J ul y201 7
BUSINESS VOL. XXX NO. 7 | JULY 2017
MAGAZINE
Erie County
NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP LEARN ABOUT THE PROFESSIONALS MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNITIES
SPOTLIGHT Q&A: ROAR’S® 2017 CHARITY — MERCY CENTER FOR WOMEN
SPECIAL SECTION:
Why Area Employers Are Revved Up About Roar®
Our health coaches are with your employees every step of the way. When your employees are healthier, they’re happier and more productive. That’s why we have health coaches like Stephanie who team up with members like Cortne. Cortne was at risk for diabetes, so Stephanie suggested a plan that helped her lose 50 pounds — so far. And Stephanie even calls her regularly and meets her every month for a walk, to keep her on track and motivated. Members who get help from health coaches are #LivingProof.
Visit discoverhighmark.com/employer to learn how your employees can benefit from health coaches, too.
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
FEATURES FEATURE STORY | WHAT’S INSIDE
3
MAKING AN IMPACT The partnership of sponsorships.
COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE
4
NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP Learn about the professionals making a difference in their communities.
SPOTLIGHT Q&A | CHANGING LIVES
9
Jennie Hagerty, executive director of the Mercy Center for Women, talks about the mission of the Center and what it means to be the designated charity for Roar® 2017, which is set for July 12, 13, 14, 15 & 16 in downtown Erie.
ROAR ON THE
SPECIAL SECTION | SHORE® 2017
12 DEPARTMENTS
SPECIAL SECTION
18
BUSINESS BUZZ
EVENTS & EXTRAS
19
PEOPLE BUZZ
21
HR CONNECTION
22
LEGAL Q&A
WHAT’S NEW
25
NETWORKING & MORE!
EDITORIAL HEALTH MATTERS | SOLUTIONS
AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS
WORKPLACE TRENDS
GET ANSWERS
11
READ ON THE GO! For the most current Business Magazine updates, visit mbabizmag.com
Contributing Writers Jessica Barnett Dan Miler William Shrank, M.D.
Feature Photography iStockPhoto.com Additional Photography Casey Naylon Christine DeSantis
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
Why it’s important to be aware of the labor and employment issues for nonprofits in order to prevent liability. Dan Miller
Advertising Sales David Thornburg 814/833-3200 dthornburg@mbausa.org
ON THE HILL | GOVERNMENT
Design, Production & Printing Printing Concepts Inc. printcon@erie.net
17
On the Cover: The MBA Business Magazine takes a look at unique look into the community of innovative nonprofit leaders. For full story, see page 4.
Mission Statement: The Manufacturer & Business
How sitting has become the new smoking — and why it’s important to fit activity into your workday. William Shrank, M.D.
LEGAL BRIEF | LABOR LAW
15 Executive Editor Karen Torres ktorres@mbausa.org
Find out why area employers are revved up about the 11th annual charitable bike week – and why it’s good for bikers and businesses.
Guest columnist Jessica Barnett of the Commonwealth Foundation explains why it’s time to put an end to special-interest loopholes.
Manufacturer & Business Association 2171 West 38th Street | Erie, Pa. 16508 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 www.mbausa.org
© Copyright 2017 by the Manufacturer & Business Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial, pictorial or advertisements created for use in the Business Magazine, in any manner, without written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope bearing sufficient postage. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. The Business Magazine and Manufacturer & Business Association do not specifically endorse any of the products or practices described in the magazine. The Business Magazine is published monthly by the Manufacturer & Business Association, 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, Pa. 16508. Phone: 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
1
FEATURE STORY | WHAT’S INSIDE
Making an Impact
THE PARTNERSHIP OF SPONSORSHIPS There’s no question that corporate sponsorship of charitable causes is good for business. Research shows that total sponsorship spending by businesses just in North America will reach $23.2 billion in 2017. Those numbers include all sponsorships, not just those for charitable causes and events. Still, the corporate interest in nonprofit sponsorships has been impressive and grows more so each year.
Of the total dollars spent by businesses on sponsorships, 9 percent goes to causes often through cause-marketing partnerships, 4 percent to the arts, and 4 percent to festivals, fairs and annual events. In fact, the 2015 Community Involvement study conducted by Boston College’s Center for Corporate Citizenship found that a growing number of employers are prioritizing community involvement goals that align with their company’s operational strengths. Over 85 percent of respondents said this involvement enhances their reputation, almost 75 percent said it improves their ability to recruit employees and nearly 70 percent said it improves their ability to retain employees. Good nonprofit sponsorship partners realize that that such involvement is a business deal, not a donation. They also know that the skills to acquire such sponsorships are different from those
that work in everyday fundraising — and leadership is critical. In this edition of the Business Magazine, we’ll showcase some of the talented and innovative leaders who are making a difference in our region’s nonprofit sector and what drives their passion for their career and their causes. We’ll also get you geared up for the 11th annual Roar on the Shore® charitable motorcycle rally, set for July 12, 13, 14, 15 & 16 in Erie, and why it is good for bikers and businesses, as well as this year’s charity, the Mercy Center for Women. In fact, take a look at this month’s Spotlight Q&A as we talk to the Mercy Center for Women’s Executive Director Jennie Hagerty about the impact that the rally will make on the Center’s “house to home” project.
The Manufacturer & Business Association’s own HR/legal and training experts will also help address some key questions about how to help nonprofits make a big impact through marketing strategies, as well as hiring questions for the summer. The MBA, itself, is a not-for-profit employers’ association whose focus is to help businesses succeed. To learn more about our many services and programs that can assist your organization, visit www.mbausa.org!
Give Back and Lead by Example!
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
3
COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE
2017 Nonprofit Leadership Making a Difference Starts with Committed Leaders
Effective leadership is vitally important to any organization, and that is certainly true for nonprofits. Nonprofit organizations seek to create public good. They foster community engagement and civic participation. Yet the nonprofit sector’s ability to provide its services has come under ever-increasing pressure with changes in public policy and growing competition. To meet these challenges, today’s nonprofit executives need to stand up and stand out. They need to have a wide repertoire of knowledge, skills and experiences, and know when to apply their array of skills. These leaders are known not only by what they accomplish, but also by how they accomplish it and how they influence people in the process. “Leadership is a relationship in which leaders and those being led are connected and emotionally engaged in pursuit of common purposes,” states an article by the Giving Institute. “When nonprofits are fortunate to be advanced by this kind of a leader, they are usually able to achieve high levels of success.” The MBA Business Magazine is taking a unique look into the community of innovative nonprofit leaders. Here are a few of the people who are out there innovating, inspiring supporters and creating impact every day of the year:
CHARLOTTE
RUTH
Executive Director at the Achievement Center
Director at the A.N.N.A. Shelter (Association for Needy and Neglected Animals)
RERKO
What is the Achievement Center’s Mission? Serving more than 3,400 children each year, the Achievement Center helps children and young adults to maximize their potential. With a variety of therapeutic services for children, from birth to age 21, the Achievement Center meets the unique needs of children and teens with behavioral, emotional, mental health, developmental and physical challenges. Tell Us About Your Experience. I have a variety of experience in the field of behavioral health and have served in progressive leadership roles for more than 17 years. I have a passion for humanity and am committed to the health and well-being of anyone I meet. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. I share the Achievement Center’s vision that every child will be valued, respected, and will have opportunities to succeed. I have a strong desire to serve — removing obstacles, building capacity and being a voice of advocacy for the children and their parents. Contact Information: 4950 West 23rd Street Erie, PA 16506 814/459-2755 achievementctr.org
4
JULY 2017 • mbabizmag.com
THOMPSON What is the A.N.N.A. Shelter’s Mission? To provide stray/unwanted pet animals with a place where they can be reunited with their owners or placed into a new loving responsible home; and to provide this care in a loving, nurturing, clean, safe environment. Rescuing and rehabilitating one animal at a time. Tell Us About Your Experience. I started the shelter in 2004 with rose colored glasses. The past 14 years have been humbling and rewarding beyond belief. I have a background in business and a passion for helping others, which has helped me maintain our nonprofit organization. Our community support is amazing. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. The A.N.N.A. Shelter isn’t a job for me. It is who I am, a direct reflection of my heart and soul. As the founding director, I work hard every day to stay true to our mission. To help not only the animals who enter our doors but to provide compassion to the people we serve as well. Contact Information: 1555 East 10th Street Erie, PA 16511 814/451-0230 theannashelter.com
John
GEORGE
President and Chief Executive Officer at Barber National Institute
Executive Director at Bethesda Lutheran Services
Trauner
Barber
What is the Barber National Institute’s Mission? We at the Barber National Institute support individuals with any challenges as they live in the community, so they can be valued — and valuable — members of their neighborhoods, churches, schools and workforce. Tell Us About Your Experience. Many of our individuals I have known since childhood. Carrying out our mission to serve them and others — and ensuring the wellbeing of our organization — is not only a professional commitment, but one I take very personally. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. Simply put, our goal is to be the very best at what we do. Every service we develop must meet three criteria: it must be needed and meaningful in people’s lives; we must be able to perform at an elite level; and it must be fiscally sustainable. Our national reputation has been achieved because of our team of more than 2,500 staff, where each member is dedicated to innovation and service delivery of the highest quality. They view each challenge as a way to provide better and more creative choices that bring hope and opportunity to the children, adults and families we serve. They help to make dreams come true. Contact Information: 100 Barber Place Erie, PA 16507 814/453-7661 barberinstitute.org
What is Bethesda Lutheran Services’s Mission? The mission of Bethesda Lutheran Services is to provide hope and healing to children and families. Tell Us About Your Experience. I have been with Bethesda Lutheran Services for almost 24 years. Prior to being named CEO in August of 2015, I served for 14 years as operations director. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. For me, Bethesda has always been a place where kids feel safe and find the help they need. Bethesda has a long history of offering some of the region’s highest quality programs and services for children, youth and families, and we will continue to strive for excellence in all that we do. My goal is to expand and grow the agency so that all Pennsylvania families will have access to the services we offer.
