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MAGAZINE
#FerraroStrong A beloved family man, educator, coach and mentor's lasting impact on our community
Jerry Ferraro 1971-2020 Page 24
INSIDE:
Local Businesses Successfully Pivot Amid the Pandemic Page 40
INDIVIDUAL COMMITMENT TO A GROUP EFFORT | Winter 2021
Magazine Proudly Presents the
6th ANNUAL
GOLF OUTING Please join us for the GOAL Magazine Golf Outing OR Paint and Sip to benefit the Greater Latrobe Partners in Education Foundation. Net proceeds will be granted to the Autistic Support, Learning Support and Life Skills Classrooms in the Greater Latrobe School District. Over the past five years, we have raised more than $97,500 for this cause.
WHEN:
Monday, August 16, 2021 ARNOLD PALMER'S LATROBE COUNTRY CLUB The format is a 2- person scramble and the $150 entry fee per person includes a gift, snack box and beverages on the course, awards reception and dinner following golf PLUS chances to win top of the line prizes! The winning twosome will be awarded customized wrestling belts by Wildcat Championship Belts with the opportunity to present the belts to next year’s winners.
Registration: 9:00 a.m. Tee Time Start: 10:00 a.m. Dinner: 3:30 p.m. $150 Per Golfer
Not a golfer? Join us for a Paint and Sip!
Starting at 11:00 a.m., follow a skilled instructor while you paint your own artwork. Wine, cheese and light hors d'oeuvres are included with Paint and Sip Event.
Paint and Sip Only...... $60 Paint and Sip + Dinner...$100
LEAD SPONSOR:
For more information visit www.go2goalus.com/events Go2Goal is a Pennsylvania not for profit organization with a 501(c)(3) status with the Internal Revenue Service. The official registration and financial information may be obtained from the PA Dept. of State by calling toll free within PA at 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. All donations are deductible in accordance with prevailing IRS rules. A portion of the registration proceeds will be tax deductible. Please consult your tax advisor.
Winter 2021
MAGAZINE
24
In this issue
we proudly feature History GOAL Magazine Contributor, Jerry Ferraro. Jerry passed away on October 20, 2020 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. It was during this struggle that his #FERRAROSTRONG mantra came to life and served as a rallying cry for an entire community. At times, his illness weakened his body, but it never weakened his spirit or passion for life. His will to live and fight to do whatever was necessary to destroy this dreaded disease was inspirational beyond words and served as a stark reminder of how life, the mere privilege to breathe, should never be taken for granted.
Cover Story:
#FerraroStrong
A beloved family man, educator, coach and mentor's lasting impact on our community Jerry Ferraro 1971-2020
Cover photo by Autumn Stankay, co-owner of SkySight Photography in Greensburg, Pa. Family portrait on page 24 by A Joy Photography. Additional photos throughout the cover story were taken by Jerry’s friends and family.
by William J. Urbanik
6
20
Estate Planning: The New Year’s Resolution That Helps You and Your Family by Jessica Rafferty, QuatriniRafferty
5 In Case You Missed It!
by the GOAL Magazine Team
8 Economy: A New Start
by the SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management Team
10 Senate Agenda Focuses on Saving Lives
Maintaining Services to PA Residents During COVID-19 by State Senator Pat Stefano
13 Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Laurel Region by Westmoreland County Commissioner Gina Cerilli
14 Annie Duda Creates Beautiful Music
by Emma Stein, Greater Latrobe High School Student
16 Optimism for Optimum Health
by Dr. Daniel T. Lovette, DC, Westmoreland Chiropractic and Rehab Associates
Westmoreland County Non-Profits Hit Hard by COVID-19 Losses by Kitty Julian, The Community Foundation
18 Chad Amond Presented with Prestigious
Keystone Award by Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals
19 Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce 2020 Awards by the staff at Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce
22 Individual Taxpayers: Recap for 2020
by Bryan Kisiel, Kisiel and Associates
29 Preparing Your Home to Stand Against the Cold, Snow, and Ice of Winter by Scott Ludwick, Berkshire Hathaway
30 SHE Yappy Hour
by the GOAL Magazine Team
32 The Resiliency of Tourism in PA’s Laurel
34 Motivation and Change
by Briana Tomack , Greater Latrobe Laurel Valley Chamber of Commerce President
35 Greater Latrobe Laurel Valley Chamber of Commerce 2020 Awards by GLLV Chamber Staff
37 Save a Life Campaign
by The Animal Friends of Westmoreland
38 2020
by Autumn Stankay, SkySight Photography
40 Local Businesses Successfully Pivot Amid
the Pandemic by Tawnya L. Rockwell, GOAL Magazine
46 GOAL Magazine Golf Outing Wrap by the GOAL Magazine Team
Highlands by Ann Nemanic, GO Laurel Highlands
Snow & Ice Removal Landscape Design Lawn & Garden Care
Shafferslandscaping.com
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is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that publishes GOAL Magazine, which utilizes the talents of local business and community leaders to provide an authentic and informative resource to our community. GOAL Magazine is more than a publication, it’s a movement.
