Business Magazine - July & August 2024

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119th ANNUAL EVENT “MONEYBALL”

BILLY BEANE

Lessons for Life and Business: How Careful Analytics and Strategic Use of Assets Can Give Companies an Edge.

OCTOBER 9, 2024

BAYFRONT CONVENTION CENTER

Billy Beane revolutionized the world of baseball with his groundbreaking approach to team management and player analytics. His story is a testament to the power of thinking outside the box and redefining the status quo in sports and business.

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The movie, based on Michael Lewis’s book Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game and starring Brad Pitt, depicts an extraordinary tale of innovation, perseverance and transformation. “Moneyball,” which earned six Academy Award nominations, showcases Beane’s journey from a young baseball player to one of the most influential sports figures of our time.

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FEATURES

WHAT’S INSIDE | FEATURED STORY

3 A STRONGER COMMUNITY

MBA’s IMPACT Luncheon and Nonprofit Fair on July 24 to highlight area programs, volunteer opportunities.

COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

5 BREVILLIER VILLAGE

Since 1972, Brevillier Village, a nonprofit housing and health-care community located in Harborcreek Township, Pennsylvania, has provided compassionate care to older adults through its dedicated staff and volunteer caregivers.

SPOTLIGHT Q&A | GIVING BACK

7 Karen Bilowith, president and CEO of The Erie Community Foundation (ECF) and guest speaker for the MBA’s IMPACT Luncheon & Nonprofit Fair on July 24, shares her views on community involvement and service, and the impact that one of the most successful giving events in the region, Erie Gives, has on nonprofits, employers and the community.

EDITORIAL

LEGAL BRIEF | WORTH NOTING

9 Election year issues for nonprofits William Speros ON THE HILL | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

15 At last, GROW PA legislation directly addresses state’s grim demographics Eileen Anderson

COMPANY PROFILES | HIGHLIGHTS

Executive Editor

Karen Torres ktorres@mbausa.org

Contributing Writers

Eileen Anderson

Matt Cuomo

Doug Kramer

Lori Joint

William Speros

Mission Statement: “We

Feature Photography Brevillier Village

Additional Photography iStockPhoto.com

Design, Production & Printing Printing Concepts Inc. info@printingconceptsonline.com

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Shawn Netkowicz snetkowicz@mbausa.org

Frank Mehler fmehler@mbausa.org

Judy Rosatti jrosatti@mbausa.org

Patty Welther pwelther@mbausa.org

Manufacturer & Business Association Headquarters: 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, PA 16508 Pittsburgh: 850 Cranberry Woods Drive, Suite 2224 Cranberry Township, PA 16066

814/833-3200 | 800/815-2660 |

13 Penn State Behrend Center for Family Business: Family Business Conference brings more than 100 to Behrend.

17 Education & Training Center at Pitt-Titusville: ETC embarks on $7 million renovation project.

19 Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency : Supporting the region ’s nonprofit community.

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

A Stronger Community

MBA’s IMPACT Luncheon & Nonprofit Fair on July 24 to Highlight Area Programs, Volunteer Opportunities

Nonprofit organizations play a pivotal role in the world, addressing critical societal needs and driving community development, while making a tremendous economic impact as well.

A recent survey by the National Council of Nonprofits shows that nonprofits employ 12.3 million people. They spend nearly $2 trillion annually on their operations, including more than $826 billion on salaries, benefits and payroll taxes. This spending stimulates economic activity, creating additional jobs and supporting local businesses.

Nonprofits also engage millions of volunteers, which adds economic value through donated time and skills. Volunteering opportunities help individuals develop new skills and improve employability, further contributing to the labor market. In 2019, the Independent Sector estimated the economic value of volunteer work at $167 billion.

Business owners often say that they see significant value in engaging with nonprofits by fostering partnerships that benefit both their organizations and the communities in which they operate. For them, volunteering offers employees opportunities to develop new skills and enhance existing ones, such as leadership, teamwork and project management. These experiences can translate into improved performance in their professional roles.

Offering volunteer opportunities can make a company more attractive to potential

employees and help retain current staff. Additionally, many jobseekers look for employers with strong outreach programs. Companies with active volunteer programs are often more successful in attracting and retaining top talent. Many businesses today are looking for opportunities to gather their team and do something meaningful to give back. This has proven great for company culture and morale and is especially important to up and coming leaders in the workforce.

Recognizing these many benefits, the MBA is thrilled to host its third annual IMPACT Luncheon & Nonprofit Fair on July 24 at the MBA Conference Center in Erie. The event is designed to bring together nonprofit entities, our members, and the broader business community to foster collaboration, innovation and growth.

Featuring keynote speaker Karen Bilowith, president and CEO of The Erie Community Foundation (ECF), the event will provide a unique opportunity for attendees to engage in meaningful discussions about the current state and future directions of the nonprofit sector. This is not just a meal, but a forum for networking, learning and inspiring action.

Additionally, our Nonprofit Fair will feature a diverse array of nonprofit

organizations, each showcasing their missions, services and the unique ways they contribute to our community. The fair also will allow businesses to explore potential partnerships, volunteer opportunities and support mechanisms.

In this month’s Nonprofit & Economic Development issue of the MBA Business Magazine, we’re excited to highlight the diverse membership of the Association, including such organizations as Brevillier Village, a nonprofit housing and health-care community in Harborcreek, Pennsylvania. We’ll also share some expert articles on nonprofit leadership and considerations during this presidential election year.

Plus, we’ll hear from ECF’s Karen Bilowith regarding her upcoming IMPACT presentation and the highly successful giving event, Erie Gives.

To register for our IMPACT event on July 24, visit mbausa.org !

Lori Joint is the president and CEO of the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/8333200, 800/815-2660 or ljoint@mbausa.org.

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Leading a Nonprofit Legacy

In 1960, Katherine Conrad Brevillier of Erie, Pennsylvania willed her home and 17-acre East Lake Road estate to the Episcopal Cathedral of St. Paul for charitable purposes. Dean Frederic Richardson Murray of the Cathedral of St. Paul and a church committee planned the complex now known as Brevillier Village. It was to be developed for older persons in three phases: an independent, low-income, apartment-living residence; a longterm care nursing home; and a housing complex to provide personal care services.

environment. Barnabas Court South is structured more for social model personal care and North more medical personal care. The St. Barnabas Chapel and Education Center were built and dedicated in 2008. Interdenominational church services, memorial services, weddings, and baptisms are held in the chapel. The education center can accommodate up to 65, depending on seating, for social events and community/ educational programs.

