressed, and left wondering how I had no idea that it even existed earlier that morning. Thank you to everyone who has opened their doors, and let us explore their basements (and sub-basements). - Helen Tenous, Weber Murphey Fox
eriepa.com
Over the past couple of months, the Erie Ambassadors program put together by the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership has been very informative and valuable in shaping an even more positive view of our region. Through tours like the one taken at the Richard S. Wasielewski Water Treatment Plant, I was able to see firsthand the commitment, investment and sacrifice the Erie community has taken to improve its infrastructure. That same commitment observed in other sites visited throughout the program reaffirmed the positive growth of our city that is often overlooked. As an Erie “local” there were many great places that I had not experienced that I would now recommend to everyone, a few being the Bayfront Maritime Center, the BrewErie, the Erie Art Museum and the YMCA of Greater Erie. The EA program not only taught me a lot about what a great city Erie is, it has inspired me with insights into how it can become even greater. We all have a responsibility to enhance our community with our individual skills and gifts. I am grateful and fortunate to live in a community that welcomes entrepreneurship, diversity and empowers its people to “do more and be better!” Erie really is a great place to work, live and play. - Pablo R. Reyes, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Don’t give up on Erie! The Erie Ambassadors set sail on our voyage around Pennsylvania’s fourth largest city at the Erie Maritime Museum in September. Erie Ambassadors are just like Oliver Hazard Perry’s crew. We have met the enemies and they are ours. The enemies per say are the many business and organizations during the fall 2014 class. We have discovered what makes Erie tick. The Erie Regional Chamber of Commerce and Growth Partnership has allowed me to explore my hometown and gave me a chance to socially network with the movers and shakers. We learned at the Erie Water Works that from the moment a drop of water begins in the system to your faucet at your home or business it take two days for it to go through the system. We learned about “Clara” at the BrewErie. Just go there and ask about her plus how eerie Erie is. Whenever we visited the YMCA or Greater Erie, you can say that universal melody came through my head but actually we all got “Happy!” Like I said we met our enemies and they are our friends. Do not give up on Erie! We will never give up on our hometown! My mission as an Erie Ambassador will enlighten and ignite that hometown spirit back into the hearts of many who live and come visit Erie! - Jason C. Brendel
7
Meet the Staff
Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership
Front L to R: Jacob Rouch, Barbara Chaffee, August Schiava and Ben Pratt Back L to R: Doug Massey, Susan Ronto, Cathy Noble, Linda Robbins, Sabrina Chirco, Brett Wiler and Nadeen Steffey
Barbara Chaffee, President/CEO
Jacob Rouch, VP of Economic Development
My careers provided me with varied perspectives. The operation of five hotels and restaurants with 1,000 employees throughout the region; economic development and state government interacting and collaborating with over 100 economic development organizations in PA, 49 tourism promotion agencies and the private sector; the stand-up of the White House Office of Homeland Security, serving as the public liaison to the private sector, trade and special interest associations and border and international trade audiences.
August Schiava, VP Chamber Division
I was born, raised and worked in Erie the first 45 years of my life and I was one who never wanted to leave home. I left Erie when given the opportunity of working for Governor Ridge in the Department of Community and Economic Development and the White House Office of Homeland Security. Following my 8 years working with Governor Ridge I became a partner in Ripple Effects Interactive and started my own company, Public Intelligence in Pittsburgh.
Patience, as my parents would have told you, was not one of my virtues; through my experiences I have learned that patience, collaboration, communication, listening, and tenacity are critical to implementing change. The ERCGP has invested thousands of hours and funds the past three years in Destination Erie, addressing the challenges and opportunities before the Erie region. The region is at a crossroads and we are excited about future initiatives that will, with open minds and action, address our challenges. We must also look to new models for addressing our challenges for the coming decades and not fall back on using old models that are past their time. The ERCGP has been collaborating on many fronts to work on a brighter future. We believe in Erie and in its possibilities. We also believe that as we are honest about our challenges we must be positive in our words and actions. We abide by the Frank Lloyd Wright quote: “I know the price of success: dedication, hard work, and an unremitting devotion to the things you want to see happen.”
January 2015
As the Vice President of the Economic Development Division, my role is to work as the point person with our Division’s Committee, which is comprised solely of private sector CEO members. This Committee determines the agenda for the Division and then my role is to manage the execution through the Division’s two staff members – Doug Massey (Director, Business Action Team) and Sabrina Chirco (Director of Research). I have been working in the business/CEO membership organization industry since 1995 with a focus on community and economic development through four organizations – Economic Development Corporation of Erie County (now Develop Erie), DuBois (PA) Area Chamber of Commerce, Erie Conference on Community Development, and Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership. I hold the Erie County record for being employed by organizations that have the most total words in their names (22). As Vice-President of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership a lot of people ask what kind of Educational path I took to reach this position and what does the ERCGP do. I am a thirty plus year resident of Edinboro which is located in Erie County. I have gained my knowledge from living it. I graduated from Edinboro State College with bachelor’s degree in education in 1972 and a master’s degree in education in 1975. I taught at Hickory High School obtaining my tenure and permanent teaching certification. After teaching, I moved to Chicago and learned the hospitality industry in operations, sales and marketing from the ground up. I decided that I missed Erie and returned to work as Director of Sales and Marketing at the Erie Hilton, working closely with the Erie Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau to increase awareness of our location and (Tullio/Hilton) convention facilities. When an opening for a new position at the Chamber came available I got the job as the Chambers event planner and quality coordinator and the new tourism person for the CVB Division. For thirty years I have been selling Erie as a destination in which to live, work, meet, locate a business and play.