The following roles have been created to inspire different levels of involvement within GOAL Magazine:
Our hope is to inspire others to share their expertise and become part of something bigger than they are individually, thus creating a collective and empowering wealth of knowledge in each issue. We are also deeply committed to giving back to our community by supporting a variety of nonprofit organizations via GOAL Magazine events.
Advertisers provide a paid advertisement for their business.
Participation in GOAL Magazine can be rewarding in many ways. Not only do you gain an opportunity to promote your business through sharing your expertise and knowledge, you also become a proclaimed member of a collaborative group of local leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals who are committed to bringing value to their community and giving back in meaningful ways.
Contributors are contracted to provide editorial content aimed at assisting with our mission of educating and enlightening readers.
Sponsors are given a banner at the bottom of a page that is otherwise not sold to advertisers or contributors. Sponsorship banners fund informational pages related to the magazine or contributor pages of contracted contributors who do not pay a fee due to their field being non-profit or related to public service. If you want to be considered for a role as a GOAL Magazine Contributor, Advertiser or Sponsor for future issues, please email us at info@go2goalus.com.
Our Production Team William J. Urbanik Co-Founder
Anthony E. Slezak Co-Founder
Jessica M. Marazza Co-Founder
Jessica S. Urbanik Chief Relationship Manager
Tawnya Rockwell Chief Production Manager
Bree Edgerly Writer/Editor
Kathleen Lloyd Editor
Jaimee Greenawalt Chief Designer
Autumn Stankay Photographer
Amanda Mayger Relationship Manager
4 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
E
Turnin a Dre g into Ream a Local En treprene lity ur Be
In case you missed it! Here's a recap of our last issue ...
Turning a Dream Into Reality Local Entrepreneur Becomes a Champion of the Wrestling Belt World
T
he Spring/ Summer 2020 Issue of GOAL Magazine was released in mid-April and featured Latrobe native, Andrew Lazarchik, owner of Wildcat Championship Belts. What was once an 11-yearold boy's dream, putting in more than 10,000 hours of practice and no days off, this local entrepreneur’s passion and determination has led his Latrobe-based company to be the premier worldwide fabricator of championship belts. Wildcat Championship Belts is probably best known for designing and distributing these one-of-akind customized belts for WWE and the wrestling industry; however, that only comprises about 25% of their annual sales. The remaining 75% of Andrew’s business is producing custom belts for corporate awards for companies such as Coca Cola, Red Bull Energy Drink and VH1. In addition, Wildcat Championship Belts produces belts for the annual Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, The Rock’s “Rock the Promo,” Coors Light’s Fantasy Football Championship and fulfills specific requests like for Houston Astro’s Baseball Star Josh Reddick and his wife on their wedding day. Andrew also produces belts for local events like the winner of Latrobe’s Great American Banana Split Celebration’s Pie Eating Competition and for the champions of our very own GOAL Magazine Annual Golf Outing.
Tawnya Rockwell and Jessica Urbanik from GOAL Magazine presented Andrew with a canvas of the magazine cover at the 5th Annual GOAL Magazine Golf Outing.
Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, we were unable to host a cover reveal event. The cover was revealed on social media prior to the release of the issue to subscribers.
“When someone tells you that you can’t do something, use that as motivation to prove them wrong.” – Andrew Lazarchik
If you missed this issue and would like to read more, visit
www.go2goalus.com/past-issues
Andrew Lazarchik poses for a photo with the GOAL Magazine Golf Outing winning twosome Kurt Thomas (L) and Zac Heide (R) holding the custom-made Wildcat Championship Belts he designed. www.go2goalus.com 5
ESTATE PLANNING:
A New Year’s Resolution You Can Keep! by Jessica Rafferty
H
appy New Year! Do you have a New Year’s resolution? If not – may I suggest one? I’ll even help you keep it – let me help you create your personalized estate plan. What is an estate plan? An estate plan can be simple or elaborate, depending on the nature and amount of your assets and what you want to do with those assets. If you are like most Americans, you know that estate planning is something you should do. You are also like most Americans if you have not created the plan yet. (68% of Americans do not have an estate plan).
J
essica concentrates her practice in the areas of estate planning & administration, elder law and family law. She understands that everyone's family is different and everyone's needs are different and she takes the time to listen and learn what is important to you. Jessica's compassion and drive make her an incredible advocate for her clients.
