Business Magazine - January 2022

J anuar y2022

March 2022 Travel and Tourism Advertising Offer Eager to make up for lost time, many travelers have adapted to a new reality in the COVID era — and the tourism and hospitality industries are bouncing back! In fact, the U.S. Travel Association reports that travel spending is inching up to 2019 levels. Hotel occupancy this summer recovered to just shy of pre-pandemic numbers, and airline bookings — at least domestically — are rising as well. So, don’t miss out! Set your sights on being part of the March issue of the MBA Business Magazine when we highlight the best attractions, events, restaurants, hotels and other venues our region has to offer!

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Company Profile Includes: 600 words of copy, photos, contact information and company logo.

Roberts Companies Headquarters: 5501 Route 89 North East, PA 16428 Phone: 814/347-1300 or 1-800-955-4087

Rise With Roberts History Founded in 1978, the Roberts Companies were built on a foundation of asset-based local, regional and over the road (OTR) units capable of running the lower 48 states and eastern Canada with a compliment of warehouse/distribution/ cross dock space in Western PA and Western NY. Roberts has a vast pool of resources and professionally trained staff to provide customers with full Supply Chain Solutions. Roberts provides consistent on-time service to clients through sophisticated management systems, strong client relations and a commitment to excellence. Office locations are in Erie and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Harford, Connecticut and Charlotte, North Carolina to support its business across the globe.

Capabilities Warehousing | Roberts offers uniquely customizable solutions for clients that have temperature sensitive products, strict deadlines and large or small shipments, both globally and nationwide. Roberts currently has a multitude of meticulously maintained, pest-controlled and heated space facilities for food grade products in Erie County, Pennsylvania. All facilities including New York locations, conveniently located off Interstate 90, are equipped with a bar code data collection system providing directed pick and pack location assignment, real-time inventory capability and a first in-first out (FIFO) management system.

www.robertstrucking.com www.rise-logistics.com Kirk Hill is the president and chief executive officer of Roberts Companies.

CO M PAN Y PR O FIL E

Print Media | To meet the need for a critical service in the direct mailing business, Roberts offers print media and direct mailing services for newspapers, retail circulars and mailers. With advertisements and information sharing through different channels, such as social media and online engagement nowadays, Roberts presents an economical process to control cost and coordinate freight for the printing industry.

#Rising Up Next…

It’s a new and exciting time at the Roberts Companies! “We are drafting dreams and casting a wider net with new leadership, new services and new culture and our priority is to improve on all levels so that we may better serve

clients and the community,” says President and CEO Kirk Hill. “To build upon our reputable foundation, we are strengthening our workforce and expanding our businesses. We are proud to introduce Rise Logistics as our sister company!

We will now offer the same premier services and greater resources in six locations handling all facets of supply chain logistics globally. Our Erie office and headquarters in North East, Pennsylvania deliver services locally and look forward to continuing to do so as Roberts Companies and Rise Logistics.”

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Trucking | With a focus on capacity and reliability, Roberts manages a fleet size of approximately 400 trucks within its company and carrier partner networks. As a brokerage firm with strong relationships with its clients, as well as its carrier partners, Roberts relies upon dependability and stability to solidify shipper carrier partnerships.

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Logistics | Roberts logistics solutions allows customers to reduce, measure and control transportation expenditures. The company works to maintain costs while providing customized invoicing, auditing and dedicated services to support customer business activities.

mbabizmag.com • OCTOBER 2018

Capture the attention of the MBA Business Magazine’s loyal readers by placing your digital ad in our widely read online monthly publication and website, www.mbabizmbag.com. The Business Magazine’s digital platforms deliver high-quality exposure and content for employers in the regional business community and beyond – and can be viewed anywhere in the world at any time!

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mbabizmag.com

BUSINESS

VOL. XXXV NO. 1 | JANUARY 2022

MAGAZINE

SPOTLIGHT Q&A:

EDINBORO UNIVERSITY USHERS IN 165TH YEAR AND TRANSFORMATION ’

SPECIAL SECTION:

WORKING AS ‘ONE’ TO DELIVER INNOVATIVE RISK MANAGEMENT AND BENEFIT SOLUTIONS

MBA MEMBERS MARK MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES

FEATURES WHAT’S INSIDE | FEATURED STORY

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New Year, New Opportunities Small business trends to consider for 2022.

COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

4

USI Insurance Services The insurance brokerage and consulting firm is making significant investments to build its local presence, including expanding its northwest Pennsylvania team of talent, while providing a wider range of carriers and coverage options to employers in the region.

SPOTLIGHT Q&A | MILESTONE

9 DEPARTMENTS 12

BUSINESS BUZZ

13

PEOPLE BUZZ

16

INSURANCE CONNECTION

WHAT’S NEW

EVENTS 19 NETWORKING AND MORE

AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS

See a snapshot of the Economic Outlook IMPACT Luncheon held in person and virtually on December 9 at the Manufacturer & Business Association Conference Center in Erie.

HR Q&A

GET ANSWERS

Executive Editor Karen Torres ktorres@mbausa.org Contributing Writers Brian Cressman Jezree Friend Lori Joint Rachel Tserkovniak

EDITORIAL LEGAL BRIEF | UPDATE

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READ ON THE GO! For the most current Business Magazine updates, visit mbabizmag.com

WORKPLACE TRENDS

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Scott Miller, Ph.D., dean of Edinboro University’s College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, and the School of Business and interim dean of the College of Science and Health Professions, discusses the University’s 165th year and the exciting transformation under way in 2022.

Feature Photography R. Frank Media iStockPhoto.com USI

COVID-19 vaccinations: What employers need to know about insurance and benefits issues.

Brian Cressman

ON THE HILL | WORTH NOTING

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Advertising Sales Frank Mehler 814/833-3200 fmehler@mbausa.org

Addtional Photography David Thornburg Karen Torres 814/833-3200 Christine DeSantis dthornburg@mbausa.org

Inflation up, supply chains down: This is not working. A look at why we need true leadership to lead us forward.

Jezree Friend

SPECIAL SECTION | MILESTONES

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Design, Production & Printing Printing Concepts Inc. printcon@erie.net

Congratulations to the MBA members marking milestone anniversaries in 2022!

On the Cover: John Micale, chief executive officer of USI’s Mid-Atlantic region, stands alongside the firm’s northwest Pennsylvania team of professionals. The insurance brokerage and consulting firm is a company to watch in the region. For full story, see page 4.

Mission Statement: The Manufacturer & Business

Association is dedicated to providing information and services to its members that will assist them in the pursuit of their business and community interests. – Board of Governors

Manufacturer & Business Association Headquarters: 2171 West 38th Street Erie, PA. 16508 Pittsburgh: 600 Cranberry Woods Drive, Suite 190 Cranberry Township, PA 16066 814/833-3200 |800/815-2660 | www.mbausa.org

© Copyright 2022 by the Manufacturer & Business Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial, pictorial or advertisements created for use in the Business Magazine, in any manner, without written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope bearing sufficient postage. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. The Business Magazine and Manufacturer & Business Association do not specifically endorse any of the products or practices described in the magazine. The Business Magazine is published monthly by the Manufacturer & Business Association, 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, Pa. 16508. Phone: 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

mbabizmag.com • JANUARY 2022

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FOUNDED IN ERIE. COMMITTED TO ERIE.

Eriez designs, manufactures, and markets industrial equipment that separates metal.

Our equipment removes dangerous metal contamination from food processing lines, concentrates desirable minerals in mining applications, recovers valuable metals in recycling operations, and much more.

We drive revenue for our customers and protect their brand.

TH

Proudly founded in Erie in 1942, Eriez is now a global force with nearly 1,000 employees in 13 subsidiaries on 6 continents

WHAT’S INSIDE | FEATURED STORY

New Year, New Opportunities SMALL BUSINESS TRENDS FOR 2022

As Albert Einstein once said, “You never fail until you stop trying.”

For many employers, these are wise words to remember as we change the calendar year and usher in new opportunities in 2022.

