MBA ICONS OF INDUSTRY: INDUSTRIAL SALES & MFG., INC.’S FOUNDER HAS BUILT A STRONG MANUFACTURING LEGACY
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Chris Czarnik is an author, coach, trainer, and expert on talent recruiting, engagement and retention in today’s environment. As one of the most accomplished career coaches in the country, he’s helped thousands of job seekers figure out how to identify organizations and jobs that are a great fit for them. In his own words, “If you’re fishing for talent for your organization, I just spent 20 years with the fish.”
Winning the War for Talent with Chris Czarnik
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WHAT’S INSIDE | FEATURED STORY 3 HEALTH CARE REMAINS CRITICAL TOPIC IN TODAY’S WORKPLACE Employers getting more creative to address challenges.
ICONS OF INDUSTRY | Q & A
4
MBA Icon of Industry James Rutkowski Sr. , founder of Industrial Sales & Manufacturing, Inc . (ISM), shares how he has built a strong manufacturing legacy and ISM as a premier contract manufacturer and trusted supplier of high-quality machined, fabricated and assembled components for original equipment manufacturers.
COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE
6 UPMC HAMOT
UPMC Hamot provides access to a comprehensive network of primary care providers (PCPs) in the region that offers significant advantages for both employees and employers alike.
EDITORIAL
LEGAL BRIEF | ASSISTANCE
11
Empowering growth: How state assistance programs support employee training and development.
Brian Cressman ON THE HILL | ISSUES
15 The PJM Grid in peril: What will keep the lights on?
Ken Zapinski
COMPANY PROFILES | SUCCESS
19 TIA BOOK CELLAR
A new chapter: Independent bookstore in North East provides page-turning resouces for employers and their teams.
Health Care Remains Critical Topic In Today’s Workplace Employers Getting More Creative to Address Challenges
As health-care costs continue to rise, employers are prioritizing innovative strategies to manage expenses while supporting employee well-being. Rising costs have created a sense of urgency for businesses to develop proactive measures that ensure a healthier, more engaged workforce. This focus is not just about managing expenses; it’s about fostering a culture where employee health and productivity thrive.
A comprehensive health-care strategy not only helps employers manage costs but also supports talent retention and productivity. In today’s competitive job market, employees are increasingly drawn to organizations that offer robust health and wellness benefits. Research shows that healthier employees take fewer sick days, are more productive, and are more likely to stay with their employer, reducing turnover costs.
To address these challenges, employers are getting creative. Programs, such as onsite wellness screenings, fitness incentives, and health coaching, are gaining traction. Virtual health-care services, including telemedicine and mental health apps, have become essential, offering costeffective and accessible care options that meet the needs of today’s workforce.
Many companies are also exploring valuebased care models, which shift the focus from the volume of services provided to the quality of outcomes achieved. By collaborating with providers and using data analytics, businesses are identifying opportunities to optimize care delivery and reduce unnecessary expenses.
In addition, wellness programs tailored to specific workforce needs — such as stress management workshops or chronic disease prevention initiatives — are becoming increasingly popular. These targeted efforts not only improve employee health but also help mitigate long-term medical costs.
In this issue of the MBA Business Magazine, we’ll highlight many of the health-care resources that are available to employers to keep their teams healthy, such as the UPMC Primary Care Network, which provides
access to a robust offering of family medicine and internal medicine physicians and other providers throughout the region.
In addition, our experts will tackle the critical topics of wellness programs, work-life balance and mental health resources as ways to improve overall health in today’s workplace.
The MBA provides numerous business solutions — insurance, benefits, HR, training and professional development services — that can assist your organization.
To learn more about the MBA and its member benefits, visit mbausa.org.
ICON S OF INDUSTRY
Industrial Sales & Mfg., Inc.’s Founder Has Built a Strong Manufacturing Legacy
In celebration of its 120th year, the Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) is recognizing leaders of longtime member organizations who have contributed to the Association’s longevity, the regional business community as well as their own operations and industries. Here, James Rutkowski Sr., founder of Industrial Sales & Manufacturing, Inc. (ISM), 2609 West 12th Street in Millcreek Township, shares how the three-generation, family owned business grew out of a simple drill press in the garage of Rutkowski’s home to a premier contract manufacturer and trusted supplier of high-quality machined, fabricated and assembled components for original equipment manufacturers.
You’ve been recognized as an icon of industry in our region. Reflecting on your journey with Industrial Sales & Mfg., Inc. since 1967, what are you most proud of when it comes to your business?
Starting from humble beginnings in our family garage with just a Fosdick drill press, what I’m most proud of is how we’ve built ISM into a true cornerstone of Erie County’s manufacturing sector while staying true to
our core values. Over these 57 years, we’ve grown to employ over 150 hard-working Pennsylvanians across six facilities, produced more than 25,000 distinct parts, and served over 800 companies.
Most importantly, we’ve remained true to our promise of being ‘Better, Faster, and Smarter Than Anyone Else’ while maintaining our roots in the community. The fact that we can compete with much larger companies while staying nimble and continuing to evolve with new technologies and capabilities — that’s something I take great pride in.
Success does not come without adversity. What were some of the key challenges you faced in the early years and how did you overcome them?
Beyond the numbers, what truly makes me proud is how we’ve maintained our commitment to quality and our people through every challenge — whether it was recessions, offshore competition, material shortages, or credit crunches. We’ve created an environment where employees are treated with dignity and respect, and they share in the company’s success. It’s especially meaningful to see how this has become a three-generation family business, with my children and grandchildren helping to carry forward the values and work ethic that Joan and I established back in 1967.
What does it mean to you to have such business longevity?
I don’t think Industrial Sales & Mfg. would be this far along in this life of 57 years without these three children of mine — my sons Jimmy and Charlie, and my daughter Ann. They’re the ones that perpetuated this growth of Industrial Sales and what it is today.
It started in my garage with a drill press that I paid $110 for, and back then $110 was a lot of money, putting down $10 down a week. It was a very challenging thing.
Even back when it was Industrial Sales Company, I remember one Friday that I had no money to buy groceries. The total amount of money that I had in my very existence was 15 cents, and I had to wait until Saturday to get a check so I could buy anything.
We just rolled up our sleeves and went to work, and kept on working to achieve what we have today, which I’m very proud of. But I don’t think it’d be this good without my three children by my side.