Ben Pratt, Executive Director, Growth Partnership Division
Every time I head north on State Street, and make it through the intersection over 26th, I am brought back to that first impression I received
organizational Overview
LOOKING AHEAD  Board of Directors  Executive Committee President & CEO: Barbara Chaffee
Chamber Committee VP: August Schiava
Economic Dev. Committee VP: Jacob Rouch
 Director of Marketing & Communications: Nadeen Steffey
 Membership Coordinator: Susan Ronto
Director, Business Action Team: Doug Massey
Account Executive: Brett Wiler
Event Coordinator: Cathy Noble
Director of Research and Grants
as a wide-eyed naive freshman at Mercyhurst University. I remember making it a point that day to examine the faces on each corner, the architecture of each building, and getting a sudden overwhelming sense of excitement. That was the first moment that I distinctly recall saying to myself, “Wow, Erie has so much potential.” Today, I am grateful I have been given the opportunity to work with Erie’s preeminent collaboration of CEO leadership to identify and address transformational issues that will have a long-term impact on the region’s economic vitality. The Growth Partnership works exclusively on projects that will help build a stronger, safer and more competitive community. Investing at the Growth Partnership level of the chamber is a declaration of your business’ commitment to the unremitting pursuit of a brighter future for our businesses and for our children.
Linda Robbins, Financial Officer
Linda has worked as the financial officer for the Chamber since June of 2007. Her primary responsibilities are the full accounting of the ERCGP including all payables, receivables, payroll and general ledger activities. Linda is also responsible for the preparation of monthly financials for the Finance Committee and Chamber Board of Directors, and additional management financial reports for internal operations. Other responsibilities include: • Human resources • IT coordinator • Pension-403(b) administrator • Annual Audit Coordinator • Facilities/equipment manager • RFP Coordinator • Risk Management Not only are these responsibilities for the ERCGP, but for the VisitErie organization as well as part of a Joint Operating Agreement between the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership and VisitErie which has been in place since 2004.
Cathy Noble, Event Coordinator
As the Event Coordinator for the Erie Regional Chamber & Growth Partnership for the past seven years, I am responsible for ensuring that Meetings, Signature Events, Business After Hours functions and the Erie Ambassador Program are successful. This involves careful planning and establishing ongoing partnerships with internal and external customers to assure their needs and expectations are met. I enjoy this work and it has helped make the transition from South Dakota to the wonderful Erie area much easier for me and my family.
Brett Wiler, Account Executive
I am the Account Executive here at the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership. Born and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania, I’m a proud graduate of Cathedral Preparatory School. After high school I attended John Carroll University where I received by Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. I recently received my Master’s degree in Public Administration from Gannon University. Before joining the ERCGP, I worked at the Erie Business Center for 6 years in various roles, including – Admissions, Financial Aid, and Student Services. I also served as a part-time business instructor in the evening. I am married and excited to welcome my first child to the world in March 2015.
eriepa.com
Growth GP Partnership Committee Committee  Finance GP Committee Committee Director:Ben Exec. Director:Ben Pratt Exec. Director: Ben Pratt Financial Officer: Linda Robbins
As the Account Executive, I work in the Chamber division here at the ERCGP. The Chamber division is the revenue generating and marketing arm for the three divisions. My core responsibility as Account Executive is to acquire, integrate, engage, and retain new members. I’m proactive in my outreach efforts, and I relish opportunities to meet with organizations from all industries and sectors. In addition, I am responsible for offering members advertising and sponsorship solutions so that their organization can increase their brand exposure and awareness with their target market. Ultimately, I am responsible for generating revenue for the ERCGP so that we may achieve our mission to provide the leadership to attract, retain, and expand business in the region.
Nadeen Steffey, Director of Marketing and Communications
Erie, PA born and raised, my family and I relocated to the Allegheny National Forest area for a number of years. I began my career in community development in Kane, PA in 1998 at the Kane Area Chamber of Commerce and Industrial Development Corp. for nearly 9 years after which I took the position of membership coordinator at the Salamanca Area Chamber of Commerce in New York. Prior to coming home to Erie, I managed the Main Street program in Canonsburg, PA, home of Perry Como and Bobby Vinton, for 5 years. I joined the staff here at the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership in October 2012 in the Account Executive position. Last October I began the roll of Director of Marketing and Communications. My responsibilities include editor of the ERIE Magazine and Currents, our eNews, updates to the organizations website, eriepa.com, email communications to the membership for events, advertising opportunities, etc. I also manage our social media platforms, facebook, twitter, LinkedIn, as well as handle the photography for most of our purposes.