Indeed, with all the challenges businesses are facing, the new year may be just the right time for organizations to take a fresh look at their operations and some of the small business trends happening now.

According to a recent article in All Business, here are the top eight trends in the business world: 1. E-commerce will continue thrive. More and more businesses owners are looking beyond bricks and mortar to sell their products and services online.

5. More and more events will be virtual events held online. Not only do virtual events expand the reach and allow for more attendees, but it is becoming common to have a virtual option in addition to inperson offerings.

2. Remote work will continue to be popular. According to a Forbes’ Global Survey, over 75 percent of respondents believe that hybrid/flexible work will be a standard practice within their organizations in the coming three years.

6. Personalized artificial intelligence will become more commonplace.

This includes everything from chatbots on websites and social media, smart assistants, facial recognition, personalized recommendations, fraud detection systems, as well as personalized ads and marketing.

3. Communications applications will grow in importance. Applications and tools, like video conferencing software and messaging platforms, have been booming since COVID struck, and like remote work, they will probably be around for quite some time.

7. Video marketing will continue to grow in popularity. Approximately 84 percent of people say a brand’s video convinced them to buy a product or service. And, 54 percent of consumers want to see more video content from a brand or business they support.

4. Cashless payments will become the standard for businesses. As technology advances, more cashless payment options — credit/debit card, mobile or digital wallets and payment apps — will become available, which means businesses will have to keep up with customers.

8. Gig workers will make up a large part of the workforce. Freelancers, or gig workers, represented 59 million in the United States last year, and that is only expected to continue in the new year as employers continue to face a worker shortage.

In this edition of the MBA Business Magazine, we’ll also highlight the importance of insurance and employee benefits in today’s work world, and how USI Insurance Services, which has been expanding its operations in northwest Pennsylvania, is positioning itself to help even more employers throughout the region.

We’ll also hear about some exciting new developments under way, including at Edinboro University, which is embarking on a major transformation in its 165th year. Plus, don’t miss our special section recognizing the hundreds of MBA member companies that are marking milestone anniversaries in 2022!

For more information about how the MBA can help you attain organizational success, visit mbausa.org.

EMBRACE THE POSSIBILITIES

mbabizmag.com • JANUARY 2022

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COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

USI Insurance Services is steadily growing its team of professionals in northwest Pennsylvania along with the number of resources and coverage options it can provide to employers in the region.

Working as ‘ONE’ to Deliver Innovative Risk Management and Benefit Solutions No two employers are exactly alike, and neither are their needs, especially when it comes to property and casualty, risk management and employee benefits.

That’s why at USI Insurance Services, there is no “one size fits all” approach for its diverse group of clients — a list that includes public and private sector employers, not-for-profit organizations and Fortune 500 companies.

“At USI (which stands for Understand, Service and Innovate),” states John Micale, chief executive officer of USI’s Mid-Atlantic region, “we work to Understand the specific needs of our clients, to provide an unparalleled local Service experience, and to Innovate with cutting-edge solutions so our clients can continue to invest and grow.”

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JANUARY 2022 • mbabizmag.com

USI is certainly a company to watch in northwest Pennsylvania (NWPA).

The firm is making significant investments to build its local presence and, in May 2021, partnered with Northwest on its insurance operations, now under USI. The move has allowed USI to expand its NWPA team of talent, while providing a wider range of carriers and coverage options for employers in its regional footprint of Clarion, Coudersport, Bradford, Butler, Erie, Meadville and Warren, PA. “There’s a good, strong cultural match in that we share our commitment to our customers and have a strong local presence in the community,” Micale explains of the partnership. “The regional and national resources that USI brings strengthen our team’s ability to serve our customers and to have a positive financial impact.”

Today, USI’s NWPA professionals are part of one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world. The company, founded in 1994 and headquartered in Valhalla, New York, has more than 500,000 clients nationwide and quickly approaching $2 billion in revenue with more than 8,000 associates in approximately 200 offices across the country.

“The power of USI, and our ability to bring best-in-class solutions and services to our clients and our communities, is achieved through the collective knowledge and experience of our professionals coming together,” states Micale.

At Northwest, headquartered in Warren, Pennsylvania, USI’s partnership and expertise have been invaluable.

“USI combines industry-leading national capabilities with longstanding, passionate and committed local service teams — two important components of our partnership,” says John J. Golding, senior executive vice president of Consumer and Business Banking for Northwest. “USI stands true to their name (Understand, Service and Innovate). They’ve worked hard to understand the evolving needs of our bank, provide an outstanding service experience, and innovate our property and casualty and cyber insurance with cutting-edge solutions to help us lessen our broad risk exposure.

We’re happy to have USI in our corner.”

The USI Difference USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging USI ONE Advantage®. ONE, which stands for Omni, Network, Enterprise, is an in-house interactive platform that helps identify what solutions are relevant to clients in that industry and customize them based on a customer’s unique characteristics following an in-depth evaluation.

According to USI, the one-of-a-kind, real-time solutions platform captures the experience of more than 500,000 clients and over 150 years of business activity through the firm’s acquired agencies.

It comprises a network of 8,000 professionals to support the company’s solutions and utilizes a disciplined, deep analysis used for identifying, quantifying and minimizing client risk exposures.

Whether it’s property and casualty or employee benefits, USI’s team believes that data analytics is the future for mitigating and reducing costs and identifying gaps in coverage.

“USI ONE allows us to plug in information and data about our customers and profile that information and benchmark that customer against the thousands of customers that we have and identify solutions that can lower the cost of their insurance programs,” says Micale. “We’re looking to make a significant financial impact to their bottom line and also to be an extension of their team members to tailor our services to better serve them.”

USI’s Business Services team, for one, offers industry specific solutions needed to protect organizations from risk exposures such as on-the-job injuries and equipment malfunctions. The team advises clients across a broad risk spectrum and provides solutions for workers’ compensation, general liability, umbrella/excess liability, and more.

In NWPA, USI’s Tim Sebolt, CSRM, vice president of Property and Casualty, and his team have partnered with Erie School District’s administration and staff in providing proper amounts of insurance and protection — a relationship that dates back to 2012. As part of USI’s service model, the USI team meets with the district (and other clients) four times over a policy year. The goal is to get them up to speed on what’s going on in the insurance industry and to hear about the direction of where their organization is headed.

“USI stands true to their name (Understand, Service and Innovate). They’ve worked hard to understand the evolving needs of our bank, provide an outstanding service experience, and innovate our property and casualty and cyber insurance with cutting-edge solutions to help us lessen our broad risk exposure. We’re happy to have USI in our corner.”

— John J. Golding, Senior Executive Vice President, Northwest

For Randy Pruchnicki, director of Non-Instructional Support Services for the Erie School District, risk transfers and liability limits are extremely important when it comes to risk management and coverage. The district, which is currently embarking on several major construction projects, must ensure that its more than 10,500 students and nearly 1,000 employees are safe, and that its vendors are properly covered.

“While becoming familiar with the district and our operations, USI has helped to reduce risk and increase staff and student safety,” says Pruchnicki.

He adds, “USI has become a partner with us. They understand that for one group to be successful it means that the other group will work with that group to achieve that goal. Basically, one group cannot succeed without the other.”

No business is without risk, which is why finding a trusted partner is critically important. Insurance and risk management helps identify and manage potential threats — anything from fire, theft, lawsuits or other catastrophic events — so an organization can operate effectively with any unexpected disruptions.

Since the COVID-19 era, the increased reliance on technology has underscored the need for cyber coverage designed to mitigate the risk and insure against potential data breaches and business interruptions. In fact, the U.S. Government Accountability Office estimates that the growing frequency and severity of cyber attacks have led more insurance clients to opt for cyber coverage — up from 26 percent in 2016 to 47 percent in 2020.

The advantage for USI is its ability to work with a number of different carriers and the expertise to analyze the “cyber hygiene” of its clients — a priority for any business and especially those in the financial field. “When it comes to cybersecurity, we can help them assess the effectiveness of those programs before they >

“This is how we can anticipate client needs and propose proper risk management solutions,” explains Sebolt. “Risk management solutions can be anything from an insurance policy to proper policies and procedures to address a particular risk.”