Here are some typical life events that should cause you to think about doing your estate plan, or updating your old estate plan: (1) a newborn baby; (2) getting married; (3) getting divorced; (4) retiring; (5) being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness; or (6) a death in your family. When most people think about estate planning, they think about a Will. They want to make certain that the right people inherit their possessions when they die – an excellent goal. Putting strategies in place to protect and pass on your wealth and other assets is a fundamental part of the planning equation. However, providing for the proper distribution of your assets upon your death is just one part of the process – and it may not be the most critical part.
6 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
Planning that’s focused solely on who gets what when you die ignores the fact that death isn’t the only event for which you should prepare. You should also consider that at some point before you die, you could become incapacitated by accident or illness. Unlike death, which is by definition a final outcome, incapacity comes with an uncertain outcome and timeframe. Incapacity can be a temporary event from which you eventually recover, or it can be a costly event that drags out over many years, leaving you and your family in an agonizing limbo. This uncertainty is what makes incapacity planning so critically important. In fact, incapacity can be a far greater burden for your loved ones than your death. This is true not only in terms of its potentially ruinous financial costs, but also for the emotional trauma, contentious court battles, and internal conflict your family will endure if you fail to address it in your estate plan. The goal of effective estate planning is to keep your family out of court and out of conflict no matter what happens to you. So if you only plan for your death, you’re leaving your family—and yourself— vulnerable to potentially tragic consequences.
Where to start
Planning for incapacity requires a different mindset and different tools than planning for death. If you’re incapacitated by illness or injury, you’ll still be alive when these planning strategies take effect. What’s more, the legal authority you grant others to manage your incapacity
is only viable while you remain alive and unable to make decisions about your own welfare. If you regain the cognitive ability to make your own decisions, the legal power you granted others is revoked. To this end, the first thing you should ask yourself is, “If I’m ever incapacitated and unable to care for myself, who would I want to make decisions on my behalf?” Specifically, you’ll be selecting the person, or persons, you want to make your healthcare, financial, and legal decisions until you either recover or pass away.
You must name someone
The most important thing to remember is that you must choose someone. If you don’t legally name someone to make these decisions during your incapacity, the court will choose someone for you. This is where things can get extremely difficult for your loved ones. In the absence of proper estate planning, the court will appoint a guardian to make these decisions on your behalf. This person could be a family member you’d never want managing your affairs or a professional guardian who does not know you and charges significant fees. Either way, the choice is out of your hands. Furthermore, like most court proceedings, the process of naming a guardian is often quite time consuming, costly, and emotionally draining for your family. If you’re lying unconscious in a hospital bed, the last thing you’d want is to waste time or impose additional hardship on your loved ones. This is assuming your family members agree about what’s in your best interest.
For example, if your family members disagree about the course of your medical treatment, this could lead to ugly court battles between your loved ones. Such conflicts can tear your family apart and drain your estate’s finances. In the end, the individual the court eventually appoints may choose treatment options you would not want. This potential turmoil and expense can be easily avoided through proper estate planning. An effective plan would give the individuals you’ve chosen immediate authority to make your medical, financial, and legal decisions, without the need for court intervention. What’s more, the plan can provide clear guidance about your wishes, so there’s no mistake or conflict about how these vital decisions should be made.
What won’t work
Determining which planning tools you need depends entirely on your personal circumstances. I can help you with this. However, I can tell you one planning tool that’s totally worthless when it comes to your incapacity: a Will. A Will is a very important part of your estate plan, but it only goes into effect upon your death, so having a Will does nothing to keep your family out of court and out of conflict in the event of your incapacity.
The proper tools for the job
The planning strategies we ultimately put in place for you will be based on your individual circumstances. It’s likely that your incapacity plan will include some, or all, of the following:
• Healthcare power of attorney:
This appoints an individual of your choice the legal authority to make decisions about your medical treatment in the event of your incapacity.
• Living will: An advanced directive that provides specific guidance about how your medical decisions should be made during your incapacity. • Durable financial power of attorney: This grants an individual of your choice the legal authority to make decisions related to the management of your finances, real estate, and business interests.
• Don’t let a bad situation become much worse You may be powerless to prevent your potential incapacity, but proper estate planning can at least give you control over how your life and assets will be managed if it does occur. Moreover, such planning can prevent your family from enduring needless trauma, conflict, and expense during this already trying time. If you don’t already have a plan in place, please give me a call. I can counsel you on the best plan for you and your circumstances and help you select the individuals best suited to make such critical decisions on your behalf. If you already have planning strategies in place, I’m happy to review your plan to make sure it’s been properly set up, maintained, and updated. Give me a call (724-837-0080) to get started.
QuatriniRafferty is recognized as The Injury and Disability Law Firm, with offices in Greensburg, Pittsburgh, Latrobe, and Altoona. The firm’s 16 local lawyers specialize in workers’ compensation, personal injury, social security disability, car accidents, wills and estate planning, long-term disability, and nursing home injuries. The firm was founded in 1987. Find out more about QuatriniRafferty by visiting www.qrlegal.com.
www.go2goalus.com 7
ECONOMY:
A NEW START T OUTLOOK Economy
consumers’ daily lives return to something resembling
by The SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management Team “normal,” the pace of the recovery should pick up speed.