Susan Ronto, Membership Coordinator
In February 2015 I will be with the chamber for 25 years. I started as a part time receptionist then moved into full time position in a couple of months. Currently I am the Membership Coordinator, over the years I have also held the position of Secretary and Office Manager. I handle all the membership needs once you have become a member. I enter your information into our database, send out the welcome packet to you. I also do the invoicing for membership, magazine sales, and events. I also handle any questions members have about their membership. I live in Erie County, with my husband and two children.
Doug Massey, Director of Business Action Team
Douglas Massey is the Director of Business Action Team in the Economic Development Division of the Erie Regional Chamber& Growth Partnership. In his role as the BAT Director, Doug is responsible for the Chamber’s proactive outreach for retention, expansion and attraction activities for all businesses throughout Erie County with a focus on connecting them to the local, state and federal resources to help them sustain and grow. In addition Doug is responsible for strategies in workforce development to help build a stronger more competitive and skilled workforce for the Erie County Region.
9
BREAKING NEWS!
This document is the copyrighted property of Small Business Network, Inc. (SBN) and American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), all rights reserved. Distribution of this document is permitted by permission and only as delivered by one of the copyright owners without modification. For more information, including the full survey, or any other information January 2015 call 800-394-2223. Š Copyright SBN/ACCE. All Rights Reserved. concerning this document,
LOOKING AHEAD
Credibility grows for local chambers National study finds consumers are 80% more likely to buy from chamber of commerce members. WASHINGTON – A national survey of 2,000 adults reveals that a business that is a member of a local chamber of commerce is enjoying increasing favorability. In the second such survey in five years, The Schapiro Group, an Atlantabased market research firm, found positive attitudes among adults in 2012 have actually increased over the very favorable findings of the first study in 2007. For example: When consumers know that a business is a member of the local chamber, there is now a 49% increase in favorability toward that business (up from 44% in the 2007 study). When consumers perceive that a business is a chamber member, there is a 73% increase in consumer awareness and a 68% increase in local reputation (51% and 57% respectively in 2007). Consumers are 80% more likely to patronize a business in the future that they believe is a member of the local chamber of commerce (63% in 2007).
eriepa.com
The study also has more good news for chamber members that sell to other businesses. When business decision makers believe a business is a chamber member, favorability increases by 42% (37% in 2007), perceived awareness and reputation grows to 78% and 65%, respectively, (51% and 58% in 2007), plus the likelihood of future patronage increases by 74% (59% in 2007). Supporting the previous findings, the study also reveals a positive perception for the local chamber itself. Regarding the chamber’s impact on the local economy, 86% of respondents believe that the local chamber of commerce helps create jobs and promotes local economic development (82% in 2007). The results of the 2007 and 2012 Schapiro studies are clear: Positive perception increases among consumers and business owners when a business
11
Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership
is known as a member of the local chamber of commerce, and now we know that positive perception is growing.
Among those who haven’t purchased insurance from a particular company in the past, chamber membership increases that likelihood by 37%.
Restaurant Franchises
National study shows chamber members are 80% more likely to buy from fellow chamber members.
When consumers know that a national restaurant franchise is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are: • 68% more likely to eat at the franchise in the next few months. • 15% more likely to report knowing a lot about the franchise. • 58% more likely to eat at the franchise more often. • 37% more likely to think favorably of the franchise. Even when consumers do not eat at the franchise often, if they are aware that the franchise is a member of the chamber, they’re 33% more likely to have a favorable opinion of the franchise. When consumers hold a less favorable opinion of a restaurant franchise, but are aware that the franchise is a member of the chamber, they’re 65% more likely to eat there in the coming months.
Insurance Companies
When consumers know that an insurance company is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are: • 29% more likely to report knowing a lot about the company. • 36% more likely to think favorably of the company. • 36% more likely to consider buying insurance from it. If consumers hold a less favorable opinion of the insurance company, but are aware that the company is a member of the chamber, they’re 25% more likely to consider doing business with that company. January 2015
Automobile Industry
When consumers know that an auto company is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are: • 21% more likely to have a favorable opinion of that company. • 31% more likely to consider purchasing their next car from that company. If a consumer has ever considered buying a car from a particular auto company, chamber membership increases the likelihood of a future purchase by 44%.
About the Sponsors AND Contributors
American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Established in 1914, ACCE is the only national association serving the professional development needs of executives and managers of chambers of commerce throughout the U.S. and Canada. Representing more than 7,300 chamber employees, ACCE enhances the knowledge, leadership skills, and management effectiveness of chamber professionals and their staffs through its education, research, publications, certification, trends analysis, benchmarking, and promotion of best practices. The Western Association of Chamber Executives (WACE) The Western Association of Chamber Executives (WACE) is a premier organization for education and professional development for more than 800 chamber executives and staff in 15 Western states and Canada.