John Micale, chief executive officer of USI’s Mid-Atlantic region, discusses the firm’s proprietary platform, USI ONE Advantage®, which integrates analytics, networked resources and strategic planning to deliver customized solutions and bottom line impact.

USI Insurance Services, founded in 1994, is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. The firm, headquartered in Valhalla, New York, is presently approaching $2 billion in revenue with more than 8,000 associates in approximately 200 offices across the country, including 30 professionals in northwest Pennsylvania.

Northwest PA Main Office: 800 State Street, Erie, PA 16501 Phone: 814/838-0000 Website: usi.com

mbabizmag.com • JANUARY 2022

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“USI has become a partner with us. They understand that for one group to be successful it means that the other group will work with that group to achieve that goal. Basically, one group cannot succeed without the other.”

— Randy Pruchnicki, Director of Non-Instructional Support Services, Erie School District

make applications to the marketplace,” explains Brian Sivillo, ARM, CIC, CRM, TRIP, USI’s vice president of Property and Casualty.

“We’re really focusing our efforts on helping them improve what they’re already doing from a cyber perspective so that we can get the best insurance protection for them in case they have a situation where they need coverage.”

The data analytics from USI’s ONE platform also enables its team members to enhance insurance and benefit programs and manage costs by negotiating plans, easing administrative burdens, designing wellness incentives and minimizing pharmacy drug costs.

For example, USI can assist employers in the area of self-funding or moving them into a group captive, or with choosing the right pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), particularly in the area of specialty medications. Having an effective pharmacy benefit strategy and selecting the right PBM to meet an employer’s needs are critical to ensuring the success of a benefits plan, optimizing spending and improving the well-being of employees.

According to John Marasco, CEBS, GBDS, USI’s vice president of Employee Benefits, for one client in particular, USI has been able to cut those specialized medication costs in half. “Once we knew exactly what that medication was and what it was for, we then had the ability to find better ways to control the cost, so the employer and employees win,” he says.

USI Insurance Services’ nationally networked, in-house team of 19 employee benefits attorneys and three compliance specialists located in regional offices also provide “boots on the ground” comprehensive compliance solutions. This specialized team supports USI’s professionals and clients with respect to ERISA and other compliance needs related to its clients’ health and welfare benefit plans. The team is dedicated to researching, translating changes, summarizing, and addressing the employee benefit compliance needs of USI clients through discussion, input, open enrollment checklists and specific recommendations.

Leveraging the knowledge and expertise of both its regional and national experts, USI developed communication mediums

John Marasco, vice president of Employee Benefits at USI Insurance Services, has used data analytics from the USI ONE Advantage® program to help employers find ways to reduce specialized medication costs.

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JANUARY 2022 • mbabizmag.com

that allow the firm to quickly disseminate information regarding impending deadlines, changing legislation and employer obligations, along with guidance about how to remain in compliance. USI also created proprietary tools that help clients measure the financial impact of various compliance issues to their organization, so that they can make informed decisions as they design, budget and implement their benefits programs.

These attorneys are located across the country with responsibility for consistent and comprehensive compliance services to a dedicated region. Jon Antle is the ERISA and Employee Benefits counsel for Pittsburgh region clients. Local and national subject matter experts are also available to provide additional support.

“It’s all part of our menu of services at USI,” Micale states. “The depth of the tools that we have with local and national resources available to our clients is our biggest differentiator.”

Invested in Talent and Community USI is committed to investing in its talent and community to better serve its customers. As such, the firm has a long history of attracting best-in-class industry professionals and earning national recognition.

USI has been named a “Top Insurance Employer” for the fourth consecutive year by Insurance Business America (IBA), which ranks leading U.S. insurance organizations based on a series of employee satisfaction metrics, including benefits, compensation, culture, employee development and commitment to diversity and inclusion. USI also made Business Insurance’s 2021 list of Best Places to Work in Insurance for the second year in a row, focused on workplace policies, practices, demographics and overall employee experience. In 2018 and 2019, USI was also named one of Forbes’ Best Large Employers in America.

Equally impressive, USI associates across the country participate in USI Gives Back — where each of the company’s approximately 200 offices participate in local community service during the year.

In 2021, USI team members volunteered their time and talents to support local communities through in-person and virtual volunteer events throughout the United States and Europe.

The combined impact of these volunteer initiatives positively impacted more than 160,400 lives, totaling more than 11,600 hours of volunteerism.

In NWPA, USI spent a day in September 2021 helping one of its clients, the Second Harvest Food Bank, pack 500 boxes of food — the equivalent of 500 days’ worth of meals — for the area’s needy.

“USI is dedicated to serving our communities by donating our time, treasure and talent to charitable organizations each year,” says Micale.

At the end of the day, USI’s professionals indeed are working together as “ONE” to build a better future while empowering clients to do what they do best — to lead and grow their businesses.

USI is committed to helping both clients and the communities in which they operate. Team members volunteered at the Second Harvest Food Bank in Erie, Pennsylvania as part of USI’s Give Back initiative in September 2021.

mbabizmag.com • JANUARY 2022

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Since 1857, Edinboro has been the place where students not only think about changing the world, they actually do it.

Plan your visit and apply at edinboro.edu.

Tour The Boro

On Campus • Online

©Jim Prokell

LET’S TALK Knox Law If you are seeking legal services, we should have a conversation about: • How we strive to achieve each client’s objectives • How we invest in our people • How we are thought leaders • How our firm has grown to a diverse staff of over 90 • How we’ve been recognized nationally • How we serve our communities • How we have worldwide capacity

Let’s talk. Call us at 814-459-2800. Or visit kmgslaw.com/LetsTalk to learn more.

Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. Erie | North East | Pittsburgh | Jamestown, NY 814-459-2800 | www.kmgslaw.com

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JANUARY 2022 • mbabizmag.com

SPOTLIGHT Q&A| MILESTONE

Edinboro University Ushers in 165th Year and Transformation Organizational success, not to mention longevity, requires the ability to adapt and stay forward thinking in a sea of constant change. Here, Scott Miller, Ph.D., dean of Edinboro University’s College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, and the School of Business and interim dean of the College of Science and Health Professions, discusses the University’s 165th year and the exciting transformation under way in 2022. Miller will assume the role of senior vice president of Academic Affairs for the western integrated university, effective July 1, 2022.

Edinboro University is marking its 165th year in 2022. Tell us what this milestone means to the University and Edinboro borough.

Edinboro University and the Borough of Edinboro community are privileged to celebrate Edinboro’s rich, 165-year legacy, including its many economic and cultural contributions to northwestern Pennsylvania, the broader Commonwealth and beyond. Since its founding in 1857 by residents who wanted greater educational opportunities for their children, Edinboro has drawn strength from the community that surrounds it and, in turn, has added to the community’s vitality.

Through a century and a half of change — as a private academy, normal school, state teachers’ college, state college, and today’s public, comprehensive university — Edinboro’s tradition of creating opportunities, transforming lives and serving the community and its employers has continued.

This milestone year holds special significance for us as we embrace and shape the next step in Edinboro’s evolution — integrating with two sister campuses, while holding tight to the history, heritage and customs that make Edinboro such a special place.

Tell us about the programs available to students today.

Throughout its long history, Edinboro’s offerings have evolved and expanded to include more than 100 areas of academic study. Our stellar programs in the arts, sciences, business and many other fields with national and international recognition

prepare students for careers that match their ambitions and passions, while simultaneously meeting employer needs.

Integration is another step in our evolution as we continue to adapt. Integration will enable our combined university — the second largest in western Pennsylvania — to offer students even more opportunities and to have an even greater positive impact on the communities our campuses serve.

All currently enrolled students will be able to complete their degrees on the campus where they are currently enrolled, and campus life will remain vibrant. Plans call for one leadership team, a single faculty and staff, a unified program array and a single, combined budget. Our universities will save money by working together — and those savings will be re-invested in ways that benefit our students.