Social Impact

Conrad House was built in 1972 at the center of the Brevillier Estate and was designed to give all residents a view of Lake Erie. Katherine Brevillier’s maiden name was Conrad, thus the name Conrad House. Currently, Conrad House has 98 apartments after an extensive renovation. Ball Pavilion opened as licensed skilled nursing in November of 1977. It received its name from Miss Oceana Ball, whose estate was bequeathed to the Episcopal Cathedral of St. Paul in 1933. In 1977, with only two ladies remaining in the home, the court decreed the Cathedral form a nonprofit known as the Ball Pavilion. This building was rebuilt and reopened in August 1998 on the east side of the East Lake Road property. A renovation project was completed in 2020 with the addition of private rooms and a rehabilitation suite.

Barnabas Court opened in 1986 and memorialized the mission and spirit of St. Barnabas House By-theLake. The 58-unit, semi-independent apartment complex strives to help residents maintain maximum independence by offering personal care services in a safe, secure

Today, Brevillier Village, an Erie’s Choice Retirement Community for the past seven years, is well known in the community for the outstanding care provided to the residents.

“The person-centered care Mission can be witnessed on any given day, confirming that every staff member makes a unique and essential impact,” explains President and CEO Jeffrey Wieser.

The Ruth Pedersen Benevolent care fund has given $6,511,129 in care and services to those residents that no longer have the resources to pay for their care. Brevillier Village contributes over $175,000 in property taxes annually.

Intergenerational programming provides countless opportunities for local K-12 school aged students to interact with our residents. These encounters encompass both educational and personal life lessons that cannot be found in a classroom.

During 2023, there were 3,829 volunteer hours and 47 active volunteers at Brevillier Village. Volunteer opportunities extend throughout the entire Village and include recreation, dining services, clerical, events, groundskeeping and resident assistance. Volunteers are residents, their loved ones, friends, staff and others from the community. They are school groups, local parishioners, students, families and individuals.

“Whether they serve on our board of directors, escort residents, serve as floor reps or help with craft projects, all volunteers are valuable assets to our programming,” says Wieser. “We would not be able to provide many of the programs that we do without the support and dedication of our volunteers.”

To learn more, visit brevillier.org.

Brevillier Village is an award-winning, nonprofit housing and health-care community for older adults located on more than 20 acres of picturesque lakefront property at 5416 East Lake Road in Harborcreek Township, Pennsylvania, just 15 minutes from downtown Erie.

Mission: “Through uncompromising attention to body, mind and spirit, Brevillier Village meets housing and health-care needs in a homelike atmosphere.”

Awards: Erie’s Choice Retirement Community for past seven years in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023

Funding Areas: Ruth A. Pedersen Benevolent Fund, Sheltering Oak (staff), Haven Program (pets, horticultural, intergenerational, activities and recreational), Grounds, Technology, and other current projects.

Leadership Staff & Service:

• President and CEO Jeffrey Wieser, 37 Years

• Director of Admissions Kristin Laine, 36 Years

• Director of Recreation Martha Colliss, 35 Years

Nursing Home Administrator Amy Learn, 29 Years

• Conrad House Administrator Jennifer Kehl, 28 Years

• Director of Environmental Services Kelly Million, 28 Years

• Director of Rehabilitation Michele Latzo, 24 Years

• Director of Maintenance Gabriel Charles, 24 Years

Admissions Nurse Case Manager Janet Dubich, 21 Years

• Administrative Assistant/IT Jennifer Schultz, 21 Years

• Personal Care Home Administrator Victoria Gilchrist, 21 Years

• Director of Nursing Jammi Kosiorek, 19 Years

• Infection Control Nurse Hannah Perrin, 16 Years

• Registered Nurse Assessment Coordinator Dawn Hartman, 11 Years

• Director of Development Maureen Rizzo, 5 Years

Social Worker Rebecca Wargo, 4.5 Years

• Social Worker Ashley Perry, 2.5 Years

• Director of Finance Tonya Carpenter, 1 Year Director of Human Resources Miranda Whaley, 1 Year

• Social Worker Grace Clark, New Hire

Director of Dining Services Eric Dickerson, New Hire

Additional Brevillier staff includes (from left) Director of Development Maureen Rizzo, Administrative Assistant/IT Jenn Schultz, Director of Dining Services Eric Dickerson, Director of Maintenance Gabriel Charles, Director of Human Resources Miranda Whaley; and, Director of Environmental Services Kelly Million.
Brevillier’s social services staff includes (from left) Social Workers Grace Clark and Becca Wargo, Administrative Nurse Case Manager Janet Dubich, Social Worker Ashely Perry, Director of Admissions Kristin Laine, Director of Recreation Marti Colliss and Deacon Chuck Adamczyk.
Brevillier’s nursing and therapy staff includes (from left) Director of Nursing Jammi Kosiorek, Registered Nurse Assessment Coordinator Dawn Hartman, Infection Control Nurse Hannah Perrin and Director of Rehabilitation Michele Latzo.
Brevillier Village’s administrative staff includes (from left) Nursing Home Administrator Amy Learn, President and CEO Jeffrey Wieser, Personal Care Home Administrator Vickie Gilchrist and Conrad House Administrator Jen Kehl.

The Erie Community Foundation President Shares Thoughts On Service, 2024 Erie Gives

Today, employers are no longer judged solely on their bottom line. The role they play in the community also can have a major impact on their brand and business. Here, Karen Bilowith, president and CEO of The Erie Community Foundation (ECF) and guest speaker for the MBA’s IMPACT Luncheon & Nonprofit Fair on July 24, shares her views on community involvement and service, and the impact that one of the most successful giving events in the region, Erie Gives, has on nonprofits, employers and the community.

As one of the region’s most high-profile nonprofit leaders, you have a unique perspective on philanthropy and the importance of giving back.