LOOKING AHEAD
25 Years of
Problem Solving Sometimes it’s a project at a time. Just as often, we’re developing comprehensive marketing programs. Either way, we merge fresh insights with proven experience to help businesses succeed. Since 1990.
Problems Solved. Advertising » Brand Development » Content Marketing Email Marketing » Online Brand Management » Video SEM and SEO » Social Media » Web Development 814 454.6236
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The Schapiro Group, Inc. Combining incisive research with strategic acumen, The Schapiro Group, Inc. develops strategies for decision- makers in business, governments, and nonprofits. As a partner in strategy it helps clients achieve their goals. For close to three decades, The Schapiro Group has used objective research to develop strategies that yield a clear and profound view of each client’s environment, challenges, and opportunities.
Jim Blasingame Jim Blasingame, founder and president of Small Business Network, Inc., is one of the world’s foremost thought-leaders on small business and entrepreneurship. Jim has been a chamber member and supporter since 1977 and the ACCE recognized his efforts on behalf of chambers with the coveted Champion of the Chamber Award in 2009. His third book is titled, The Age of the Customer®.
Insperity Funding for both the 2007 and 2012 Schapiro Chamber Studies has been provided by Insperity, a perennial supporter of thought- leadership and research projects such as these. Insperity has been a trusted advisor to America’s best businesses for more than 25 years, providing an array of human resources and business solutions designed to help business succeed so communities can prosper.
Market Street Services In its fifteen-year history, Market Street Services has worked with chamber of commerce and other partners in over 150 communities in 32 states across the country. Founded in 1997 as an alternative to traditional community and economic development firms, Market Street bring original insights and clarity to the evaluation and revitalization of the places where people live, work, and grow.
eriepa.com
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CHAMBER DIVISION Report by August Schiava, Vice President
I just completed serving one year in October as the Vice President, Chamber Division of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership and am now seasoned, experiencing all of our Signature Events: Celebration of Excellence; Annual Golf Outing; Fall Member Fest; Annual Meeting and our one community event (Beer on the Bay) plus our Division’s weekly staff meetings and monthly Division advisory committee meetings, bi-monthly ERCGP Board of Directors meeting, Erie Ambassadors Training Program and monthly Business After Hours networking, as well as weekly ERCGP Staff meetings, community meetings and board meetings of other organizations. I am on the board of Hospice of Metropolitan Erie, Junior Achievement of Western PA, and nominated to the Board of the Foundation for Free Enterprise Education. The Chamber Division is responsible to ensure that our events and related activities, programs and member affinity programs provide member dues and non-dues revenue to fund the ERCGP budget and action plan and sustain the future of our nonprofit organization while maintaining value added member benefits and services at each membership level ranging from Basic Level all the way up to the Diamond Level. I have also had the opportunity to review our merchandising efforts and affinity programs with ChamberChoice and National Fuel Resources, Inc. Grants and special cooperative projects are another source of revenue although specifically dedicated. This year we implemented the free membership in the PA Chamber of Business and Industry (for members with less than ten employees) and the US Chamber of Commerce (for businesses with annual revenue under $10 million). My team is a joy to work with and is dedicated to our division’s mission: to provide the platform to elevate the ERCGP as the premier business and community organization in the region. We deliver value by creating an environment of opportunities to connect and share information through our diverse, engaged, sustainable and robust network of members. To date, we have participated in approximately 20 plus Ribbon Cutting events for our members. These range from opening a new business to having an anniversary, expanding or having a grand reopening. Twelve Business After Hours were conducted by the Chamber Division. These networking events are hosted by a member on a first come first serve basis. BAH events draw 200 to 300 attendees each month. They have been very successful and are booking through 2016. January 2015
ERCGP CEO Roundtable • Oc
t 2014
We are always looking and listening to determine more benefits and programs to benefit our members. New contracts with affinity partners, ChamberChoice Insurances and OnDemand Energy are now in place for 2015. We have also renewed our contract with National Fuel Resources, Inc. offering a guaranteed savings opportunity for our members and their employees. This year we have also added keypad polling available for a nominal fee and notary service complementary to members. As a member of the PA Chamber, US Chamber, Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, Great Lakes Chambers Coalition, monthly Small Business Chamber Chatter with the White House, Regional Chambers meetings and participation in appropriate webinars and seminars we strive to continuously improve our professional knowledge, best practices, business trends and new policies and programs to enhance benefits and services for our membership. The use of Constant Contact, Weblink, Currents, ERIE Magazine, the ERCGP website eriepa.com and social media are some of the ways in which we communicate to our audiences: • This year the Celebration of Excellence hosted over 500 members in April who heard a message from former Governor Tom Ridge. • The date in May scheduled for one of the area’s first Golf Outings and one of the largest was flooded out at Peek’n Peak Resort but was rescheduled in August , it was very successful, only shy this year of several foursomes from reaching capacity.