As a leader in manufacturing, what do you believe are the most significant changes you’ve witnessed over the years and how has your company adapted to stay ahead of industry trends?
One of the most dramatic changes I’ve witnessed in my career began when I started as a draftsman, meticulously creating drawings by hand. In those early days, purchasing agents would physically collect these drawings in person. I calculated equations with pen and paper to prepare quotes, then typed them up for hand-delivery to purchasing agents. By the 1980s, when our children joined the business, we had transitioned to fax machines. From there, the evolution accelerated rapidly — from fax to Internet, to sophisticated computer systems and automated machinery. What once took days or hours can now be accomplished in minutes. A single worker today, leveraging modern technology, can accomplish ten times what was possible in the past. The entire process — from design to quote to production — has been streamlined through digital transformation, dramatically increasing both efficiency and productivity.
What role has the MBA played in your company’s growth and success?
The MBA has been an invaluable partner in our company’s growth and success from day one.
Their comprehensive suite of services has supported every facet of our operation throughout our history. From essential workforce training and HR consulting to legal guidance and business advocacy, we’ve strategically utilized MBA’s resources as an extension of our own capabilities.
What makes the MBA particularly valuable is their deep understanding of the regional business landscape and manufacturing sector. As our company has evolved, we’ve leveraged their expertise across multiple areas — professional development programs, compliance training, leadership seminars, and strategic networking events. Their ability to connect local businesses and foster collaboration has helped us build crucial relationships within the Erie business community.
Even today, the MBA remains our primary resource for staying competitive and informed. Whether we need guidance on regulatory changes, workforce development, or industry trends, their team consistently delivers practical solutions that drive our business forward. Having such a robust business association in our backyard has been a cornerstone of our continued growth and success.
What is your favorite memory from your time working with the MBA?
The anniversary event with Colin Powell
and Peter Fonda stands out as a particular highlight. Mr. Fonda’s visit to ISM and his involvement with our motorcycle project created lasting memories.
We had a little luncheon over at one of the buildings, and he spent some time there and we also took him back to the airport in Cleveland. He was in a big hurry and ran into the airport, and we had to chase him because he left his wallet in the car. He was such a joy to be with, and we spent a lot of time, personal time with him, not only in the plant but when he rode the American Manufacturing Tribute Bike.
I also remember at one Annual Event, President George Bush Sr. needed a pen, and I handed it to him, and we got to talking about our good friend Arnold Palmer. A few days later, he sent a thank you for the pen that I still have to this day.
We have some great stories with past speakers — Newt Gingrich, Benjamin Netanyahu and Joe Paterno — all because of the MBA.
Looking forward, what are some of the key opportunities or innovations you’re excited about in the manufacturing sector and how do you see ISM continuing to lead in the years ahead?
The most exciting opportunity lies in leveraging technology to empower our workforce to do more. By continuing to invest in cutting-edge solutions, we’re positioning
ISM to maintain its leadership role in the manufacturing sector while enabling our team to achieve even greater levels of productivity and innovation.
To learn more, visit ismerie.com.
Did You Know?
• According to the 1905 Census of Manufacturers, which was the first dedicated federal census focused solely on manufacturing establishments operating under the “factory system,” key statistics included: a significant portion of the workforce employed in manufacturing, a concentration in industries like textiles, iron and steel, and a growing trend towards mechanization, although detailed data on specific production figures might vary depending on the industry sector.
• According to available data, in 1905, the population of Erie, Pennsylvania was likely around 52,000 people, based on the trend of population growth in the early 20th century.
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UPMC Chautauqua, Jamestown, NY
UPMC Hamot Patient Tower, Erie, PA AHN Saint Vincent Hardner Building, Erie, PA
Primary Care Network Plays Strategic Role in Employee Health, Lower Costs
Access to high-quality health care is important, which is why having a comprehensive primary care network close to home is so vital to employee health and lower health-care costs.
UPMC Hamot, with its extensive number of primary care providers (PCPs), which includes family medicine physicians and internal medicine physicians, delivers exactly this type of care, benefiting employees, their families and employers throughout the region.
With this trusted network, UPMC Hamot is committed to supporting the health of employees and their families at every stage of life. By providing employees with consistent, preventive and ongoing care, UPMC’s services offer significant advantages for both workers and employers alike.
Employees who maintain good health through regular checkups and screenings are less likely to miss work due to illness or long-term medical conditions. With fewer sick days and more consistent attendance, employees can contribute more to their teams, benefiting the overall productivity of the business.
Kim Boyles, executive administrator of UPMC Hamot’s Primary Care Network, knows all too well the benefits of having access to such PCPs. She oversees UPMC Hamot’s urgent care facility in Erie and 22 primary care offices, which include more than 400 providers and staff, stretching from Interstate 80 in Clarion County north to Erie.
“Primary care is the gatekeeper to all health care and overall health management,” explains Boyles. “Primary care is really about patients playing an active role in their health care, which can lead to early detection of health problems. You’re getting comprehensive care because that physician or provider knows not only your medical history, but also your personal history. They also know a patient’s social determinants, whether you can afford medications, what your housing status is, what your transportation situation is.”
According to Boyles, whether someone is sick or not, choosing a PCP is a good first step.
“Your overall health should always start with your primary care provider,” she says. “You need to have a relationship with your
physician. It’s essential. Take charge of your health and schedule that visit. Our network offers same-day access, and we are here to support the community.”
Which PCP is Right for You?
A cornerstone of UPMC Hamot’s Primary Care Network is its array of primary care physicians. Family physicians are specially trained to care for patients of all ages, from infants and children to adults and seniors. Their ability to treat a wide range of health concerns for the whole family is invaluable for employers who want to support their employees’ well-being both at home and at work.
Julia Rodi, M.D., is one of the new primary care physicians in the Erie area. A native of Brazil, she received her medical degree from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry and completed her residency at Saint Vincent Family Medicine Center. In August, Rodi joined Your Hometown Health Partners in Millcreek Township and is affiliated with UPMC Hamot.
At Your Hometown Health Partners, Rodi is one of five primary care physicians and five advanced practice providers (APP) in the practice. The providers take a holistic approach to health care, offering routine checkups, vaccinations, preventive
screenings and health counseling to keep patients healthy and to help ward off serious conditions from developing.
“As family medicine doctors, we can offer the full spectrum of care, and we’re also very outpatient focused,” she says.