The Erie Community Foundation, which will celebrate its 90th anniversary next year, has a unique perspective on philanthropy because we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders who have the common goal of improving our community. We are in the middle of where generosity meets good work and that’s a special place to be. Every day, community members are impacted by a nonprofit. Our mission is to inspire, engage and empower donors and communities across the region. Thanks to grantmaking, you can see and feel the difference in Erie. Erie’s educational attainment is better than ever because of the Erie County Community College. Neighborhoods are thriving. Our West Bayfront and Eastside Task Force have leveraged more than $7 million in outside funding to make positive change. Our health care is world class due to a $6 million historical grant to expand the Pittsburghbased, Magee Women’s Research Institute to Erie. From our perspective, we see community leaders collaborating regularly and everyone has a voice at the table. That results in forwardthinking, growth and impactful change.

Three years since you joined ECF, you’ve made great strides in leading the Foundation. What achievements are you most proud of?

I am proud of the strategic direction of the Foundation under the vision of our Trustees. I am also proud of our greatest asset, our staff, who through teamwork connect nonprofits and donors. We have also built on the successes of The Erie Community Foundation established by

previous Boards and my predecessor. We continue to convene, collaborate and create open dialogue to move our work forward.

One example is our work with Infinite Erie, a collaboration between public, private and civic leaders. Infinite Erie resulted from the Investment Playbook, and already just two years into the leadership, you can see its work making a difference.

I am also really proud of the success of our regional affiliate foundations in Corry, Findley Lake, North East and Union City. They continue to grow through our support as well as through the work of their volunteer board of directors.

Of course, I admire how our affinity funds inspire others to give by offering an opportunity for collective giving towards a shared purpose.

In 2023, the Erie Women’s Fund, the LGBT Fund and the Emerging Erie Fund collectively gave $187,000 to local nonprofits.

What are some exciting initiatives under way for ECF in 2024?

We are excited about our work with Infinite Erie, which was paramount in the groundbreaking for Grow Erie last summer at Joyce Savocchio Park. Inspired and led by the Minority Community Investment Coalition, our grant will transform the Eastside by providing good jobs and a food oasis in a desert.

We are also excited about the Housing First Erie. As part of the overall comprehensive strategy, the goal is to address homelessness in our community. We are working with many partners on this initiative that will empower 150 people by providing them with housing and wrap-around services. One such partnership is the Construction Trades program at Erie High School. During the evening hours, Erie Center for Arts & Technology leaders are

teaching skilled trades such as electrical, plumbing and building. Well-trained workers are the pipeline to build homes to house the chronically unhoused.

Of course, we are excited for the 14th annual Erie Gives, which will take place on Tuesday, August 13. We have strong support from corporate partners for the Bonus Bucks pro-rated match pool and from smaller community partners for the $500 hourly grants, which we will announce later this summer, closer to Erie Gives.

Tell us more and what’s in store for Erie Gives this year.

New this year, we are excited to announce that the Erie Gives website will be open from midnight to midnight. Our goal was to make giving convenient for donors who work second or third shift, live in a different time zone or are just night owls. Our friendly staff will still answer phones from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 13.

Besides the new Erie Gives logo, we are also excited about our new partnership with Country Fair. From now through August 13, customers who pump gas using their Loyalty ID number and a CIGO gift card, will save .13 cents a gallon AND Country Fair will donate .02 per gallon to all the Erie Gives nonprofits! Whatever is raised will be divided evenly, and to date, over $40,000 has been raised.

Our regional affiliate foundation friends have voted to donate an extra $30,000, $25,000 and $10,000 to Erie Gives nonprofits in their respective communities.

What’s the best way to learn more about ECF, Erie Gives and ways to get involved? Visit ErieCommunityFoundation.org, ErieGives.org or attend the MBA’s IMPACT Luncheon & Nonprofit Fair on July 24.

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Election Year Issues for Nonprofits

Bill Speros is a partner at MacDonald Illig. He represents for-profit and nonprofit clients on contract formation and related litigation in state and federal courts. He is also the solicitor for Erie County.

In a presidential election year, tax-exempt organizations might consider becoming more active in the political process. For example, there are nonprofits that regularly engage in neutral, nonpartisan voter registration and get-out-the-vote drives. Others might go a step further and view campaign season as an opportunity to raise public awareness of an issue of particular interest to the organization or to influence the passage of related legislation. When such increased political activity crosses into an attempt by the organization to elect a candidate or slate of candidates based on their position on the issues, the result could have negative tax consequences.

Under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3), a nonprofit organization may not qualify for tax-exempt status unless it not only meets the requirement of operating for an exempt purpose, but

also refrains from participating or intervening in “any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office.” Campaign regulations clarify that a 501(c)(3) making any written or oral statements for or against a candidate for public office, including the rating of candidates on a nonpartisan basis, constitutes political campaigning and is prohibited. The prohibition on participation in campaign activities is absolute, and 501(c)(3) organizations must use caution not to wander into questionable activities that might put their tax-exempt status at risk.

Nonprofits often participate in political activities without displaying partisanship or explicitly endorsing a particular candidate. In such circumstances, steering clear of risk can still prove difficult. There is no bright-line test for determining if the 501(c)(3) participated or intervened in a political campaign, and all facts and circumstances must be considered to determine whether the organization engaged in some reasonably overt communication that supports or opposes a political candidate. Even educational organizations can inadvertently cross the line if their communication drifts toward advocacy, such as presenting conclusions unsupported by facts or based on opinions rather than objective evaluations.

When a nonprofit supports or opposes an initiative or referendum, such activity is typically considered to be lobbying rather than prohibited political campaign activity. A 501(c)(3) organization is permitted to engage in limited lobbying activity, but risks tax implications if a substantial part of its activities amount to attempting to influence legislation. This limitation is less restrictive for nonprofit organizations described in other subsections of IRC 501(c), such as subsection (c)(4) for social welfare organizations, (c)(5) for agricultural organizations or unions, or (c)(6) for business leagues and trade boards. These organizations can generally engage in lobbying in support of their exempt purpose provided they stop short of promoting or opposing candidates for office. The prohibition on campaigning activity also extends to financial contributions. IRC 501(c)(3) organizations may not make monetary contributions to any political organization governed by IRC 527, such as a candidate committee, political party committee, or political action committee (PAC). However, a 501(c)(3) organization is permitted to make a contribution to a ballot measure committee that supports or opposes a ballot initiative or referendum, but also must include such contributions in its accounting for purposes of determining whether a substantial part of the nonprofit’s activities consist of lobbying.