Contact Information: 15487 State Highway 86 Meadville, PA 16335 814/724-7510 Ext. 223 Bethesda-home.org
DEANNA
JONATHAN
Director of Donor Services at Community Blood Bank of Northwest PA & Western New York
Vice President of Marketing, Advancement and Communications at Erie Homes for Children and Adults (EHCA)
RENAUD
RILLING
What is the Community Blood Bank’s Mission? Community Blood Bank’s mission is to connect donors to patients who are in need of life-sustaining blood products in the communities we serve. As the exclusive supplier of blood to UPMC Hamot, Saint Vincent Hospital and Millcreek Community Hospital, we rely on residents and businesses in Erie County to support our local blood supply.
What is EHCA’s Mission? The mission of EHCA is to assist people with disabilities to live rich and fulfilling lives. We believe every individual should have the opportunity to make choices, to contribute to his or her own daily lifestyle, to obtain the best education/training available, and to enjoy a home-like atmosphere with quality caregivers.
Tell Us About Your Experience. After several years in journalism, I came to the Community Blood Bank in 2005. While my title has changed many times, my job has always been to make sure we have enough blood donors to meet the needs of our partner hospitals, while exceeding our donors’ expectations. Currently, I oversee Recruitment, Marketing and Collections.
Tell Us About Your Experience. I implement EHCA’s major gifts program, helping our donors contribute to vital services that change people’s lives. I also lead the team that handles the agency’s marketing, communications, grant processes, and fundraising activities. An Erie native and Edinboro University graduate, I previously worked for the Highmark Caring Place and Verizon Wireless. I live in Erie with my wife, Kristine, and our two children.
Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. No one ever says they want to be a Blood Banker when they grow up, but doing this work has become one of the defining roles of my life. There is nothing like receiving a “thank-you” from a recipient or family member because a blood product helped them heal or gave them another year of memories.
Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. Contributing to the success of EHCA is extremely rewarding. Every day, I witness our mission in motion and celebrate the victories of those we serve. I feel fortunate to represent this outstanding agency in my hometown!
Contact Information: 2646 Peach Street Erie, PA 16508 814/456-4206 Fourhearts.org
Contact Information: 226 East 27th Street Erie, PA 16504 814/454-1534 ehca.org
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
5
Stephen
MAUREEN
Executive Director at Erie City Mission
Executive Director at Erie DAWN
Westbrook, CPA
DUNN
What is ECM’s Mission? The Erie City Mission is a 106-year old organization whose purpose is to Restore Hope and Transform Lives of marginalized individuals in desperate need — in the name of Jesus Christ. We address issues such as hunger, homelessness, addictions to drugs and alcohol, poverty, and general lack of hope. Tell Us About Your Experience. I’ve worked in executive and financial leadership in the nonprofit, human services sector for more than 20 years of my career. My greatest fulfillment has been working in organizations representing marginalized and often forgotten people — delinquent/dependent adolescents, disconnected inner-city teens, adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and now at a rescue mission. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. Working for the Mission gives me the opportunity to combine my skills and experience with my heart. Our Board, staff and volunteers care deeply about those in great need – each individual life. It’s a privilege to lead this organization providing such incredible hope and transformation. This is Our City, Our Mission!
What is Erie DAWN’s Mission? Rooted in the belief that all people have the right to live in a setting that safeguards human dignity, Erie DAWN, in partnership with local landlords, provides, safe, affordable, independent housing for women with or without children. Advocacy and support services are provided so these families can continue their journey to selfsufficiency. Tell Us About Your Experience. I am in my 10th year as the executive director of Erie DAWN. I have over 40 years of experience in the nonprofit arena — from teaching in the classroom to community education, as well as being a liaison to the PA Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Education. I feel that every personal and professional experience I have had has better prepared me for my current position as executive director of Erie DAWN. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. I feel fortunate that I am in the position to be able to help so many people through Erie DAWN. I work with a dedicated staff and a supportive board that allow me to see a need in the community and take creative approaches to resolving challenging situations for the people we serve. I feel that a woman cannot move forward on her journey to selfsufficiency if, at the end of the day, she does not know where she is going to live. Erie DAWN has a rich history of providing housing and hope to hundreds of families. I feel privileged to be in a position to carry on that legacy.
Contact Information: 1017 French Street Erie, PA 16501 814/452-4421 eriecitymission.org
Contact Information: 2549 West 8th Street Erie, PA 16505 814/453-5921 eriedawn.org
Karen
STEVE
Head of School at Erie Day School
Executive Director at Erie Philharmonic
Tyler, Ed. D. What is the Erie Day School’s Mission? Erie Day School’s mission is to provide a student-centered, diverse, familyoriented environment where children are guided in strengthening their unique academic, artistic and athletic potential. Our highly educated and engaged faculty encourage students to develop international-mindedness as they realize their roles as responsible citizens in a global community. Tell Us About Your Experience. With 25 years of experience in education, I am looking forward to my seventh year at EDS. Facilitating curriculum, instruction and assessment among students, faculty and staff that are truly invested in education has been incredibly rewarding. Making strategic and operational decisions on behalf of a nonprofit, accredited educational institution and community asset has expanded my skill set beyond expectation. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. I am inspired by internationally-minded young learners willing to take action with ambition nand students eager to make service contributions both locally and regionally with principles and care. I look forward to increasing enrollment, expanding curriculum/programs, and furthering the progression of Erie Day School for students and families in our community. Contact Information: 1372 West 6th Street Erie, PA 16505 814/452-4273 eriedayschool.com
6
JULY 2017 • mbabizmag.com
WEISER What is the Erie Philharmonic’s Mission? The mission of the Erie Philharmonic is to strengthen our community and region by providing high-quality, live orchestra concerts and programs that enrich, entertain and educate people of all ages. Tell Us About Your Experience. I have been the executive director of the Philharmonic for two years and going into my third season. The Philharmonic has seen growing audience numbers, exceeded ticket sales, and an increased presence in the community, including a residency at the St. Benedict Center for 60 preschool students to learn through music in their classrooms. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. As a previous musician with the Philharmonic, it is very easy for me to be passionate about the orchestra each day. I truly haven’t worked a day since I started. Between our new outreach initiatives, sold-out performances, talented musicians and a dedicated staff, the Philharmonic is truly making a difference within the community on a multitude of levels.