For parents, a family medicine physician can be a great place to turn for pediatric care — everything from childhood illnesses to immunizations. For adults, family medicine physicians also handle general wellness and chronic conditions, and help patients stay on track with health goals.
These primary care physicians build relationships with patients, gaining a deep understanding of their medical history and personal health needs. This familiarity helps them catch potential health issues early, offer personalized advice and provide preventive care that reduces the risk of more serious health conditions later in life.
According to Rodi, it’s not only physicians but a team of medical professionals and staff who play a key role in a patient’s care.
“We have medical assistants and nurses and even some of our APPs who have been here for many years, so it’s not just the physicians seeing the patients,” adds Rodi. “It’s the whole office that really is a part of the community of care.”
Internal Medicine
While family medicine physicians offer care for patients of all ages, internal medicine physicians — or internists — specialize in the care of adults, particularly those dealing with complex or chronic health conditions. Most general internal medicine physicians provide care for their patients in an outpatient setting and may also follow their patients when hospitalized.
David Hutzel, M.D., who specializes in internal medicine, is one of eight physicians at Greenfield Internal Medicine in Erie and is affiliated with UPMC Hamot. He completed his residency at Portsmouth Naval Hospital and medical degree at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and has nearly 30 years of experience in the medical field.
and preventing absenteeism due to unmanaged health issues.
“I had one patient — a big, strong, blue-collar worker — who never complained and came in for what sounded like a simple cold. When I listened to him, I knew something was wrong. Turns out, he had not just a cold, but lymphoma,” he says. “By seeing these patients for so many years and knowing their history, when something is significantly wrong, it becomes much more obvious much more quickly.”
Internal medicine physicians also coordinate care with specialists, as necessary. For example, if a patient requires cardiology care for heart disease, the internal medicine physician works in tandem with cardiologists to ensure the patient receives timely treatment. This level of coordinated care helps prevent miscommunication and ensures that the patient’s health is managed comprehensively.
Since Hamot’s merger with UPMC in 2011, there has been a greater number of subspecialists from the Pittsburgh area providing electronic consultations and seeing patients as part of a referral. Many of those specialists now come to Erie on a routine basis, allowing more patients to stay closer to home for care.
According to Hutzel, as people age, their health-care needs often become more specialized. Internal medicine physicians help patients maintain their health, reduce the risk of complications, and ensure that treatment plans are comprehensive and effective. This ongoing care is crucial for maintaining employee productivity
“We can’t handle everything, but we’re all in the same system,” says Hutzel. “So, when my patients do go down to UPMC Presbyterian or UPMC Passavant, their medical records are all there, and there’s no duplication of tests.”
Prevention is Key
One of the most significant benefits of UPMC’s provider network is its focus on preventive care. Routine checkups, vaccinations, screenings — particularly for breast cancer, colon cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer and heart disease — and lifestyle counseling can help conditions from becoming more serious.
For example, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and early-stage diabetes can often be managed with lifestyle changes and medication when detected early. Physicians offer regular screenings to catch these conditions early, reducing the likelihood of more serious health complications, such as heart disease or stroke, which can help keep employees healthy at work.
“We will get patients who haven’t seen a doctor for 30 years come in and they tell you, ‘I have no medical conditions,’ only to find out they have 10 medical conditions they just didn’t know about,” says Rodi. “It is really important to come to your annual physicals to make sure that you’re getting your preventive health care. It is our role as a family physician to catch a medical condition early before it really becomes a problem that spirals out of control.”
For example, when pap smears were implemented, cervical cancer incidence rates fell by a half from the 1970s through the 2000s. “Just think about all the lives that were saved, all the morbidity and mortality that was prevented just by doing that,” says Rodi. “We’re checking: Are you up to date on your mammograms, your colonoscopies? If you smoke, can we help you stop smoking? Have you had your CAT scans to check for lung cancer? We’re going through a whole list based on your age and your risk factors to see
Julia Rodi, M.D., is a primary care physician who specializes in family medicine for patients from infants to seniors. She practices at Your Hometown Health Partners in Millcreek Township and is affiliated with UPMC Hamot.
David Hutzel, M.D., specializes in internal medicine at Greenfield Internal Medicine in Erie and is affiliated with UPMC Hamot. He also sees patients once a week through UPMC Hamot’s Executive Physicals Program for business leaders.
what could be going on. We’re also asking what risk factors you might have based on your lifestyle. Are you eating the way you should be eating? Are you exercising? And how can we help you do that in a way that’s going to be sustainable and that’s going to work for your lifestyle.”
“Sometimes getting somebody’s diabetes under control might take two or three years where it might take three or five years to get somebody off cigarettes and get their emphysema under control,” adds Hutzel. “Or it might take even longer to get somebody off alcohol or drugs. We are here for the long game; our victories are sort of won over time.”
Employers can take an active role in promoting wellness at work to keep their teams healthy and reduce care costs. Hutzel points to discounts on insurance or cash bonuses for smoking cessation and weight-loss challenges as great options for employers. “It does help,” says Hutzel. “They have less people calling off, less recidivism and a more stable workforce when they have a healthier workforce.”
In business, all employees help contribute to their organization’s bottom line, but especially those in key leadership positions. Hutzel also sees patients once a week through UPMC Hamot’s Executive Physicals Program. The program provides comprehensive and thorough preventive health services in a private setting for busy business executives.
All patients in the program receive a personalized written summary of their evaluation from nutrition, hearing and vision, to bloodwork, chest X-rays, stress tests and carotid Doppler ultrasounds, for example. They then receive a summary of their exam, test results and pertinent advice on maintaining optimal health. “It’s really for people who want a very thorough comprehensive evaluation, from head to toe,” says Hutzel.
Greater Access
Access to UPMC’s primary care network also has been made quicker and easier with advances in technology.
At UPMC Hamot, patients have not only inperson access but also 24/7-online access to their PCP office and medical records through the MyUPMC patient portal. The robust portal — accessible via MyUpmc.upmc.com or the MyUPMC App, gives patients access to their own medical record and communication with the providers. They can submit prescription requests, schedule their own appointments — in person or telehealth, when appropriate — review their own test results, lab results and ask questions about medical treatment.
In fact, many physicians dictate their notes right in front of their patients, so patients now hear exactly what’s being entered into their medical record and patient portal.
“I am a very interactive provider, and I like to have the patient involved in their care,” explains Hutzel. “You have back pain or knee pain. Let’s get the X-ray before you come in and look at it together so you can understand why I am referring you to surgery or why I’m referring you to physical therapy.”