Violating the ban on political campaign activity could potentially result in denial or revocation of a nonprofit organization’s tax-exempt status, as well as the imposition of an excise tax on the amount of money spent on the prohibited activity. During this election year, 501(c)(3) organizations in the Commonwealth should become intimately familiar with the restrictions on political contributions and campaign activities to keep their tax-exempt status secure.

For more information, contact Bill Speros at 814/870-7764 or wsperos@mijb.com

MORE THAN 70 PARTICIPANTS

ATTEND POVERTY SIMULATION

HOSTED BY ERIE WOMEN’S FUND, WOMEN UNITED

Representatives from the Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) were among 70 participants to attend the recent Poverty Simulation designed to Rethink Poverty at the Mercy Anchor Community Center at the Mercy Center for Women in Erie.

The event, hosted by the Erie Women’s Fund of The Erie Community Foundation in conjunction with United Way’s Women United for Community Schools, was designed to bring light to the dire needs of our neighbors battling financial crisis.

During the hands-on poverty simulation, attendees got to learn about what life is like for the 35,854 Erie County individuals and families who face poverty every day.

To learn more, visit eriecommunityfoundation.org/ partners/erie-womens-fund and unitedwayerie. org/learn/supporters/women-united

ERIE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

WINS NATIONAL AWARD

Erie Federal Credit Union (Erie FCU) was named a winner of a prestigious “Diamond Award” from the Marketing & Business Development Council of America’s Credit Unions. The credit union won in the One Time Event category for its Fairview Branch Grand Opening marketing campaign.

“We are extremely honored and grateful to receive this recognition,” said Erie FCU Chief Executive Officer Brian Waugaman. “We humbly accept on behalf of our over 76,000 members and on behalf of all Pennsylvania credit unions who strive daily to make a difference in the lives of their members and the communities they serve.”

Held earlier this year in Las Vegas, Nevada, the most prestigious annual credit union marketing excellence competition, the Diamond Awards, recognizes the best marketing campaigns in the credit union industry from the past year. Winners are selected based on strategy, creativity, design and production, copy and communications and results. Credit unions, advertising agencies and associations submitted a record 1,451 submissions for the prestigious awards. In all, 168 organizations from 44 states and the District of Columbia were selected as winners. America’s Credit Unions is the unified voice for not-for-profit credit unions and their more than 140 million members nationwide.

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 76,000 with assets of more than $773 million with over 200 full- and part-time employees with a corporate office and nine branch locations.

For more information, visit eriefcu.org.

ERIE INSURANCE RECEIVES ‘BEST EMPLOYERS: EXCELLENCE IN HEALTH & WELL-BEING’ AWARD

Erie Insurance (ERIE) has received the 2024 Best Employers: Excellence in Health & Well-Being award from Business Group on Health. The annual corporate awards program recognizes companies across diverse sectors for advancing employee well-being through comprehensive and innovative benefits and initiatives.

This is the 15th consecutive year ERIE has earned recognition for excellence in health and well-being from the Business Group on Health. The awards were announced in April at the Group’s annual conference in Tucson, Arizona. The 2024 honorees represent a wide range of industries, including financial services, health care, insurance, manufacturing, professional services, technology and utilities.

“At ERIE, we are committed to supporting and caring for our employees and their families and have done so for nearly a century,” said Jody Irwin, director of benefits for Erie Insurance. “It is always an honor to be recognized by Business Group on Health as one of the leading employee health and well-being programs in the country. This award celebrates our accomplishments and motivates us to continue to evolve health and well-being resources to meet the needs of our workforce now and in the future.”

MaryAnn Marchant, who administers ERIE’s health and well-being programs as a benefits analyst in Total Rewards, credits this distinction to the company’s early vision, strong culture and engaged employees.

“We set out in our work to provide comprehensive

and holistic benefits to support and advance our employees on the job and in their personal lives,” added Marchant. “Working together, we create and sustain a culture of health and wellness for physical, financial and emotional well-being.”

As part of ERIE’s “Total Rewards” benefits program, the company offers an incentivebased well-being program, annual biometric screenings, medical and dental exams, dedicated wellness representatives, nutrition counseling and several voluntary health education programs. ERIE employees also have access to an expanded mental health and emotional wellbeing initiative that provides onsite behavioral health counseling and many other resources aimed at educating employees and removing the stigma of mental health conditions.

According to the awards criteria, Business Group on Health evaluated companies based on “leadership, strategy and culture and holistic well-being approaches, including mental health, financial security, physical health, social connectedness, job satisfaction, engagement and the employee experience, health equity, metrics and evaluations.”

For more information, visit erieinsurance.com.

The Poverty Simulation, held at the Mercy Anchor Community Center in Erie, engaged business and community members in an effort to rethink poverty.

THE ERIE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

APPOINTS WEISER AS THE VP OF PHILANTHROPIC SERVICES

Steve Weiser was appointed vice president of Philanthropic Services at The Erie Community Foundation.

In this role, Weiser plays a pivotal role in guiding donors towards fulfilling their longterm charitable goals. Leading a team of three dedicated professionals, he oversees initiatives aimed at assisting donors in establishing new funds and creating estate gifts through strategic planned giving. Weiser will build relationships with various stakeholders including financial advisors, estate planning attorneys and the regional community foundation leaders in Corry, Findley Lake, North East and Union City. A distinguished graduate of Temple University where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Weiser was most recently the executive director of the Erie Philharmonic. During his tenure, he demonstrated exceptional leadership, overseeing a period of significant growth. The Erie Phil experienced remarkable increases in contributed revenues along with a 300-percent expansion of its endowment. Under Weiser’s leadership, the Erie Phil secured historical gifts including a monumental $2.5 million estate pledge and a $2 million direct gift.

12 MACDONALD ILLIG ATTORNEYS

RECOGNIZED AS 2024 PA SUPER LAWYERS ®, RISING STARS

MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP in Erie recently announced that partners W. Patrick Delaney, John W. Draskovic, Nicholas R. Pagliari, Lisa Smith Presta and Roger H. Taft have been selected as 2024 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers®. Only 5 percent of attorneys in Pennsylvania are chosen to receive this distinction.

Additionally, partners Brian Cressman, Michael Micsky and Jamie Schumacher and associates Lydia Caparosa, Lauren Holler, Emilie Swan Reinhardt and Ashley Solo have been selected to the 2024 Pennsylvania Rising Stars list. Each year, no more than 2.5 percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor.

Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters business, is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The Super Lawyers lists are published nationwide in Super Lawyers Magazines and in leading city and regional magazines and newspapers across the country.

15 KNOX LAW ATTORNEYS SELECTED FOR 2024 PA SUPER LAWYERS ®, RISING STARS

Knox Law in Erie recently announced that Bryan Baumann, Mark Claypool, Neal Devlin, Guy Fustine, Frances McCormick, Edward Spontak, Tom Tupitza, Tim Wachter and Mark Wassell have all been selected for inclusion on the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® list for 2024.

Additionally, six attorneys have been selected for inclusion on the 2024 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® Rising Stars list: Alex Cox, Aurora Hardin, Bill Helbling, Matt Lasher, Philip Seaver-Hall and Bob Zaruta.

According to superlawyers.com, Super Lawyers® “is a rating service of outstanding lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.” No more than 5 percent of lawyers in the state are named to the list.

“Rising Stars” candidates must be either 40 years old or younger, or have practiced law for 10 years or less. No more than 2.5 percent of lawyers in the state are named to this list.

KNOX LAW WELCOMES NEW ATTORNEY

Knox Law in Erie recently welcomed Brian M. Seelinger, who will focus his practice on Business & Tax, Public Finance & Bonds, and Employee Benefits.

Knox Law recognizes the important overlap between law, finance and investments; wise lawyers and investors possess good judgment and the ability to analyze multiple sides of an issue.

ASBURY WOODS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EARNS CFRE RECERTIFICATION

Asbury Woods Executive Director Jennifer Farrar recently earned her recertification as a certified fundraising executive (CFRE).

Farrar is one of more than 7,700 professionals around the world who hold the CFRE designation. The CFRE credential was created to identify those individuals who possess the knowledge, skills, and commitment to perform fundraising duties in an effective and ethical manner.

As a voluntary achievement, the CFRE certification demonstrates a high level of commitment by Farrar to the fundraising profession and donors she serves.

Asbury Woods is an independent, nonprofit organization that offers an array of educational, environmental and recreational programming for schools, community groups, families and individuals of all ages. In addition, Asbury Woods manages and maintains 234 acres of preserved property which includes native species, old-growth forests, landscaped gardens, wetlands, boardwalk trails and dirt trails.

ERIE FCU NAMES CETTIN AS CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER

Erie Federal Credit Union (Erie FCU) announced that Tracey Cettin has been promoted to chief human resources officer (CHRO), a newly added position to the credit union’s executive team.

As CHRO, Cettin leads the efforts of diversity, equity and inclusion,employee engagement, talent acquisition, employee relations, company culture, compensation and benefits. She will also work closely with the executive team and department heads to align human resources objectives with the credit union’s overall strategic goals.

Seelinger is known for his ability to handle complex matters, tactical and strategic thinking, analytical reasoning, and attention to detail. He holds the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation in addition to other professional financial designations. He is valued for his analytical acumen and thoughtful opinions. Most recently, he served as senior portfolio manager and vice president in the Trust Department at a publicly traded multi-state bank. Before that, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to a unique opportunity, where he served as the COO of an e-commerce company, leveraging his negotiation skills to secure deals with high-profile companies across the nation.

Cettin is a long-term credit union professional who has been with Erie FCU since 2009, when she was hired as the credit union’s first Human Resources and Training manager.

A native of Erie, Cettin earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the Pennsylvania State University and certifications from the Society of Human Resources Management and the HR Certification Institute.

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 76,000 with assets of more than $776 million with over 200 full and part-time employees with a corporate office and nine branch locations.

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YOUR PRAYERS WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

The journey to possible sainthood for Gertrude Barber began when her Cause for Canonization opened in December 2019. You can support this effort by praying to Gertrude Barber, and asking for her intercession.

Why is a miracle needed?

The canonization process requires the verification of two miracles that occur because someone prayed to the candidate to intercede. Many of the miracles involve medical cures or the answer to prayers in other desperate circumstances.

Gertrude Barber brought light to what had been a world of darkness for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and their families.

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The Penn State Behrend Center for Family Business hosted its first Family Business Conference on May 15 and 16 at the Burke Center and the Susan Hirt Hagen CORE building. More than 100 attendees engaged with three keynote presentations and four breakout sessions over the day-and-a-half program.

The conference was the first of its kind in the region and the culmination of one year of preparation between the leadership of the center and its advisory board. The annual program will be the signature event of the Center for Family Business, an outreach unit of Behrend’s Black School of Business.

“We really enjoyed the Family Business Conference,” said Steve Jones, owner of Ron Jones Hardwoods and a member of the Center for Family Business. “What an exceptional array of speakers and take-home content.”

Keynote speakers included Bob Castellini Jr., who spoke about the challenges faced by his grandfather, who developed the Minute Maid and Chiquita brands, and his father, who is the majority owner of the Cincinnati

Reds baseball team. He shared poignant stories of success followed by failure followed by success and stressed the importance of deep planning as families transition from generation to generation in their business.

James Bly, managing director of EY’s Family Enterprise Practice, spoke on “Megatrends” and the changes in demographics, the economy and other critical areas that could impact family businesses in the very near future.

Richard Seaman, chairman and secondgeneration owner of Seaman Corporation, spoke about his book, A Vibrant Vision: The Entrepreneurship of Multi-Generational Family Business, and shared how his family balanced the interests of the business with the interests of the family. Each conference attendee received a signed copy of Seaman’s book.

In addition to the keynote speakers, attendees enjoyed breakout presentations on board creation, succession planning, employee stock ownership programs, and minorityand women-led family businesses.

“One of the things I most loved about presenting at the Family Business Conference was the camaraderie and generosity among the speakers, organizers and participants,” said Abby Donnelly, who presented a breakout on succession planning.

Planning already is under way for the next conference, which is scheduled for May 14 and 15, 2025.

“Top to bottom, I was impressed with the speakers and attendees at the Penn State Behrend Center for Family Business Conference,” said Zac Wild, a financial advisor at Edward Jones and a breakout sponsor. “Not often do you get such great speakers in the first year of a conference!”

The Center for Family Business at Penn State Behrend’s Black School of Business provides programming, networking opportunities and resources in areas such as succession planning, estate planning, and other critical areas to support family owned businesses in northwestern Pennsylvania. With a vision to fuel economic growth, the center strives to be the leading educational hub for such enterprises in the region.

