may 2012 business magazine

M A G A Z I N E

VOLUME XXV, NUMBER 5 MAY 2012Manufacturer & Business Association

Women Business Leaders Stress Importance of Mentoring, Motivation and Networking / Page 16

INFORMATIVE SOCIAL ON THE GO

This year, everything is new.The all-new online Business Magazinewww.mbabizmag.com

Manufacturer & Business Association

34

FEATURES > 3 / SpotlightDianne Porter talks about her leadership role and the future direction of Erie-based Zeyon, Inc., which designs and manufactures stirred and non-stirred reactor vessels, reactor systems, pressure vessels, tanks and custom metal fabrications.

16 / 5th Annual W.I.L.D. ConferenceWomen business leaders discuss the importance of mentoring, motivation and networking, in conjunction with the fifth annual W.I.L.D. Conference set for May 11 at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie.

33 / Central PA LinkJerry Wertz, chairman of the Association’s Central Pennsylvania Division Advisory Board, recognizes the achievements of one of the region’s most active businesswomen and volunteers.

34 / MBA Central Division Annual Event Keynote Speaker Dick Morris, one of the most prominent political consultants of his generation, shares his insights on his new book and his passion for politics in advance of his guest appearance at the MBA Central Division’s Annual Event on May 15 in Williamsport.

DEPARTMENTS > 4 / Business Buzz23 / On the Hill24 / HR Connection

28 / HR Q&A30 / The Network36 / People Buzz INSERT / Training Catalog

EDITORIAL > 9 / Health Matters Best practices for employers with working caregivers.ANNETTE KOLSKI-ANDREACO

11 / Legal BriefHow you can boost your business by obtaining a Women Business Enterprise Certification. JENNIFER HIRNEISEN AND JENNA BICKFORD

13 / Blue Ocean StrategyWhy a Visual Strategy Fair is the ideal venue for valuable feedback on your future strategy.ANGIE ANGUS

May 2012

Blue Ocean Strategy Center

16

4

Read on the Go!For the most current Business Magazine updates, visit our new website, www.mbabizmag.com, fan us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

What is your business philosophy?

I am in the business of education and believe strongly in the

importance of education, especially for women. The theme of

this year’s Women’s History Month, which is recognized every

March, was “Women’s Education, Women’s Empowerment.”

Education is the foundation for developing self-esteem and

self-con!dence. Education helps women realize their full

potential in political, social, and economical arenas. Education

empowers women through the development of necessary

skills, skills that allow them to make decisions and in"uence

change — change in the community, change in their society,

and most importantly, change in themselves.


Our philosophy at E.C.S. is very basic; we take our responsibilities

to our employees, customers, and community personally. To our

employees, our responsibility is to provide them with a job that

o#ers a fair wage, health insurance and retirement plan, training

to personally and professionally help them grow, and a safe

environment to work in. To our customers, our responsibility is to

provide services that exceed their expectations, quality products

that will bene!t their business, and prices that are fair. And to our

community, our responsibility is to contribute to places where

our employees and customers reside, in order to make those

places better to live and work in.

Executive Director

The Women’s Care Center

of Erie County25 Years as Nonpro!t Leader

Dean — Morosky College of

Health Professions and Sciences

Gannon University

12 Years in Higher Education

General Manager and Co-Owner

Electronic Communication

Services, Inc. (E.C.S.)

23 Years in Business

President and CEO

Erie General Electric Federal

Credit Union15 Years as Financial

Industry Leader


My business philosophy begins with compassion. I am in the business of caring

for the needs of women, primarily those who are in a crisis pregnancy situation,

so my priority is to create an atmosphere of peace and safety. Approaching each

individual client with compassion, understanding, and support; walking with her

from one moment to the next until she can walk on her own again, has proven to

be a winning model. I have seen countless “success” stories over my 25 years as

the executive director of the Women’s Care Center.

Our commitment to the community is to partner in overall community wellness

and assist as an agent of change for emotional healing, character development

and family stability. Serving the tri-state region in eight locations, we seek to

provide an a#ordable, safe place of comfort, support and health to individuals

and families facing unplanned pregnancies, youth making lifestyle choices,

wounded women in need of healing from past mistakes, and childless couples

whose arms ache for a child.


I believe a leader should set their standards high and take pride

in what they do. This is one of our core values at the Erie General

Electric Federal Credit Union. Every day I strive to be a leader with

heart, and I expect the same standard from my employees. I have

always been motivated by community service, and I try to instill

this value in my sta#. If you !nd it in your heart to give, much will be

given to you in return. As a strong advocate of learning and constant

development, I believe a leader should play a large role in helping

their employees cultivate skills and nurture their professional

talents. When you do all that is possible to help employees reach

their goals, they will help the business meet its goals.

20 < www.mbabizmag.com < May 2012

SPECIAL SECTION > 20 / Women Leading the WaySee our new listing of women business leaders and what they each consider to be their business philosophy.

W i L DW i L DSBDC

Women In Leadership Developmentsm

May 2012 > www.mbabizmag.com > 1

MacDonaldIllig.com 814-870-7600

S T R E N G T HI N N U M B E R S

With one of the largest groups of female attorneys in northwestern Pennsylvania, and

over forty attorneys with experience in a broad range of legal matters, MacDonald Illig

has the depth necessary to succeed. From real estate transactions to custody matters,

commercial litigation to labor relations, boardroom to courtroom—the attorneys of

MacDonald Illig stand ready to help.

SPOTLIGHT > by Karen Torres

VOL. XXV, NO. 5 MAY 2012

© Copyright 2012 by the Manufacturer & Business Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial, pictorial or advertisements created for use in the Business Magazine, in any manner, without written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope bearing sufficient postage. The maga-zine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. The Business Magazine and Manufacturer & Business Association do not specifically endorse any of the products or practices described in the magazine. The Business Magazine is published monthly by the Manufacturer & Business Association, 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, Pa. 16508. Phone: 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

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

Manufacturer & Business Association2171 West 38th Street Erie, Pa. 16508 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 www.mbausa.org

Manufacturer Yvonne Atkinson-Mishrell& Business John ClineAssociation Board Dale Deistof Governors Bill Hilbert Jr. Donald Hester Timothy Hunter J. Gordon Naughton John B. Pellegrino Sr., P.E. Dennis Prischak Lorenzo Simonelli Sue Sutto Jerry Wertz

Editor in Chief Ralph Pontillo [email protected]

Executive Editor John Krahe [email protected]

Managing Editor & Karen Torres Senior Writer [email protected]

Communications Jessica Crocker Specialist [email protected]

Contributing Annette Kolski-Andreaco Writers Angie Angus Jenna Bickford Jennifer Hirneisen

Cover Photography W.I.L.D. Conference

Advertising Sales Patty Welther 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 [email protected]

Design, Production Printing Concepts Inc. & Printing [email protected]

ON THE COVER: Women business leaders discuss the importance of mentoring, motivation and networking, in conjunction with the fifth annual W.I.L.D. Conference set for May 11 at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie. For full story, see page 16.

Your father, John A. Yonko Sr., and several other partners established Zeyon in 1968. What prompted them to go into the metal fabrication business? My father and his original partners had all been working for various larger manufactur-ers in Erie and all had similar metal fabrication experience. They got the opportunity to start the business with the funds of one of the partners and my father felt he was young enough to venture into the risk of starting a small business. They all had a good relationship and were aware of the local market needs of a metal fab/pressure vessel manufacturing facility.

Today, Zeyon is an ASME Code shop that specializes in pressure vessels, tanks, stirred reactor systems and B31.1 piping. Please explain to our readers in what industries these products are found. Our pressure vessels, tanks, and reactor systems are sold all over the United States and used in many applications. We have sold systems that are used in laboratories to invent many new products such as pharmaceuticals, contact lenses, tire rubber, and glass products. Several customers of ours use our tanks for the polyurethane industries. We also manufacture non-pressure parts used in the boiler industries. Our piping is used for gas and oil piping systems throughout the world.

You worked side by side with your father for 15 years before his retirement. What was most valuable business lesson that he taught you? My father taught me integrity above anything else. He always ran a fair and honest business and was well respected for that. We have many repeat customers and I believe that our customers come back because we honestly do our best to provide a quality product at fair prices. He also taught me to have fun in business. We have a unique relationship with our customers in that we truly enjoy doing business with them. It is very rewarding to establish long-term friendships and to meet our customers’ needs and goals with them.

What have been your goals since taking over the business? My business partner, Steve Zaun, and I both have the same goals in mind. Our goal is to continue to improve upon our products and services. We try to purchase at least one new piece of machinery or equipment per year, if not more. We need to continu-ally grow with new technology. We continue to add new customers and products to remain diversified enough to stay in business through any economic strife. We train and promote our staff from within whenever possible and try to purchase from local companies.

How critical have your employees been to Zeyon’s current day success? Our employees are everything in this business. We are not successful due to manage-ment alone. Our employees work harder than most in this industry because they must remain flexible in their job duties. For the first time in the history of the company, we are able to offer our employees dental and eye coverage. It is so rewarding to watch students come out of welding school, learn their trade by working hard, and reap the benefits of good wages, profit sharing and insurances. I enjoy working with all of them; we have a lot of fun.

What new projects are on the horizon? We take on any project within reason. We are known for building tanks and reactors that nobody else wants to try to manufacture. There is a good market for unprecedent-ed products. Our newest project is a new reactor system for a returning customer that was very successful with our first reactor system we built for them two years ago.

For more information about Zeyon, Inc., visit www.zeyon.com.

Headquartered at 3408 McClelland Avenue in Erie, Pennsylvania, Zeyon, Inc., is a privately owned company that designs and manufactures stirred and non-stirred reactor vessels, reactor systems, pressure vessels, tanks, and custom metal fabrications. The Business Magazine recently spoke with President Dianne Porter about her leadership role and the future direction of this 44-year-old manufacturer.