Patient education enables individuals to make more informed decisions about their health care.
“It also really empowers patients to develop that relationship with their primary care provider and take an active role in their health care,” says Boyles.
Whether it is in family medicine or internal medicine, physicians say establishing a PCP of record and scheduling a physical exam is a good start.
“It’s sort of like maintaining your car, so it’s not these major adjustments,” says Hutzel. “Get yourself established with a physician that you like and trust. Keep your appointments and follow-ups.”
Instead of looking for a magic pill, Hutzel says patients also need to take personal accountability when it comes to their overall health and discuss topics like exercise, weight loss, smoking, drinking, sexual activity and other lifestyle matters. “I think it’s really important that patients have an open and honest discussion with their physician,” he adds.
As a new provider in the Erie region, Rodi says she is excited about establishing more connections with new patients and their families. “As for employers, I’d encourage them to help employees make time to come to these appointments,” she states. “It’s really important because in the long run, we’re helping prevent them from having issues down the road.”
For more information about UPMC Hamot’s Primary Care Network, visit UPMC.com/EriePCP.
Regular checkups and screenings are critical to health and wellness.
At each practice, physicians, medical professionals and other staff play a part in a patient’s community of care.
The key to a productive appointment is for patients to have an open and honest discussion with their physician.
Forging Wellness & Safety for Every Worker
Strengthen your team with wellness programs built for manufacturing.
Boost Safety, Reduce Stress, and keep workers performing at their best.
Empowering Growth: How State Assistance Programs Support Employee Training and Development
Brian Cressman is a partner at MacDonald Illig Attorneys and a member of the firm’s Business Transactions, Trusts & Estates, Real Estate, and Education Law Practice Groups
Pennsylvania has a labor supply problem. Employers throughout the Commonwealth have job openings, but cannot find willing and able applicants to fill those positions. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, at the end of 2023, 61.9 percent of Pennsylvania population was working or actively looking for work — a decrease from pre-pandemic statistics, and Pennsylvania had only 66 available workers for every 100 open jobs. Attracting applicants is a challenge, but so is retaining them when competitors are seeking out the same scarce resource — employees.
In today’s challenging labor market, where recruitment and retention issues persist, investing in the development of existing employees may offer the most effective solution. By equipping employees to grow into new or expanded roles, organizations can enhance productivity while fostering loyalty and improving retention. The Commonwealth has created a number of programs to boost
employment in the face of continuing labor market struggles, many of which can be utilized by individual businesses. Two such programs are discussed here.
Workforce & Economic Development Grant (WEDnetPA)
WEDnetPA is a program funded by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) that provides grants to Pennsylvania businesses for the purpose of training new and existing employees in order to allow a company to stay competitive and to keep an employee’s skillset current and relevant. Employers must be in an eligible industry to apply, but most manufacturing, technology and production industries are eligible. Both small and large companies may apply.
Training grants are awarded to reimburse employers to reasonable eligible training costs up to $2,000 per employee and up to $100,000 total per fiscal year per company. Companies are limited to receive funding to only two years in a row or three out of any five-year period.
WEDnetPA funding is available to reimburse a wide range of training opportunities for employees, but the training must be for fulltime employees and focus on skill building for a current job, advancement or promotion. Onthe-job training and orientation are not eligible expenses. Funding is available to reimburse for training on a wide variety of topics — too many
to list here. Training also may be provided by a variety of WEDnetPA partners throughout the Commonwealth. This aspect of the WEDnetPA program — flexibility for employers to focus on improving the skills of their employees most relevant to their business — is one of the major positive aspects of the program.
Foundations in Industry Training Grant Program (FIT)
The FIT program is a grant program designed to provide financial support for registered apprenticeship programs. Apprenticeships provide an opportunity for employers to provide customized training to address their needs, while providing a career pathway for an individual allowing them to earn money while learning on the job. FIT is administered by DCED, and individual businesses are eligible to apply for funding up to $3,000 per apprentice per year for up to three years. Funding is eligible to be used to pay for expenses related to instruction that complements on-the-job training. For example, funding could be used for the costs of books and training materials, to pay the salary of an in-house instructor, to pay for contracted professional training services, or general education requirements towards completion of degree work directly related to the apprenticeship.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, there is no quick fix to Pennsylvania’s labor shortage. The lack of replacement labor makes retaining the employees a company has even more important. Investing in existing training employees may be a solution both in filling higher-level positions requiring advanced knowledge and skills, while also providing opportunities for advancement in the organization in lieu of looking elsewhere for those opportunities. Training, however, takes time and can be costly. Utilizing programs advanced by the Commonwealth to address the labor shortage may make the cost-proposition of training workable where it may not be otherwise feasible.
For more information about MacDonald Illig Attorneys, visit macdonaldillig.com or call 814/870-7600.
LECOM HEALTH HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING FOR NEW ADULT DAY CENTER IN ERIE
LECOM Health recently announced the grand opening of its new Adult Day Center located at LECOM at Village Square, 149 W. 22nd Street in Erie. The facility is designed to provide high-quality respite care and support for older adults. The unveiling of the center took place at a ribbon-cutting ceremony in December, and the facility is currently accepting new clients.
The new Adult Day Center will serve as a vital resource for the community, offering comprehensive care and enriching experiences for older adults. Operating Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., the center will provide a safe and supportive environment that includes nutritious meals, engaging activities, medical services and more.
“Our Adult Day Center will provide support to families and caregivers by offering peace of mind, knowing their loved ones are in a safe, caring environment,” said James Lin, D.O., president of the LECOM Institute for Successful Living. “At the same time, the center will enhance the lives of older adults through engaging activities, social interaction, and programs designed to foster well-being and improve quality of life for everyone involved.”
The Adult Day Center reflects LECOM Health’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the quality of life for seniors in the Erie community. The facility is part of LECOM Health’s broader mission to integrate innovative health-care services with compassionate care, ensuring that older adults and their families have access to resources that promote independence and whole-person care.
Families interested in learning more can call 814/417-8751 or visit LECOMHealth.com/ AdultDayCenter. Clients must complete an assessment and qualify for admission to the program. Drop-ins are not accepted
MERCY CENTER FOR WOMEN RECEIVES $1.75 MILLION DONATION TO SUPPORT PROGRAMS, FUTURE GROWTH
The Mercy Center for Women recently received a transformational gift — an anonymous donation of $1.75 million.