Learn more at www.familybusiness.psu.edu.

The Family Business Conference was a great way for business owners to exchange ideas.
Attendees listened intently to the various presentations and breakout sessions held on May 15 and 16.
The 2024 Family Business Conference featured keynote speakers who discussed the challenges and opportunities unique to family businesses.

Delta Dental: making moments that matter

Delta Dental has been serving millions of enrollees across the United States since 1955. Sarah Chavarria leads Delta Dental as the chief executive officer and president. Her vision drives the company’s mission to improve oral health outcomes for millions.

Services and programs

Delta Dental has partnered with the Manufacturer & Business Association to offer plans for M&BA member groups to choose from.

Delta Dental PPO™

The Delta Dental PPO plan offers flexibility, allowing members to see any dentist. They’ll save the most, however, when they visit a licensed dentist in Delta Dental’s vast provider network — the largest in the nation.

Members receive low- or no-cost cleanings and exams. They pay a percentage of the dentist’s fee for services such as fillings, crowns and in some plans, orthodontics.

Delta Dental has the largest dentist network in the United States, with dentists available in over 459,000 locations. Looking for a dentist? The Find a Dentist tool at deltadentalins.com allows members to locate a dentist in their area.

Additional benefits

• BrushSmart™ is a free wellness program to help improve oral care at home. Members get special offers on dental products and incentives for maintaining good oral health.

• Virtual dentistry offers PPO members convenient online access to a Delta Dental dentist for answers to questions, quick checkups, second opinions or other oral health needs in between visits to the dentist’s office.

• Member perks provide discounts on LASIK and hearing aids as well as LifePerks, which gives members unlimited access to discounts on products and services such as

fitness, groceries and meal delivery.

• The Healthcare Spending Card¹ is a new and unique way for employees to finance out-of-pocket dental expenses over 12 months with no fees.

Looking ahead

Delta Dental continues to evolve, pushing the industry to transform modern health care, so members and their families get more moments that matter.

Visit Delta Dental at deltadentalins.com or contact the M&BA at 800-815-2600

¹ Lane Health is a financial technology company, not a bank. The Healthcare Spending Card is issued by Lead Bank pursuant to a license from Visa USA Inc.

Eileen Anderson is the director of Government Relations at the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 412/805-5707 or eileenanderson@ mbausa.org.

PART I. The PROBLEM: PA’s grim demographics have a profound impact on workforce and state revenue.

Here is what the expert, Matthew Knittel, M.A., Ph.D., director of PA’s Independent Fiscal Office, said at the Senate Budget Hearing on March 20, 2023:

Sen. Steven Santarsiero asked about where Dr. Knittel would rank the demographic issue as something for the General Assembly to address.

“I would put it at the top. It might even be No. 1, ” Knittel replied.

Here are the grim facts about the old folks: People are getting older and long-term care costs are increasing.

• One in four Pennsylvanians are senior citizens and by the end of the decade one in three state residents will be senior citizens.

• The state already ranks third among states in the number of residents over the age of 85 and fifth in the number of seniors.

More grim facts: People are moving out and they are not replaced by births.

More working-age people are moving out of PA than are moving in and there are more deaths than births.

At Last, GROW PA Legislation Directly Addresses State’s Grim Demographics

The end result is a declining working-age population. The results are serious and should be addressed.

As the retirement-age population grows, Pennsylvanians will have to spend more money on social services, which already account for a large amount of state government expenditures. As the working-age people who pay the taxes that fund state government move out, there is less revenue.

Of special note to MBA members, there is less and less workforce.

PART II. A SOLUTION: GROW PA legislation will incentivize young people to stay, raise families and work.

Who knows where this package of bills, Senate Bills 1150, 1151, 1152, 1153, 1154, and 1155, will be by the time this article is published and the tug-of-war over the state budget is either over or in full-combat mode. Partisan politics may raise its ugly head during this ugly election year, ignore the critical fact that without a workforce there is no economy and bludgeon this legislation.

Here’s why both Republicans and Democrats should like GROW PA. These two bills have “Golden Incentives.” Among the bills are these two that encourage residency in PA.

Senate Bill 1150 would create the Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program, which would offer grants of up to $5,000 per year for in-state students who attend college in Pennsylvania, pursue a degree in a high-demand industry, and agree to live and work in that industry in Pennsylvania after graduation.

Grant recipients would be required to live and work in Pennsylvania for at least 15 months for each year they accept the

grant. Failure to meet this requirement would result in the grants being converted to a loan that must be repaid.

Senate Bill 1151 would create the Grow PA Merit Scholarship Program, which would help attract high-performing out-of-state students to Pennsylvania educational programs in Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) schools. The merit scholarships would allow students pursuing in-demand occupations to pay tuition at in-state rates, rather than outof-state rates.

Like the scholarship program for in-state students, merit scholarship recipients would be required to live and work in Pennsylvania after graduation or have the scholarships converted to loans.

The bottom line is that while lawmakers focus on various types of legislation, they fail to see that we are competing with other states for young people. Yes, we are competing with other states regarding the time it takes to get a permit; yes, we are competing regarding which state has the lowest corporate net income tax or the best net operating loss for start-ups, or which state has allowed recreational marijuana. Lost in that fragmented shuffle is the fact that the most important competition is for young people. Yes, young people!

Young people are migrating to states for better opportunities. They are moving to Florida, Texas, Georgia, the Carolinas and Tennessee.

While there is not enough space here to discuss all of the bills in the package, the goal is to keep the state’s youth within its borders and boost the economy as a way to deal with workforce shortages, high college costs and the struggle of lagging behind other states.

SURVEY FINDS THREE IN FIVE COMPANIES REPORTED INCREASED OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROUP VOLUNTEERING

More workplaces are bolstering their volunteer programs, especially as employee demands grow for socially responsible employers and engagement. Nearly three in five companies surveyed by the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals reported increased opportunities for group volunteering last year.

Recent University of Oxford research suggests organized volunteering is one of the most effective workplace programs for improving workers’ well-being. But not all corporate volunteering is created equal. The following advice from experts and nonprofit leaders provides some best practices for anyone interested in building or strengthening an officewide culture of service.