O R G ALOOKING N I Z ATI O NA LAHEAD U PDATE
• The Fall Member Fest remains a popular event for 300 members to gather with good food and entertainment and casual networking and just having fun to celebrate the harvest of our yearlong efforts. • The last signature event of the year is our annual meeting, in which business and election of officers takes place. This is the second year we are to feature the keypad polling.
eti ERCGP Board Me
ng • July 2014
• Beer on the Bay this year was one day, two sessions on July 26 at the Liberty Park. The Brewers as well as the over 2,000 guests raved about the beer and the food at this event. We have already scheduled a repeat with our partners at Erie Brewing on July 25th in 2015. • Our Spring and Fall sessions of the Erie Ambassador program were held at or near capacity (32). We continue to update and change the curriculum to include new sites and tours. We sometimes have persons listed on a waiting list to take the next session. Erie Ambassador training remains an important experience base to community leadership training.
As Vice President of the Chamber Division and team leader I am responsible for tracking the big picture and participating with our team in all of our programs and events and our member touches to ensure ERCGP’s sustainable relevancy. My team is continuously seeking external and internal customer feedback to improve all of our efforts to maintain a member centric organization. The ERCGP team is cognizant of the fact that the future is now. The Schapiro Group National Survey of 2,000 adults is clear: Positive perception increases among consumers and business owners when a business is known as a member of the local chamber of commerce, and now we know that positive perception is growing. The survey also indicated regarding the Chamber’s impact on the local economy, 86% of the respondents believe that the local chamber of commerce helps create jobs and promotes local economic development. Consumers are 80% more likely to patronize a business in the future that they believe is a member of the local chamber of commerce.
When we refer patients to Erie FCU for financing, we do it with confidence. They receive the same prompt, friendly, and professional service that we provide in our own office.
Erie FCU’s Merchant Lending Program allows you to offer on the spot financing at your business at no cost to you! Contact Kristi Bailey, Director of Business Development, today for more details. (814) 825-2436 Ext.1035
•
KBailey@eriefcu.org
www.eriefcu.org Loans subject to credit approval. Membership eligibility required. EFCU Chamber Ad 1014 (Haverly).indd eriepa.com
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Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership
Get Social! ERCGP 2014 Social Media Stats by Nadeen Steffey, Director of Marketing & Communications If you take a look through our online member business directory at eriepa.com, you might notice a number of listings bearing the icons for Facebook and Twitter. Our database software allows us to add this information to your profile. Share your Facebook Page and Twitter url’s with us so we can help your business gain more followers, which could lead to more clients and sales for you! Send the url’s via email to nsteffey@eriepa.com and we will make the updates for you. The sooner the better! Follow the ERCGP on Facebook, Erie Regional Chamber; Twitter, @EriePaChamber; join the members only LinkedIn Group. Soon we will roll out our Pinterest page.
ERCGP social media engagement: SM Platform Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
Jan. 2014 1407 1975 711
Nov. 2014 1667 2778 777
Web stats over last 12 months for eriepa.com: Sessions 105,813
Users 79,634
Page Views 259,986
Pages/Session 2.46
2014 ERIE Magazine Online (Issuu):
Issue Oct/Nov Aug/Sept June/July April/May Feb/Mar Lifetime Stats January 2015
Reads 190 154 200 58 44 8074
Avg. Session Duration 00:01:50
Impressions 2,270 648 3,463 454 440 103,774
Avg. Time Spent 3:13 3:48 3:40 2:27 1:25 n/a
% New Sessions 73.01%
Publish Date Oct 15 Aug 19 Jun 11 Apr 14 Feb 20
Saint Vincent is Erie’s Choice for Best Hospital
Our community has spoken. Saint Vincent has been named Erie’s Choice for Best Hospital for 2014. Without the unparalleled expertise of our caregivers, such recognition would simply not be possible. Trust that we will continue to recruit the brightest minds—and utilize the most sophisticated technologies—to ensure you have access to the most advanced care in our region. Make the switch to better care. Choose Saint Vincent.
SwitchToSV.com
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Economic Development Division Report
Project Jobs Pr
ess Conferenc
e • Sept 2014
by Jake Rouch, Vice President
As the calendar year draws to a close, many of us will paraphrase our year. We will say, “The past year was a year of…transition or milestones or loss or accomplishment.” For the Economic Development Division we can never paraphrase our year with one word – the regional economy is far too diverse and how we are called upon to participate in providing assistance is everchanging. That said, a few words do help to provide a framework for an end-of-the year wrap-up: teamwork, collaboration, workforce, Destination Erie, innovation, and opportunity.