Dollar Downtrend Could Be Lasting
We believe the US dollar is in a major struc We expect this to occur in mid-2021, fueling abovedowntrend that may potentially continue fo he US economy was improving average have widely distributed, GDPagrowth for the full year [Figure 4]. to come. The dollar experienced a historic nicely early in 2020 after a modest effective vaccine, many March 2020 during the height of the lockdo slowdown in the fourth quarter Small of service-oriented Business Holds parts the Keys greenback offers the ultimate safety trade 2019, and then it skidded to an The health of the economy will is best gauged by the strength of our economy of stress. Prior to the surge, the dollar had abrupt stop in the face of COVID-19. The continue to struggle. of our small businesses, as they are the economy’s pandemic ended the longest economic amid record budget and trade deficits that bedrock.This Companies expansion ever, lasting more than 10 years. dichotomywith thatunder 500 employees account to put pressure on the currency versus ma At the same time, income replacement than 95% of USthis businesses, andpersist they employ The ensuing recession was unique — wefor morehas characterized recovery may alternatives. As the economy began to ope didn’t see the usual extremes like excessive well into 2021, as the services part of the about half of the US workforce. With many boots on from the stimulus, a strong housing market, COVID-19 fears began to subside, the dolla and booming e-commerce activity have spending or over-leverage that have been the economy will be hampered by restrictions, ground, small businesses can sometimes spot turning rolled over and moved lower. remarkably helped drive retail sales to well hallmarks of the end of past economic cycles. while manufacturing and goods production points in the economy before they show up in economic above their pre-pandemic peak, according This recession was caused mainly by the have moved forward at record speed. Fed has made it very clear it plans to s reports — and consumers before many andhome central to the latestThe US Census Bureau data. Total government closing businesses and people Many whoeconomists can work from dovish for asurged very long see them.are doing quite well. US consumer spending 41% time, duringwhich should b staying home in response to COVID-19. bankers effectively tailwind forannualized a lower-trending the third quarter, on an basis, dollar. The dol Small businesses are quite optimistic about the future and has recovered sincelong Aprilcycles, 2020 having made m history85% of very Once the economy began to shift into Hard-hit services businesses include airlines, of our economy. In September, the Smalland Business (source: US Department of Commerce). The gear again later in 2020, a new economic hotels, movie theaters, restaurants, in 1985, 2001, and again in 2017, with year Index fromAbout the National US consumer has been incredibly resilient expansion likely began. We said this Optimism theme parks. 8 millionFederation jobs in the of weakness after the peaks, suggesting ano probably would be one of the shortest Independent leisureBusiness and hospitality (NFIB)industries returned were to itslost Februaryduring this challenging time. of dollar weakness may lie ahead. recessions ever, and although it’s not official during the spring lockdowns, according to peak. This could be one sign for a stronger economy in Swoosh-Shaped Recovery as of December 1, 2020, the recession 2021. AsUS Bureau of Labor Statistics, and only the about A potentially weaker dollar would benefit U the economic recovery continues, health of We believe a swoosh-shaped recovery is probably lasted less than six months. We half of them have come back. Disney already national companies’ profits, boost returns o small businesses will go a long way toward determining still the most likely scenario — a quick, believe we are now in the early stages of a has laid off 32,000 park employees. The investments forsnapback, dollar-based investors, and how robust thatonrecovery will be.will likely be felt sharp decline, then a partial new economic cycle. impact these industries provide support for commodities prices. followed by a more gradual recovery. The beyond 2021. snapback part of the recovery With an assist from the Fed, high per occurred in late summer of 2020, capita income, and modern banking and 2021 ECONOMIC FORECASTS—REBOUND IN GLOBAL GROWTH and now the next leg of economic business practices, our economy doesn’t 4 EXPECTED AS COVID-19 THREAT DIMINISHES growth — likely to take VIEW at least a A DIFFERENT have the same booms and busts that year — may be tougher. likecase, we think the Real GDP Growth developing countries tend to experience, Although not ourWe base Forecasts (YoY) 2019 2020 2021 the swoosh shape over the square and our economic cycles tend to last a potential double-dip recession, two rece root-shaped recovery some have longer. Economic expansions since World United States 2.2% -4.0% 4.0–4.5% spaced suggested, as it closely reflects together, a more may increase as War II have lasted more than five years Developed ex-US 1.3% -7.0% 3.75–4.25% into 2022. Recessions are necessary to fl favorable latter phase of recovery. on average, with the past four expansions averaging more than eight years. The new the excesses. Given