Business BuzzACES HOSTS 100TH BUSINESS WEEK PROGRAM AT FORT LEBOEUF HIGH SCHOOLPennsylvania Business Week recently celebrated its 100th program at Fort LeBoeuf High School.

In 1997, the Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA), in conjunction with Fort LeBoeuf, developed Pennsylvania Business Week. In 1999, the MBA turned the program over to Americans for the Competitive Enterprise System, Inc. (ACES).

Business Week is designed to allow teams of high school students to manage companies through a business simulation for an entire week. Students are taught how to manage finances, execute effective advertising campaigns, and work together as a team to achieve success. Business Week incorporates community volunteers to assist the students throughout the week and, as a result, strengthens relationships between the local education and business communities and offers students real-life experience as they manage their simulated company.

In the 99 programs leading up to this year’s Fort LeBoeuf program, Business Week has been presented to more than 13,000 Pennsylvania high school students spanning five western Pennsylvania counties.

For more information, visit www.aceserie.org.

Front row, from left: Yvonne Best-Proctor, Fort LeBoeuf School District; Marian Bergamasco; Val Laufenberg, ACES; and Debra Spaulding, superintendent, Fort LeBoeuf School District.

Second row, from left: Jeremy Lincoln, Lincoln Recycling; Jim Ohrn, Custom Engineering Co.; John Krahe, Manufacturer & Business Association; Carl Wolfrom, Northwest Savings Bank; Charles “Boo“ Hagerty, Hamot Health Foundation; and Martin Rimpa, principal, Fort LeBoeuf High School.

4500 West Ridge Road • Erie PA 16506 • (814) 835-8050 • weissearley.com

ENJOY.

Listening • Understanding • Effective Design

PA 1335


SPLASH LAGOON ADDS NEW INDOOR WAVE POOL COMPLEXErie’s Splash Lagoon, recognized as one of the top 10 indoor water parks in the country, recently opened its newest addition, the Wild Waters Wave Pool Complex. Adding more than 30,000 square feet to Splash’s indoor complex, the new wave pool consists of more than 200,000 gallons of water and includes a 25-foot wall of windows for a scenic view for those riding the waves in the tropical atmosphere of the water park.

Opened in 2003, Splash Lagoon is visited by more than 400,000 people annually.

For more information, visit www.splashlagoon.com.

PENN STATE NOW OFFERS MBA PROGRAM IN CRANBERRY TOWNSHIPFor professionals looking to advance their education and career, a Penn State master’s in business administration (MBA) is now available in the Pittsburgh area at the

Regional Learning Alliance in Cranberry.

The MBA is offered by the Sam and Irene Black School of Business at Penn State Behrend in partnership with the Pittsburgh area Penn State campuses of Beaver, Greater Allegheny, and New Kensington.

Penn State Behrend’s MBA is listed among the best in the country by U.S. News & World Report and the Princeton Review and it’s accredited by AACSB International, a designation held by just 15 percent of colleges and universities worldwide. In Cranberry, the program is presented in a blended format (in-class and online) to make MBA studies as flexible and convenient as possible for working professionals and others. Admission to the program will begin this fall.

For more information, call 866/374-3378 or visit www.behrend.psu.edu/mba.

2012 BEST PLACES TO WORK IN PAAWARD COMPETITION LAUNCHED The competition for a coveted spot

on the 2012 list of the “100 Best Places to Work in Pennsylvania“ has officially opened. Nominations for these awards are now being accepted online at www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com.

Designed to recognize two types of businesses, the program ranks 50 medium-sized companies (25-249 employees) and 50 large-sized companies (250 employees or more).

To be eligible, participating companies must:• Be a for-profit or not-for-profit business;• Be a publicly or privately held business;• Have a facility in Pennsylvania;• Have at least 25 employees in

Pennsylvania;• Be in good standing with all

commonwealth agencies under the governor’s jurisdiction; and

• Meet the Friday, June 8, 2012 deadline.

For more information, visit www.bestplacestoworkinpa.com.

DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Jessica Crocker

The Gannon University SBDC will help you get “Application-Ready.”

Once your business or start-up is“Application-Ready,” the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority and the EconomicDevelopment Corporation of Erie County hasa micro-loan program for Erie County, including minority and women start-ups, rural and urban poverty areas, cottage industries andnon-profits.

To get “Application-Ready” though theStart, Grow & Prosper Initiative, contactBarbara Ward:814-871-7204 or [email protected]

Proud Supporter of the Gannon SBDC2012 Women In Leadership Development (W.I.L.D.) Conference


A venerable Erie firm goes national.What’s in a Name?

“We have grown because our clients like the way we work with them — and more importantly, because they’re pleased with how

we’ve helped them grow and protect their wealth.”— Chris Sorce, Principal and Senior Financial Advisor, HBKS Wealth Advisors

O n December 9, veteran Erie financial executive Greg Sorce rose to welcome the revelers at the annual holiday party that has become something of

a tradition in Erie. As the Sorce business has grown, so has the party and this year nearly 300 guests were there to drink in the holiday cheer. But this year they raised their glasses to more than the holidays; it was an announcement from the host that the firm, which was acquired in 2000 by the prestigious regional accounting firm, Hill, Barth & King, would no longer carry the family name.

“I wanted to take a minute to let you in on a new development for our firm — wanted you to be the first to hear about it,” Sorce addressed the group. “We are changing the name of the firm. Henceforth we will be known as HBKS Wealth Advisors.”

What’s in a name?In Erie, the Sorce name has been

associated with financial advice since 1950, when Greg’s and brother Chris’s father was counseling his Erie neighbors on how to grow and protect their wealth as an advisor with IDS Financial Services. Greg joined IDS in 1982; brother, Chris, started with the company in 1976. The two accompanied IDS in 1986 when American Express Financial Advisors acquired it. In 1994, the two purchased the historic 19th century mansion The Wright House and a year later formed The Sorce Financial Group.

The Sorce Financial Group was to differentiate its advisory business on two fronts. They would invest the time to gain a thorough understanding of the finances of their clients, and then create a detailed plan for that individual and family that accommodated their specific needs and goals. Further, they would closely monitor the plan making adjustments as needed over the months and years. In sum, they would develop intimate, long-term relationships with their clients in order to best protect and grow their wealth and help them achieve the objectives they have set for their wealth.

As well, the firm, now independent, would take a highly disciplined approach to investing their clients’ money. They would not promote

proprietary products, but remain independent in their investment recommendations. “So that the only thing driving our advice is what is in our clients’ best interests,” Chris Sorce notes.

And they brought into the firm other highly respected Erie-based financial advisors. Dean Piccirillo, who had worked with the brothers at American Express Financial Advisors, came on initially as an advisor, and soon added the roles of chief operating

officer and chief compliance officer to his duties. As the business grew, Piccirillo returned to working full-time with his clients. Joseph Kloecker, a CPA, left his position as controller at PNC Bank to join the firm, bringing with him a host of long-term trusting client relationships.

Joseph J. Sorce with sons Chris (left) and Greg (right) in 1984. The senior Sorce began his wealth management career in 1950, retiring in 2000.

a national than local feel to it. HBKS Wealth Advisors is just that — and it’s easier to pronounce and spell than Sorce.

“You know that our philosophy has always been rooted in our focus on doing what is best for our clients. The path we have chosen for our firm is consistent with that belief. Growth allows us to continue investing

in technology and other resources, to continue innovating, to continue broadening our wealth advisory services, to continue attracting more talented financial professionals to our team.

“What the name change does not mean,” Chris Sorce added, “is a change in how we do business. We have grown because our clients like the way we work with them — and more importantly, because they’re pleased with how we’ve helped them grow and protect their wealth. We’re still their local firm, working one-on-one; we’re simply applying that same local philosophy in other locales.”

In 1995, The Sorce Financial Group was formed by Chris and Greg Sorce. It was headquartered in the historic 19th century mansion, The Wright House, today the home of HBKS Wealth Advisors.

Top left to right: Chris Sorce, CFP®, Principal and Senior Financial Advisor; Greg Sorce, CFP®, MSFS, Principal and Senior Financial Advisor.

Lower left to right: Dean Piccirillo, CFP®, CRPS, AIFA, Principal and Senior Financial Advisor; Joseph Kloecker, MBA, CPA, Senior Financial Advisor.

HBK Sorce became HBKS Wealth Advisors in January 2012. The name was changed to more accurately describe the breadth of services the company offers.

In 2000, the success of the Sorce firm led them to look toward expanding their business. They were looking beyond Erie to other markets, but also to broaden the financial services they could offer their clients with other areas of expertise. That led to the firm’s merger with Hill, Barth & King (HBK), a prestigious regional accounting firm in business since 1949 with more than 10,000 clients across the United States. HBK, also with a reputation for long-term client relationships, was looking to expand its offering with a wealth advisory group. The resulting marriage became HBK Sorce Financial.

Since 2000, HBK Sorce Financial has expanded into Ohio and Florida as well as throughout Western Pennsylvania, and added licensed financial professionals in a wide range of financial disciplines. The original firm philosophy, that a caring, intimate relationship is the foundation for a financial plan that gives a person the best chance for success, has generated more business and increased assets under supervision from $200 million to more than $1.4 billion.

The change to HBKS Wealth Advisors reflects the firm’s growth in size and capability, but also its expansion into other cities and states. The name “Wealth Advisors” more accurately reflects the nature of the business.

“Of course we are very proud of having the Sorce name on the door of this firm for so many years,” Greg told his holiday audience. “But from a marketing standpoint, to compete effectively in these new markets we need a name that has more of

HBKS WEALTH ADVISORS · THE WRIGHT HOUSE · 235 WEST 6TH STREET · ERIE, PA 16507 · PHONE: 814-459-1116 · HBKSWEALTHADVISORS.COM

For more information, contact:Erin Heath, 814-590-1219 Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean and Potter CountiesSusan Hileman, 814-572-2077 Crawford, Forest, Mercer and Venango CountiesGerry Schneggenberger, 814-898-6891 Erie and Warren Counties

Numbers don’t lie. If your costs are growing instead of your bottom line, LEAN manufacturing may be the solution. Our experts will conduct an on-site briefing to show you how value stream mapping and continuous improvement programs can help rid your business of unwanted costs due to:

The Northwest Industrial Resource Center also offers LEAN education and in-plant implementations to help keep your business in top shape.