On July 1, 2022, Edinboro University will become part of Pennsylvania Western University, or Penn West, when it merges with Clarion and California universities. What does this change mean?

This is an exciting time for Edinboro University. The goal is to create new opportunities for students, including a wider variety of academic programs with opportunities to expand the faculty expertise to which students have access, and to hold down the cost of higher education for students.

What are the advantages of such a consolidation?

Helping students succeed and contributing to the region’s vitality remain the core components of Edinboro’s mission. Students win when their university is financially strong. Our potential for impact will be all the greater as we harness our collective strengths as one university.

Together we are engaged in building a new enterprise that will reshape public higher education in Pennsylvania for the benefit of the students and Commonwealth. Without a doubt, this is a historic moment for our campuses, the State System and all three of our communities.

Each of our schools has a proud history and a unique campus culture. We are indeed “sister” institutions, united as one family, yet each campus will maintain its individual personality and style. We will remain the Edinboro Fighting Scots, Clarion Golden Eagles and California Vulcans.

University integration is designed to leverage the strengths of each campus and create efficiencies that can make higher education more affordable for families across Pennsylvania and beyond. And, most importantly, students will have more choices — more chances to take specialized electives within their major, to add minors that enhance the value of a degree, or to study with an expert professor who happens to be on another campus.

As one university, we will have a robust program array that positions the University and the Commonwealth for success and long-term sustainability.

To learn more about Edinboro University, visit edinboro.edu.

mbabizmag.com • JANUARY 2022

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ONSITE SUPERVISORY SKILLS TRAINING DO YOU HAVE SUPERVISORS/MANAGERS RETIRING SOON? ARE YOUR “UP-AND-COMERS” READY TO STEP IN? DO YOUR SUPERVISORS FIND IT DIFFICULT TO MANAGE “WORK FRIENDS”?

DO THEY LACK THE “SOFT SKILLS” NEEDED TO MOTIVATE OTHERS?

GREAT NEWS FOR 2022. . . We’re bringing our most requested (five course) Supervisory Skills Certificate

Series directly to you! Our expert instructors offer a highly interactive instruction style focused on the critical “people skills” that supervisors need to motivate, inspire and lead their teams more effectively. The curriculum includes a strong emphasis on understanding today’s legal compliance issues and utilizing key management techniques that are essential to the success of both the supervisor and the company.

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LEGAL BRIEF | UPDATE

COVID-19 Vaccinations: Insurance and Benefits Issues or penalize members for not receiving, a COVID-19 vaccination if five criteria are met: 1) employees must be offered an opportunity to qualify for the wellness reward program at least once a year; 2) the reward or penalty, combined with other wellness incentive program rewards or penalties, generally cannot exceed 30 percent of the total cost of employee-only coverage under the plan; 3) the wellness program must be reasonably designed to promote health or prevent disease; 4) the wellness program must provide a reasonable alternative for the reward for those who cannot obtain the vaccination (i.e. employees allergic to a component of the vaccine); and 5) employees must be provided notice of the wellness program, including information on obtaining the vaccination-based reward, the reasonable alternative, and, if applicable, availability of a waiver.

Brian Cressman is an associate at MacDonald Illig Attorneys and a member of the firm’s Business Transactions, Trusts & Estates, Real Estate, and Education Law Practice Groups.

Since the pandemic started, the state and federal governments have imposed a number of new requirements on employers. Most recently, the governments’ focus has trained on increasing the vaccination rate. While many businesses instituted vaccination policies already, the federal government sought to expand vaccinations by issuing a number of wideranging vaccination mandates applying to federal contractors, businesses subject to the jurisdiction of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, as well as OSHA’s vaccination-or-negative-test requirement for large employers. All of these mandates are subject to litigation currently.

This article does not address the legality of any of the vaccination mandates, but instead provides guidance regarding insurance and benefit issues related to vaccinations, whether subject to a mandate or pursuant to a company policy.

Vaccination Incentives Under Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidance, an employer is permitted to offer incentives for its employees to become vaccinated.

However, the permissible value of the incentive varies based on whether the vaccine is administered by the employer or its agent, or by an independent service provider. Where the vaccination is administered by the employer or its agent, the incentive must “not be so substantial as to be coercive.” However, if an employer simply offers an incentive to employees to voluntarily get vaccinated by an unaffiliated service provider, i.e. the employee’s primary care physician or a pharmacy, then an employer is not subject to the aforementioned limit on incentives.

Premium Discounts or Surcharges Based on Vaccination Status The Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury announced joint guidance that permits employers to reward or penalize group health plan members on the basis of receiving a COVID-19 vaccination or not. While the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) generally does not permit premium differentials, there is an exception to this rule for “wellness programs.”

Under the joint-guidance, an employer may give premium discounts for receiving,

Leave Requirements if Subject to a Government Mandate If injunctions are lifted, the three federal mandates — for large employers, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rule, and the federal contractor rule — all differ in terms of leave requirements.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) large employer mandate, applying to employers with 100+ employees and requiring their employees be vaccinated or provide a negative test weekly, requires employers to provide reasonable paid leave for employee vaccinations and to recover from side effects of the vaccination.

The federal contractor mandate, on the other hand, does not expressly address paid leave. Similarly the CMS rule doesn’t address paid leave. However, another OSHA rule, issued June 21, 2021, requires covered healthcare employers to provide each employee reasonable time and paid leave for vaccination and to recover from side effects following vaccination.

Conclusion The end of COVID vaccination issues is far from over. New requirements will be coming, and existing guidance will likely change. However, regardless of the context, an employer must keep its employees’ vaccination information confidential.

If you have any questions about vaccination issues at your workplace, please contact a MacDonald Illig attorney at 814/870-7600.

mbabizmag.com • JANUARY 2022

11

BUSINESS BUZZ | WHAT’S NEW NEW ERIEZ RECYCLING TEST CENTER OPENS

Eriez® announced that its new Recycling Test Center is now open, giving customers a full-scale laboratory opportunity to test their own materials on state-of-the-art recycling equipment to determine the most effective solutions for the toughest separation challenges.

The Eriez Recycling Test Center is housed in the company’s recently expanded Wager Road plant, located in Erie, Pennsylvania. The facility has the capability to perform sorting tests on a wide variety of ferrous and nonferrous products.

Testing equipment includes Eriez’ RevX-E® Eddy Current Separator, Ultra High-Frequency Eddy Current Separator, Stainless Steel Separator and several magnetic separators. The Test Center is also equipped with a metering feeder to regulate feed to individual pieces of equipment and a screen with multiple size fractions to help determine which size is optimal for each process. “With this range of cutting-edge equipment, we can customize testing procedures based on customers’ unique materials and needs,” says Eriez Recycling Market Manager Mike Shattuck.

“When testing concludes, our team of experts provide customers with customized reports and recommendations on equipment mix and

The Eriez Recycling Test Center on Wager Road in Erie, Pennsylvania opened in fall 2021 with the capability to perform sorting tests on a wide variety of ferrous and nonferrous products.

placement, as well as supported predictions on expected recovery rates and payback periods,” Shattuck adds.

Eriez’ metal recovery equipment, either as individual units or complete systems, is designed for efficient and economical processing of municipal solid waste, comingled recyclables, shredded automobiles, electronic scrap, glass cullet, plastic (PET), foundry sand and many

other resource recovery operations. “Our innovative recycling solutions are helping to achieve better recovery at a higher grade and lower cost,” says Shattuck.

Eriez is recognized as a world authority in separation technologies.

For more information about the Eriez Recycling Test Center, visit eriez.com/RecyclingTestCenter.