According to the Mercy Center, it’s the largest single contribution to their cause in the center’s history and will provide funds to support families facing homelessness, domestic abuse and those facing addiction.
Executive Director Jennie Hagerty said the gift will help with programming and future growth of the Mercy Center.
“We are incredibly grateful to this generous donor for their incredible generosity,” said Hagerty, in a press release. “No words can define the true blessing our Christmas angel has delivered to our families this season. Our gift in return will be to deliver a journey of warmth, love, safety and transparency to our donor and the Erie community.”
The donation will be used to continue the Mercy Center for Women’s mission to provide safe, supportive and empowering housing solutions for individuals and families in need of transitional housing, according to the release. The organization focuses on helping individuals affected by domestic violence, addiction and mental health issues.
Hagerty said the donation also will support their campus expansion as they are in the process of purchasing the former Holy Rosary rectory which will help them house an additional 15 individuals.
For more information about the Mercy Center for Women, visit mcwerie.org.
ERIE
FEDERAL CREDIT UNION DONATES $20K FOR FOOD ASSISTANCE
IN ERIE COUNTY
For the fifth year in a row, Erie Federal Credit Union (Erie FCU) is once again offering their “Give Hope – Feed the Need” campaign in support of local hunger awareness and food assistance.
Through this initiative, $20,000 was distributed to 10 Erie area organizations:
• Meals on Wheels
• Erie Salvation Army
• Emmaus Soup Kitchen
• Community of Caring
• St. Martin Center, Inc.
• Erie Martin Luther King Center
• Home House of Erie Food Pantry
• Bethany Outreach Center
• Edinboro Food Pantry
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest PA
Each of these organizations received a $2,000 check to be used for programs affiliated with supplying meals, nourishment and warm companionship to families and individuals who will be affected this winter.
Since its inception in 1936, Erie Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in Northwest PA, has been serving its members in and around the Erie, Pennsylvania area. Erie FCU has grown its membership to over 78,000 with assets of more than $800 million with over 200 full- and part-time employees with a corporate office and nine branch locations. As a full-service, federally insured credit union, anyone that lives, works, worships, or attends school in Erie or Crawford County, PA is eligible to join. Erie FCU is an Equal Housing Lender.
For more information, visit eriefcu.org/news/ givehopefeedtheneed
LECOM Health officials recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Adult Day Center in Erie.
Photo credit: LECOM Health
DEMIRAG NAMED DIRECTOR
OF PENN STATE BEHREND’S BLACK SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
Ozgun C. Demirag , a faculty member with more than 15 years of experience in teaching, research and academic leadership, has been appointed director of Penn State Behrend’s Black School of Business, where she has taught since 2009.
Demirag had led the school as interim director since 2023. She also serves as the Samuel A. and Elizabeth B. Breene Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management. She previously served as associate director of undergraduate programs and faculty affairs.
Before joining the Black School of Business, where she has taught courses in integrated business analysis, global operations and supply chain management, Demirag taught at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. She also conducted research for Norfolk Southern Corp.
“Ozgun is the perfect fit to lead the Black School of Business, where a learn-by-doing approach prepares our graduates to be leaders in a constantly evolving business landscape,” said Greg Filbeck, vice chancellor and associate dean for academic affairs.
“Her experience in the classroom and in administrative roles provides a clear and interdisciplinary vision for how to build on the programs that already set our graduates apart.”
The Black School of Business is the only business school in the region that is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, or AACSB, the premier accrediting agency for business education worldwide. The school’s programs rank among the top 10 percent in the nation, in terms of financial return, according to the Georgetown University Center on Education and Workforce.
Demirag holds a Ph.D. in industrial and systems engineering and master’s degrees in industrial engineering and operations research, all from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Middle East Technical University, in Ankara, Turkey.
Her research, which includes applications of game theory in supply chain management and the design and analysis of transportation, logistics and inventory systems, has been published in Operations Research, Production and Operations Management, the European Journal of Operational Research and the International Journal of Management Science,
among other publications. She has held editorial roles with journals in her field and has received awards for her reviewing contributions.
In 2022, she co-authored the book, Supply Chain Management: Securing A Superior Global Edge. In 2021, Demirag was the recipient of both the Penn State Excellence in Academic Advising Award and the Penn State Behrend Council of Fellows Excellence in Research Award.
“I am honored to lead the Black School of Business,” Demirag said, “and I look forward to collaborating with our students, faculty, staff, alumni and advisory boards to further enrich our programs, advance opportunities for industry and community partnerships, and enhance our regional and global impact on business and society.”
The Black School of Business at Penn State Behrend offers 11 four-year bachelor’s degrees, three master’s degrees and an associate degree in general business. The school’s outreach centers include the Economic Research Institute of Erie (ERIE), Partnership Erie, the Center for Family Business and the Center for Financial Literacy.
John Bongiovanni and LucasSlezak principals of Generational Wealth Management (GWM), affiliated with Northwestern Mutual, one of the nation’s leading financial services companies, recently announced that Adam Jack has been admitted as a partner.
Jack began his career with Northwestern Mutual in 1997 and has been a wealth management advisor in Bradford, Pa for the past 27 years prior to joining Generational Wealth Management (GWM) in 2022. Jack is a graduate of Grove City College with a B.S. in Finance and holds CLU, ChFC professional designations from the American College of Financial Services.
In the community, Jack coaches youth and high school sports and serves as a member of the Smethport Rotary Club. GWM is an investment advisory firm servicing more than 750 clients in 20 states. According to the firm, the team of 10 is committed to providing clients with the highest quality financial planning and investment advisory services
CASAGRANDA APPOINTED
CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER FOR ALLEGHENY HEALTH NETWORK Allegheny Health Network (AHN) recently announced the appointment of Bethany Casagranda, D.O., MBA , as the organization’s new chief medical officer (CMO), and president of Allegheny Clinic, AHN’s employed physician organization. Her new position was effective January 1.
Casagranda succeeds Donald Whiting, M.D., who has served as AHN’s CMO since 2019 and is the longtime chair of the network’s Neuroscience Institute. Whiting will continue in his neuroscience chair role, which includes developing AHN’s new integrative neurologic disease treatment and research center on the Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) campus.