Contact Information: 23 West 10th Street, Suite 3 Erie, PA 16501 814.455.1375 eriephil.org
Shawn
Beth
Executive Director at Flagship Niagara League
Managing Director at Innovation Collaborative
Zimmer
Waskiewicz
What is the Flagship Niagara League’s (FNL) Mission? The Flagship Niagara League is a 501 (C) 3, nonprofit educational associate organization of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC), chartered to facilitate citizen participation and operation of the U.S. Brig Niagara and its home port, Erie Maritime Museum. Tell Us About Your Experience. I have 15 years of experience working in the sports industry, primarily management and sales. In 2012, I made the transition to the nonprofit sector. Managing day-to-day operations for a sports team is very similar to FNL. It’s all about cultivating relationships and managing expectations. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. The U.S. Brig Niagara is Pennsylvania’s ambassador. To see the ship underway and watch how a sail training program can transform a young persons life in a few short weeks is simply amazing. I’m inspired to raise funds to keep Niagara sailing as a standard-setting sail training vessel in North America.
What is Innovation Collaborative’s Mission? The Innovation Collaborative is the independent voice for entrepreneurs, facilitating, measuring and communicating progress for northwest PA’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Tell Us About Your Experience. The Innovation Collaborative was officially launched in late 2014. We support the region’s need for a more vibrant environment that encourages, first and foremost, a more entrepreneurial culture. We have made great progress so far by engaging hundreds of startups and thousands of people in events, awards programs, contests, social media campaigns, educational programs, etc. We are educating the public as to why entrepreneurship is important through marketing across media channels. We also attracted BlueTree Allied Angels to Erie, so that high growth potential startups that need to, can gain access to “smart” money and mentorship by angel investors in Erie, Pittsburgh and nationally. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. Those of us that are fortunate enough to have been born and raised in northwest Pennsylvania are blessed with many amenities. I have been many other places and am proud to live and contribute here. Our town, our families, friends, and colleagues are all ready for change… we’ve realized that it is up to us, collectively, to work collaboratively toward positive transformations in our neighborhoods, our region, and our work. We are honored to be playing our part in the renaissance by catalyzing and convening around the importance of entrepreneurs to help lead our economy forward.
Contact Information: 1001 State Street - Suite 907 Erie, PA 16501 814/490-5295 StartupEriePA.com
Contact Information: 150 East Front Street Erie, PA 16507 814/452-2744 flagshipniagara.org
Venus
DENISE L.
Program Director at Boots On Ground
Executive Director at National Alliance of Mental Illness of Erie County
Azevedo-Laboda What Is BOG’S Mission? We support our veterans and their families who are coping with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and veteran suicide through outreach, training and education using Peer to Peer Certified Specialist Suicide support and response. Tell Us About Your Experience. BOG came from the pain of losing my brother who was active duty and suffered from PTSD. I tried to find help for him; however, the help never had a chance. He took his life with me on the other side of the door. After that. I took classes on trauma crisis, and suicide. Now, I know how to help!
KOLIVOSKI What is NAMI of Erie County’s Mission? NAMI of Erie County is focused on fostering personal growth and family stability by supporting and educating family members and individuals facing the challenges of mental illness in Erie County. Tell Us About Your Experience. Assisting individuals and families facing the challenges of mental illness is very rewarding. So many families with mental health concerns have limited knowledge of mental illness and the systems in place to care for their loved ones. NAMI’s free programs and services, such as the Family-toFamily Education program and the Peer-to-Peer Workforce Development program allow us to change that through education, interactive workshops, training and support.
Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. When you actually save someone’s life and keep families together, and when you see vets helping vets because they understand each other, its amazing to see the growth within themselves. That’s so rewarding.
Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. Witnessing firsthand the increase in awareness about mental health and wellness inspires me to continue NAMI’s important work. Maintaining mental wellness provides numerous benefits, including increasing overall happiness, workplace productivity, and improving relationships with family members and loved ones.
Contact Information: 913 State Street Erie, PA 16501 814/878-2934 www.MHANP.org/BootsOnGround
Contact Information: 1611 Peach Street, #105 Erie, PA 16501 814/456-1772 namierie.org
Erie County mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
7
Robin
Bill
Executive Director at Stairways Behavioral Health
President at United Way of Erie County
Jackson
Dowling
What is Stairways Behavioral Health’s Mission? Stairways Behavioral Health assists persons with mental health-care needs at any stage of life in their recovery by providing comprehensive rehabilitation, treatment and supports essential for living, working, learning and participating fully in the community. Tell Us About Your Experience. I have extensive experience in the behavioral health-care field, having provided direct clinical care as a nurse before holding leadership and administrative positions. In more than 20 years at Stairways, I have led in creating a risk-aware culture by serving as chief risk and compliance officer before being appointed executive director in May 2016. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. I have worked in a number of positions throughout my career at Stairways and believe in building strong relationships. My passion is driven by the commitment of our staff which fuels and encourages the success of those we serve.
JULY 2017 • mbabizmag.com
Tell Us About Your Experience. I have been with United Way for 21 years, bringing with me 15 years of previous experience in business, marketing and finance. Describe Your Passion for the Work You Do. Having lived in Erie all of my life, I am passionate about being able to play a role in making our community the best it can be. Working with others who believe we can create our own future is invigorating.
Contact Information: 420 West 6th Street, #200 Erie, PA 16507 814/456-2937 unitedwayerie.org
Contact Information: 2185 West 8th Street Erie, PA 16505 814/453-5806 stairwaysbh.org
8
What is the United Way of Erie County’s Mission? United Way of Erie County is working locally to reduce poverty and increase self-sufficiency by mobilizing resources to improve community conditions. By focusing on student success from birth and family stability, United Way helps empower every person to reach milestones that help on their path to success from birth to adulthood.
SPOTLIGHT Q&A| CHANGING LIVES
Mercy Center for Women ® to Benefit from Roar Each year, the Roar on the Shore® Board of Directors selects a local charity to be the beneficiary of the annual Roar on the Shore® bike week. Here, Jennie Hagerty, the executive director of the Mercy Center for Women, talks about the mission of the Center and what it means to be the designated charity for Roar® 2017, which is set for July 12, 13, 14, 15 & 16 in downtown Erie.
Tell us about the history of the Mercy Center for Women and how it began. The Mercy Center for Women was founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1994 and provides transitional living for women and children who are victims to domestic violence, homelessness, mental illness and substance abuse. What is the mission of the Center and what kinds of services do you provide? Mercy Center for Women is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy and is committed to enhancing the dignity of each person it serves through the healing of body, mind and spirit. How vital is the Mercy Center for Women to our community? Mercy Center for Women changes lives. We take women and children and provide them with supportive services and programs in self–esteem, building healthy relationships, project reach and advocacy. These women look upon each other as peers. They come together in building a better life through daily
communication, reflection and mail sharing. The Center has been named the designated Roar on the Shore® charity for 2017. Please tell us what it means to you and the organization to be a part of the 11th annual rally. This is an incredible opportunity for Mercy Center for Women. We are truly grateful for being chosen as the designated charity. There are so many well-deserving nonprofits. We will be focusing the proceeds on our “house to home” project. The project will allow our women graduates the necessary resources to begin their life once they graduate from our program. Our graduates will be provided with cleaning supplies, medical supplies, hand tools, childcare options, transportation and necessary bedding, including mattresses. What it means to Mercy Center for Women is a success story. The Mercy Center for Women will benefit from this in helping our women and children find
their place in the community once they graduate from the program. Roar on the Shore® 2017 will forever leave a footprint here at Mercy Center for Women. In addition to Roar®, what are some other ways that businesses and individuals can support the Center? Who should they contact? We love donations of clothing and monetary gifts are truly appreciated. We are always in need of volunteers. Please call Kim Church at Mercy Center for Women 814/455-4577. Is there anything you would like to add? Mercy Center for Women is fortunate to have this opportunity with Roar on the Shore®. We appreciate this wonderful organization choosing Mercy Center for Women as their charity to support in 2017. To learn more about the Mercy Center for Women, visit www.mcwerie.org.