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JANUARY 2022 • mbabizmag.com

PEOPLE BUZZ | AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS CHANNELLOCK PRESIDENT, COO NAMED BOARD PRESIDENT OF THE HAND TOOLS INSTITUTE

KNOX LAW ATTORNEYS NAMED TO 2022 BEST LAWYERS LIST

Eleven Knox Law attorneys have been included on the 2022 Best Lawyers in America® List: R. Perrin Baker, Mark G. Claypool, Mark A. Denlinger, Neal R. Devlin, Michael A. Fetzner, Guy C. Fustine, Timothy M. Sennett, Jeremy T. Toman, Thomas A. Tupitza, Jerome C. Wegley and Timothy M. Zieziula.

The practice areas for which each attorney was selected is as follows: Baker: Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law Claypool: Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law Denlinger: Health Care Law Devlin: Commercial Litigation Fetzner: Workers’ Compensation Law – Employers Fetzner was also selected as a “Lawyer of the Year” for Workers’ Compensation Law Employers in the Pittsburgh Metropolitan region.

Only one lawyer is selected for each practice area in each region.

Fustine: Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law and Litigation - Bankruptcy Sennett: Government Relations Practice Toman: Real Estate Law (New to the 2022 List) Tupitza: Health Care Law, Land Use and Zoning Law, Public Finance Law and Real Estate Law Wegley: Trusts and Estates Zieziula: Real Estate Law Best Lawyers in America®, first published in 1983, is the oldest and most respected peer review publication in the legal profession. Recognition in Best Lawyers is widely regarded by both clients and legal professionals as a significant honor, conferred on a lawyer by his or her peers. Each year’s list is compiled by conducting exhaustive peer review surveys in which tens of thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers.

The Hand Tools Institute (HTI), the premier trade association of North American manufacturers of nonpowered hand tools and toolboxes, recently named CHANNELLOCK® President and Chief Operating Officer Jon DeArment as its board president. DeArment, who is also a member of the Manufacturer & Business Association Board of Governors, previously served as the organization’s board secretary-treasurer, vice president and member at large — along with leading several committees.

Additionally, Nicholas J. Green is a new associate with Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. Green focuses his practice on estate planning & administration and business & tax law. He has previous legal experience as a legal intern at a large financial services company, a law clerk at a Pittsburgh-based law firm, and as a judicial intern for Honorable Judge D. Michael Fisher of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

Green earned his J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law and a B.A. from the University of Pittsburgh. He also completed a program in US/EU Comparative Economic and Commercial Law while studying in Augsburg, Germany during law school.

At the Knox Law Firm, Green joins a team of more than 40 attorneys that has provided practical solutions to businesses, families, public entities and nonprofit organizations for over 60 years.

MERCYHURST NAMES VEITCH VP FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT

Mercyhurst University President Kathleen A. Getz recently named Dionne Veitch as the new vice president for enrollment management.

A 1992 Mercyhurst graduate, Veitch began her Mercyhurst career in Admissions before moving to Seattle, where she enjoyed a successful 16-year career in management and business development with a multinational computer technology firm.

She later joined the family business, assuming management and marketing for the Veitch Law Firm.

“As part of the fifth generation of family members running CHANNELLOCK®, I remember going to HTI meetings with my dad, who also served as a past board president, when I was a child,” DeArment said. “We’ve been members of HTI for a long time, and I’ve gotten to know a lot of good friends over the years through this group. As a manufacturer of more than 75 types of pliers made here in the USA, it’s an honor to help lead the organization.”

Founded in 1935, the HTI promotes and furthers the interests of its members in the areas of manufacturing, safety standardization, international trade and government relations — along with educating hand tool users how to safely use them. During his two-year tenure, DeArment will be responsible for supporting the overall direction and leadership of the organization, and ensuring its members get maximum value out of their membership. He will preside at all board, executive and member meetings.

“Channellock, Inc. is a major contributor to HTI’s hand tool standards development efforts through its participation in national (ASME and ANSI) and international (ISO) standards committee activity,” said Rich Byrne, HTI’s executive director. “Jon understands how great manufacturing works and brings an aspirational vision to help HTI members reach their true potential as we all work together to improve people’s lives through hand tools. We’re thrilled to have him on board as president.”

Upon her return to Mercyhurst in 2013, she progressed through ever-increasing levels of responsibility and leadership roles within the enrollment division.

In her new role, Veitch is responsible for providing vision, leadership and effective administration of the enrollment management division and its functions. In addition, she will serve as a member of the president’s cabinet and will set enrollment priorities for all academic programs while collaborating with senior administrators in strategic planning across the institution.

mbabizmag.com • JANUARY 2022

13

ON THE HILL | WORTH NOTING

Inflation Up, Supply Chains Down This Is Not Working Jezree Friend is the senior director of Public Affairs at the Manufacturer & Business Association.

Contact him at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or jfriend@mbausa.org.

It is largely accepted the COVID-19 virus will not be eradicated in the near future so we must adapt to a post-COVID-19 world. After a series of perhaps wellintented but hasty decisions, this struggle begins with two hands tied behind our back as we climb out of the economic hole our leaders dropped us in.

Here is what we are working with: At the writing of this article, the Consumer Price Index has increased 6.8 percent over the last 12 months.

Over the past year, fuel prices have experienced a 59.1-percent increase, energy prices are up 30 percent, and food prices have skyrocketed just under 12 percent since the same time last year.

What is more unsettling is the monthly increases have been consistently higher than projected with little signs of slowing down despite the federal government’s repeated attempts to reassure the public this is temporary.

You might remember being told prices

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will calm down after the summer surge, but here we are wishing it only looked as bad as it did in June.

If you can’t remember the last time we experienced this kind of increase, I can’t blame you, because it was 30 years ago! For your reference, that was around the time the film “Die Hard 2” was released and a year before the Soviet Union dissolved.

These inflation rates have a direct correlation to a 20-plus-months unemployment rate spike resulting in supply chain shortages. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was much we did not know, and the kneejerk reaction was to go on lockdown.

In Pennsylvania, we may never receive transparency on the process used to decide which businesses were deemed too unsafe to continue and are left to speculate that, with a hand over his eyes, Governor Wolf made blind self-determinations.

Most of the manufacturers who were forced to stop operations, if given the chance, could have taken safety precautions to operate through COVID-19, just as those granted clemency to work did. Coming out of the pandemic, we are now experiencing high demand and a labor shortage a shadow of its 2019 record levels. The backlog of mandatory halted production requires a growing workforce to meet the demand necessary to climb out of this hole.

Unfortunately, the desire for a roaring economy is once again ignored for political wins. Most companies over the past 20 months have established safe health practices to include encouraging the COVID-19 vaccine.

However, the Biden administration’s attempt at vaccine mandate for companies with 100-plus employees unfairly punish those attempting compliance. They are faced with losing a portion of their workforce at a time most are struggling to attract and retain employees or pay exorbitant fines topping out at $136,532.

No doubt our logistics and trucking industry will deserve our gratitude as they carry the weight of getting our economy humming again by filling the supply chain gaps. Unfortunately, The American Trucking Associations estimates the industry could lose up to 37 percent of its drivers should the vaccine mandate be implemented.

This is the worse news we could have given the current driver shortage, now estimated at 80,000.

You may remember Sir Isaac Newton’s third law, “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” It was not that long ago we were experiencing record growth and the lowest unemployment rates, but something changed. Hindsight is often 20/20, but it now seems clear our elected officials at the state and federal government largely overplayed their hand, their lust for control showed, and it is not a good look.

rs a e Y 0 6 g n i t a r b e l e C PCMSI Has Come a Long Way in 60 Years Telephone answering answering services services are are more more important important than than Telephone ever. ever. Professional Professional Communications Communications Messaging Messaging Service, Service, Inc. Inc. (PCMSI) (PCMSI) is is here here to to help help prevent prevent any any of of your your clients clients from from “leaving a a message message after after the the beep” beep” or or getting getting stuck stuck in in “leaving voicemail jail. jail. voicemail

Debra Debra Uht, Uht, President President

•• •• • • • • •• • •

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Online Appointment Appointment Scheduling Scheduling Online Order Taking Taking Order Emergency Emergency Dispatching Dispatching Lead Lead Capture Capture Employee Call-off Call-off Lines Lines Employee Event Event Registration Registration and and Much Much More.