As chair of AHN’s Imaging Institute since 2017, Casagranda has advanced high-quality care, leveraging state-of-the-art imaging technology across the network’s expansive system of hospital and ambulatory imaging facilities.
In her new capacity as CMO, Casagranda will serve as the lead clinical executive for AHN’s employed physician organization and AHN hospital medical staffs. AHN has a network of 2,500 employed and affiliated doctors. She will also play a key role in AHN’s ongoing clinical transformation, including integrated efforts between AHN and Highmark Health to further develop and execute the organization’s “Living Health” clinical model, which advances medical protocols through evidence-based highquality care redesign.
“Dr. Casagranda is a talented and effective physician executive, and her inclusive, respectful leadership style will foster a dynamic, innovative clinical environment that aligns the goals and objectives of AHN and positions us well to continue achieving our quintuple aim across every discipline,” said Jim Benedict, president, AHN. “As the chair of imaging, she has a unique, broad perspective on clinical operations that makes her the ideal candidate to assume this important role for our organization.”
Under Casagranda’s leadership, the AHN Imaging Institute has experienced significant growth and investment. Radiologist talent within the network has grown from 28 to 124 physicians during her tenure and in 2024 alone, AHN’s Allegheny Valley Hospital, Westfield Memorial Hospital and Jefferson Hospital all opened newly expanded and renovated imaging centers. AHN also opened a new state-of-the-art imaging center at its Bethel Park Health + Wellness Pavilion, and Allegheny General Hospital is currently completing a $100 million upgrade of its imaging services.
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The PJM Grid in Peril: What Will Keep the Lights On?
Ken Zapinski is the director of Research & Public Policy for Pittsburgh Works Together, a western Pennsylvania-based nonprofit organization and cooperative venture of energy and labor that is committed to an economic future that supports the region’s foundational industries including manufacturing, steel and energy. For more information, visit pghworks.com.
Our modern way of life relies on the electric grid, from the moment we wake up until we switch the lights off at night. But we don’t think much about it until the lights flicker during a storm or the power cuts out during a Steelers game.
But all is not well with what some have called the most complex machine in the world.
Think of the electric grid as a favorite sweater, wearable but with a few loose threads. With a little careful work and attention, it will continue to provide the comfort and security we need. Instead, government policy makers are pulling at those loose threads, threatening to unravel the entire network.
PJM Interconnection operates the electric grid in Pennsylvania and 12 other states, covering 65 million people and 20 percent of the country’s
gross domestic product (GDP). It acts as a kind of air traffic control for electricity. On a momentby-moment basis, it looks at how much electricity is needed, where it can be produced, and ensures there are enough electrons on the right wires to get where they need to go so your local utility can deliver it to your door.
Have you ever turned on your A/C and your lights dim for a moment? That’s because somewhere in the system — in your house, in your neighborhood, in your region — there’s not enough electricity to meet the demand. It’s PJM’s job to exactly match supply and demand at every second of every day.
PJM is warning that things are out of whack. We are demanding more and more electricity for both massive projects like data centers and everyday items, like new electric vehicles (EVs). At the same time, government policies are trying to reduce carbon emissions by shutting down generating plants that use coal or natural gas.
That combination is “nearly certain” to lead to a supply shortage by 2030, if not sooner, according to PJM. “The math is not good,” PJM said in a fact sheet prepared for policymakers.
Most of the PJM states don’t produce enough electricity for their own residents, and they rely on a handful of exporting states to keep the lights on. At the same time, those states are pushing for increasing amounts of renewable energy. New Jersey, for example, will require 50 percent of the electricity sold in the state to come from renewable sources, mostly wind, solar or hydro, by 2030. Carbon-free nuclear doesn’t count.
But NJ only makes about 2 percent of its electricity from renewable sources, and it doesn’t produce enough to power its homes and businesses already. In so many states, lawmakers are counting on some folks somewhere in neighboring states building something to keep the lights on.
Pennsylvania, the “P” in PJM, is literally the keystone that makes the PJM grid work. It is the country’s largest exporter of electricity. Its contribution to the grid in 2023, for instance, covered the combined shortfalls in Virginia, Ohio and Maryland.
Governor Shapiro has proposed sweeping new energy legislation that would reshape Pennsylvania’s power generation sector. The proposals could disrupt PJM operations in two ways:
• Charging a tax on Pennsylvania’s fossil fuel plants based on their generation, making them more expensive to operate.
• Requiring the sale of far more wind, solar and other alternative-energy generated power to Pennsylvania customers. Windmills currently account for about 1.5 percent of the state’s electricity production, while solar is just onetenth of 1 percent.
Consumers will already start to see rate hikes this year because of the growing imbalance of supply and demand. We need to ensure the government policies don’t continue to make the situation worse.
MBA members earlier this year at the MBA Conference Center in Erie.
Earn Your RN Diploma in Only 20 Months!
Earn a nursing diploma from the Sharon School of Nursing and start working as a registered nurse! Sharon School of Nursing at Meadville Medical Center’s Institute for Healthcare Professionals offers students the benefit of taking nursing courses at a hospital-based diploma nursing program and college level academic courses at a college or university of their choice. At the completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
RN students participate in varied clinical and simulation experiences with master’s-prepared faculty who have diverse clinical experience.
Acceptance to the Sharon School of Nursing is coordinated by the program’s admission committee and is comprised of two steps: taking the pre-entrance ATI TEAS test and completing the online application.
Applications received after March 31 will be reviewed with acceptance contingent upon class availability.
Call Crystal Brest at 814-333-5651 or visit institute.mmchs.org to learn more.
Sharon School of Nursing 18282 Technology Drive, Suite 301 Meadville, PA 16335
Tips for Managing Your Mental Health in a Crazy World
As a manager, juggling responsibilities and overseeing teams can be both rewarding and overwhelming. Prioritizing mental health is crucial for staying effective and preventing burnout.
Here are three practical tips for managers to maintain their well-being:
1. Set Boundaries and Manage Expectations. Effective managers know the importance of setting clear boundaries. It’s essential to define work hours and avoid overloading yourself with tasks outside these boundaries. Setting expectations for both you and your team can help maintain balance. Communicate openly about realistic deadlines and workloads to prevent unnecessary stress and burnout.
2. Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness Managers are often caught in the whirlwind of tasks and meetings, but taking time for self-care is vital. Engage in activities that recharge you, whether it’s exercise, reading, or simply taking breaks throughout the day. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation
or deep breathing exercises, can also help reduce stress and improve focus. A balanced mind leads to better decisionmaking and leadership.