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
9
Saint Mary’s East 607 East 26th Street, Erie, PA 16504 814/451-0621 Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge 4855 West Ridge Road, Erie, PA 16506 814/836-5300 www.StMarysHome.org Saint Mary’s Home of Erie President and Chief Executive Officer Sister Phyllis McCracken, SSJ
Campus Life at Saint Mary’s Home of Erie
NONPROFIT PROFILE
At Saint Mary’s Home of Erie, quality of life is measured in many different ways. The retirement community for seniors that has been fostered over the past 132 years not only offers a continuum of care, but a place where life abounds. Both campuses, Saint Mary’s East and Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge, offer beautiful amenities that enhance lifestyles and create space for engaging experiences among residents, family and friends. Across the hall from one another at Saint Mary’s East, live Theresa Baniszewski and Charles Stuart. Theresa has been a resident at Saint Mary’s for over four years now, while Chuck, on the other hand, just four days. Together, they explore the landscaped courtyards, walking paths and the Grotto on campus, helping Chuck to discover the beauty and peace of his new home. “A close friend and I explored different options for me, but nothing compared to Saint Mary’s. We chose it because it was the best,” Chuck explains. Originally from Virginia, Chuck spent much of his life traveling in the military with his late wife before settling and deciding to stay in Erie. “I’m very happy here so far. Everyone has been friendly and helpful and it’s a beautiful place,” Chuck says. As they talk in the Residential Courtyard, Theresa is stunned at how much time has passed since she was once new to Saint Mary’s. “I was surprised to have been here four years already!” she laughs. Theresa continues, “My daughter lives out of state, but I like everything here and I have friends that visit so I stayed. My apartment has a beautiful view of the courtyard and the campus is lovely! It’s home now, I love it here.” While Saint Mary’s offers spacious grounds and plenty of activities oncampus, maintaining connection to the Erie community is an important
Residents Mary Kellogg (left) and Berta Liedtke (center) enjoy the off-campus transportation provided at Saint Mary’s Home of Erie. Pictured helping (far right) is Maintenance Team Leader Michael Corey. Off-campus transportation is provided at Saint Mary’s Home of Erie.
Services: part of life for their residents, which • Adult Day Services is why transportation off-campus • Alzheimer’s Care is also provided. Mary Kellogg and • Home Care Services Berta Liedtke, who live at Saint • Independent Living Mary’s at Asbury Ridge, happily • Personal Care Services take advantage of this service. “I • Residential Living • Respite Care use the van transportation twice • Short/Long-Term a week for water therapy. We also Rehabilitation use it for things like shopping, going • Skilled Nursing to see plays and other outings,” Mary describes. Although Mary loves getting out, meeting new people and making sure everyone feels welcomed, Berta likes the fact that she can maintain her privacy when she desires. “I like time to myself when I can do what I want, but I also like that there is always an activity to do or an outing to go on if I feel like it. I can stay in, I can go out, I can do whatever makes me happy!” Berta says. Both Mary and Berta also make the most of the outdoor space at Asbury Ridge. Mary is a residential gardener. She and other residents work with the Groundskeeping Team to beautify the campus. “It’s wonderful to have a nice space to relax outside and visit, or just go for a walk,” Mary explains. Berta agrees, “It really is a beautiful campus! It feels like home.”
Residents Charles Stuart (left) and Theresa Baniszewski (right) are pictured watching nature and enjoying the scenery in one of the colorful courtyards at Saint Mary’s East.
10
JULY 2017 • mbabizmag.com
The commitment of Saint Mary’s of Erie to maintain its mission of “Loving to Care” and “fostering an atmosphere of community” ensures that the beauty of life is reflected in all that they do. A vibrant campus life and supportive community is important to them, because they know how important it is to those who live there.
HEALTH MATTERS | SOLUTIONS
Sitting is the New Smoking
Consider Fitting Activity Into Your Workday William Shrank, M.D. is the chief medical officer at UPMC Health Plan, which is part of the UPMC Insurance Services Division and also includes UPMC WorkPartners, LifeSolutions, UPMC for Life, UPMC for You, UPMC for Kids, Askesis and Community Care Behavioral Health.
than when you’re sitting. Standing more each day can also help improve posture, increase blood flow, rev your metabolism, and increase your energy and alertness.
• Have mobile meetings: Instead of sitting in a conference room for a 30-minute meeting with colleagues, turn it into a walking meeting.
Small Moves, Big Benefits Here are some quick and easy changes employees can make at work to improve their health and productivity — starting today:
• Give up your seat: Choose to stand on public transportation rather than sit.
The prevalence of sitting jobs has risen 83 percent in the United States since 1950, according to the American Heart Association. The result? Employees are spending a lot more time being sedentary each day.
• Take frequent detours: Take an extra lap or two around the office on your way to the restroom, coffee pot or printer.
Research is clear that sitting for long periods of time each day over many years can increase a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, higher levels of stress, as well as neck and lower-back pain. No wonder health experts coined the phrase, “sitting is the new smoking.” The Benefits of Standing Simply standing more each day provides overall health benefits and increases work productivity among employees. For example, research shows that you burn 30 percent more calories when you’re standing
• Go vertical: Take the stairs instead of the elevator as you enter and exit the office each day, and get in the habit of walking up the escalator instead of standing.
• Communicate like it’s 1989: Instead of sending emails to your co-workers, walk to their desks on a regular basis. • Make it automatic: Find an app for your phone or computer that prompts you to get up from your chair every 30 minutes and move around. • Take breaks: Get in the habit of taking micro-breaks, such as standing while talking on the phone. • Toss it farther away: Move your trash or recycling bin away from your desk so you have to take a few extra steps.
Keeping It Going Long Term Corporate wellness programs help employees to start fitting more activity into their workday. And it’s important to keep that momentum going over weeks, months and years. One key is for employees to tap into their essential motivation for wanting to get more active. It’s often not enough to simply say that you should exercise more, or should burn more calories, or should get a standing desk. Many employees need more tangible and basic reasons, such as wanting more energy or focus during their workday. Or perhaps they want to lose five pounds in the next month or want to be able to keep up with their kids or grandkids at the park. For extra motivation to help employees to get more active each day, check with your health care plan to see if they offer health coaches that will help to guide your staff and stay on track with their activity goals. For more information about UPMC Health Plan, please visit www.upmchealthplan.com.
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
11
COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE
Thousands of rally goers turned out for Roar® 2016 in Erie. This year, organizers are expecting more than 170,000 to attend Erie’s Official Bike Week.
GOOD FOR BIKERS, BUSINESSES WHY AREA EMPLOYERS ARE REVVED UP ABOUT 11TH ANNUAL BIKE WEEK Each July, for the past 11 years, there is a distinct rumble that can be heard as thousands of motorcycles roll into town for Roar on the Shore®. The American Motorcyclist Association’s (AMA)sanctioned rally, which is set for July 12, 13, 14, 15 & 16 in 2017 and is recognized as the Official Bike Week for Erie, Pennsylvania, is welcomed by bikers and businesses alike as one of the region’s largest community fundraisers and economic drivers. The Manufacturer & Business Association, which presents the bike week, along with the City of Erie, and more than 50 sponsors, is committed to supporting the rally and its economic impact. “Roar® is something that we’re extremely proud of. Created under Ralph Pontillo’s leadership, we’re proud to continue to support what has become one of our community’s greatest attractions,” says MBA President and CEO John Krahe. “Many of our members are sponsors of the event because they believe in what it means for our community.” Harry Eighmy, chairman of the Roar on the Shore® Board and the Manufacturer & Business Association Board of Governors and chief operating officer at American Turned Products, echoes Krahe’s sentiments. “I think that the amount of participation by the business community, and the support for it, is just astronomical. Being one of the largest events, it touches everything in Erie County for that particular weekend. Until I sat in on one of the Roar® meetings, I never realized how much goes into it. It is unbelievable.” In addition to raising funds for a local charity, organizers estimate that Roar® has injected more than $20 million in spending each year into the local economy — and an astonishing
12
JULY 2017 • mbabizmag.com
$200 million in economic spending over the past 10 years. “Although we think of Roar® as an Erie or Erie County event,” notes Krahe, “we believe that the ripple effect is much greater than even that $20 million value because there are people counties away that have increased activity, that we’re not even aware of, that are reaping many of the financial benefits of this event.” As Erie Mayor Joe Sinnott explains, “Each year, more than 100,000 people come to our community to enjoy this event. The result is an extensive economic impact throughout Erie County and an excellent opportunity to welcome participants from all over the country to experience our city.” “Roar on the Shore® is a great way to showcase all our community has to offer and to grow our tourism economy,” he adds. “We are very
fortunate that the community embraces this event and helps us put our best foot forward for our many guests.”