many industries and Emerging Markets 4.3% -0.7% 5–5.5% The ideahaven’t of a K-shaped expansion may be only a few months old, felt this recovery latest recession, that flus Global 2.8% -3.9% 4.5–5% has gained traction as a way and with record amounts of monetary didn’t fully take place this time around, m to characterize this economic and fiscal stimulus firmly in place and a atypical recovery.recession If you think about—aand K, opening the poss viable vaccine likely to become available US Economic Data another short-lived recession down the ro it has one part pointing higher, or in early 2021, we anticipate many more Inflation (YoY%) 1.8% 1.2% 1.9% improving, while the other part is years of growth. The length of this recession—we think ab pointing lower, or deteriorating. As Unemployment 3.7% 8.3% 6.7% months —was also unusual. The previous is common during recessions and Speeding Up and Slowing Down recession ever was six months in the ear recoveries, parts of the economy After GDP contracted an annualized 5% Source: LPL Research, Bloomberg 11/06/20 have been improving quickly, while which was followed by a weak expansion during the first quarter of 2020 and then Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and are subject other parts are lagging. If you view a record 30% in the second quarter, the to change. a double-dip recession starting about a ye this also in relation to workers, economy revved back up with a 31% 2020 GDP and 2020 and 2021 inflation and unemployment forecasts are Historically, the average recession has las then this recession and subsequent based on Bloomberg-surveyed economists’ consensus. jump in the third quarter, bouncing off year, whichthe suggests recoveryone have widened divide perhaps more t depressed levels. Efforts to limit COVID2021 GDP estimates are LPL forecasts. have been needed for the economy to pr between the haves and have-nots. 19’s spread, better therapeutics, and optimism over an eventual vaccine helped the economy open back up, but until we
07
Inflation is measured by the Consumer Price Index. Unemployment rate provided by US Department of Labor. Member FINRA/SIPC
8 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
One way to demonstrate this is by breaking the labor market into high- and low-wage employees. The fortunes of high-wage employees (annual salaries greater than $60,000) have been better than those of low-wage employees (less than $27,000 per year) based on the unemployment rates of these two segments, while heading into the recovery they were more similar. Many of these higher-paying jobs are in industries that are racing ahead, such as technology, digital communications, e-commerce, and residential construction, while lower-paying jobs in areas where social distancing is more difficult, such as restaurants, hotels, airlines, and cruise ships, have been lost and may take much longer to come back. Continued fiscal support, such as stimulus payments, is needed to help those who are struggling, but a widely available vaccine is needed to help shore up the weaker parts of the economy and lift up the bottom half of the consumers’ daily lives return to something resembling “normal,” the pace of the recovery should pick up speed.
We expect this to occur in mid-2021, fueling above-average GDP growth for the full year.
Small Business Holds the Keys
The health of our economy is best gauged by the strength of our small businesses, as they are the economy’s bedrock. Companies with under 500 employees account for more than 95% of US businesses, and they employ about half of the US workforce. With many boots on the ground, small businesses can sometimes spot turning points in the economy before they show up in economic reports — and before many economists and central bankers see them. Small businesses are quite optimistic about the future of our economy. In September, the Small Business Optimism Index from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) returned to its February peak. This could be one sign for a stronger economy in 2021. As the economic recovery continues, the health of small businesses will go a long way toward determining how robust that recovery will be.
Dollar Downtrend Could Be Lasting
We believe the US dollar is in a major structural downtrend that may potentially continue for years to come. The dollar experienced a historic surge in March 2020 during the height of the lockdowns, as the greenback offers the ultimate safety trade during times of stress. Prior to the surge, the dollar had been weak amid record budget and trade deficits that combined to put pressure on the currency versus major global alternatives. As the economy began to open up and COVID-19 fears began to subside, the dollar once again rolled over and moved lower. The Fed has made it very clear it plans to stay quite dovish for a very long time, which should be another tailwind for a lowertrending dollar. The dollar has a history of very long cycles, having made major peaks in 1985, 2001, and again in 2017, with years of dollar weakness after the peaks, suggesting another long cycle of dollar weakness may lie ahead. A potentially weaker dollar would benefit US multi-national companies’ profits, boost returns of international investments for dollar-based investors, and potentially provide support for commodities prices.
The SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management Team
SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management
2519 Ligonier St. SecondHalfCoachWealthManagement P.O. Box 421 SHCteam Latrobe, Pa 15650 724.537.2799 www.shcwealthmanagement.com info@shcwealthmanagement.com Important Information The opinions, statements and forecasts presented herein are general information only and are not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It does not take into account the specific investment objectives, tax and financial condition, or particular needs of any specific person. There is no assurance that the strategies or techniques discussed are suitable for all investors or will be successful. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, please consult your financial professional prior to investing. This research material has been prepared by LPL Financial LLC. Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. To the extent you are receiving investment advice from a separately registered independent investment advisor that is not an LPL affiliate, please note LPL makes no representation with respect to such entity. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC).
www.go2goalus.com 9
SENATE AGENDA FOCUSES ON SAVING LIVES MAINTAINING SERVICES TO PA RESIDENTS DURING COVID-19
A
s in the lives of all Pennsylvanians, the work of the Senate was upended by the COVID-19 pandemic. In March, the Senate immediately shifted our agenda to mobilize a response to save lives and maintain essential government services. The General Assembly approved legislation to provide immediate assistance to keep hospitals running and make more Personal Protective Equipment available to health care workers. We voted to provide more accessible unemployment compensation for workers who lost hours or jobs due to the statewide shutdown of employers and enacted legislation allocating federal CARES funding for county governments, community service providers, first responders and food banks that have been impacted by the virus. All those measures were signed into law – providing immediate assistance to those most in need.
by State Senator, Pat Stefano be made. Full-year funding was provided for select line items, notably education and food security programs. This funding provided a crucial financial pipeline to organizations, communities, and others who had been severely impacted by the disaster. As is often the case in in a time of crisis, there were often differing opinions on what state government should do and how far restrictions should be implemented. Our goal was to provide clarity and consistency to help citizens, job creators and communities. To do this, the Senate passed measures allowing counties to implement plans enabling citizens to return to work, requiring the governor to set clear guidelines for employers to operate, and, ultimately, to terminate the COVID-19 Disaster Emergency Order. Unfortunately, the governor enacted none of these measures. As chair of the Senate Law and Justice Committee, one of my major concerns was how to help our job-creators hardest hit by the health emergency and economic downturn. That’s why I sponsored legislation that would ease arbitrary and burdensome restrictions on owners of bars and restaurants.
We also appropriated $507 million from Pennsylvania’s share of federal CARES funding to support a variety of programs and services for senior citizens, including nursing homes and long-term care facilities, and $31 million for a one-time grant program for volunteer fire and EMS companies. As we have all learned through this pandemic, consistent and adequate funding is crucial to meeting the needs of our state and its citizens.
The restaurant industry is the second-largest private industry in the country with over 500,000 employees in Pennsylvania alone.
To that end, the Senate also approved a fivemonth interim state budget to fund critical state services until the long-term impacts of the economic shutdown were fully known and more accurate fiscal projections could
Overwhelmingly, businesses in this industry have been working hard and in good faith to observe and follow all the various guidelines and regulations issued by the Governor, the Department
10 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
of Health, and the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. These establishments have worked continuously to operate safely, and we need to support them. Governor Wolf vetoed legislation that contained my strategy to help the restaurant industry – and a subsequent effort to override his veto failed in the House of Representatives. The override required twothirds approval to be sent to the Senate, but it failed on a vote of 133-69. I was very disappointed that we were not able to get this legislation signed into law to help some of those businesses hardest hit during this economic downturn continue to operate safely and within the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and state Department of Health. I will continue to work to ensure that we follow science and health guidelines in battling this pandemic but also help our job-creators, schools, and communities that are looking for realistic and consistent support. As a citizen and public official, I have never seen a time of such uncharted waters with great uncertainty, concern, and need for consistency, clarity and leadership. I have been very proud of the work of the General Assembly, public officials, organizations, and citizens in finding ways to meet those challenges and work together for the people of Pennsylvania. In times of hardship is when folks can show their greatest strength. This fact is one lesson we can take away and remember long after this pandemic is over.
NEW YEAR NEW YOU!
Schedule your “tune up” for the 2021 Calendar year to start your year off right. With your New Year “tune up”, you will receive a full evaluation to see how you can become pain-free and have your overall body performance better.
The Physical Therapy Institute Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
724-503-6993
www.physicaltherapyinstitute.com
Schedule your tune up today! Contact a clinic nearest you!
FREE WORKSHOPS www.physicaltherapyinstitute.com/workshops/ The Physical Therapy Institute hosts FREE workshops that focus on a specific type of pain or condition at select PTI locations. These hour long workshops are hosted by the Physical Therapist at the clinic, and focus on getting you back to normal naturally, without the use of medications, injections or surgeries. To register for the workshops, follow the link above or scan the QR code below!
To learn more
about the workshops, please call 724-503-6993 or email jwatkins@pt-institute.com
VIRTUALLY JOIN OUR WORKSHOP WITH YOUR MOBILE DEVICE! INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Open your smartphone to the camera app 2. Center the QR code above in the frame (this will take you directly to our workshop signup Page) 3. Enjoy the workshop! www.go2goalus.com 11
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by Westmoreland County Commissioner, Gina Cerilli
B
rittany had not left her house for three months. Raised by a disabled grandparent who is unable to drive, Brittany’s only social outlet was school. When it closed due to COVID-19, she found herself stuck in the house and struggling. Thankfully, Rachel, a volunteer Big Sister, stepped up and brought Brittany the friendship and support she needed. Even though Brittany has only been matched with her Big Sister for five months, positive improvements have already been noticed–including a very big smile.