We manufacture success.

Transportation delays Product defects Scrap

Underutilized employees Wasted time and motion

Overproduction Excess inventory

Too much fat in your manufacturing process

?

.

www.nwirc.org

Too Much Fat Ad_Final.indd 1 3/17/12 12:21:45 PM

Providing care for a family member is a centuries-old act that takes place primarily outside the workplace. However, its impact inside the workplace is nonetheless significant, and often overlooked by employers. The majority of persons caring for a loved one are employed and the impact of their care commitment is often underestimated.MetLife, in a 2010 study in conjunction with AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, estimated that lost productivity in the workplace as a result of caregiving is approximately $33 billion a year. This would include tardiness, leaving early from work, or even rejecting promotions that would force a caregiver to move far away from elderly parents. The Hidden Costs of CaregivingEmployers do not always recognize the hidden costs of caregiving. The fact that the working population is aging means that employers have to realize they are likely to have a large cohort of employees who have increased responsibilities for elderly parents and other elderly loved ones. We have an older working population caring for an even older age group and that’s a significant hidden cost.An estimated 17 percent of full-time workers are caregivers. Nearly one-third of all working caregivers are in a professional position. According to a Caregiving in America study, more than 73 percent of caregivers were employed at some time when they were caregiving. That is significant because the study also showed that 66 percent of employed caregivers have gone in late, left early, or taken

off time during the day to deal with caregiving issues. Twenty percent of employed caregivers have reported taking leaves of absence. In general, it is estimated that caregivers miss an average of 6.6 workdays per year as a result of caregiving activity. And, a majority of caregivers believe that caregiving has some impact on their work performance.A Gallup survey indicates that 28 percent of working caregivers do not believe their employer is aware of their caregiving status. The Impact of StressThe impact of stress on caregivers can show itself in a number of ways such as muscle tension, impaired immune system function, increased blood pressure, sleep difficulties and lack of exercise.A caregiver is at extreme risk, health-wise. And, when the caregiver’s health is compromised, the care receiver is at risk. What an Employer Can Do to Aid Caregivers

1. Remember: For most employees, caregiving is a first-time experience. Inexperienced caregivers may need help in knowing where to turn for assistance. Providing an organized support system for employees would be a meaningful investment for employers given the high percentage of working caregivers who would like to work more if their caregiving responsibilities were lessened.

2. Provide flexibility. This would include flexibility in terms of work schedules, leave time, etc.

3. Increase awareness of caregiving and its potential impact on a work force. This can be done through involvement of human resources, which can alert employees about helpful community resources.

4. Utilize the EAP. Employee Assistance Programs should be promoted as a source of support, information and referrals to resources. EAPs also can provide emotional and practical solutions to problems. An EAP can be a source of information about the legal implications and financial repercussions of caregiving.

5. According to a Gallup survey, one-quarter or less of working caregivers have access to support groups, ask-a-nurse-type services, financial/legal advisers, and assisted living counselors through their respective workplaces.

To learn more about workplace services available through LifeSolutions, please visit www.UPMCHealthPlan.com.

Best Practices for Employers with Working Caregivers

Health MattersEDITORIAL > by Annette Kolski-Andreaco

Annette Kolski-Andreaco is an account executive for LifeSolutions, which is part of the UPMC Insurance Services Division. These include UPMC Health Plan, LifeSolutions, UPMC for You (Medical Assistance), Askesis Development Group, Community Care Behavioral Health and E-Benefits – and which offer a full range of insurance programs and products.


Many women-owned businesses overlook an invaluable avenue for generating new contracts and marketing the business. That avenue is a certification as a women business enterprise (“WBE“). A WBE certification opens the door for women-owned businesses to contract with governmental entities that set aside certain contracts, particularly for WBEs. A WBE certification also appeals to many companies that have diversity supplier programs. Additionally, while outside the scope of this article, there are unique grant and financing opportunities available for WBEs. What is a “women business enterprise?“ Generally, it is an enterprise that is owned and controlled by a woman or women. Particular standards for WBE certification may vary, however, between the federal, state, and public or private company levels.Federal Certification The federal government must award 5 percent of its prime and subcontract dollars to WBEs and is also permitted to set aside certain contracts for WBEs. The U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA“) administers the federal WBE program. Federal agencies negotiate with the SBA to set goals for the use of small businesses, including WBEs. For federal WBE certification, a business must be owned and controlled at least 51 percent by a woman or women who are U.S. citizens, be managed by a woman or women, and be small for its industry.A business can “self-certify“ with the SBA by: 1) certifying that the business meets the WBE requirements; and 2) submitting supporting documentation. Supporting documentation includes proof of U.S. citizenship; copies of corporate formation documents and amendments, if any; and internal operating agreements. Other corporate documents may be requested. The SBA also has third-party certifiers through which businesses can seek certification.

State CertificationIn Pennsylvania, the Bureau of Minority and Women Business Opportunities (“BMWBO“) certifies businesses as WBEs. The BMWBO maintains a searchable database of certified WBEs that can be utilized by state agencies to locate WBE suppliers. To obtain a state WBE certification, a business must meet the following requirements: • It must be owned 51 percent or more

by a woman or women; • A woman must hold the highest

position in the company; • It must be a small business (no more

than 100 employees); • It must have been in business for at

least a year or have an approved two-year business plan;

• It must be independent of other business entities;

• It must be for-profit; and• It must provide the goods and/or

services for which the business is being certified.

The application process for state WBE certification is outlined on the Bureau’s website and is similar to the federal certification process. Once an application for state WBE certification is approved, it is valid for two years. Non-Governmental CertificationMany companies voluntarily adopt diversity supplier programs because they believe it is beneficial for their distribution chains to reflect the diversity of their customer pools. In most programs, companies aim to purchase certain amounts of goods and services, or to spend certain dollar amounts purchasing goods and services, from minority businesses, including WBEs. Numerous entities can certify a business as a WBE for purposes of non-governmental contracting. The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (“WBENC“), which is also a third-party certifier for the

SBA, provides a nationally recognized WBE certification program. A partner organization, the Women’s Business Enterprise Council (the “WBEC“), provides certifications for businesses in Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey. The WBEC’s certification is recognized nationally by many corporations, nonprofits and government agencies. Like other certification bodies, the WBEC maintains a searchable database of WBEs for use by companies looking for suppliers. The WBEC also holds marketing events and trade shows for its certified WBEs. WBEC’s application process typically takes 60 to 90 days and begins with the submission of an application through the WBEC website, wbecouncil.org. If you have questions regarding WBEs or the certification process, please contact Jennifer Hirneisen, Jenna Bickford, or any MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP attorney with whom you have worked at 814/870-7600.

Jenna Bickford is an associate at MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP. She practices in the areas of Business Transactions, Real Estate, Government Services, and Health Care.

Jennifer Hirneisen is an associate at MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP. She practices in the areas of Real Estate and Family Law.

Legal BriefCertifying Success: Boost Your Business by Obtaining a Women Business Enterprise Certification

EDITORIAL > by Jennifer Hirneisen and Jenna Bickford


Creative:

Account:

Production:

Proofreader:

Client: PNCCampaign: May Small Bizgyro job #: 431-022PNC job #:n/aAD #: BBK-MSBSDG #: IN15522J

4/10/12 (date created)Pub: Business MagazineIssue: MayMaterials due: 4/11/12Prod designer: ns

Pages: FP bleedTrim: 8.25”x 10.875”Live: 8” x 10.625”Bleed: 8.625” x 11.25”

for those who make,sell, build, support,create, service,supply, repair, give,design, deliver,produce and contributeto our economy,we say thank you.

PNC Bank is a registered mark of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”). Banking products and services offered by PNC Bank, National Association,a wholly owned subsidiary of PNC andMember FDIC. © 2012 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Giving small businesses the credit they deserve. Local businesses

help support the vitality of our communities. That’s why we’re here for you

today, tomorrow and especially during our May Small Business Month.

To learn more, stop by a branch, call 855-PNC-CFO5 or visit pnc.com/cfo

EDITORIAL > by Angie Angus

Angie Angus is the manager of BOS Programs and Support Services.

Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant, by authors W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne, is an international bestseller that has been written in 42 languages. This article is part of a series that features excerpts from that book.

Once you’ve conducted the Visual Exploration Phase of Blue Ocean Strategy (BOS), where you looked across the Six Paths at alternatives and conducted field work with both your noncustomers and customers, you will use the information gathered to create your new strategies. The Visual Creation Phase requires difficult choices as to what to eliminate, reduce, raise and create to differentiate your product or service from the competition.

Your BOS team or teams will create “To Be“ Strategy Canvases that will give you a visual representation of the new strategies you are considering. Previously, we discussed testing your blue ocean ideas prior to implementing them by checking to see if the ideas were focused, divergent, and had a compelling tagline. However, it may be difficult to be unbiased when you are critiquing your own ideas.

Objective FeedbackTo receive objective feedback — that is relatively free from the politics that sometimes influence the strategic planning process — hold a Visual Strategy Fair. A Visual Strategy Fair is a meeting where each “To Be“ Strategy Canvas is presented along with a compelling tagline that describes the strategy. Each presentation should be no longer than 10 minutes. If a presentation is longer, the idea is probably too complex to be successful.

The attendees of the fair should include manage-ment, customers and noncustomers — and include

your competition’s customers. Each attendee is given five Post-It notes that are used to vote for the strategy that they feel will be most successful and gives them the most compelling reason to buy. All five notes may be placed on one strategy or distributed among the other strategies. The thought behind this is that once the voting is complete, it is visually apparent as to which ideas are the most compelling. Then, each judge explains his or her reasons for voting.