Charity Driven
At the heart of Roar’s® mission is a greater purpose to raise funds for a worthwhile charity, raising more than $840,000 to date since the rally began in 2007. Past beneficiaries include the John Kanzius Cancer Research Fund, Shriners Hospitals for Children – Erie, local Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom veterans and their families, SafeNet’s Big Backyard Children’s Garden, the Flight 93 National Memorial Campaign, the Perry 200 Commemoration, the Boys & Girls Club of Erie, St. Patrick’s Haven, Erie Homes for Children and Adults’ Project First Step, and 2016’s St. Martin Center New Playground Project.
The Bringin’ in the Bike Parade is official kickoff of Roar on the Shore® each year. This year, the parade will be led by grand marshal Danny Trejo, an actor known for numerous and TV and movie appearances including “Machete.”
THANK YOU SPONSORS! The Roar on the Shore® Official Bike Week is presented in conjunction with The City of Erie and more than 50 area sponsors. This year’s sponsors include:
Perry Square is The Hub for the annual Roar® bike week welcoming bikers from across the country and Canada.
“The Mercy Center for Women will benefit from this in helping our women and children find their place in the community once they graduate from the program,” explains Mercy Center Executive Director Jennie Hagerty. “Roar on the Shore® 2017 will forever leave a footprint here at Mercy Center for Women. “ “In addition to the financial contribution that the Roar on the Shore® is able to make, there are so many wonderful nonprofits that benefit, not only here in Erie, but also throughout the Erie area,” says Krahe. “This is just another way for us to help with getting information out about them. If you have never been in a position to need that charity to assist you in your personal life, you may have no idea about the great things that they’re doing. The nice thing is when you find yourself in that situation, if you need that assistance, more people are now aware of where to turn because of Roar®. And, so again, we’re certainly proud of being part of something that’s supporting such great charities. But it goes well beyond that — it’s making people aware of these charities if and when they need them.”
Sponsor Support
Roar® is a great way for many of the MBA members to also give back to the community and make an impact on a larger scale. “Many of these employers have always given back to the community, but it’s been more behind the scenes. Roar®, on the other hand, is a way they can continue to do what they’ve always done, but be a part of a big community event,” says Krahe.
John B. Pellegrino Sr., P.E., president and CEO of Ridg-U-Rak, Inc. in North East, has been a major sponsor of the event since the beginning 11 years ago. “Roar on the Shore® is dedicated to raising funds for local charities and creating a very powerful economic impact on our community. This objective is exactly the same objective that Ridg-U-Rak shares,” he says. “We strongly support our community and provide jobs and opportunity to hundreds of families and, at the same time, support charitable initiatives such as Roar on the Shore®. We are a proud American country who believes in America first.”
American Flag Sponsor:
Industrial Sales and Manufacturing in Erie also has had a longstanding relationship with the Manufacturer & Business Association — and Roar®. “Our company is Erie homegrown with a deep commitment to our community,” states founder and CEO Jim Rutkowski Sr. “We support Roar on the Shore® for two main reasons. The funds raised are donated to a worthy cause. Last year, St. Martin’s Center and, this year, Mercy Center for Women are just two excellent examples of organizations that need our support. We are proud to be part of that effort. We also recognize the enormous economic impact this event has on our community. Although ISM does not benefit directly from this effort, we recognize that we are part of a larger community that can only succeed by working together.” Major sponsor Street Track ’N Trail, too, sees the value of their ongoing support of Roar® and its mission. “Street Track ‘N Trail feels strongly about the charity aspect of the event, and is proud to be able to provide Roar® with what, we think, is a very unique program with our Harley-Davidson 6-Pack giveaway,” says owner Dick Lepley, of the charity bike raffle that benefits Roar®. “Greater involvement by businesses will encourage more growth, and that’s a good thing for all of us.” For more information about this year’s bike week, visit www.roarontheshore.com.
Valerios ‘
Proceeds from Roar® 2017 will benefit the Mercy See the Center for Women, a Spotlight Q&A ministry of the Sisters of on page 9 for Mercy that provides safe more and supportive transitional information. housing, education and counseling for homeless women in the region. This year’s rally will have a direct impact on the Center’s “house to home” program.
Fresh From Italy To You!
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
13
TESTIMONIALS FROM PEOPLE LIKE YOU! “…The work you do is amazing and so very helpful....especially for libraries and nonprofits. We rely on your expertise on these kinds of things to help us get through!” — Justin Hoenke Executive Director Benson Memorial Library Titusville, PA
“Thank you so much for the extensive data you provided me. The monitoring by the Association and your efforts in particular provide me with confidence that we are getting good value through EnergyAdvisors!” — Jim Hynes CFO Swanson-Erie Corp. Erie, PA
“…you have gone above and beyond for us. It is the first time ever, that I feel that I can TRUST a person with rate information.” — Mary Anne Strand Nick’s Place Edinboro, PA
LEGAL BRIEF | LABOR LAW
Labor and Employment Issues for Nonprofits
it is reviewing the need for additional guidance on internships in the public and nonprofit sectors. In short, there appears to continue to be an open issue with regard to whether nonprofits can maintain internship programs without fear that such interns will be determined to be employees who must be paid wages. In fact, the USDOL has issued past opinion letters applying the six-part test to nonprofit organizations. This means that nonprofits should attempt to meet the six-part test to be exempt from the minimum wage and overtime requirements. Volunteers Another issue common to nonprofits is whether volunteers who are also employees should be paid wages for volunteer activities. The FLSA defines employment very broadly to include “to suffer or permit to work.” However, the USDOL has generally found that individuals who volunteer or donate their services, usually on a part-time basis for public service, religious or humanitarian objectives without contemplation of pay are not considered employees.
Dan Miller is a partner with the law firm of MacDonald Illig Attorneys, LLP. Miller is chair of the firm’s Labor & Employment Practice Group. He represents management in collective bargaining, labor relations, employee relations, employment discrimination, unemployment compensation and wage-and-hour case law. There are several legal issues that occur more frequently with nonprofits. Such issues include internship programs and the use of volunteers who are also employees. Both of these issues, if not properly managed, can result in significant liability. Internship Programs The U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) maintains a strict test to determine whether “for-profit” private sector internships may be maintained without compensation under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The six required criteria that must be met are:
1) the internship is similar to training that would be given in an educational environment; 2) the internship is for the benefit of the intern; 3) the intern does not displace regular employees; 4) the employer derives no immediate advantage from activities of the intern, and its operations may actually be impeded; 5) the intern is not necessarily entitled a job at the conclusion of the internship; and 6) the intern understands that the intern is not entitled to wages for the internship. The USDOL has indicated that the FLSA makes a special exception for individuals who volunteer to perform services for state or local government agencies and for individuals who volunteer for humanitarian purposes for private nonprofit food banks. The USDOL has also indicated that unpaid internships in the public sector and for nonprofit charitable organizations, where the intern volunteers without expectation of compensation, are generally permissible. However, the USDOL has said
USDOL guidance is clear that employees may not volunteer services to for-profit private sector employers. It is also clear that while people are allowed to volunteer for public agencies in their community, employers cannot allow employees to volunteer, without compensation, additional time to do the same work for which they are employed. In other words, nonprofit employers are not permitted to allow employees to volunteer for the same work for which they are employed. While this does not mean that nonprofits cannot have employees volunteer for other projects or activities, when employees volunteer, there is always risk that there might be a claim that the employee is actually being required to perform the services and is entitled to compensation. Therefore, nonprofit employers should be sure to maintain clear policies that any volunteer activities performed by employees must be voluntary and without the expectation of compensation. Conclusion The issues regarding interns and volunteers are but a few employment issues that are particularly significant to nonprofits. If you have any questions concerning the contents of this article you can contact Dan Miller at MacDonald Illig Attorneys, LLP at 814/870-7708, or any other member of the MacDonald Illig Labor and Employment Practice Group.