Teamwork
Our Division is anchored by Doug Massey, Director of the Business Action Team. If you do not know this engaging, customer-centric professional, make meeting him in 2015 one of your New Year’s resolutions. If you already know Doug, keep reaching out to him with any need you have to help your business grow – that is what he enjoys doing. Doug is complimented by the balance of the ERCGP staff, all of whom understand that businesses are a blessing and we need to help them in any way we can so the region flourishes. January 2015
Collaboration
Everything the Economic Development Division does is centered upon collaboration. Preeminent among our collaborations is the Lead Economic Development Team – a monthly gathering of our 13 local and regional workforce and economic development groups that coordinate service to area businesses. Travel the state and you will be hard pressed to find a similar approach to serving businesses. In 2015, we plan to redesign our “Lead Team” for even greater impact to area businesses and entrepreneurs.
Workforce
There are dozens of workforce development initiatives underway or being considered to help connect people to jobs. The Economic Development Division’s contribution to this effort is Project Jobs. This simple, six-question census of area employers is providing us with unprecedented, detailed information of occupations in demand right now and into the future. To date, nearly 100 employers have participated and we have identified nearly 1000 specific jobs in specific occupations that need to
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be filled. Project Jobs – like everything else we do as an organization – is a collaborative effort with over 40 private, public and non-profit partners. Our vision is that this “census” become part of the DNA for every Erie County employer. Why? So we can maintain a real-time understanding of where the jobs are and where they will be – and then share that with Erie Together, CareerStreet, CareerLink, school districts, Erie County Technical School, proprietary trade schools, regional universities, guidance/career counselors, Erie Vital Signs, and more. This initiative has captured the attention of Warren, Crawford and McKean Counties and will likely become a regional resource to capture job opportunity. The data provided by YOUR responses will help shape job placement, training programs, grant applications, career counseling, and more. Simply put, when Project Jobs achieves the vision we have for it, our region will have one of the most dynamic workforce development and placement systems in the United States. Its success hinges on your participation, continued collaboration with our partners, and our Division’s hard work. We could not be more excited about its future.
Destination Erie
As the three-year journey of Destination Erie comes to a close (from a plan development standpoint), the time for action on specific items is just beginning. The Economic Development Division will be coordinating activity on five Action Team areas (and the Growth Partnership Division coordinating activity on several additional areas). Our five Action Team areas are: Year-Round Tourism, Natural Gas Supply Chain Opportunities, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Industry Driven Education, and Multi-Modal Transportation Opportunities. Our Division has already begun convening experts to serve on each of these Action Teams. We have begun to identify initial steps toward specific activities the impact these areas. We will facilitate where necessary or we will provide administrative support to keep the group moving forward. This is a great example of where your investment in the ERCGP makes an immense impact on Erie – without our involvement, many of Destination Erie’s agenda items would lay dormant. The members of the Action Team will drive the agenda, we will provide the administrative support. Collaboration and
PUBLIC STRATEGIES Public Strategies is a service offered by Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. for public policy consulting, governmental relations, strategic communications, and relationship building. Our attorneys provide a unique perspective into local, state and federal government as well as economic development issues in our region and state. We have cultivated relationships that are critical to the success of major projects. We know what it takes to translate these relationships into tangible success.
Public Policy Consulting • Strategic Communications Legislative Tracking and Bill Review • Governmental Relations
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partnership are essential to move the region forward to a more prosperous destination.
a part of this process of improvement.
Innovation
Many of you have asked why ERCGP have joined with Erie County to support a feasibility study funded by PennDOT. Simply put, it is because we believe there to be opportunity in a rail terminal for Erie County employers. Just because the original idea did not work – in one location, in one design format – does not mean the need of such a piece of infrastructure does not exist. We believe there is opportunity in a rail terminal project – and from what we have heard – so do many of you.
Earlier this year, a wonderful blueprint (completed by JumpStart Inc.) was released that identified how the region needs to build a more powerful entrepreneurial ecosystem. Our Economic Development Division is taking on the charge of creating a more coordinated system of service to entrepreneurs though the enhanced role of the Economic Development Lead Team. The Lead Team will also be working collaboratively on a identifying (and possibly developing) an agreed upon set of metrics for measuring success and progress. While these steps may not seem sexy, they are essential to building a strong foundation from which to grow. No one organization can implement 77 action items in the Jump Start report recommends, so the entire regional system of organizations involved in assisting businesses in their growth and development will need to work collaboratively to create a more vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. We are excited to be
automotive technologies Business & Management Computer Training Commercial Truck Driver ConstruCtion trades Drafting & Design
Opportunity
One thing our Division knows is that an economy is a living entity and with that life comes everpresent change. So as we bid goodbye to 2014 and welcome in 2015, we stand ready to embrace that change with a mindset toward addressing challenges and embracing opportunities in same collaborative, team-like manner we always do. Onward!
The Regional Career & Technical Center is a leading provider of quality career and technical training programs for adults. We offer a variety of courses, affordable tuition, convenient class schedules and customized training programs. ISO 9001:2008 Certified
*New! TAA/wIA Approved courses
HVAC
Industrial Technologies
Manufacturing Technologies Medical Technologies
Precision Machining
Special Interest welding
January 2015
8500 Oliver Road • Erie, PA 16509
Term III classes begin the week of January 5. Register for classes December 8 – 19. Visit www.ects.org/rctc for a complete course schedule or call 814.464.8601 for more information. The RCTC is a division of the Erie County Technical School, an equal opportunity educational institution.