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PCMSI partners partners with with companies companies of of any any size, size, located located anywhere anywhere in in the the United United PCMSI States, States, Canada Canada or or worldwide. worldwide. Some Some of of the the industries industries served served include: include:

•• • • • • •• • • • • • • • • • •

Service Professions/Plumbers/HVAC/Electricians Professions/Plumbers/HVAC/Electricians Service Small Small Business/Big Business/Big Business Business Law Law Firms Firms Real Estate/Property Estate/Property Management Management Real Government Government Utilities Utilities Schools Schools Manufacturing Manufacturing Health Health Care/Medical Care/Medical

To To be be in in compliance compliance with with today’s today’s privacy privacy laws laws and and for for handling handling sensitive sensitive personal personal and and confidential confidential information, information, PCMSI PCMSI is is insured, insured, and and HIPAA HIPAA trained trained and and certified. certified.

The The personalized personalized answering answering and and messaging messaging services services are are designed designed to to fit fit each each customer’s customer’s needs, needs, goals goals and and budget. budget. PCMSI PCMSI works works diligently diligently to to gain, gain, build build and and maintain long-term partnerships. maintain long-term partnerships.

PCMSI’s PCMSI’s technology-based technology-based communications communications hub hub keep keep customers customers connected connected at at all all times. times. Clear Clear and and concise concise messages messages are are relayed relayed through through aa variety variety of of delivery delivery platforms platforms customized customized for for each each individual individual or or business. business.

PCMSI PCMSI is is aa leader leader in in the the telephone telephone answering answering service service industry. industry. Established Established and and headquartered in Erie, PA in 1962, PCMSI has grown to include 80 agents along headquartered in Erie, PA in 1962, PCMSI has grown to include 80 agents along with a management team of 20 members. Knowing that its team members are with a management team of 20 members. Knowing that its team members are its greatest asset, PCMSI offers a generous benefits package that includes paid its greatest asset, PCMSI offers a generous benefits package that includes paid training and vacation, matching 401(k), medical, dental and vision insurance, training and vacation, matching 401(k), medical, dental and vision insurance, along with a flexible work schedules and optional remote work. along with a flexible work schedules and optional remote work.

105 105 Poplar Poplar 888.776.2661 888.776.2661 ◆ ◆

PCMSI is is a a woman-owned woman-owned business business that that has has thrived thrived under under the the leadership leadership of of Debra Debra PCMSI Uht for for the the past past 14 14 years. years.

Uht “There were were some some challenging challenging times times in in 2008 2008 and and 2009 2009 that that forced forced us us to to look look “There at our our operations operations from from top top to to bottom, bottom, and and we we did,” did,” recalls recalls Uht. Uht. “PCMSI “PCMSI made made at a a significant significant investment investment in in its its infrastructure infrastructure including including an an upgraded upgraded computer computer system and and new new agent agent stations. stations. We We introduced introduced new new services services to to better better serve serve our our system customers, and and we we made made changes changes that that enabled enabled us us to to become become more more competitive competitive on on customers, a a national national and and international international level. level. Other Other notable notable changes changes included included aa new new website, website, improved hiring hiring practices, practices, updated updated personnel personnel policies policies and and training training procedures procedures and and improved secure messaging.” messaging.” secure Uht Uht continued, continued, “Beginning “Beginning in in March March 2020, 2020, the the COVID COVID pandemic pandemic made made us us review review our business business model. model. While While we we believed believed it it was was important important to to have have our our team team in in our house, house, we we understood understood the the need need to to keep keep our our employees employees safe safe by by moving moving to remote remote work. work. Now Now we we have have to greater greater than than 75 75 percent percent of of agents agents working working from from home home on on equipment equipment that we we supplied supplied to to them. them. This This has has that led led to to new new policies policies and and procedures procedures and and creative creative ways ways to to keep keep us us feeling feeling like a a team. team. While While technology technology is is like ever ever evolving, evolving, one one thing thing that that will will never never change change is is our our commitment commitment to to provide personalized personalized and and custom custom service service while while meeting meeting our our customers’ customers’ needs needs and and provide exceeding exceeding their their expectations.” expectations.” Uht Uht added. added.

“We “We continue continue to to move move forward forward by by learning learning how how we we can can improve improve who who we we are, are, what what we do and how we do it.

Come along for the ride and partner with us!

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PCMSI’s PCMSI’s Mission Mission

Rooted Rooted in in the the belief belief that that clients clients and and their their callers callers are are the the primary primary part of its business, PCMSI focuses on building lasting part of its business, PCMSI focuses on building lasting partnerships partnerships by by being being the the friendly, friendly, knowledgeable knowledgeable and and competent competent voice voice on on the the first first call call and and every every call. call.

Street, Street, Erie, Erie, PA PA 16507 16507 814.459.2000 ◆ 814.459.2000 ◆ pcmsi.com pcmsi.com

INSURANCE CONNECTION | WORKPLACE TRENDS SURVEY: AMERICAN WORKERS FOCUSED ON RETIREMENT PLANNING WHEN MAKING JOB DECISIONS One-third of U.S. workers are considering a job change or retirement in the next 12 to 18 months, signaling the continuation of a tight labor market in 2022, according to a survey released today

by Principal Financial Group. The survey results suggest employer benefits and retirement plan options will play a role in workers’ decisions.

According to the survey, 12 percent of workers are looking to change jobs, 11 percent plan to retire or leave the workforce, and 11 percent are on the fence about staying in their job — showing 34 percent of workers are unsettled in their current role.

HR

Health-Care Coverage Costs Continue Q&A to Climb for Employers, Employees

However, workers responding to the survey identified a strong focus on retirement planning and security when making employment decisions.

More than three quarters (77 percent) said the COVID-19 pandemic has driven them to focus more on saving for retirement. When evaluating new job opportunities, 91 percent thought an employee match was the most important retirement plan feature, 80 percent said eligibility, 74 percent said vesting requirements for company match, 73 percent said investment options on offer and 70 percent withdrawal options at job change or retirement.

MORE EMPLOYERS INVESTING IN MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS, SURVEY SHOWS In its recently released 2021 Employer Health Benefits Survey, the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) found that many employers have ramped up mental health and other benefits to provide support for their workers during uncertain times. Nearly 1,700 nonfederal public and private companies completed the full survey.

At companies with at least 50 workers, 39 percent have made such changes, including: • 31 percent that increased the ways employees can tap into mental health services, such as telemedicine.

• 16 percent that offered employee assistance programs or other new resources for mental health.

• 6 percent that expanded access to in-network mental health providers.

• 4 percent that reduced cost sharing for such visits.

• 3 percent that increased coverage for out-of-network services.

Workers are taking advantage of the services.

Thirty-eight percent of the largest companies with 1,000 or more workers reported that their workers used more mental health services in 2021 than the year before, while 12 percent of companies with at least 50 workers said their workers upped their use of mental health services.

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JANUARY 2022 • mbabizmag.com

About 155 million Americans rely on employer-sponsored health-care coverage — and not only are they paying more for that coverage, but family premiums are climbing faster than wages and inflation, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation’s 2021 Employer Health Benefits Survey released late last year.

Here are a few key takeaways from the survey: • In 2021, the average annual premiums for employer-sponsored health insurance were $7,739 for single coverage and $22,221 for family coverage.

• Most covered workers contribute toward the cost of the premium for their coverage. On average, workers contribute 17 percent of the premium for single coverage and 28 percent of the premium for family coverage.

• The average annual dollar amounts contributed by covered workers for 2021 are $1,299 for single coverage and $5,969 for family coverage. The average dollar contribution for family coverage has increased 13 percent since 2016 and 45 percent since 2011.

• Preferred provider organizations (PPOs) are the most common plan type, enrolling 46 percent of covered workers in 2021. Twenty-eight percent of covered workers are enrolled in a highdeductible plan with a savings option, 16 percent in an HMO, 9 percent in a POS plan, and 1 percent in a conventional/indemnity plan.