Match Support Specialist who provides unique resources and guidance specific to the Little’s age and needs. In 2019, a new executive director and a new caseworker reenergized the priorities and strategies of the agency which has existed since 1975.
Big Brother John and his Little Brother enjoying time together at a sporting event
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Laurel Region (BBBSLR) serves children ages 6-18 in Westmoreland and Fayette counties by creating and supporting one-to-one mentoring relationships. They know that every child has potential and strive to defend it. Most participants are from single guardian homes and are facing many challenges. Bigs (the volunteers) and Littles (the participants) spend a few hours together 2-3 times a month. They enjoy everyday activities, like watching a movie, or special experiences, like a trip to the museum. Each match is supported by a dedicated
BBBSLR is an evidence-based prevention program that produces real results. Children involved in the programs behave better at home and perform better in school. They are building stronger children and stronger communities. A recent study from the Boston Consulting Group found for every $1 invested in a Big Brothers Big Sisters program, there is an $18 return in benefits to the community. This is attributable to the agency’s work to divert youth from high-risk behaviors and help them create futures with higher earning potential and greater community engagement.
Our community is full of children in need, just like Brittany. There are 170 kids, each with their own story, on the waiting list. Other than funding, the biggest need is finding more dedicated volunteers to serve these waiting children. There are many misconceptions about becoming a volunteer Big with the agency. People are surprised to find that the commitment only requires hanging out with your Little twice a month and participating in activities that you both like. They make sure to match Bigs to Littles with personalities and interests in mind. You can change a child’s life by doing something as simple as baking brownies, throwing a ball, or inviting them to have dinner with you and your family. This program brings to life the famous quote by Josh Shipp: “Every kid is one caring adult away from being a success story.” I could not agree more.
Big Sister Cheryl and her Little Sister spending quality time together
There is a no-pressure, virtual information session available for community members to learn more about the program. If you or someone you know might be interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Laurel Region by calling (724) 837-6198 or emailing mentor@BBBSLR.org.
Photos courtesy of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Laurel Region
www.go2goalus.com 13
GREATER LATROBE
ANNIE DUDA CREATES
Beautiful Music
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
by Emma Stein, Senior Editor and Staff Writer at the High Post Newspaper at Greater Latrobe High School
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nnie Duda’s rendition of the song “Rescue” by Lauren Daigle in honor of Jerry Ferraro was filled with passion, respect, and honor. Her voice accentuated by the baby grand piano at Charter Oak Methodist Church felt angelic. “I am proud of her to perform with composure and maintain focus while capturing the emotion of the song and the ceremony,” said Jeff Duda, her father. Annie had other performances, but this cover conveyed true emotion. Annie’s talent gushes from within - through her voice, her songwriting, her guitar, or piano playing, or even the ukulele. Since Annie was in elementary school, she has always been involved with the arts; she experienced five spring musicals and three fall plays throughout her junior high and senior high years. Annie played Tessie in “Annie,” Lisa in “Mamma Mia,” Swift in “All in The Timing,” Pam in “The Canterville Ghost,” and Josie in the original fall play “Love... No Barriers”. When Annie played Tessie in the musical Annie during her junior year, J. Duda thought she brought out the character well because of her own personality. “She [Tessie] is heartfelt, earnest, and sweet, like Annie. Playing that character felt like it was representative of her as an actress: very expressive and from the heart.” Her love of music began early on. “In fifth grade, I loved the movie Lemonade Mouth and thought it was so cool they got to write and perform their own songs,” Annie said The movie about five kids
forming a band and competing in a showdown intrigued Annie. This past summer, Annie released her first song called “Sixteen”. “I actually started writing the song about a year before I even released it. Quarantine gave me the perfect opportunity and plenty of time to work and perfect this song,” said Annie. According to Annie, this song is about the life you live as a teenager when you are 16, that ideal time that you want to appreciate forever. The song went through many changes and hard work before it was finished in Annie’s eyes. It began as an acoustic, but when Annie went to a summer songwriting camp, the song morphed again. She applied what she learned to the original song with a multitude of revisions. Real Life Music Camp held at Mr. Small’s in Pittsburgh was run by Liz Berlin, owner and creative director of Mr. Small’s and a founding member of the multiplatinum selling group Rusted Root. “Berlin was incredibly supportive personally and professionally. She advised her in composition and performance,” said J. Duda Her second song, “Lemonade”, was released in September. In this song Annie wrote about a strong lifelong relationship between her neighbors and her. “This song was definitely the same vibe, but a softer, more nostalgic version,” Annie said. The release of this
14 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
Photo courtesy of Allison Duda