Take, for example, the financial services company EFS that held a Visual Strategy Fair described in Blue Ocean Strategy. “As the teams synthesized the judges’ common likes and dislikes, they realized that fully one-third of what they had thought were key competitive factors were, in fact, marginal to customers,” the authors state. “Another one-third either were not well articulated or had been overlooked in the visual awakening phase. It was clear that the executives needed to reassess some long-held assumptions.”

Once the fair is over, teams are able to synthesize the information that was gathered to create a more effective value curve on their “To Be“ Strategy Canvases with a better understanding of a customer’s and noncustomer’s true needs.

As such, the Visual Strategy Fair provides a venue for valuable feedback on your future strategy, as well as a litmus test for the success of the strategy. It also puts your company one step closer to sailing out into that blue ocean of uncontested market space.

If you are interested in learning more about how your company can explore blue oceans of opportunity, please visit mbausa.blueoceanstrategy.com or contact me at [email protected].

Holding a Visual Strategy Fair Can be Critical to Testing New Strategies


SafeNetDomestic Violence Safety Network SafeNet

Contractors & Construction Managers Since 1906

Erie, Pennsylvania • Jamestown, New Yorkwww.eeaustin.com

Every day E.E. Austin lays its tradition of construction excellenceon the line. Our extensive list of satisfied clients is testimony toAustin keeping its longstanding promise: “Do the right thing... all the time”.

It’s a promise we’ve kept with pride for more than a century... and it’s our promise to you. It’s the Austin Difference.

HEALTHCARE • EDUCATION • INSTITUTIONAL • RETAIL & HOSPITALITY • INDUSTRIAL • CONCRETE

PA 061403

World Leading Flow Research and Test Facility Located in Erie, PA

Call JKS at 814-796-6365 or visit us online at www.jksfinishesinc.com

A little paint goes a long way by: Providing a pleasant and productive environment Improve Safety Improve light reflection Professional business representation

Exterior painting

Industrial Commercial

Floors, Walls, Pipes and Safety Line Painting Wall covering, Painting and Wood finishes

Where pretty good is no Darn Good!

Certified Public Accountants

You are good at what you do. You know your business inside and out. You also know continuous improvement leads to future success.

That’s where Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Company, P.C. comes in. We sharpen our pencils and work behind the scenes to find ways to help you do even better. Our people are sharp — continuously seeking further educational opportunities and utilizing the international resources of our McGladrey Alliance.

When you are ready for sharp ideas from sharp people, give us a call.

Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Company, P.C. ... World Class Service for World Class Clients.


The McGladrey Alliance is a premier a! liation of independent accounting and consulting " rms. The McGladrey Alliance member " rms maintain their name, autonomy and independence and are responsible for their own client fee arrangements, delivery of services and maintenance of client relationships. The McGladrey Alliance is a business of RSM McGladrey, Inc., a leading professional services " rm providing tax and consulting services. McGladrey is the brand under which RSM McGladrey, Inc. and McGladrey & Pullen, LLP serve clients’ business needs. McGladrey, the McGladrey logo and the McGladrey Alliance signatures are used under license by RSM McGladrey, Inc. and McGladrey & Pullen, LLP.

www.skmco.comCertified Public Accountantswww.skmco.com

WANT TO BE SHARPER?

Offices:Erie, PA1001 State Street, Suite 1300Erie, Pennsylvania 16501814-454-1997

Jamestown, NY500 Pine Street, Suite 14Jamestown, NY 14701716-483-0071

DuBois, PA351 Aviation WayReynoldsville, PA 15851814-375-2700

Visit our NEW website to learn more.


You are good at what you do. You know your business inside and out. You also know continuous improvement leads to future success.

That’s where Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Company, P.C. comes in. We sharpen our pencils and work behind the scenes to find ways to help you do even better. Our people are sharp — continuously seeking further educational opportunities and utilizing the international resources of our McGladrey Alliance.

When you are ready for sharp ideas from sharp people, give us a call.

Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Company, P.C. ... World Class Service for World Class Clients.


The McGladrey Alliance is a premier a! liation of independent accounting and consulting " rms. The McGladrey Alliance member " rms maintain their name, autonomy and independence and are responsible for their own client fee arrangements, delivery of services and maintenance of client relationships. The McGladrey Alliance is a business of RSM McGladrey, Inc., a leading professional services " rm providing tax and consulting services. McGladrey is the brand under which RSM McGladrey, Inc. and McGladrey & Pullen, LLP serve clients’ business needs. McGladrey, the McGladrey logo and the McGladrey Alliance signatures are used under license by RSM McGladrey, Inc. and McGladrey & Pullen, LLP.

www.skmco.comCertified Public Accountantswww.skmco.com

WANT TO BE SHARPER?

Offices:Erie, PA1001 State Street, Suite 1300Erie, Pennsylvania 16501814-454-1997

Jamestown, NY500 Pine Street, Suite 14Jamestown, NY 14701716-483-0071

DuBois, PA351 Aviation WayReynoldsville, PA 15851814-375-2700

Visit our NEW website to learn more.


Like many entrepreneurs, Tammy Miller started her business with a good idea.

She wanted to reduce childhood obesity by helping children from low-income families participate in sports and extracurricular activities in her own backyard of Clinton County, Pennsylvania. Her idea was to set up a nonprofit organization that would cover both equipment and program fees. In return, participating children would perform 10 hours of volunteer work in their community — teaching them to work for what they’ve been given.

But Miller’s organization, In Your Shoes, may not have come to fruition if it weren’t for her attendance at the Women in Leadership Development (W.I.L.D.) Conference in Erie in 2011. At that time, Miller had been laid off from her pharmaceuticals sales job and had come to the conference to learn more about business development. It was there that she was first introduced to guest speaker Bill Rancic.

“He said that everybody has good ideas, but it’s only 2 percent of people that will actually act on it,” she says. “I had this great idea, and he kind of gave me the motivation to actually do it.”

On the bus ride back to Clinton, Miller got her plan in motion. She decided to meet with school administrators and coaches to reach deserving students. She started collecting gently used sneakers and sporting goods; sold pedometers, water bottles and backpacks at health fairs to raise money; and turned to social media and social networking to get donations from individuals who wanted to sponsor area children.

According to Miller, nearly 40 volunteers, including a 10-person board of directors, have helped to keep In Your Shoes up and running. Already 55 children

have participated in the organization, from April to December 2011.

“People always say it is amazing what we’ve accomplished in such a short amount of time,” says Miller, who serves as the nonprofit’s president. “The conference was in March and it was April 1 that I filed the paperwork to start a business in Pennsylvania.”

“If you have an idea, act on it,” she advises others, “and you can figure out ways to bring it to fruition.”

Empowering OthersInspirational stories like Miller’s are not uncommon among attendees at the W.I.L.D. Conference, which was founded in 2008 by the Gannon University Small Business Development Center. The conference emphasizes the concept of women helping women through knowledge, energy and passion, which organizers say is achieved by encouraging networking, and providing leadership opportunities and support.

The fifth annual W.I.L.D. Conference, set for Friday, May 11, at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie, is expected to draw approximately 750 participants from Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, Indiana, New Jersey, Delaware and West Virginia.

Denise Christianson, chairwoman of the 2012 conference and president of Advanced Placement Services in Erie, says the W.I.L.D. Conference is a great opportunity for these entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners to hear from inspiring speakers, empower themselves and network — an essential component for any successful organization.

“Surround yourself with those that have great experience and knowledge,” she advises others. “I think that is what I

W i L DW i L DSBDC


Women Business Leaders Stress Importance of Mentoring, Motivation and Networking

16 < www.mbabizmag.com < May 2012 16 < www.mbabizmag.com < May 2012

lacked in the beginning and it is something that I learned, and I live by that.”

Christianson herself had worked for 10 years in the staffing field before deciding to found Advanced Placement Services in 1999. Her goal was to build a staffing business the way she wanted it to run.

“It was very challenging,” she explains of the initial startup. “I am the expert at what I do, but the other aspects of running a business, I didn’t have a lot of knowledge in, and actually by my third year, I was very fortunate to be an Athena PowerLink recipient. It gave me not only a better understanding of some of the things that I wasn’t competent with, like bookkeeping, it gave me more confidence as a woman business owner.”

The fulfillment that Christianson gained from such mentoring is evident in her day-to-day operation.

“Even though I am the owner and I have to work on the business, I still work in my business, and I still interview and do placements every day,” she adds. “I love it when a company calls me with a need and I am able to find the right person for them.”

True MotivationJulie Streich, who will be attending her first W.I.L.D. Conference this year, is another example of someone who is passionate about her career path and business.

A holistic nutritionist, Streich has an extensive background in eastern medicine and herbal medicine. She had run a nutrition and natural disease management consulting business in San Diego, California and a spa and health center in Nicaragua, before opening the Wellness Café and Coffee Shop in Warren, Pennsylvania two and a half years ago.

Streich’s idea was to bring organic cuisine and a healthier lifestyle options to her hometown. The café offers diet meal plans — cooking lunch, dinner and snacks five days a week that are geared toward disease management and weight loss.

“It has a really amazing effect, especially when we cook for women,” she says. “When we take control of the diet of the mom of the family, not only is she making the changes for herself and seeing the difference, but the community around her. They are cooking snacks for school and their kids’ birthdays. It is affecting the t-ball team, the classroom. I would say overall we have touched countless people in our community because we don’t really know how far our effect is reaching.”

Streich, who plans to showcase her meals during the W.I.L.D. Conference exposition, is enthusiastic when she talks about her decision to go into business. >

Keynote Speakers to Focus on Leadership, EntrepreneurshipThe W.I.L.D. Conference is recognized for its renowned speakers. This year, attendees will hear presentations by:

Leadership Speaker: Grace Killelea, senior vice president of Talent for Comcast Cable. Killelea holds a master’s degree from American University’s Kogod School of Business and Public Affairs and attended the prestigious Center for Creative Leadership in Greensboro, North Carolina, which is considered one of the best leadership programs in the United States. She is an alumnus of the Betsy Magness Leadership Institute, which is considered the premier leadership program for women in the telecommunications industry.