• Eighty-five percent of covered workers have an annual deductible for single coverage that must be met before most services are paid for by the plan. The average deductible amount for single coverage is $1,669. The average deductible for covered workers in small firms is $2,379.

• Over the past five years, the percentage of covered workers with a general annual deductible of $2,000 or more for single coverage has grown from 23 percent to 29 percent.

• Most covered workers face a co-payment when they visit a doctor, and some workers face coinsurance requirements. The average copayments are $25 for primary care and $42 for specialty care. The average coinsurance rates are 19 percent for primary care and 20 percent for specialty care.

• Most firms offer Health and Wellness programs to help workers identify and address health risks.

Fifty-eight percent of small firms and 83 percent of large firms offer a program in at least one of these areas: smoking cessation, weight management, and behavioral or lifestyle coaching.

To learn how the Manufacturer & Business Association can assist with lowering your organization’s health-care costs, contact us at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or visit mbausa.org.

Lori Joint is vice president of the Manufacturer & Business Association.

Contact her at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or ljoint@mbausa.org.

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mbabizmag.com • JANUARY 2022

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HR Q&A | GET ANSWERS HOW OFTEN SHOULD WE UPDATE OUR HANDBOOK?

State and federal employment laws often change, requiring organizations to revise their policies. It is recommended that employee handbooks be reviewed and updated at least on an annual basis.

It is not recommended that an organization go without a legal review for more than two years.

HOW MUCH DETAIL ABOUT OUR BENEFITS PLAN SHOULD WE INCLUDE IN THE EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK? It is important to refer employees to the official “Summary Plan Description” for full details.

Employer handbooks should cover what is offered and general requirements in terms of eligibility but employers should avoid inserting pricing structures.

HR

CAN I HAVE ONE HANDBOOK FOR LOCATIONS IN MULTIPLE STATES?

Employer Handbooks: Q&A Top Policies to Add for 2022

Yes. Employers will need to ensure they are compliant with each state. California and Pennsylvania have many distinct differences.

Generally, it’s recommended to base your handbook on the stricter state to avoid noncompliance. Beware of local laws that play a factor in policies and procedures, such as Ban The Box ordinances in Erie County.

HAVE AN HR QUESTION? THE MBA CAN HELP!

The Manufacturer & Business Association recognizes that urgent employment issues can arise at a moment’s notice. As a member, you can call our certified HR consultants and labor and employment law attorney any time, at no charge for counsel on a broad range of workplace-related issues including: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Hiring and firing practices Company policies Compensation and benefits Employment law Employment agreements Workers’ compensation Affirmative Action Plans Unemployment compensation claims Employee handbook policies OSHA compliance Sexual harassment Family Medical Leave Act COBRA Americans with Disabilities Act

For more information, contact the MBA’s HR/ Legal Hotline at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or email hrservices@mbausa.org.

The employee handbook is a critical piece of any organization. Updated handbooks ensure not only that you are in compliance with updated employment laws, but also that your internal policies and practices reflect your organization today.

Here are top policies employers should look to include and/or update in 2022: Flexible Leave Policies/Remote-Work Rule Remote work and flex policies are continuing to gain traction. Even employers that plan to resume in-person operations may have to revise their policies on providing reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Procedures should also include technology requirements and guidelines on remote work as well as any limitations for duration of flex and/or remote possibilities.

Drug and Alcohol Policies No state requires employers to tolerate on-the-job cannabis use or intoxication, but many states, including Pennsylvania, protect registered medical marijuana patients from employment discrimination. Additional Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements limit when employers can drug test employees after a workplace accident. Employers should thoroughly examine their policy and current updates with state and federal laws.

Safety Policies OSHA’s existing standards require employers to create a work environment “free from recognized hazards.” Employers need to examine their current policies to ensure updated policies to reflect current standards.

Polices such as emergency evacuation plans, communicable diseases, active shooter and on-the-job safety training should be clearly outlined and updated yearly for accuracy.

Employers interested in HR/Legal Handbook Reviews or for more information on handbook updates or changes for their organization are encouraged to reach out to the HR/Legal team at the Manufacturer & Business Association by emailing hr@mbausa.org or calling 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

Rachel Tserkovniak, SPHR, is an HR consultant and trainer at the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or rtserkovniak@mbausa.org.

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JANUARY 2022 • mbabizmag.com

Economic Outlook IMPACT Luncheon

SPECIAL SECTION | NETWORKING AND MORE

The Manufacturer & Business Association, in conjunction with the MBA Business Magazine, and the Economic Research Institute of Erie at Penn State Behrend, along with major sponsor Barnhart Transportation, recently held the Economic Outlook IMPACT Luncheon — in person and virtually — at the MBA Conference Center in Erie. The annual briefing marks the end of a successful series of networking events held for members throughout 2021. For information about upcoming MBA events, visit mbausa.org.

shares an update on mic Research Institute of Erie, Ken Louie, director of the Econo Dr. Louie delivered his ng the 2022 economic outlook. the statistics and trends shapi presentation virtually this year.

Barnhart Transportation was the major sponsor of the annual Economic Outlook IMPACT briefi ng. Headquartered in North East, Pennsylvania, the family owned company is a third-part y logistics provider offering custo mized transportation solutions.

In-person attendees enjoyed a festive lunch at the IMPACT luncheon.

Participants attended both in person and virtually at this year’s briefi ng, which was held in the Founders Room of the MBA Conference Center in Erie.

Virtual attendee Deb Lutz of the Steel Valley Authority was the winner of the IMPACT raffle basket, which included a new edition of the Monopoly game as well as $150 worth of gift certificates to use toward MBA training, HR and Business Magazine services.

mbabizmag.com • JANUARY 2022

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The Manufacturer & Business Association would like to recognize the hundreds of MBA members marking milestone anniversaries in 2022. Your hard work, determination, and many cutting-edge products and services are invaluable to not only business and industry, but also to job creation, innovation and economic growth. Thank you for your numerous contributions and congratulations on your continued success in the new year!

225 Years

140 Years

Athens Township

Erie Club Family Services of NW PA Port Allegany Borough The Derrick Publishing Company

215 Years Meadville Western Crawford Co. Chamber of Commerce Kittanning Township

135 Years

Claysville Borough

Family Service & Children’s Aid Society Iroquois Boating & Fishing Club Oil City YMCA

190 Years

130 Years

210 Years

Girard Township

Northwestern PA Humane Society Robinson Fans, Inc. Taylor Roofing Company Whitehall Camp and Conference Center Zem Zem Shriners

185 Years Coal Township

175 Years Mead Township Pittsfield Township

125 Years Coppolo & Coppolo, LLC Horn Textile, Inc. Klafter’s Inc. MacDonald Illig Jones & Britton LLP Port Farms

170 Years Immaculate Conception Church and School

165 Years

120 Years

Edinboro University

Benson Memorial Library, Inc. Hermance Machine Company Lamar Advertising of Williamsport National Fuel United Refining Company

155 Years Clearfield Leather Inc. EMSCO, Inc. St. Patrick R. C. Church

115 Years

150 Years

East Erie Commercial Railroad English Lane Nursery, Inc. Erie Bronze & Aluminum Company Holy Family Church Urick Ductile Solutions

Borough of Wheatland Erie Forge and Steel Inc.

145 Years Bradford Publishing

110 Years Berman Bedding Inc.

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JANUARY 2022 • mbabizmag.com

Erie Strayer Company Standard Pattern Works

105 Years Frye Funeral Home Inc. Gaughn’s Drug Store Inc. Lottsville Milling Inc.

100 Years Clearfield Wholesale Paper Co., Inc. E.L. Heard & Son, Inc. Griffin Motors Company Reid Group Sloan Brothers Company

90 Years Berry Global Green Prosthetics & Orthotics, LLC R. C. Chase Insurance Agency Inc. Zippo Manufacturing Co.

80 Years Eriez Manufacturing Company Greenville Municipal Authority Pittsburgh Plug & Products Corporation Ridg-U-Rak Inc.