3. Seek Support and Delegate. A key aspect of maintaining mental health is recognizing when to seek help. It’s OK to reach out to mentors, colleagues or professionals when feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, delegating tasks effectively is crucial. Trusting your team to handle responsibilities not only reduces your workload but also empowers others and fosters a supportive work environment.
By focusing on these strategies, managers can reduce stress and maintain a healthier worklife balance, benefiting both their personal well-being and professional performance.
For more information on these techniques and training courses, visit the MBA’s Training and Development page at mbausa.org.
Tracy Daggett, PHR, is the director of Training and Development at the Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA). Contact him at tdaggett@mbausa.org or call 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.
EXPERTS SAY NOW IS THE TIME TO PRIORITIZE MENTAL HEALTH AT WORK
The National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) says now is the time to prioritize mental health in the workplace by starting a conversation with your team. NAMI has created a “StigmaFree” Workplace initiative to normalize mental health discussions at work. The goal is to help organizations “increase mental health awareness and education, create a culture of caring and increase access to support.”
Experts say it’s not just because it’s the right thing to do, but good for your business too. NAMI’s research shows that “every $1 invested in mental health yields a $4 return.”
NAMI’s annual workplace survey of companies with at least 100 employees shared many more eye-opening statistics:
• 74 percent of full-time employees in the U.S. say it is appropriate to discuss mental health concerns at work but only 58 percent say they feel comfortable doing so.
• Burnout is a problem, especially among women, young workers, and mid-level employees.
• Nine in 10 employees say employersponsored mental health-care coverage is important for creating a positive workplace culture.
• One in four employees say they don’t know if their employer offers mental health coverage — showing the need for more communication from employers.
For more data points from NAMI’s stigma-free annual workforce survey, visit stigmafree.nami.org/annual-survey.
OSHA PROVIDES SAFETY TIPS FOR WORKING IN COLD WEATHER
Winter weather can expose outdoor workers to frostbite, hypothermia and cold stress, all of which can be fatal. It is important to know the wind chill temperature to better prepare and perform the work safely.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) suggests following these work practices to stay safe in cold weather:
• Know the symptoms of cold stress; reddening skin, tingling, pain, swelling, leg cramps, numbness and blisters.
• Dress properly; wear at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing, insulated gloves and boots, and cover your head. Monitor your physical condition and that of your co-workers.
• Stay dry and pack extra clothes; moisture can increase heat loss from the body.
• Take frequent breaks in warm, dry areas.
• Drink warm liquids.
For more safety tips, visit OSHA’s Winter Weather page at osha.gov/winter-weather
DO WELLNESS PROGRAMS REALLY WORK?
When sponsoring a wellness program, the main hurdle to success is employee engagement. The benefits of wellness programs can only be realized if a significant number of your employees take part in your efforts. In order to gain buy-in, some businesses offer employees an incentive for participating or reaching certain health goals.
HOW WILL MY EMPLOYEES BENEFIT FROM A WORKPLACE WELLNESS PROGRAM?
Employees having access to a workplace wellness program may experience improved overall mental and physical health including improved coping skills for stress, improved self-image and higher self-esteem due to having access to needed programs and/or supports.
Employees may financially benefit from a wellness program due to the possibility of a reduced risk for chronic or life-threatening conditions and lower costs for health care such as fewer doctor visits, lower premiums and less need for expensive care.
HAVE STUDIES BEEN CONDUCTED TO PROVE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF WORKPLACE WELLNESS PROGRAMS?
Yes. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) promotes the formation of workplace wellness programs because, according to one of its studies, employees in companies with “a strong culture of health” are three times more likely to actively strive to improve their health.
Workplace Wellness Benefits Everyone
Workplace wellness refers to the education and activities that a worksite may sponsor in order to promote healthy lifestyles for their employees and their families. Examples of wellness initiatives include health education classes, subsidized use of fitness facilities and internal policies or programs that promote healthy behavior.
Why Workplace Wellness?
Wellness affects your company’s bottom line in many ways — in particular, it can lower health-care costs, increase productivity, decrease absenteeism and raise employee morale. Because employees spend many of their waking hours at work, the workplace is an ideal setting to address health and wellness issues. The following are ways your company may benefit from a workplace wellness program:
1. Control Health Insurance Costs — A wellness program can help employees with high risk factors make the lifestyle changes to improve their quality of life and reduce their health-care costs, while also helping employees with fewer risk factors stay healthy.
2. Reduce Workers’ Compensation and Disability Costs — Employees who make healthy changes and lower their health risk factors often have a reduced chance of a workplace injury, illness or disability. This, in turn, can save employers money, not just on insurance premiums and benefits paid out, but also on the costs of recruiting and training a new worker to replace an employee who is out of work for health reasons.
3. Increase Employee Productivity and Fewer Missed Days — Healthier employees mean fewer sick days, which is another benefit companies can achieve through wellness programs. Plus, employees’ healthier behaviors may translate into better family choices, so employees may also miss less work caring for ill family members. In addition, healthier employees tend to be more productive since they are not coming to work ill or are worried about their health problems. Increased productivity and reduced absenteeism can yield significant cost savings.
4. Higher Morale and Improved Recruiting — A company that cares about its employees’ health is often seen as a better place to work, and wellness programs can attract top talent in a competitive market. In addition, demonstrating a commitment to your employees’ health can improve employee morale and strengthen retention.
For more information about workplace wellness programs, email the MBA’s HR Services team at hrservices@mbausa.org or call 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.
Alyssa Finegan
is an HR business partner at the Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA). Contact her at 800/815-2660, 814/833-3200 or afinegan@mbausa.org.
COMPANY PROFILE
Contacts:
Owner: Kara Haas
General Manager: Jill Otto
Phone: 814/347-5005
Text: 814/923-2764
Address: 15 W Main Street
North East, PA 16428
Website: tiabookcellar.com
A New Chapter: Independent Bookstore Offers
Page-Turning
Resources for Businesses
Editor’s Note: Names and specifics below have been modified to incorporate Tia Book Cellar’s spark: The Small-Mart Revolution: How Local Businesses Are Beating the Global Competition, Michael H. Shuman, 2006.