Entrepreneurship Speaker: Peggy Klaus, president of Klaus & Associates and author of Brag! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It. For more than a decade, Klaus has provided communications and leadership training programs, keynotes and executive coaching at leading corporations and organizations worldwide. Her client list includes Fortune 500 companies such as JP Morgan Chase, MasterCard, General Mills, The National Football League, American Express and Mattel.

2012 Conference Celebrates Milestone AnniversariesIn addition to being the fifth anniversary of the W.I.L.D. Conference, the 2012 event also marks the celebration of the Gannon Small Business Development Center’s 30th anniversary and the 100th anniversary of this year’s philanthropic outreach, the Girls Scouts of Western Pennsylvania.

“We wanted to recognize the growth and development of young women and future leaders and that is just one of the core values and mission of the Girl Scouts,” explains Melanie Hatch, Ph.D., dean of Gannon’s College of Engineering and Business and member of the W.I.L.D. Steering Committee. “The future of the economy revolves around creating and developing a pipeline of emerging entrepreneurs, so the Girls Scouts was a natural fit.”

Hatch, who is one of only 30 women deans of engineering in the United States, is also a strong advocate of leadership and leadership development. Recently, she helped Gannon University attain a five-year ADVANCE-PAID (Partnerships for Adaptation, Implementation and Dissemination) grant from the National Science Foundation that will help to recruit and retain faculty in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) disciplines.

“It’s important to encourage women to pursue careers in these disciplines, and it’s also important to female students who may look to women faculty as role models,” she says.

W i L DW i L DSBDC


“It feels so much better to get up every day and know that what I am doing makes a difference in the lives of others,” she says, “and I can’t imagine going backwards.”

Networking OpportunityKathy Lima, president of Faro Enterprises, a marketing, public relations and fundraising firm in Sharon, Pennsylvania, says that the third time was the charm when she decided to go into business for herself. The first two times she considered going out on her own, other opportunities had come up, first working in an executive director position at the Community Foundation of Cape Cod in Massachusetts and then again as vice president of community development at UPMC Horizon in the Shenango Valley. When the third opportunity arose, she took it.

According to Lima, the key to her transition from a corporate position to a self-employed independent contractor was due to her past work experience. In most cases, her positions required her to be self-motivated and, in many instances, the only person in the organization who did her job.

“I also belong to several networking groups, marketing-related groups, the National Speakers Association, and made contacts there,” she notes. “That, and my network of local friends is where I got my ideas, my impetus, my feedback and so forth.”

Lima says she was drawn to the W.I.L.D. Conference for the networking opportunity and, as a member of the Athena International Board, her personal interest in advancing the role of women. “We need to become our own best advocates,” she says. “Sometimes just having the opportunity to rub elbows with women who have done it and are successful helps.”

Many of these women business leaders agree that the secret to being a successful entrepreneur starts with knowing your passion. “I read a book years ago that stayed with me — find what you love and the money will follow…,” Lima explains. “But you really have to know what motivates you. You have to know what you love to do. You have to know what you are good at.”

“Once you find somebody who spends the day how you would like to spend your days, then figure out what kind of skills, training, certification that you need, and don’t forget to sell…,” she continues. “You have to put yourself out there.”

To learn more about the 2012 W.I.L.D. Conference, visit wild.sbdcgannon.org.

2012 Legacy Award Winner to be Announced on May 11As is tradition, W.I.L.D. organizers also will announce the winner of the Legacy Award at this year’s conference. Among the 2012 finalists are:

The Legacy Award recognizes an experienced professional woman leader who mentors other women, supports her community and excels in her career. The recipient also is considered a trailblazer who has carved her own path to success and has supported other women along the way. She has demonstrated high standards and serves as an example to others professionally and personally.

Crystal Arlington — CEO of Affiliated Grounds Maintenance Group, headquartered in Lake City, Pennsylvania, which provides landscape management, lawn maintenance, lot sweeping, power washing, snow removal and ice management, and other exterior services to facilities in more than 39 states.

Gail Cook — president and CEO of the Erie General Electric Federal Credit Union in Erie, Pennsylvania, which has more than $200 million in assets and serves more than 30,000 members.

JoAnn DeSantis-Barnes — HR director of Scott Enterprises, a hospitality company based in Erie, Pennsylvania, which includes hotels, conference/banquet services, franchised restaurants, an indoor water park and ski resort.


St Vincent

Update your status. Update your life.If you really want to change your status, change your life. Gannon University will show you how, with:

19 graduate degree programs in the health professions, engineering, business, education, social sciences and the humanities

Gannon’s Online Degree (GOLD) Distance Education program, which features MPA, RN to BSN and engineering management programs

Assistance every step of the way, from enrollment to coursework to networking opportunities, because juggling school, a career and a family is challenging

Gannon University believes there are no limits to what we can do together to help you earn more, do more and be more.

What is your business philosophy? I am in the business of education and believe strongly in the importance of education, especially for women. The theme of this year’s Women’s History Month, which is recognized every March, was “Women’s Education, Women’s Empowerment.” Education is the foundation for developing self-esteem and self-con!dence. Education helps women realize their full potential in political, social, and economical arenas. Education empowers women through the development of necessary skills, skills that allow them to make decisions and in"uence change — change in the community, change in their society, and most importantly, change in themselves.

What is your business philosophy? Our philosophy at E.C.S. is very basic; we take our responsibilities to our employees, customers, and community personally. To our employees, our responsibility is to provide them with a job that o#ers a fair wage, health insurance and retirement plan, training to personally and professionally help them grow, and a safe environment to work in. To our customers, our responsibility is to provide services that exceed their expectations, quality products that will bene!t their business, and prices that are fair. And to our community, our responsibility is to contribute to places where our employees and customers reside, in order to make those places better to live and work in.

Executive DirectorThe Women’s Care Center of Erie County25 Years as Nonpro!t Leader

Dean — Morosky College of Health Professions and SciencesGannon University12 Years in Higher Education

General Manager and Co-Owner Electronic Communication Services, Inc. (E.C.S.) 23 Years in Business

President and CEOErie General Electric Federal Credit Union15 Years as Financial Industry Leader

What is your business philosophy?My business philosophy begins with compassion. I am in the business of caring for the needs of women, primarily those who are in a crisis pregnancy situation, so my priority is to create an atmosphere of peace and safety. Approaching each individual client with compassion, understanding, and support; walking with her from one moment to the next until she can walk on her own again, has proven to be a winning model. I have seen countless “success“ stories over my 25 years as the executive director of the Women’s Care Center.Our commitment to the community is to partner in overall community wellness and assist as an agent of change for emotional healing, character development and family stability. Serving the tri-state region in eight locations, we seek to provide an a#ordable, safe place of comfort, support and health to individuals and families facing unplanned pregnancies, youth making lifestyle choices, wounded women in need of healing from past mistakes, and childless couples whose arms ache for a child.

What is your business philosophy? I believe a leader should set their standards high and take pride in what they do. This is one of our core values at the Erie General Electric Federal Credit Union. Every day I strive to be a leader with heart, and I expect the same standard from my employees. I have always been motivated by community service, and I try to instill this value in my sta#. If you !nd it in your heart to give, much will be given to you in return. As a strong advocate of learning and constant development, I believe a leader should play a large role in helping their employees cultivate skills and nurture their professional talents. When you do all that is possible to help employees reach their goals, they will help the business meet its goals.

20 < www.mbabizmag.com < May 2012 20 < www.mbabizmag.com < May 2012

Operations ManagerHoward Industries6 Years with Howard Industries; 6 Years as an Entrepreneur and Business Owner

President EmeritusKeyStone Research Corporation (KSRC), a woman-owned research and organizational consulting business founded in 1980

PresidentSigns Now 335, Inc.21 Years in Business – Large Format Digital Printing and Sign Manufacturing

What is your business philosophy? My business philosophy is embedded within KSRC’s core values, the foundation of which is P.R.I.D.E. in our company, who we are, and what we want to be. These values include:Professionalism is the essence of how we conduct our work and present ourselves, recognizing that the image we portray is a re"ection of who we are.Respect for one another enables us to have positive interactions and an understanding of others who may have perspectives and backgrounds that di#er from our own.Integrity provides the foundation for the work we do. Being honest and fair with both internal and external clients is an essential part of how we conduct our business and build trusting relationships.Determination is our commitment to being the best at what we do and making a di#erence in the lives of those we serve.Excellence in our performance is essential to us, as we will engage only in activities for which we are highly quali!ed and can provide with distinction.

What is your business philosophy? We serve families from all walks of life, all !nancial circumstances, all religions and we are "exible to meet anyone’s wishes and desires. It is an honor to serve each customer and their family with compassion and guidance with individual circumstances. A truly personal remembrance is more than just a way to express your love. It’s also meaningful for your loved ones and pets, strengthening the connections between people, and giving comfort where it is needed most. We help you design a remembrance that captures the history, personality and accomplishments that make every life unique, in a digni!ed and honorable manner. Serving the entire Erie area from four a$liated locations, Erie, Millcreek, Belle Valley and Girard.

What is your business philosophy?My philosophy for business is modeled after the way I live every aspect of life itself: be resourceful, work hard, have enthusiasm, don’t let anything stand in the way of accomplishing your dreams. Everyday has its obstacles … people, circumstance, limitations. “No“ is not an option for me. I am a “can do“ person dedicated to making things happen. You have to wake up in the morning and reach beyond those obstacles … believe you can do anything, have the vision to make it happen. There is no substitute for hard work but don’t let it overwhelm you. Instead, work hard, work smart; !nd a passion for the challenges and pleasures of every day. You have to dress yourself with enthusiasm and be ready to perform at your highest level – simply, you must enjoy what you do.