75 Years Automation Devices, Inc. BFG Manufacturing Services, Inc. Birkmire Trucking Company Clarion Students’ Association Clayton Engineering Co. DSSC Solutions Company Emporium Specialties Company, Inc. Erie Construction Council Inc. Greco Gas, Inc. Grisé Audio Visual Center Inc. Housing Authority - County of Lawrence Joseph J. Brunner, Inc. Knox Western

Lakewood Mechanical, Inc. Moonlight Credit Union Warner’s Coin Machine Company WESB Radio Station Inc.

70 Years Buckley Associates, Inc. Cardinal Paint and Powder Dr. Gertrude A. Barber Center Elder Sales & Service, Inc. Ernest, LLC Formtech Enterprises Inc. International Waxes J. J. Agnello Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. James B. Schwab Company Inc. McCandless Auto Service Mercer Co. Regional Planning Commission Molded Fiber Glass Tray Co. Nerthling’s Heating & Air Conditioning Niethamer & Owens Owl Cleaners, Inc. Perry Screw Machine Company, Inc. Symmco Inc. Weather Control Co. Inc.

60 Years Blackman Electric Inc. C & J Industries Inc. Dukovich & Associates Financial Services, Inc. E. B. Peffer & Company Erich Rental Inc. Jackburn Mfg., Inc. Pine Electronics Inc. Professional Communications, Inc. Roseto-Suter Overhead Door Inc. Samuel P. Black & Associates Sheffield Municipal Authority Teaco Inc. Tool-All, Inc. Woodward Inc.

50 Years Allshouse Appliance, Inc. Alpine Packaging Inc. Bertram Tool & Machine Company Inc. Brevillier Village Charles L. Bauer Clarion County Housing Authority Community Services of Venango Co. Inc. Crowe’s Sales & Service Dermatology Associates of Erie E. A. Winslow & Associates Inc. Erie Regional Chamber & Growth Partnership Flook’s Market Franklin Animal Clinic G.G. Greene Enterprises, Inc. Housing Authority of Union County Hydro-Pac Inc. Kindle Heating & Cooling L’Arche Erie Luchini & Co. Mason Farms LLC Matrix Tool, Inc. Means Inc. Mele & Mele & Sons, Inc. Mt. Washington Children’s Center Multicultural Health Evaluation Delivery System, Inc. Pasco Tool & Plastics, Inc. Pennlake Corp.

Penns Valley Dental Assoc. P.C. Petrex Inc. Pratt Insurance Agency LLC Reddog Industries Inc. Robert A. Santora, M.D., P.C. Robert Mazza Inc. Small Parts Machine Inc. Suburban Tool & Die Co. Inc. Supply Technologies VPI Acquisition Corp.

Walnut Creek Baptist Church

40 Years A Safe Place Inc. Abbott Furnace Company Bates Collision Boyer RV Center Inc. Camsco Service Inc. Community of Caring Conneaut Cellars Winery, LLC Corry Metal Products Inc. East West Mfg. & Supply Co, Inc.

Erie Mill and Press Company, Inc. Erie Molded Plastics Inc. Flagship Niagara League GeorgeKo Industries Heatron Inc. James Properties Inc. Jefferson Paving Corporation Jefferson-Clarion Head Start Inc. Kersey & Associates PC LCM Associates, Inc. Metco Industries, Inc. Nittany Coatings, Inc. Oakes Gas Company, Inc. Prism Plastics Inc. Titusville Beverage Company Town & Country Builders Woodhyrst, Inc.

30 Years A. J. Grack Business Interiors Inc. Brothers Lazer Service, Inc. Chuck Gresh Construction Inc. Copeland Lumber Crivelli Ford, Inc. Dennison Law Offices P.C. Dr. Douglass Smith DMD Eagle Rubber Products, Inc. Engel O’Neill Inc. Environ. Coordination Serv. & Recycling Erie Water Works Frank’s Snacks Distribution FrenchCreek Production Inc. Gainer Ent. LTD GLA Water Consultants Gothic, Inc. Grossman Yanak & Ford LLP Hagan Business Machines of Meadville Inc Hanak, Guido and Taladay Harmar Contractors Equipment JKS Finishes Inc. Joe B’s Carpet Connection Inc. Jones Hardwoods Inc. Lawrie Technology, Inc. McInnes Rolled Rings McKissick Trucking Northshore Neurosciences Palmiero Automotive, Inc. Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Co., P.C. Schmidt Technology Corp.

Stephen Dyne Excavation Technical Precision Inc. The Highland House Inc.

Tri-Med Rehab Supply Webb Communications Inc. Whitehead Tool & Design, Inc.

25 Years Accudyn Products Inc. Accuride - Erie Advantage Precision Plastics Inc. Allegheny Blending Technologies Inc. Allegheny Contracting LLC Allegheny Wood Works Inc. Animal Hospital of Waterford Brian’s EDM Inc. Brookside Assisted Living, Inc. Comfort Care & Resources Inc. Electronic Systems Integration Erie NFS Inc. Graham Machine Inc. Great Lakes Manufacturing, Inc. Hapeman Electronics Inc. Heirloom Cabinetry Innovative Sintered Metals Inc. KGCSW Inc. LTDB Properties McElhinny Brothers Inc. Meck-Tech Inc. Mid-Atlantic Environment Consultants Inc. R & B Bennett Enterprises, Inc. Robin P. Cetnar D.M.D. SafeNet Domestic Violence Safety Network Singer’s Auto Service Smith Funeral Home Ltd. Specialized Staffing, Inc. The Ankle & Foot Clinic of Erie Union City Family Support Center Urban Erie Community Development Corp.

Willis E. Sommers Co.

20 Years Advanced Welding Technologies LLC Alderman Group LLC Brigh Contracting Center for Community Resources Clapper Insurance Agency Inc. Cunningham Caring & Assoc. Inc. Drushel Kolakowski & Schroeck Insurance FH Group LLC FJ Fantasy Sports Inc. Gray Matter Media Inc. Great Lakes Automation Services Inc. Horsepower Inc.

Interstate Mitsubishi Ishman Plastic and Wood Cutting Inc. Joe Amato Properties LP JPT Architects, PC L L Kurtz Inc. Lilly Broadcasting of Pa. LLC Maple Donuts Inc. McFarland Technology Inc. Medical Equipment Source LLC Precision Precut Material LLC Precision Transport Inc. Presque Isle Rehabilitation Service, LLC Process and Data Automation, LLC Richardson Cooling Packages Saxonburg Family Eye Care LLC SEPCO-PA Inc. Stetson Brothers Inc. Terra Works Vert Markets Inc. Warren Industrial Solutions, LLC Way Office Inc.

10 Years Barnhart Transportation Beechwood Golf Course Bio-Diversity, LLC Cameron Energy Company CR Naylor Inc. Davis Alloys Manufacturing LLC Direct Allergy Dufala Financial Advisory Services EPO Services, LLC Equus WorkForce Solutions Erie Restoration Inc. Frontier General Contracting, Inc. Innovative Metal Craft JM Metal Services LLC JRS Communications, Inc. Leveling Up LLC Machamer Steamwrights, LLC Mega Media Factory, LLC Meyer Contracting LLC Sage Builders Management, LLC Stronghand Construction Inc. Theodora S. Walters, CPA

*Disclaimer: Anniversary information is based on MBA member records as of November 2021. For any updates or corrections, please contact the Association at 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

mbabizmag.com • JANUARY 2022

21

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID ERIE, PA PERMIT #199

Stick with what works.

96% of businesses that choose UPMC Health Plan stay with UPMC Health Plan.

You’ve given a lot of thought to your employees’ health coverage. And you’ve come to a familiar conclusion — nothing’s better than UPMC Health Plan. Choose us for affordable plan options.

Full in-network access to UPMC along with other doctors and hospitals in the community. Access to 24/7 virtual urgent care. Service from a designated Health Care Concierge. And digital health tools that keep up with busy lives and schedules. All this is worth sticking with, don’t you agree?

To learn more, visit UPMCHealthPlan.com/employers.

Choose. Love. Repeat.