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
15
BY THE
130
NUMBERS
participating businesses
& growing
19,677 43 student experiences
168
available experiences
school partners
WHAT CAN YOU DO? Inspire the next generation of manufacturers by making a donation to Career Street on Erie Gives Day, August 8, as we will provide transportation to Manufacturing Day 2017 for more than 2,000 area students. Your donation will enable middle and high school students from across Erie County to visit manufacturing exhibits, experience hands-on demonstrations and learn about all the diverse manufacturing career opportunities that are available.
www.CareerStreetErie.org jpontzer@CareerStreetErie.org 814.464.8614
Help us pave the way for a skilled and engaged workforce.
Local Nonprofit Social Service Provider 5712 Iroquois Avenue, Harborcreek, PA 16421 | 814-899-7664
Psychiatric Residential Treatment, In-home Family Therapy, & Therapeutic Foster Care
Family Services of NW PA is a leading nonprofit service provider across Northwest Pennsylvania, offering a comprehensive continuum of care and high quality, innovative programs and services designed to
Revolutionizing Trauma-Informed Care through Expressive Arts Therapies Learn more and donate now at www.hys-erie.org/ArtsCenter
strengthen families and transform lives.
Counseling Services Adoption Services Big Brothers Big Sisters
Community Shelter Services
655 West 16th Street Erie, PA 16502
(814) 455-4369
www.communityshelter.org
A Pathway to Housing, Help,
814.866.4500 • FSNWPA.org 16
JULY 2017 • mbabizmag.com
... and Hope
ON THE HILL | GOVERNMENT
It’s Time to End Special-Interest Loophole Jessica Barnett is a policy analyst with the Commonwealth Foundation (CommonwealthFoundation.org), Pennsylvania’s free-market think tank based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth Foundation’s stated mission is to “transform free-market ideas into public policies so all Pennsylvanians can flourish.”
Public resources and political activity are
paychecks — just like taxes — then
politicians and calls on members to lobby
like oil and water — they don’t mix.
forwarded to government unions and their political organizations.
against policies like pension reform.
That’s what we’re told, but the truth might surprise you. Because of a legal carveout for special interests, Pennsylvania has been mixing public resources and politics for years. But that carveout could soon end. It has long been illegal for elected officials to mix political business and the people’s business. Even sending a costless fundraising email from a state-owned computer will land any elected official in hot water. Who can forget former Supreme Court Justice Joan Orie Melvin and former House Speaker John Perzel, both of whom violated the bright line between politics and public resources? They went to jail for essentially forcing taxpayers to help them maintain political power. The downfall of such high-profile politicians shows that subverting public resources for political gain will not be tolerated. Except when it is. Pennsylvania government regularly collects and distributes tens of millions of dollars earmarked for politics on behalf of one special interest group: government union leaders. Not coincidentally, these leaders also happen to be one of the state’s biggest political spenders. This political money, both union dues earmarked for political activity and political action committee (PAC) contributions, is deducted from workers’
In turn, union leaders have used PACs to give more than $40 million directly to political candidates in the last 10 years. In the 2016 election alone, they donated more than $400,000 to successful Democratic candidates for state treasurer, attorney general and auditor general; in 2015, they directed $340,000 to Democratic judicial candidates; and, in 2014, $3.4 million went to Governor Wolf’s campaign. A comparison of government union spending with that of the natural gas industry — often criticized for its heavy influence in Harrisburg — offers some crucial perspective. The eight largest natural gas PACs spent $1.1 million during the 2016 Pennsylvania elections. The top eight government union PACs spent more than six times that amount — $7.1 million. PAC contributions, however, capture only a portion of taxpayer-aided government union political spending. Since 2007, government union leaders spent an additional $63 million on politics from a portion of union members’ dues explicitly dedicated to “political activities and lobbying.” These union dues fund TV and radio ads, lobbying outlays, PAC solicitations, donations to SuperPACs, and political communication with members. For example, Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) members’ dues fund the union’s magazine, The Voice. The magazine regularly endorses
The United Food & Commercial Workers union, which represents liquor store clerks, infamously spent more than $1 million on TV and radio ads opposing liquor privatization — a highly popular reform that has the backing of most union households. Union members, as well as taxpayers, were forced to help promote this political activity, even if they ideologically disagree. All told, government unions have spent an astonishing $103 million on politics over the past decade, collected with taxpayers’ aid. Clearly, public resources and politics are, indeed, mixing. Paycheck protection would fix this ethical blind spot. In February, the state Senate passed SB166, which prohibits using public resources to collect money earmarked for politics. Under the bill, government union leaders would still be able to collect money and spend it on politics; they would just do it like everyone else — without government help. Polling shows two-thirds of Pennsylvania registered voters support paycheck protection, and 80 percent of union households agree that taxpayer resources should not be used to collect campaign contributions. Public resources and politics were never meant to mix. Ethics demands that this legal loophole be closed, once and for all.
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
17
BUSINESS BUZZ | WHAT’S NEW NIAGARA THERAPY CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING AT NEW LOCATION
Niagara Therapy, LLC recently held a grand opening gala at its new home at 2631 West 8th Street (across from the Colony Plaza) in Erie. The new location doubles the space for Niagara Therapy’s team of occupational, physical and speech therapists and their clients. The new site includes new equipment and Wellness Center that is fully accessible and therapy treatment hours until 7 p.m. Niagara Therapy offers a full therapy team of occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech services for adults and children and specializes in neurological disorders including stroke, autism/PDD, Parkinson’s, ADD/ADHD, multiple sclerosis, sensory processing disorder and more. For more information, visit www.niagaratherapy.com.
ACCURIDE CORPORATION UNVEILS ACQUISITION PLANS
Accuride Corporation — a leading supplier of components to the North American and European commercial vehicle industries with headquarters in Evansville, Indiana, and several facilities in the United States, including Erie, Pennsylvania — has reached an agreement to acquire KIC LLC. Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, KIC is a leading supplier of wheel end components to the North American commercial vehicle industry. The addition of KIC marks Accuride’s first acquisition under the supportive ownership of Crestview Partners, a leading New York-based private equity firm. Crestview acquired Accuride in November 2016 as a growth platform in the global commercial vehicle components industry. The transaction is expected to close in the current quarter of 2017. “Combining the tremendous strengths of KIC and Accuride will enable us to increase competitiveness and expand into new market segments,” Accuride President and CEO Rick Dauch said. “Our similar product and technology offerings mesh well; while the combination of our highly complementary business models gives us greater capacity and ability to flex up and down in response to industry cycles and customer demand. Accuride’s Erie facility, at 1015 East 12th Street, consists of 412,000 square feet and is located on 25 acres. For more information, visit www.accuridecorp.com.
18
JULY 2017 • mbabizmag.com
Michelle Mioduszewski, MS, OTR/L, NDTC, occupational therapist and owner of Niagara Therapy, LLC, shows off the new location. UNITED WAY OF ERIE LAUNCHES PA 2-1-1 INFORMATION SERVICES The United Way of Erie County is launching its 2-1-1 Information Services program in Erie, Venango and Warren Counties — the social service equivalent to 9-1-1. 2-1-1 is an easy-toremember number for non-emergency health, human and social services. Northwest PA 2-1-1 is part of the national 2-1-1 network that seeks to provide an easyto-remember telephone number, chat, text, and a web resource for finding health, human and social services — for everyday needs and crisis situations. Northwest PA 2-1-1 staff will work closely with government and provider agencies to ensure important local program information is accessible through a helpline when it is most needed. Every day, highly trained 2‑1‑1 resource navigators provide referrals to: • Basic Human Needs Resources: food banks, shelters, rent and utility payment assistance • Physical and Mental Health Resources: crisis intervention services, support groups, counseling • Employment Support: financial assistance, job training, education programs • Support for Older Adults and Persons with Disabilities: home-delivered meals, transportation, health care • Youth and Child Care Programs: after school programs, summer camps, mentoring, protection services • Regional Disaster Preparation Help is available by dialing 2 -1 -1. TTY and language services are available in more than 170 languages and dialects. 2-1-1 can also be reached by texting your zip code to 898-211 or chatting with a 2-1-1 specialist through the website PA211NW.org. Resources are also available through the website 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
PLASTIKOS TEAM EARNS NATIONAL PLASTICS INDUSTRY RECOGNITION Plastikos, Inc. was named the “2016 Sustained Excellence” award recipient, presented by PlasticsNews earlier this spring in Naples, Flordia. The exclusive Sustained Excellence award that is limited to companies that previously won the North American Processor of the Year award (POY Award), which Plastikos earned in 2010. “The entire Plastikos & Micro Mold Team is extremely honored to be presented with the “2016 Sustained Excellence” award, seven years after Plastikos was named the “North American Processor of the Year” by PlasticsNews,” said Philip Katen, Plastikos’ president and general manager. “Plastikos & Micro Mold remain strongly committed to our ‘100% Made in the USA’ strategy, and we believe that our Team affords the highest value for our customers’ hard earned dollar. And the Sustained Excellence award recognizes the hard work and dedication of our Team, who strives to exceed our customers’ expectations every day.” Plastikos was recognized for the company’s growth and continued operational excellence along with its impressive capital equipment reinvestment throughout the past seven years. The core values of Customer Service, Teamwork, Professionalism, Respect, and Continuous Improvement have defined the Plastikos & Micro Mold culture since its founding in 1978, almost 40 years ago. All former Processor of the Year (POY) awardwinning companies that were considered for the 2016 Sustained Excellence Award needed to demonstrate excellence in the following areas (in addition to being a previous POY winner): Continued Operational Excellence; Sales Growth, Diversification And Corresponding Financial Performance; Advancement In Technology & Innovation; and, IndustryLeading Employment Practices And Workforce Development. Plastikos earned high remarks in all categories.