What is your business philosophy? I think there are three words that describe my business philosophy – honesty, trust and respect. I believe that being honest with our clients is very important whether it be in the pricing, turnaround time, or an honest opinion of a project. The trust I have for my employees is with their creativity, their opinions, and with handling the needs of the business when I am away. Mutual respect toward each other, my employees or a customer, is of the utmost importance, as I feel the company runs better on a day-to-day basis when we all have respect for each other’s duties, jobs and responsibilities. Although these three words are di#erent from the Signs Now mission statement: “Signs Now is a company aimed at ful!lling the needs of our customers through knowledge, experience and technology in a timely manner,” I feel honest, trust and respect are the most important part of a successful business.

Vice PresidentBurton Funeral Homes and Crematory, Inc. 17 Years in Business

May 2012 > www.mbabizmag.com > 21May 2012 > www.mbabizmag.com > 21

Women in business—we can relate. Commercial Lending, Business Services, Private Banking and Retail Lending.

The women of ERIEBANK are an integral factor in our developmental

progression and success. Each is a role model, driven to inspire within the

industry and throughout our community.

Women leaders in business are imperative to evolve communities to their

full potential, both socially and economically. ERIEBANK is committed to

advancing and creating leadership opportunities for women— and a proud

supporter of the Gannon University Small Business Development Center’s

(SBDC), annual W.I.L.D. Conference.

Come enjoy the many relationship rewards that are waiting for you at ERIEBANK.

Main/Interchange O!ce 2035 Edinboro Road • Erie, PA 16509 • Phone (814) 868-7523

Asbury Road O!ce 2615 Asbury Road • Erie, PA 16506 • Phone (814) 835-1116

Downtown O!ce & Private Banking 101 West 10th Street • Erie, PA 16501

Phone (814) 454-3477 • Private Banking (814) 454-3444

Harborcreek O!ce 5723 Bu!alo Road • Harborcreek, PA 16421 • Phone (814) 899-5101

Meadville O!ce 885 Park Avenue • Meadville, PA 16335 • Phone (814) 336-1223

Warren O!ce 301 Pennsylvania Avenue West • Warren, PA 16365 • Phone (814) 726-9000

www.eriebank.net

Proud Supporter of the Gannon SBDC2012 W.I.L.D. ConferenceFront Row (L-R): Julie Martin,

Operations O!cer; Bethany Torisky, Private Banker; Abby Williams, Community O!ce Manager; Carla LaBoda, AVP Regional Retail Administrator. Back Row: Katie Jones, Community O!ce Manager; Allison Hodas, Cash Management Specialist; Kelly Buck, Community O!ce Manager; Betsy Bort, VP Commercial Lending

OntheHill DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Lori Joint

Lori Joint is the director of the Association’s Government Affairs Department. Contact her at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or [email protected].

America enjoys the most successful health-care system in the world and is the model for high-tech, state-of-the art medical delivery. Ask the thousands of foreigners who travel to the United States for health-care services each year. Our system is not perfect, but it does not need to be destroyed in favor of socialized medicine. We need to reform the system in a way that preserves its greatness and controls its cost through private market forces. By doing so, we can provide every U.S. citizen access to world-class medical care at an affordable price and not tax ourselves to death in order to do it.

Recent UpdatesState Exchanges In a 642-page final rule, the Department of Health and Human Services released the long-awaited regulations that provide guidance on how states should establish exchanges, qualify health plans for participation and determine individual and small business eligibility. These exchanges are federally subsidized state-run insurance markets designed to provide Web-based access to health plans that meet minimum quality standards. States have until January 1, 2013 to meet federal standards. The federal government will establish its own exchanges in states that fail to meet standards by the deadline.More than 30 states have received federal grant money to set up exchanges. Many states are delaying participation until the Supreme Court issues its final ruling on the constitutionality of the individual mandate.

CBO Cost Estimates The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has extended its cost estimates for the health-care law out to 2022, showing that its effect is substantially more expensive, twice as much as the original $900-billion estimate. The CBO found that the reforms will cost $1.76 trillion between now and 2022. This estimate only includes the cost of coverage, not implementation. The total cost will be closer to $2.6 trillion.The CBO model also assumes that between 3 million and 5 million people will lose health-care coverage from their employers and that there will be 1 million to 2 million people who won’t qualify for the exchanges and will enroll in Medicaid instead. In total, the CBO estimates 30 million people will remain without health coverage.

In late March, the nine justices of the U.S. Supreme Court heard a series of arguments on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). Now that the dust has settled, it appears more than likely that President Obama’s signature health-care law is on the verge of being struck down — perhaps even in its entirety. June is the scheduled deadline for what promises to be one of the most seminal decisions in the Court’s history. The business community, for one, has been clear in expressing its uncertainty of the law and its potential implications and costs. Among employers’ biggest concerns are: the requirement for plan sponsors to start reporting health-care premiums on their employees’ W-2s beginning this year; the Patient Centered Outcome Research Fund Fees that start later this year; and the pending Quality of Care Reporting requirements, also scheduled to begin in 2012. In addition, they have concerns regarding the law’s employer mandates, industry specific fees, reporting requirements, Medicare hospital insurance tax increases, limits on Flexible Spending Accounts, and excise taxes. The Manufacturer & Business Association strongly believes in the need for health-care reform and has advocated for it for decades. However, the PPACA fails to address many of the long-term problems associated with the cost of health care and insurance. Looking forward, there is cause to believe that small businesses will see higher premiums, greater administrative burdens, reduced options and many unwanted surprises.At the Association, we’ve called for market-based reforms that: allow individuals a tax deduction on their premiums; require all doctors, hospitals and providers of health-care services to list their services, outcomes and pricing; and create total transparency from insurance companies on all provider contracts and administrative fees. We’ve also demanded reforms that would apply a moratorium on all unfunded government mandates; allow for the purchase and sale of insurance products across state lines; permit individuals and employer-sponsored plans to purchase the specific services they want and need, as opposed to government-mandated benefits and services; provide immediate tort reform; and, allow insurance companies to properly calculate risk by imposing additional premium charges for those who refuse to make changes to risky lifestyle activities. This represents a small list of actions that would have an immediate impact on reducing the costs of health care, insurance premiums and utilization.

America Needs Real Reform for Health-Care System


HR ConnectionNEARLY A QUARTER OF POSITIONS AT TOP COMPANIES HELD BY WOMENThe National Association for Female Executives (NAFE) recently revealed in its annual Top 50 Companies for Executive Women report that women hold nearly one in four positions at top companies (23 percent) oversee-ing divisions with more than $1 billion in revenue. Conducted by the Working Mother Research Institute, the report also finds that women hold 23 percent of all board of director seats at top compa-nies compared with 16 percent across the Fortune 500.Carol Evans, president of Working Mother Media and CEO of NAFE, says, “The NAFE Top 50 Companies are major employers that are committed to hiring, retaining and promoting ex-ecutive women. They go way beyond lip service in helping women succeed.

Manager accountability is a key ingre-dient for success. Nearly half of our 50 winners reward managers financially when they help women advance and more than three out of five require all managers to receive advancement of women training.”

The Top 10 list includes: Bank of America, Cisco, General Mills, IBM, Johnson & Johnson, KPMG, The New York Times Company, Procter & Gamble, Prudential Financial, and State Farm Insurance. For the entire list, visit www.workingmother.com. SURVEY: EMPLOYERS WORRIED ABOUT TALENT SHORTAGELack of potential leaders is the most pressing human resource challenge organizations expect to face in 2012, according to a survey by Right Management, the talent and career management firm within ManpowerGroup.

Thirty-one percent of respondents cited their organization’s lack of high-potential leaders, while 23 percent indicated a shortage of talent at all levels. Right Management surveyed senior executives at more than 600 firms across the United States repre-senting government, nonprofit, public and private organizations. “After three years of organizational contraction and less internal invest-ment companies are taking a hard look at their onboard talent and aren’t pleased with what they find,” said Michael Haid, senior vice president of Talent Management for Right Man-agement. “Lean times make it hard for organizations seeking to recruit, retain or develop future leaders. And they’re keenly aware of the tough competitive environment they’re in and the need to hold onto and build leadership.”


DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Stacey Bruce

Final regulations and a template regarding the Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) and the uniform glossary requirements under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 were issued on February 9, 2012 by the Department of Treasury, Department of Labor and Department of Health and Human Services. Group health plans will be required to provide the new SBC notice beginning as early as the 2013 open enrollment.

Under the new rules, group health plans and insurers are required to provide health plan participants and beneficiaries clear and understand-able information about their plans in uniform summary format. This format must be culturally and linguistically appropriate and not exceed four double-sided pages and be in at least 12-point font.

The requirements are effective as of the first day of the first open enroll-ment period that begins on or after September 23, 2012. In the case of an insured group health plan, insurers are required to distribute the SBC to the group health plan (the plan sponsor), and the group health plan and the insurer are both required to distribute the SBC to plan participants and ben-eficiaries. In the case of a self-insured group health plan, the plan’s designat-ed plan administrator is responsible.

An SBC is not required for the plans that are “excepted benefits“ under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. These include standalone dental and vision plans and flexible spending accounts. Health Reimbursement Arrangements are considered group health plans and are therefore subject to the SBC requirement.

A separate SBC must be prepared for each benefit package option. It has been suggested that plan sponsors considering variations on the template should seek legal counsel.

Visit www.dol.gov-ebsa-pdf-SBCtem-plate.pdf for the SBC template and www.dol.gov/ebsa/pdf/SBCUniform-Glossary.pdf for the uniform glossary requirements.

New Rules to Affect Group Health Plansas Early as 2013 Open Enrollment

Patty Smith is the director of Employee Benefit Services at the Manufacturer & Business Association.


No matter what your business demands,Northwest delivers.

Business Banking

O!"#"$ % &'(#")(( #( *%+, !-+.. You need a bank that

will work hard for you in return. /at’s where Northwest

comes in. Our comprehensive set of business banking

products and services gives you everything you need for the

success of your business, your employees, and yourself.