Eddy Hogg, a lecturer who studies volunteering, recommends giving agency to employees in the design of their workplace volunteer program. People who volunteer on their own time likely have a much more personal connection to the cause, he said, whereas an employee group will have varied levels of interest in any given act of service.

Allowing employees to select from a range of local community groups, and suggest their own, can help ensure everyone feels connected to their nonprofit partner’s mission. Affinity groups can be a good place to start aligning employee interests with service work.

Consider a Modern Approach to Personalized Vision Benefits

Offering a complete benefits package is crucial to helping your employees maintain their overall health and well-being. To ensure your employees’ unique needs are met, consider selecting carriers who consistently review plan design trends and industry studies to make meaningful recommendations. Important aspects to consider when re-evaluating your plan include frequency, material allowance, employee out-of-pocket costs and premium rates.

A comprehensive vision plan is essential for receiving annual vision care exams and materials that meet eye and health needs no matter a person’s visual acuity.

Modern vision plans focus on employees’ visual needs and budget while keeping today’s industry trends in mind. Designing a customized plan goes beyond matching current benefits and requires support and guidance from a trusted expert.

With a traditional plan, employees are often faced with the concern of reusing a broken frame, paying out-of-pocket when visual needs change or using contact lenses beyond the recommended wear.

With a modern plan, increased frame and contact lens allowances allow members to select materials that meet their needs. The average contact lens allowance of $110 does not facilitate the purchase of an annual supply, with average annual supplies ranging from $180 to $760.

For employers with a large population of early- or mid-career professionals, a vision plan that limits employees to either eyeglasses or contact lenses may not allow for a seamless transition from their work day, to their hobbies, travels or downtime. As many as 24 percent of people who need vision correction identify as Dual Wearers, meaning they choose between glasses and contacts based on their mood and daily activities. With innovative plan designs, like VBA’s Combo Plan, employees can have their visual needs met with a complete pair of eyeglasses and contact lenses in the same benefit period.

For employers who have a large population of late-career professionals, a single pair of glasses may not meet employees’ personal and professional needs. Employers can take a proactive step in enhancing their vision benefits by offering coverage for an additional pair of eyeglasses.

Scan the QR code for article sources

Matt Cuomo

is the vice president of Sales at Vision Benefits of America (VBA). He is responsible for sales and vision plan education. To connect with an expert about customizing a modern vision plan, contact him at mcuomo@vbaplans.com or visit vbaplans.com.

Address: 504 E. Main Street

Titusville, PA 16354

Phone: 888-878-0462

Website: etc.pitt.edu

Education & Training Center at Pitt-Titusville Breaks Ground On $7 Million Renovation Project

The Education & Training Center at Pitt-Titusville (ETC) recently started a $7 million renovation to transform the Student Union next spring into a multifunctional space to meet the needs of partners and students, and boost future economic development in the region.

“The Student Union renovations will enable us to expand our program offerings and create student space for creativity and networking,” Executive Director Stephanie Fiely, Ed.D., said. “It will allow us to bring the Manufacturing Assistance Center onto the campus where the machines and projects will be visible and give students an opportunity to utilize tools and machines within the new makerspace.”

Part of the seating area within the former gymnasium will be home to an art gallery, which will showcase student work through the programs offered by Manchester Bidwell Corporation in Titusville. In addition, there may be opportunities to showcase work from outside artists.

In the current racquetball court area, a machine workshop, known as the Peter C.

Rossin Manufacturing Center, will be added for the MAC program. Windows will create the wall between the student lounge and the workshop, making the workshop visible to everyone walking by the space. In addition, MAC students will utilize a new second-floor classroom that will overlook this workshop.

“This newly renovated space will enable us to expand and use quality control and manufacturing automation equipment that our current space cannot accommodate,” Nathan Lucas, workforce readiness recruitment coordinator, explained. “Greatly needed programs are taking shape for students of all ages. Dual-enrollment programs are taking place this summer with Titusville Senior High School, as well as reskilling/upskilling programs for adult learners looking to pivot into a new workforce direction. We have something for all ages and all types of learners.”

“Having such an amazing educational resource for regional tool and die shops to utilize for training and upskilling will help us to further embrace traditional career and technical school and non-traditional students who otherwise would not get the traditional college campus experience,” Lucas added.

Makerspace for ETC Partner Students

The newly renovated space will include a makerspace that will be available for all ETC partner students, who can use 3D printers, tools, and other supplies to create a variety of projects, including learning the additive manufacturing processes.

Joanna Papada, Manchester Bidwell Corporation’s vice president of external and government relations, said, “We are going to use the technology in the makerspace to really

solve problems around the world. I have a partner in the Congo who works with children who have no limbs. He worked with a doctor at UPMC in Pittsburgh to build different types of prosthetics that can be created on a 3D printer. We are going to be sending children legs and arms from Titusville, PA back to the Congo. This is the value of what can be done right here on ETC at Pitt-Titusville’s campus.”

Northern Pennsylvania Regional College will have a workforce development space on the first floor that will serve as an industrial maintenance lab. “We will incorporate training people with the skills they need today,” said Andrea Kessler, Ed.D., director of workforce development. “Our training programs include electronics, mechatronics, PLCs, robotics, hydraulics, pneumatics, and applied motor controls. Our customized approach allows employers and individual learners to choose the programs they need and want for their career goals.”

Supporting Organizations

This project is supported by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the University of Pittsburgh, ETC partners and support from donors through the capital campaign. Contractors for this project include Caliber Contracting Services, Inc., A&MP Electric, Inc., Rabe Environmental Systems, Inc., and Renick Brothers Construction Company.

For more information, contact Katrina McCullough, coordinator of Communications and Marketing for the Education & Training Center at PittTitusville at 814/827-4415 or KML272@pitt.edu.

Shown here are the architectural renderings of the new Student Union.

WHAT CAN RECRUITERS DO TO ATTRACT GEN Z WORKERS?

• Make sure job postings are mobile-friendly

• Recruit with text messaging

• Do virtual interviews

Use social media

• Offer the right benefits and perks

• Push campus recruitment

• Improve your career site

• Update your job descriptions

WHAT EXPANDED BENEFITS ARE GEN ZERS LOOKING FOR?

Mental health benefits

• Student loan repayment

• Educational assistance programs

• Pet Insurance

WHAT ABOUT THE HIGH LEVELS OF STUDENT DEBT THAT IS IN THE NEWS?