ERIE REGIONAL CHAMBER AND GROWTH PARTNERSHIP
EXCLUSIVE OFFER ERCGP MEMBERS: SAVE MONEY ON YOUR NATUR AL GA S BILL.
GUAR ANTEED. National Fuel Resources, Inc. (NFR) and the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership (ERCGP) understand the importance of working together to help our business community. That’s why NFR is pleased to partner with the ERCGP as its supplier of choice for natural gas. Through our exclusive Premier Natural Gas Supplier Program, NFR will offer ERCGP small business members guaranteed savings on their natural gas bills.*
SAVING IS SIMPLE AND GUARANTEED. Choose NFR as your natural gas supplier and we guarantee a lower monthly natural gas commodity rate for one year, compared to your natural gas utility company. The commodity portion is usually the largest part of your gas bill — and that’s where we save you money. As long as your small business* is located in NFR’s Pennsylvania service area, we guarantee you’ll save.
SAVE FOR A YEAR…OR MORE! We guarantee savings for an entire year. And we won’t forget about you. When your year is almost up, we’ll contact you. Then you can choose to either stick with us, or go back to your natural gas utility company. But either way you will save money for at least 12 months!
EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT PROGRAM. Employees of any business that enrolls with NFR through the ERCGP may also enroll and enjoy guaranteed savings on their natural gas bill at home.
For more information, call Katie Wolf at 1-800-839-9993 ext. 6719, or e-mail kwolf@nfrinc.com.
n at i o n a l f u e l r e s o u r c e s , i n c .
* Offer is limited to ERCGP small business members with annual gas consumption less than 1,000 Mcf and not currently enrolled with NFR.
Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership
SAVE THE DATE
2015 Signature Events
of Excellence 4-16 Celebration Thursday, April 16th, 2015
Bayfront Convention Center, Erie, PA
Golf Outing 5-20 Annual Wednesday, May 20th, 2015
7-25
Peek n’ Peak Resort, Clymer, NY
8th Annual Beer on the Bay Saturday, July 25th, 2015 Liberty Park, Erie, PA
Member Fest 9-23 Fall Wednesday, September 23rd, 2015
2014 Sponsors
11-5
Shades Beach, Northeast, PA
Annual Meeting
Thursday, November 5th, 2015 Bel-Aire Hotel & Conf. Center, Erie, PA
Thank you to our 2014 Signature Event Sponsors! Without your support, these events would not be the success’s they are!
2015 Sponsorship Opportunities
Consider becoming a Signature Event Sponsor! One fee - four event sponsorships including the Annual Meeting, Celebration of Excellence, the Golf Outing, and Fall Member Fest. As a sponsor, the ERCGP provides the following at a minimum: • Premium logo placement on all signature event • Signage at all events invitations and promotional materials • Sponsorship recognition on all event multimedia presentations • Included in ERIE Magazine pre/post event promotions • Sponsorship recognition on eriepa.com event page • Sponsorship recognition in Currents pre/post promotions For additional information, email August Schiava, Vice President of the Chamber Division or phone him at (814) 454-7191 x141. Event sponsorships are available! Contact account executive Brett Wiler, bwiler@eriepa.com, or phone (814) 454-7191 x137.
January 2015
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growth partnership division REPORt The Growth Partnership in 2014 by Barbara Chaffee, President/CEO Destination Erie Ben Pratt, our ERCGP managing director has served the past three years as project coordinator for Destination Erie; his dedication, patience (most of the time), insights, research and high level of collaboration with disparate organizations and entities has been stellar. We have not yet totaled Ben’s total time commitment, though we are sure that over the past three years he is well into thousands of hours. In tracked time over the three year life cycle, I am well over 700 hours and Jake Rouch has committed a tremendous amount of time on the economic development and workforce task force. Nadeen Steffey has been responsible for marketing and communications, and our entire team has served in numerous roles of support for Anna Frantz, the project manager, Ben and the entire initiative. The growth partnership committee will review the recommendations of Destination Erie upon its final release and recommend the transformational initiatives the ERCGP should focus on. We will look closely at the recommendations in the categories of: • Economic Growth and Workforce Development • Education and Training • Vibrant and Safe Communities • Land Use, Transportation and Infrastructure • Regional Collaboration and Leadership • Health • Environment • Arts, Culture and Recreation Though there have been challenges throughout this process we see many more opportunities before us. We have also experienced unprecedented collaboration with thousands of Erie citizens participating in the process.