Business CheckingRetirement PlansMerchant ServicesCommercial LendingEmployee Bene!ts Express Deposit*

Online Banking and Bill Pay

Northwest Direct: 1-877-672-5678 www.northwestsavingsbank.com

Pam Rinn Corporate AVP (814) 461-6987

[email protected]

Leah ManinoCommercial Lending Of!cer

(814) [email protected]

Donna CarlinoSVP, Commercial Lending


Jen Marz AVP, Business Services Advisor


Shirley Anderson AVP, Business Services Advisor


20 of!ces to serve you in Erie County

No matter what your business demands,Northwest delivers.

Business Banking

O!"#"$ % &'(#")(( #( *%+, !-+.. You need a bank that

will work hard for you in return. /at’s where Northwest

comes in. Our comprehensive set of business banking

products and services gives you everything you need for the

success of your business, your employees, and yourself.

Business CheckingRetirement PlansMerchant ServicesCommercial LendingEmployee Bene!ts Express Deposit*

Online Banking and Bill Pay

Northwest Direct: 1-877-672-5678 www.northwestsavingsbank.com

Pam Rinn Corporate AVP (814) 461-6987

[email protected]

Leah ManinoCommercial Lending Of!cer


Donna CarlinoSVP, Commercial Lending


Jen Marz AVP, Business Services Advisor


Shirley Anderson AVP, Business Services Advisor


20 of!ces to serve you in Erie County

WHY IS CONFIDENTIALITY CRITICAL TO HR? Every organization has a need to keep certain information confidential. HR is typically entrusted with maintaining sensitive employee data and informa-tion relating to employee and man-agement issues. As a result, confiden-tiality issues in any HR organization are multi-tiered. HR professionals understand the importance of maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive employee information (e.g., Social Security num-bers, performance reviews, workplace injuries, reference checks, health-related information, pay levels, etc.). Legal issues, such as identity theft, data breach notification and privacy laws such as HIPAA, require employers to establish processes and procedures to secure and safeguard sensitive employee data as well as notify

employees of any breach of confiden-tial information.Apart from sensitive employee infor-mation, HR must maintain confiden-tiality about management or business information that is not yet available to nonmanagement employees. Such confidential issues could include discussions with senior management about business strategies and process-es, layoffs/plant closings, proprietary data or, conversely, major expansions or operation start-ups.

WHAT DO I DO WHEN THE CEO WILL NOT LISTEN TO MY WARN-INGS REGARDING LEGAL RISKS OR OTHER BAD DECISIONS? When you know through HR knowl-edge and experience the best way to handle a situation and the executives or senior managers disregard your advice, it can be very frustrating.

Sometimes no amount of credibility you’ve gained with your executives will change their minds.Your task is to remain level headed and help the executive understand the legal risks and impact to the business. Remember to always tell the executive your reasons against a decision. Execu-tives need to hear why something is not a good business decision — how it will impact the bottom line and ex-amples of when this decision was not a good choice for other businesses. Also give examples of good outcomes when a situation was handled in the manner you are suggesting.After your initial conversation with the executive, it may help to summarize the information into a concise and infor-mative document so the executive can see it, read it when he or she has time, research and reflect, if necessary.

HR Q&A


Women’s Services:

Caring for women. For life.

Ethics play a very important role dur-ing the recruiting process. While there are laws in place that protect certain individuals during the hiring process — as well as help maintain a professional, ethical standard when hiring employees — HR professionals are often faced with dilemmas that extend beyond these principles. Some common ethical dilem-mas in hiring can include: • Placing misleading advertisements

for jobs; • Misrepresenting the requirements

of a particular position; • Responding to a hiring manager

who has asked you to find a way “around“ not hiring a qualified candidate for discriminatory purposes; and

• Not reviewing candidates based on their merits.

To deal with these types of dilemmas, it is critical for HR professionals to be hon-est, consistent and objective throughout the recruiting process. Job ads for posi-

tions that actually differ from what is being advertised should not be placed. Good hiring practices dictate that candi-dates should be selected based on their ability to perform the job and nothing else. When interviewing candidates, it is important that the job is not misrepre-sented to the candidate. When recruiting employees from sup-pliers, customers and competitors, employers should conduct themselves in a transparent fashion, ensuring that the candidate fully understands the risk involved when going to work for a competitor. For example, some candi-dates may be bound by a legal contract that prohibits them from working for a competitor. When going to work for a competitor, candidates also should un-derstand the potential risks associated with damaging professional relation-ships with employers in their industry. In many ways, these ethical dilemmas have the potential to be just as damag-ing as legal issues.

As companies struggle to fill positions and as corporate HR managers are doing more with less, too often recruiting falls to the bottom of the to-do list. Companies that can leverage consulting firms to take care of the busy-work of recruiting are often ahead of the game. Call the Association’s certfied HR professionals at 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 to see how wecan help you in the hiring process.

Ethical Decision-Making Essential to Hiring

DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Stacey Bruce

Stacey Bruce is a PHR-certified HR generalist and Human Resource supervisor at the Manufacturer & Business Association.


If market fluctuations and economic uncertainty have you second-guessing your investment plan, it’s time to take a closer look. With an Envision® plan, we can help ensure your goals are measurable, reprioritize them if necessary, and adjust your strategy to reflect realistic expectations and your own comfort level for risk. Call today to get started.

Don’t abandon your investment plan. Rethink it.

Q. Gregory Orlando Senior Vice President - Branch Manager 100 State Street, Suite 100 Erie, PA 16507 [email protected]

Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose Value

New Location! Burke Center at Penn State Behrend in Erie, PA

Thursday, May 24, 2012$70 per person | limited seating

For more information: Shelly F. Spacht Sr. Energy Consultant (814) 825-1893 [email protected]

Natural Gas SolutionsRESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL

www.nfrinc.com

Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania Salutes

for empowering professional and enterprising women

with knowledge, energy and passion!gswpa.org800.248.3355

The Network


THE NETWORK

Your Complete Document Management CompanyYour Complete Document Management CompanyPirrelloEnterprises Inc.

Microfilm Scanning

Blue Ocean Strategy Center


Seed Money!Got a new tech-based product idea?

We have local funding.

Central & Northern PA

The Erie Innovation Fund—a partnership between the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority and Ben Franklin Technology Partners—has investment capital for local companies! For more information contact our Erie o!ce in Knowledge Park at 814-898-6650.

We Invest in Innovation.

www.cnp.BenFranklin.org

SusquehannaHealth.org/WorkCenter

Now In MuncySusquehanna Health’s WorkCenter now provides occupational health services at Muncy Valley Hospital. Offering you high-quality, cost-effective healthcare for your employees. Our new location provides convenient access to our comprehensive employee health, wellness and work-related injury management programs.

Dr. Athena T. Jolly joins Dr. Galloway, Dr. English and Jeffrey Yount II, BS, PA-C, at Susquehanna Health’s WorkCenter. Dr. Jolly specializes in chemical exposure in the workplace, dermatology and pulmonology.

New at MuncyThe WorkCenter’s Muncy location provides a wide range of programs for every size business, including

(Monday–Friday, 8 am–4:30 pm)

(Tuesday and Thursday, 8 am–4:30 pm)

Pictured left to right: Joseph English, MD; Lisa Ann Bentley Galloway, MD; Athena T. Jolly, MD; Jeffrey Yount II, BS, PA-C

To schedule an appointment or for more information, call (570) 320-7444.MUNCY VALLEY HOSPITAL10 Shady Lane, Muncy, PANOW at


Discover Firsthand How the MBA’s Certified Supervisory Skills Series Can Benefit Your Organization Survey after survey confirms that the relationship that an employee has with his immediate supervisor determines not only how long that employee will stay, but, more importantly, how productive he or she will be. Despite this, many organizations do not take the time to properly train their supervisors. The result is demotivated employees who under produce and ultimately cost you money.

At the Manufacturer & Business Association, our nationally recognized Certified Supervisory Skills Series is not a canned, off-the-shelf lecture series delivered by theory based instructors. Our trainers have walked a mile in the shoes of our participants and bring a high energy, real-world style to the class that most people have never experienced. We train your supervisors to get the most out of your employees so that they produce to the best of their ability every day.

Join local companies like Grit Publishing, The Ralph S. Alberts Company and Jersey Shore Steel who have seen firsthand what a difference trained supervisors can make to the bottom line.

“We started using the Manufacturer & Business Association to begin our training process in October 2009 and have since continued it yearly, and plan to do so in the future for all employees.” — Betty Balzer, Employee Liaison/Team and Training Facilitator, The Ralph S. Alberts Co.

To learn more about the Association’s Certified Supervisory Skills Series, visit the Professional Development section on www.mbausa.org.

The Manufacturer & Business Association is pleased to welcome Wirerope Works, Inc. as its newest member in the central Pennsylvania region.

For more than 100 years, Wirerope Works, Inc. and its ascendants have helped to lay the world’s foundation and global infrastructure, including roadways, bridges, airports and entertainment complexes.

Wirerope Works, Inc. manufactures Bethlehem Wire Rope®, the trade name under which it produces, sells and services its wire rope and strand products. The company’s 46-acre manufacturing complex at 100 Maynared Street in Williamsport, with more than 620,000 square feet under its roof, is the single largest wire rope manufacturing facility in North America.

For more information about Wirerope Works, call 800/541-7673 or visit www.wireropeworks.com.

New Member Spotlight

CentralPA Link

It is a typical day for Andree Phillips. Before arriving at work this morning, she stopped at the Manufacturer & Business Association’s Central Pennsylvania Division office for a 7 a.m. Advisory Committee meeting. Later that day, she made visits to the local Chamber of Commerce and YMCA, where she is a director on each Board.You see, Andree’s story is that of a pint-sized woman with a super-sized heart.Cleo Pineau, Andree’s father, founded Radiant Steel, the family business, in 1927 in Williamsport, to manufacture products for the office furniture and HVAC industry. Many years later, Andree and her husband returned to the area, and took the reins of the family business her father loved so much.All, however, was not fun and games. A downturn in profitability had the financial and legal folks recommending bankruptcy. They did not understand the fire and persistence of this tiny tiger.