Though seeking more than just compensation, Gen Z is entering the workforce with high amounts of student debt. According to a recent study by TransUnion, Gen Z have an average student loan debt of $24,473. While Gen Z values more than just competitive compensation, addressing compensation and total rewards in a straightforward, competitive manner and considering educational repayment assistance programs can give employers a competitive advantage.

HOW DOES GENERATION Z SEARCH FOR JOBS?

Knowing how to attract Gen Z employees starts with understanding their job search habits.

• Employee referrals are Gen Z’s No. 1 job source. Over 60 percent of Gen Z students say referrals from current or former employees are their favorite way of learning about potential employers.

• On-campus career fairs are still king. Gen Z candidates still value face-to-face communication, and rank college career centers and hiring events nearly twice as their Millennial counterparts when it comes to favorite job sources.

• Recruiters are trusted advisers. Gen Z job seekers rank their relationship with their recruiter as the most important factor when deciding whether to accept an offer. Take time to build more meaningful, personal relationships.

Gen Z plans to move on from their current employer in three years or less. Invest in a strong talent community by portraying an accurate employer experience throughout the recruiting process and focusing on benefits that matter.

Know the ABCs of Recruiting Gen Z

By 2030, Generation Z will represent 30 percent of the work force according to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Attracting the best and brightest Gen Z applicants requires an understanding of how this generation thinks and what is important to them.

Who Are They?

Born in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Gen Z will soon pass Millennials as the biggest group of the world population. Gen Z is also the most ethnically diverse generation in history. Often referred to as “digital natives,” Gen Z has stereotypes such as being addicted to technology and being active about social causes they are passionate about.

What Are Their Values?

According to research conducted by McKinsey & Company, the “search for truth” is at the core of Gen Z and their behaviors. “Truth” includes expressing individuality, having open dialogue, having realistic expectations, and understanding the viewpoints and backgrounds of others.

Recruiting & Retaining Generation Z

Employers will need to evaluate current practices and ensure that not only are they good global citizens, but that their impact is visible to both potential job candidates and current employees. As they enter the professional world, Gen Z’s ideal work environments include:

• Flextime

• Opportunities for professional development

• Upward mobility

• Flexible work arrangements

Expanded benefits

• Community involvement

• An ability to utilize advanced technology

Laying out career paths will help Gen Z visualize and work toward goals. A mentorship program can both address intergenerational gaps and help new talent achieve these goals. Making changes and additions to your company culture now will allow you to attract and retain this young future talent.

Doug Kramer, SPHR, is an HR consultant and trainer at the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact him at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or dkramer@mbausa.org

Supporting the Region's Nonprofit Community

In today’s ever-changing environment, risk is constant. Business insurance isn’t. The Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency (LSi) offers a complimentary review of employers’ insurance programs to determine if coverage is adequate for their unique situations, providing peace of mind. The agency thoroughly assess each business and situation to develop creative, comprehensive and cost-effective solutions.

“At LSi, we have found a niche in helping insure nonprofit organizations while mitigating risks to ensure financial stability for their specific mission,” says Board Chairman Doug Loesel. “Our goal is serving them so they can serve others.”

Since 1925, Loesel-Schaaf Insurance Agency has had the opportunity to advise a variety of nonprofit organizations and has discovered common factors unique to them. This has given the agency extensive experience and understanding within the nonprofit sector that will provide an organization with the solid support needed to protect its specific cause.

Additionally, LSi has continued to support and give back to the nonprofit sector by not only serving on various boards, but its staff generously donates time and resources to help nonprofit clients and community. Congratulations to Erie Cancer Wellness, recipient of LSi ’s sponsored booth for the MBA’s IMPACT Luncheon & IMPACT Fair!

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The Manufacturer & Business Association is proud to offer networking and educational opportunities for members. See the latest events and member recognitions held throughout the region. To learn about more upcoming events, visit mbausa.org.

The Pittsburgh Works Together in Erie event hosted at the MBA and sponsored by Pittsburgh Works Together and National Fuel had a great turnout in May! Guest panelists Mike Colpoys of National Fuel Gas Distribution Corp., Jeff Nobers of the Builders Guild of Western Pennsylvania and Pittsburgh Works Together, and Michael Huwar of the Peoples Division of Essential Utilities, Inc. discussed the importance of businesses working together with union leaders and executives from various sectors as well as economic development professionals to build a stronger and more business-friendly economy in Pennsylvania. 

 Ben Kirshner, secretary of the Pennsylvania Office of Transformation and Opportunity. was a guest speaker at the MBA’s legislative breakfast in Erie in May.

Congratulations to Great Lakes Metal Finishing in Erie, which is celebrating 30 years of business in 2024. Pictured from left to right are David Cadwallader (plant manager/operation manager), Dennis Hartwig (president), Scott Flook (production coordinator/ system administrator), and David Wachter (general manager/ sales manager). 

Haysite Reinforced Plastics in Erie was recently presented with an MBA anniversary plaque in celebration of its 70th anniversary this year. Haysite specializes in formulating and processing thermoset composite materials for high temperature insulation, corrosion resistance and lightweight structural support applications. From left are team members: Alicia Kudlak, Stephen Mischler, President Jordi Casanas, David Janas and Joe Miller. 

The MBA recently presented an anniversary plaque to the ANNA Shelter, which is celebrating 20 years of service in Northwest PA in 2024. 

 Good drinks and great conversation was held at the MBA’s Women in Leadership: Mix, Mingle and Mocha event on June 4 in Cranberry Township.

 Chris Hollern, director of HR of McGill, Power, Bell & Associates, LLP, was the winner of the MBA’s April HR Coffee Talk prize pack. HR Coffee Talk is held online every third Tuesday of the month (no meeting in July) to discuss all things HR!

Work with the best.

You demand the best from your team. In return, you want to give your employees the best that you have to offer. We’ve got you covered. UPMC Health Plan offers affordable plan options for businesses of all sizes, an award-winning Health Care Concierge team, and access to high-quality care locally and through the Cigna Healthcare℠ PPO Network when your employees are traveling outside the UPMC service area.*

More reasons why businesses choose UPMC Health Plan

Plan options

No matter the size of your business, we have the right plans to meet your team’s needs.

find out why businesses that choose UPMC Health Plan stay with UPMC Health Plan, visit UPMCHealthPlan.com/employers.

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