FIVE KNOX LAW ATTORNEYS SELECTED FOR SUPER LAWYERS®, RISING STARS LISTS
Guy C. Fustine, shareholder at Knox Law, has been selected for inclusion on the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® list for 2017. Additionally, four shareholders have been selected for inclusion on the 2017 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® Rising Stars list: Elliott J. Ehrenreich, Julia M. Herzing, Jeremy T. Toman and Timothy S. Wachter. According to its website, Super Lawyers is “a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The patented selection process includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations.” Only 5 percent of attorneys in a state are selected for the Super Lawyers® list; only 2.5 percent of attorneys are selected for the Rising Stars list. “Rising Stars” candidates must be 40 years old or younger, or have practiced law for 10 years or less. Fustine’s practice is focused on business reorganization, commercial litigation and sports law. He is board certified in business bankruptcy law by the American Board of Certification and is AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rated. He also serves as a mediator and neutral evaluator in the Alternative Dispute Resolution Program of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. He has been listed in Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® since 2007 and Best Lawyers in America® since 1993. Ehrenreich, who is licensed to practice in both Pennsylvania and New York, concentrates his practice on business acquisitions and financings, health law and other general business transactions. He has successfully represented a diverse range of clients including businesses, franchises, physician practices, a national health-care service provider and several nonprofit entities throughout Western Pennsylvania and Western New York. He has been on the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® Rising Stars list since 2014 and was selected as a 2015 “Lawyer on the Fast Track” by The Legal Intelligencer. Herzing focuses her practice on a variety of labor & employment matters, including litigation. She works with both private and public
PEOPLE BUZZ | AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS
employers, counseling and representing clients on compliance with workplace laws, hiring and firing issues, and collective bargaining. Herzing speaks often to a variety of groups and is a board member for the ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum.
NORTHWEST ANNOUNCES BANK PROMOTIONS
Toman, licensed in Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York, focuses his practice on real estate, business law and environmental law. Toman has negotiated numerous oil and gas leases, earning his clients over $27 million in up-front bonus payments. He has also advised clients on business formation, choice of entity, business structure and organization for publicly and privately held entities, both for-profit and nonprofit. He has been on the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® Rising Stars since 2015. Wachter focuses his practice on representing governmental entities, municipalities, school districts, authorities and special purpose entities. He also represents private business entities in their interactions with local, state and federal government as part of Knox Law’s Public Strategies service. He has been on the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® Rising Stars list since 2013 and was selected as one of Erie’s 40 Under 40 in 2014 by the Erie Reader.
MURPHEY JOINS PURCHASE & GEORGE, P.C.
Katie Ann Ruffa has been named vice president, Commercial Lending, of Northwest Bank. In her new role, Ruffa will be responsible for managing the banking and lending relationships of business customers in Erie and the surrounding areas. She’ll also be responsible for business development, extending client relationships and serving business customers overall banking needs. She’ll be located at the Northwest office at 800 State Street in Erie. Ruffa has more than 13 years’ experience in banking and financial services, most recently as a vice president and business banking relationship manager for KeyBank in Erie. Ruffa received her bachelor’s degree in marketing management with a minor in communication from Grove City College and her MBA from Penn State Behrend. She is a chair of the Young Leader’s Society of the United Way of Erie County, member of the Resource Development Committee of the United Way of Erie County and involved in the ATHENA Circle of Trust. In addition, Ashley M. Ross has been named manager of the Northwest office located at 34th and Liberty streets. As manager, Ross is responsible for customer service, administration, lending and business development. She will work with the commercial lending, business services, investment management and insurance areas of the bank to provide customers a full-range of financial services.
Craig Murphey recently joined Eric Purchase and Tim George to form Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C.
Murphey is the current president of the Erie County Bar Association. He has frequently been honored as an outstanding lawyer, including recognition by The Best Lawyers in America® as the 2017 Pittsburgh region “Lawyer of the Year” for Personal InjuryDefense. He has also been selected to the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list every year since 2011. For more than 25 years, Murphey was a “go-to” lawyer for Pennsylvania insurance companies, and recently served as president of the Pennsylvania Defense Institute. Attorney Murphey now uses his vast litigation experience to help injured people, including victims of car, truck and motorcycle accidents and medical errors.
Ross attended Mercyhurst College, where she received her bachelor’s degree in marketing and advertising and her master’s degree in organizational leadership. She came to Northwest in 2011 as a management trainee and has experience as an assistant manager and mortgage loan officer. She’s currently enrolled in the PA Bankers Advanced School of Banking. Ross is an active volunteer for the March of Dimes auction committee and on the Black and Blue Ball committee for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Founded in 1896, Northwest offers a complete line of personal and business banking products including employee benefits, investment management services, insurance and trust.
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
19
Training within Industry Job Instruction
Do you talk about Standardized Work, but can’t seem to achieve it? Do you use an SOP as your primary source of training material? Does your training process rely on mentoring to transfer knowledge and skills? Does it take months to train even entry level employees? Do you need to capture years of knowledge from retiring employees?
For many companies, the answers are a resounding YES! And, you may agree that processes are often performed by various workers using different methods. The TWI Job Instruction class teaches the method to instruct operators how to perform a job correctly, safely and conscientiously. Job Instruction requires you to identify the ‘one best way’ and teach the process to that one way...thereby creating a standard method. Benefits experienced when practicing Job Instruction are reduced training time, less scrap and rework, fewer accidents, and increased job satisfaction. A TWI Job Instruction class is now forming for September 2017 in Erie. Class size is limited. More details at www.nwirc.org/events. Contact us to be placed on the roster. mreichard@nwirc.org (814) 898-6888
20
JULY 2017 • mbabizmag.com
HR CONNECTION | WORKPLACE TRENDS
ATTRACTING TOP TALENT KEY FOR NONPROFITS IN 2017 The 2017 Nonprofit Talent Priorities Survey, conducted by Nonprofit HR, has discovered that a significant majority (43 percent) of nonprofits ranked attracting diverse talent as their top talent manage priority for 2017. The report highlighted the need and desire for hiring diverse staff and creating high-performing diverse teams, which will most likely be more difficult than usual in a tight talent market.
Big Impact on a Small Budget
The Nonprofit HR survey also highlighted a deficiency in nonprofit talent management practices. The survey’s report sited that only 18 percent of nonprofits make developing a retention/ engagement program a priority.
If you work for a nonprofit, I’m betting you have a limited budget and staff but still need to get the word out about your mission and activities. I have good news! Free strategies can help you achieve your goal. Here are three to get you started: Find Your “Sweet Spot” The “sweet spot” is the overlap of your competition’s weaknesses, the customers’ interests and desires, and your company’s strengths and opportunities. This market position guides messaging, message placement and target audiences. Finding your nonprofit’s sweet spot will make you more efficient because you’ll be targeting the right people at the right time using the right vehicles.