Once upon a time, Lois, the daughter of an entrepreneur, found herself without any appropriate attire for the local dance. She went to the Locally Owned, Import Substitution clothing store. After talking with the owner, she learned that he was a sponsor of the event, benefitting a local charity. He had the perfect dress for Lois, one that no one else attending would be wearing.
Arriving at the dance early to help her friend Tina decorate, she was struck by her friend’s bright, stunning, glittery dress. A wave of inadequacy washed over her as the sequins moved in tandem with Tina’s eyes sizing up her choice from head to toe.
“You look beautiful, Tina!”
“Thank you, the British Prime Minister wore this dress. She is a big promoter of the store and says, There Is No Alternative. They are soon to be opening locations in our town too!”
Soon the guests arrived, and Lois could no longer find her friend Tina in the crowd. The venue was flooded with the striking dress.
Shortly after, Lois moved away. Tina was right, the dress was everywhere. Seeking respite, Lois ducked inside a local bookstore. The bookseller recommended a book for Lois, The Small-Mart Revolution: How Local Businesses Are Beating the Global Competition, by Michael H. Shuman. Shuman (and the bookseller) ignited a journey in Lois, who decades later returned to her town to open a bookstore. She removed the “n” from her childhood friend’s name, to arrive at “tia” and embraced the local grape heritage with a modification to book “cellar.”
BELIEFS
According to Tia Book Cellar’s team, globalization does not mean a life filled with boring, dictated selections from big-box stores. They removed the “n” from the acronym, TINA (there is no alternative), because their booksellers believe that there is always an alternative, independent shops and a story. They look forward to helping you find yours!
ON TIA’S SHELVES
Tia Book Cellar carries new books in all ages and genres. The stores specializes in bestsellers, award-winning titles and classics. Complementing its titles, the store has unique gift items throughout. Whether timeless or trendy, specific or universal, find just the right gift to let someone know they matter..
PARTNERS IN RETENTION AND DEVELOPMENT
Businesses have an engaged team and a solid customer base. With the help of Tia Book Cellar, bring back the magical experience for staff by hosting an adult book fair! Reward employees and appreciate customers with books. Grow together with a book club.
Whether looking for a curated list of books to meet a specific topic or are interested in the latest bestsellers, Tia’s team is ready to offer suggestions based on human experience and feedback, not algorithms.
Business and leadership are in the store’s DNA. Before books, Tia’s booksellers spent decades in professional services. With their unique mix of experience, they appreciate fiction under the lens of business. They can provide recommendations and enrichment programs utilizing technical, nonfiction and fictional resources.
Tia’s indie platforms, Bookshop.org and Libro.fm, provide the same experience when circumstances prevent you from visiting their store in North East, PA.
Shown here are some of the business books available at Tia Book Cellar, including Michael H. Shuman’s The Small-Mart Revolution: How Local Businesses Are Beating the Global Competition and 100 Ideas to Improve the Workplace by local author and Manufacturer & Business Association 2024 HR Person of the Year nominee Stephen Seymour.
Kara Haas is the owner of Tia Book Cellar in North East, Pennsylvania. The North East native opened the bookstore in 2023. Photo credit: VisitErie/Gibbens Creative
Tia Book Cellar carries a wide selection of books in all ages and genres.
You’re invited to one of the MBA’s premier networking events of the year! Join us for the MBA Business Magazine’s annual Women in Leadership IMPACT Luncheon as keynote speaker PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity shares her professional journey and lessons learned in leadership, followed by a special panel discussion featuring influential area businesswomen. PLUS... Additional networking opportunities, headshot photo booth by R. Frank Media and specialty coffees by Mill Creek Coffee!
Keynote Speaker
As Pennsylvania’s state treasurer, businesswoman and retired U.S. Army Reserve Colonel Stacy Garrity is focused on transparency, cutting waste and fees — returning more than $4.5 billion in unclaimed property to its rightful owners — and making education affordable for Pennsylvanians.
In the Army Reserve, she served three overseas deployments. As a businesswoman, she worked as one of the first two female vice presidents at Global Tungsten & Powders in Towanda, the largest tungsten smelter in the western world.
Treasurer Garrity is a fiscal watchdog, protecting more than $160 billion in state assets, returning more than $750 million worth of unclaimed property to the rightful owners, and managing the PA 529 College & Career Savings Program, the PA ABLE Savings Program, and the INVEST program for local government agencies and nonprofits. She has cut fees for both PA 529 and PA ABLE, saving account owners more than $16.5 million.
Panel – Leadership discussion moderated by MBA President and CEO Lori Joint
Ainslie Brosig
Executive director of the expERIEnce Children’s Museum in Erie
Attorney Colleen R. Stumpf
Rachel R. Ogden, Pharm.D., MHSA, MMEd, BCGP
Dean and Professor, LECOM School of Pharmacy
Robin Scheppner
President and managing owner of American Tinning & Galvanizing in Erie
Partner at MacDonald Illig Attorneys in Erie whose practice focuses on trust and estate planning and administration as well as the representation of for-profit and nonprofit business entities
PRESENTED BY:
Karinna Vernaza, Ph.D.
Dean of the College of Engineering and Business and a professor of Mechanical Engineering at Gannon University in Erie
Economic Outlook IMPACT Luncheon
The MBA, in conjunction with the MBA Business Magazine, recently held its annual Economic Outlook IMPACT Luncheon on December 19 at the Association’s Conference Center in Erie, featuring presenters Ken Louie, Ph.D., director of the Economic Research Institute of Erie at Penn State Behrend, and Brian Pietrangelo, MBA, CIMA®, AIF ®, senior vice president and managing director of Investment Strategy at Key Private Bank. The event was sponsored by KeyBank, Duncan Financial Group and Larese Floral Design. To view photo coverage, visit mbausa.org.
MBA President and CEO Lori Joint (center) welcomed the guest speakers to this year’s luncheon.
Among the guests were representatives from Betts Industries in Warren, Pennsylvania, including MBA Board Member Chad Betts (at far right).
Brian Pietrangelo of Key Private Bank shared the statistics and trends for the national economic forecast.
KeyBank was the main sponsor of this year’s Economic Outlook IMPACT Luncheon.
Erin Sekerak of the Commonwealth Charter Academy Cyber Charter School won the “Jingle All the Way” holiday raffle prize.
Ken Louie, Ph.D., of the Economic Research Institute of Erie at Penn State Behrend provided a look at local statistics and trends.
The event’s poinsettia centerpieces were provided by Larese Floral Design in Erie.