eriepa.com
COUNCIL OF UNIVERSITY PRESIDENTS AND THE DEAN TEAMS In 2014, the four University Presidents and the ERCGP Growth Partnership CEO Roundtable presented the Path Forward: A Statement on the Future of our Region by the Leaders of Erie’s Universities. This was the first time in Erie’s history that four University Presidents held a retreat, developed the process and the white paper together. The COUP selected deans and/or faculty that align with the following two focus areas to work together: • Advanced & Additive Manufacturing, Incubator Entrepreneurial Start-Ups • Data Mining, Cyber Technology/Intelligence, Digital Arts Media & Technology With their charge to: o Identify Major Goals o Identify Milestones ` o Identify Immediate next steps for Focus Groups Each dean team has had its initial work group meeting and the first set of next steps for consideration will be presented to the Presidents. Here are just a few of the initiatives that our Growth Partnership division and the ERCGP have worked on in 2014, most collaboratively: • Manchester Bidwell • Erie County Health Care Collaborative • The rail terminal with PennDOT and Erie County • PennDOT Bayfront Parkway Advisory Committee • Career Street • Erie Together • GradNation • Common Core Standards • Great Lakes Metro Chambers Coalition We have a tremendous amount of work, challenges and opportunities ahead of us in 2015 as we address transformational initiatives, and elevate the voice of the business community and the ERCGP throughout the region. 23
SPECIAL E DITION
2014
Fall Member Fest Our Signature Event, Fall Member Fest, was held at Shades beach on September 25th. A great time was had by all, the weather was beautiful, and no one left hungry! A huge THANK YOU to all of our Fall Member Fest sponsors! This event would not be possible without your support!
2014 Sponsors
Arvite Technologies Avalon Hotel Business Records Management Erie Beer Erie Brewing Company Erie Playhouse Fastsigns Glenwood Beer HERO BX IPMC John V. Schultz Kal Darres Lorei Portraits Mazza Vineyards Nemacolin Woodlands Resort Petra Restaurant Pic A Pose Photo Booth Presque Isle Tent & Table Rog’s Incorporated Scott Enterprises Studio Hue The Brewerie at Union Station
January 2015
LOOKING AHEAD
eriepa.com
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Business After Hours is a monthly members only networking event of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership. On average 250-300 business professionals are in attendance. Considering being a host location? Our 2016 calendar is filling up fast. Contact event coordinator Cathy Noble at (814) 454-7191 x146 or cnoble@eriepa.com for more info.
January 15
5:00 – 7:00 PM Achievement Center 4950 West 23rd Street Erie, PA
February 19
5:00 – 7:00 PM Agility Marketing 2323 West 38th Street Erie, PA
March 12
5:00 – 7:00 PM Career Street/Erie County Technical School 8500 Oliver Road Erie, PA
More 2015 Business After Hours April 23 Presbyterian Homes, Manchester Commons 6351 West Lake Road Erie, PA
July 16 The Hammocks at Millcreek 4500 Hammocks Drive Erie, PA
October 22 Grapevine Laundry and Linens 2345 Warfel Avenue Erie, PA
May 14 Flagship Niagara League 150 East Front Street Erie, PA
August 20 Panache Salon & Spa 2501 West 12th Street Erie, PA
November 19 Millcreek Coffee 1222 Linden Avenue Erie, PA
June 18 Shriners Hospitals for Children 1645 West 8th Street Erie, PA
September 10 BLOOM Collaborative 138 East 26th Street Erie, PA
December 10 Ambassador Banquet & Conf. Center 7794 Peach Street Erie, PA
January 2015
LOOKING AHEAD
2014 Business After Hours Recap
J.H. Bennett • April 2014 FMC Technologies • June 2014
Habibi • August 2014
Porreco College • October 2014 WICU WSEE • July 2014
Bostwick Design Partnership February 2014
eriepa.com
EmergyCare • May 2014
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SPECIAL E DITION
Recent Ribbon Cuttings
January 2015
Ribbon Cuttings are a free service we provide to our member businesses. Details of the Ribbon Cutting Service include: • Invitations sent to all City and County officials, ERCGP Board of Directors, Erie Ambassador alumni, and ERCGP staff members. • Advance notice sent to all local media. • Our staff present at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. • We supply the ERIE satin ribbon and the 3’ scissors. • Photos are shared via social media, in Currents eNews, and in the ERIE Magazine. If you are looking to celebrate an opening, business expansion or milestone and would like to schedule a ribbon cutting ceremony, contact our event coordinator, Cathy Noble at cnoble@eriepa.com for suggested days, times, and availability.
Lake Erie Mortgage October 22nd
Paws ‘n Claws Pet Resort October 25th
Achievement Center October 28th
Imagination Library Nook at the JFK Center November 6th
Mad Mex Restaurant November 10th
Home Instead Senior Care November 13th
LOOKING AHEAD
eriepa.com
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE
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208 East Bayfront Parkway Suite 100 Erie, PA 16507
ERIE Wear
Permit # 298 Erie PA
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DEVON & JONES SOFT SHELL JACKETS AND VESTS Devon & Jones Soft Shell Jackets and Vests are ideal for inclement weather and being on-the-go. Water- and wind-resistant, and essential for your active lifestyle.
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Place your order today by calling us at (814) 454-7191 x123.