SURVEY EXAMINES NONPROFIT COMPENSATION Despite the slight downturn in projected salary increases, results of the Management Association’s ninth annual Nonprofit Survey show the strong majority of surveyed positions in the nonprofit sector increased in value.
Get on Social Media Developing or enhancing your social media strategy should be at the top of your to-do list. The first step is to know the social channels your audiences frequent. Pick one, complete your business profile and develop a schedule for posting. At minimum, you should consider posting one quality message per day. Don’t worry, tools like HootSuite can help you schedule posts months in advance.
Additionally, nonprofit employers continue to offer robust benefits packages. Most organizations are offering more than one medical plan, with 86 percent offering an HMO, 94 percent offering a PPO and nearly 48 percent offering a HSA Qualified High Deductible Health Plan.
Leverage Google’s Tools Google Analytics is a free tool that provides a wealth of information about how someone arrives at your website (social media, organic search, advertising, another website), the demographics of who is visiting your site, and their behavior on your site (i.e., what pages they are visiting, how long they stay on the site, if they download or sign up for something) Use this information for more efficient targeting and more specific messaging. Learn more at analytics.google.com. Additionally, Google AdWords Grants provide grants for nonprofits up to $10,000 per month in online advertising. More information can be found at https://www.google.com/grants.
Furthermore, nonprofits are generously subsidizing these medical plan benefits. On average, employers pay 86 percent of monthly premiums for employee HMO coverage and 81 percent for employee PPO coverage. For employees that select coverage under a High Deductible Health Plan, most employers are subsidizing 83 percent of the monthly premium.
To learn more, consider attend Marketing Planning, PR Bootcamp, Intro to Social Media or Advanced Social Media at the Manufacturer & Business Association. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/MarketingClassesMBA.
Survey participation increased this year, with a total of 148 nonprofit organizations reporting salary and benefits data. Participants crossed all budget, employment size and nonprofit service categories with particularly strong participation among organizations with a budget of less than $5 million and less than 100 employees.
Meghan Waskiewicz is an instructor at the Manufacturer & Business Association and partner at the Waskey Group. She has worked in the areas of marketing, communication and leadership within a variety of industries including health care, government, politics and education.
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
21
LEGAL Q&A | GET ANSWERS
I HAVE A POTENTIAL APPLICANT I WOULD LIKE TO HIRE, BUT SHE IS A MINOR AND RESIDES IN OHIO, NOT PENNSYLVANIA WHERE MY COMPANY IS LOCATED. WHERE DOES SHE GET A WORK PERMIT? Each school district is responsible for issuing work permits to all minors who reside outside of Pennsylvania, but will be working for an employer located within the state. The school district wherein the place of employment is located is responsible for issuing the work permit. Therefore, you should give the minor the name, address, and contact information for the issuing officer in the respective school district where your business is located.
I HAVE AN EMPLOYEE WHO IS 18 AND STILL ATTENDING HIGH SCHOOL, DOES SHE NEED A WORK PERMIT? Even though the employee is still in high school, once they turn 18, the Child Labor Act no longer covers them.
I OWN MY OWN BUSINESS AND WANT TO EMPLOYEE MY 16-YEAR-OLD SON TO WORK IN MY STORE THIS SUMMER. ARE WE EXEMPT FROM THE CHILD LABOR ACT? Unfortunately, no. Although there is such an exemption under federal law for family businesses that does not involve manufacturing, there is no similar exemption under Pennsylvania law.
HAVE A LEGAL QUESTION? GET ANSWERS!
Members of the Manufacturer & Business Association can call our certified HR specialists and labor and employment law attorneys anytime, at no charge. Call our HR/Legal Hotline today at 814/8333200 or 800/815-2660!
Will You Be Hiring Minors? Summer is finally upon us, and thousands of young people across the state will be looking for and filling vacant positions. Many employers hire minors to fill part-time and entry-level positions, giving such youth the opportunity to learn essential work skills. While getting that first job is one of the rites of passage for many young people, employers must be aware of specific rules under both federal and state laws regarding the employment of individuals under 18 years of age. The Pennsylvania Child Labor Act (“Act”) lays out age limits, permissible working hours and permitting requirements, and makes Pennsylvania law consistent with federal child labor laws. The Act should make it easier for employers to ensure that they are in compliance with Pennsylvania law and to understand the parameter for employing minors. This article summarizes only a few of the most notable requirements of the Act. The Act, with limited exceptions, prohibits the employment of minors under the age of 14. The Act prohibits Pennsylvania employers from allowing individuals under the age of 18 from working more than six consecutive days and from working more than five consecutive hours in a day without a 30-minute break. Minors who are 14 and 15 years old may not work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m., except that during school vacation periods these minors may be permitted to work until 9 p.m. Minors in this age group also may not work for more than three hours on a school day or more than eight hours on a day when there is no school, and for no more than 18 hours during a regular school week or more than 40 hours when school is not in session. Minors who are 16 and 17 years old may not work more than 28 hours during a regular school week, more than eight hours in a single day, or before 6 a.m. or after midnight except until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, or on days preceding a vacation during a school year. During school vacation, a minor age 16 or 17 may work up to 10 hours in a single day and 48 hours per week. Employing underage minors in your business can be a win-win situation that allows you to fill labor shortages and give teenagers valuable skills that they will carry into the workplace for years to come. By paying attention to and following the existing child labor laws, you help ensure a safer workplace for all of your employees, while giving back to the communities you do business in.
Economic Education Today, Economic Strength Tomorrow.
Tammy Lamary-Toman, JD, PHR, SHRM-CP,
Impact your future workforce
Volunteer Business Advisors Needed For more information, visit www.aceserie.org or call 814-456-7007
22
JULY 2017 • mbabizmag.com
For a complete look at the Pennsylvania Child Labor Act requirements, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry website at http://www.dli.pa.gov/ and the Pennsylvania Department of Education at http://www.education.pa.gov.
is the vice president and legal counsel for the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/833-3200, 800.815-2660 or ttoman@mbausa.org.
B e t h e s d ai st h r i l l e dwi t ht h eo u t c o me .
.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. strives to make the community a better place to live by supporting many civic and charitable organizations through personal involvement and financial contributions. This commitment is firm-wide and ranges from coaching little league to leading nonprofit boards. Knox Law applauds community organizations. The legacy of our region will live on for generations to come due to their passion, traditions and service.
Bankruptcy & Creditors’ Rights • Business & Tax • Elder Law • Environmental Law Estate Planning & Administration • Family Law • Governmental Practice Health Law • Intellectual Property & Technology • Labor & Employment Litigation • Public Finance & Bonds • Real Estate • Workers’ Compensation
24
JULY 2017 • mbabizmag.com
Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. Erie, PA | Jamestown, NY | North East, PA 814-459-2800 | www.kmgslaw.com
EVENTS & EXTRAS | NETWORKING AND MORE
The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) strives to keep its members informed on the most current business issues affecting employers in the region. For more information about upcoming events, see the Association’s website, www.mbausa.org.
Susannah Weis Frigon, CFP, vice president of Investor Relations and Donor Stewardship for The Erie Community Foundatio n (ECF), addresses “Erie’s Futur e: What Does Success Look Like,” during the Manufacturer & Business Association’s May Eggs ‘n’ Issues briefing at the Association’s Conference Cente r in Erie.
MBA Ad (HP0617) .indd 1
Hirt ECF, in partnership with the Susan Susannah Weis Frigon details how nthropy and the Erie County Phila l tiona forma Trans for r Hagen Cente the areas A), has invested $10 million into Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGR t to build a ods and innovation in an effor of education, youth, neighborho unity. successful future for the Erie comm
6/14/17 5:16 PM
mbabizmag.com • JULY 2017
25
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID ERIE, PA PERMIT #199
When the happiness of your employees depends on the network of your health plan, choose us.
The success of any organization depends greatly on the health and happiness of its employees. That’s why it’s so important to choose the right health coverage. With UPMC Health Plan, your employees get affordable in-network access to the doctors and hospitals they trust. And you get a health plan that makes sense for your company.
Call your producer or visit www.UPMCHealthPlan.com/employer
Network
Service
Affordability
Depend on it.