Andree pulled the company together and saved her father’s dream with hard work and determination. Today, she continues to run the 44,000-square-foot business with 17 full-time employees, along with two of her children ... just as “Dad“ would have wanted. Andree Phillips is known in the Williamsport community as a woman who “gets it done.” Her countless hours of volunteer service are counted on by many not-for-profit organizations, and I am glad to say that she is my friend and colleague.

DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Karen Torres

Local Businesswoman, Radiant Steel Products President Recognized for Countless Service

Jerry Wertz is the chairman of the Manufacturer & Business Association’s Central Pennsylvania Division Advisory Board. He also is the president and CEO of Data Papers, Inc., a printing and marketing services provider based in Muncy, Pennsylvania.

Andree Phillips


When asked what drives his passion for politics, Dick Morris talks about his childhood. !e New York native, whose mother was a magazine writer and father was a real estate attorney, came from a family where political discussions were simply a part of growing up.“Ever since I was a little boy, I have always focused on politics,” Morris tells the Business Magazine. “It was the thing that dominated my dinner table and breakfast table conversations with my parents and I, as an only child, "gured that was what adults talked about.”Morris — who will be the guest speaker at the MBA Central Division’s Annual Event on May 15 in Williamsport and is widely considered one of the most prominent political consultants of his generation — has helped to spark similar political conversations in households around the globe.A master pollster and political strategist who is famously known for his work on Bill Clinton’s 1996 re-election bid — and now one of the Clintons harshest critics — has handled the winning campaigns of more than 30 senators and governors. On the international front, he has been an instrumental "gure in the successful campaigns of presidents and prime ministers in such countries as Argentina, Colombia, Hungary, Kenya, Mexico, Poland, Spain, Taiwan, Uruguay and Japan.!is wealth of experience has made Morris a force to be reckoned with among political a"cionados and on the national political stage. His hard-hitting commentary can be found in his frequent Fox News appearances and in major publications such as the New York Post, the Hill Magazine and the National Post, as well as Morris’s catalog of books, including 10 New York Times bestsellers, which he has written with his wife and collaborator Eileen McGann.According to the author, his current title, Screwed: How Foreign Nations are Ripping Us O!, Plundering Our Economy, and How Our Leaders are Helping "em Do It, is due out May 8.

“!e book,” explains Morris, “focuses on China, the European Union, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, foreign lobbyists in the U.S., and the web of treaties in which the Europeans and globalists are trying to ensnare us.”Morris — a political prognosticator of sorts — is known for not pulling any punches in his works. His "rst bestseller was Behind the Oval O#ce: Winning the President in the Nineties — his memoir about the Clinton years. His other well-known titles include Condi vs. Hillary and Rewriting History, as well Outrage, which predicted the collapse of Fannie Mae, and, Fleeced, which foresaw the stock market crash of 2008. In recent years, Morris also has published two widely read books, Catastrophe, and Revolt – How to Defeat Obama and Repeal His Socialist Agenda —A Patriot’s Guide, targeting the current administration.“I believe Obama is destroying America,” Morris says of his inspiration for the titles. “I think that he has a radically di#erent view of this nation, one driven by class warfare with a large dependent population that pays no taxes and votes for all manner of handouts. He is sti$ing the upward mobility that has always made America the hope of the world.”Such no-holds barred commentary is what keeps Morris’s fans coming back for more. His daily email blasts reach an audience of nearly 500,000 and thousands more read his opinion pieces through his Facebook page, Twitter feed and website DickMorris.com. !e site also features a daily video that is seen by more than 140,000 viewers each week.Social media, Morris acknowledges, has galvanized the political world.“It has put the means of communication in the hands of the people as opposed to the media oligarchy,” he explains. “!ose who buy newsprint by the ton and ink by the barrel or have bid enough to control the airwaves no longer have a monopoly. Now input $ows from the bottom up, not just the top down.”

Dick MorrisMaster strategist shares insights on new book, passion for politics


Consequently, Morris — the man once called “the most in$uential private citizen in America” by Time magazine — continues to be a major player in the debate. For more information about Dick Morris, visit www.DickMorris.com. To learn more about the Association’s Central Division Annual Event in Williamsport, visit www.mbausa.org.

According to Dick Morris... On what he will be discussing at the Association’s Central Division Annual Event on May 15 at the Genetti Hotel in Williamsport: “We’ll talk about the ’12 elections, what is the likely outcome, what caused our economic mess, what will cure it, and what is likely to happen in ’13.”On what political campaign — U.S. or international — has been the most favorite of his career: “Domestically, obviously, Clinton’s 1996 re-election campaign is my favorite. We got so much done for the country — the balanced budget, a sharp cut in crime, welfare reform, anti-tobacco e#orts.Abroad, it is Vicente Fox’s victory for president of Mexico in 2000, ending 71 years of domination by the ruling party. It was really the start of democracy in Mexico after years of authoritarian rule.”On his thoughts of the 2012 presidential election and !eld of GOP contenders: “I think Obama will lose. I think Romney will be the next president, and I think he will be a great one.”On writing the children’s book Dubs Goes to Washington and Discovers the Greatness of America, using his golden retriever as inspiration: “My wife and I checked and there were no children’s books that focused on how great this nation is, so Dubs looks for his ball all over Washington and we take the kids through each of the monuments and memorials and explain their meaning in funny verses.”

Annual Event Speaker


MEADVILLE MEDICAL CENTER MAKES ANNOUNCEMENTSLakshmi Kanth, MD, a board-certified general surgeon, recently joined the Meadville Medical Center medical staff. Dr. Kanth completed fellowship training at Duke University Medical Center and is a member of the American College of Surgeons. He joins the practice of Liberty Street Surgical Associates.

In addition, Melinda A. Douglas, MSN, CRNP, certified registered nurse practitioner, joined the staff at French Creek. She has worked in nursing capacities at Meadville Medical Center and other clinics since 2005.

MALIN BERGQUIST NAMES NEW PARTNERSMalin Bergquist, with offices in Erie and Pittsburgh, announced that Ryan S. Brosius, CPA, CVA and Mitchell L. Kalkhof, CPA, MBA, CFE have been elected partners at the public accounting firm.

Twice named by his peers as one of Pennsylvania’s “40 Under 40“ accountants to watch, Brosius is a member of the firm’s Closely Held Business Advisors group, which provides services to some of the best-known private companies in the region. He serves on the statewide Council of the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), was a member of the 2011 PICPA executive search committee, and is past president of the PICPA/Erie chapter.

Kalkhof has more than a decade of experience in managing audit engagements, specializing in nonprofit organizations and employee benefit plans. He is a key member of Malin Bergquist’s Not-for-Profit Group, the editor of its nonprofit e-newsletter and has been a certified fraud examiner since 2007.

NWIRC NAMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTORThe Northwest Industrial Resource Center in Erie, Pennsylvania, recently named Bob Bengel as its new executive director, replacing B. J. Lechner who is stepping down in June.

People Buzz

1109 East 38th Street • 1005 Greengarden Road

2436 Buffalo Road • 518 State Street • 5500 Zuck Road

1220 West 32nd Street • 1825 Downs Drive

Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government

National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency

NCUA (814) 825-2436 • (800) 480-0494

Chief Executive Officer, Mary Beth Wilcher (front row, center) with Erie FCU’s dynamic group of women leaders.


Bengel, an Erie native, joined the organization in October 2011 following a successful 25-year career with Ford Motor Company and Deloitte & Touche in Detroit. Bengel brings significant expertise in competitive strategy, business development, emerging markets and risk management to the NWIRC. His educational background includes an A.B. degree from Harvard University and an MBA from Penn State.

CAMPGROUND OWNERS ACHIEVE CPO CERTIFICATIONMeadville KOA (Kampgrounds of America) Owners Tim and Robyn Chilson of Meadville were recognized at both the ARVC Outdoor Hospitality Conference &

Expo held in Savannah, Georgia and at the Pennsylvania Campground Owners (PCOA) Convention held in Erie, Pennsylvania, for achieving their initial CPO Certification from the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC).

The CPO (Certified Park Operator) Certificate is the second stage of the Outdoor Hospitality Executive Certification Education Program, which is administrated by the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC).

The Chilsons received credits for graduating from the National School of Campground Management Graduates Program at Oglebay, West Virginia, and attending KOA University in Billings, Montana, in addition to attending continuing education classes at ARVC & PCOA Conventions.

THE LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY ANNOUNCES WOMAN OF THE YEAR CANDIDATESThe Western Penn-sylvania and West Virginia Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is pleased to announce that Jenny Poff and Kristi Bailey have been chosen as candidates for LLS’s local/national title of 2012 Woman of the Year.

Poff is the owner and creative director for Presque Isle Designs. Bailey is the director of Business Development and Services for the Erie Federal Credit Union. As candidates, Poff and Bailey will raise funds for cancer research and patient services between March 20 and June 1, 2012.

DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Karen Torres


PRSRT STD US POSTAGE

PAID ERIE, PA

PERMIT #199

What’s it worth to U?Fewer sick days.

The plan that offers financial rewards for making healthy choices. We understand how much a healthy workforce is worth to you and your business. Productivity losses related to personal and family health problems cost U.S. employers $1,685 per employee per year, or $225.8 billion annually. That’s why we created a health plan that gives your employees real incentives for making smart and healthy lifestyle decisions. To learn more about this new, one-of-a-kind plan, contact your producer, visit UPMCHealthyU.com or call 1-877-563-0292.

Introducing HealthyU from UPMC Health Plan.

upmchealthyu.com

may 2012 business magazine

Documents

business of education

business philosophy

business buzz23

importance of education

womens education

inuence change change

future strategy

th annual