self-recorded song was possible because of the Christmas gift equipment to perfect the final version of “Lemonade.” Before she knew it, her second song was released. While at home during the pandemic, Annie began writing her next song “Somebody,” about feeling trapped like you cannot escape. Annie captured the way all were feeling during quarantine. Annie took these emotions and feelings which then became incorporated into the theme of the GLSH fall play in which “Somebody” will be highlighted. Annie credits Dr. Snyder, English teacher, who helped fine tune the song before it became a musical accompaniment in “Love... No Barriers”. The song embodies the same understandings as the unique, original play which allows creativity and love to break barriers. “Sharing unique parts of yourself is always hard, so I would say it is nerve-racking, but I try to remain optimistic and have positive energy. It’s really cool to put yourself out there in a way that some people can’t, I’m
extremely fortunate and grateful for that,” said Annie. As an artist she wonders if other people are even going to listen to it? Are they even going to enjoy it? Are they going to understand my message? “As long as I am happy with my final piece, I’ll always be proud of myself. It’s a different experience for me once I put it out there. The listeners hear the final result, but behind that are changes, revisions, and months of work that I went through with it,” Annie stated. In the future, Annie wishes to continue to pursue her music career in Nashville attending Lipscomb University or Belmont University. “I plan to go into commercial music. It will allow me to work in the music industry while still incorporating songwriting and singing,” Annie said. Annie’s incredible talent exudes her positive energy and charisma. Her hometown of Latrobe and the Greater Latrobe community will always be a part of who she is and will continue to impact her journey.
Community means everything. That’s why I’m proud to be here to help life go right ™– and to support GOAL Magazine. If there’s anything you need, call me.
Chris Beddick, Agent 5854 Route 981 Latrobe, PA 15650 Bus: 724-532-2100 chris.beddick.jm4g@statefarm.com
1601479
State Farm, Bloomington, IL
Optimism for
Optimum Health
by Dr. Daniel T. Lovette, DC
A
re you a glass half empty or half full type of person? Do you find yourself looking for positives in situations filled with stress and negativity? When it comes to our day-to-day world view, there are two types of people: optimists and pessimists. Think about that for a second. What category would you put yourself in? Do you believe that positive outcomes will occur in the future, for yourself and your neighbor, the world, and so on? If so, consider yourself an optimist. Constant, pessimistic, and repetitive negativity over time is quite taxing on our health. The idea that an optimistic mindset and its positive effects on health may seem like common sense, but how so? Well from a wellness standpoint, we tend to underestimate the effect that our thoughts have on our overall health. Optimism allows you to reduce the feelings of sadness, depression, and anxiety, and helps you develop positive relationships with other people. It improves our ability to control our behaviors towards negative emotions. People who are more optimistic are less likely to smoke or abuse drugs and alcohol, and more likely to engage in some sort of consistent physical activity. They’re also more likely to be conscious of their nutrition, water intake, and sleep quality, which are fundamentals to wellness. Decades worth of studies have
been documented when studying people’s attitudes and outlook on life. Thinking, feeling, and seeing things from a positive standpoint can only benefit our general health, even helping us live longer.
Thinking, feeling, and seeing things from a positive standpoint can only benefit our general health, even helping us live longer. shown that even after a serious health-related event, such as a surgery or chemotherapy, optimistic individuals typically improve their condition quicker. They also tend to have lower levels of inflammation and higher levels of the good cholesterol HDL, which lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. Also, improved cardiovascular function, lower stress and pain, and stronger immune function has
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Want to work on your optimism for optimum health? Here are a few things to focus on if you find yourself dwelling on negative thoughts:
• Turn off the news and take a break from
social media. You’ll wake up tomorrow and the constant bombardment of information from our phones and television will still be there, so tonight give them a break. A few minutes of negative news can easily trigger you and turn our mood upside down, raise your blood pressure, and potentially ignite feelings of anxiety or depression even for short periods of time.
• Focus on the controllables. Acknowledge
the things that are outside of your control and start focusing on the things that you can within your day-to-day life. Start by saying that once your feet hit the floor in the morning, that today is going to be a good day, or that today can only improve regardless of what happens around you. For example, we cannot control the weather, but we can control how a dreary day makes us feel. Focus on the fact that
have them more regularly when you used to have french fries.
• Surround yourself with other positive
people. Happiness is contagious and chances are they’ll inspire you to be the best version of yourself.
Now, being optimistic doesn’t necessarily mean that you ignore stress and avoid reality. All it means is that you have developed certain coping mechanisms that allow you to deal with the emotions in a more productive way. The major difference between optimists and pessimists isn’t in how happy they are with their lives or how they see situations or events. It’s how they’re able to cope and adapt to change in their immediate life or the world around them. Practicing mindfulness and identifying an emotional reaction to negative stimuli is how we begin to retrain our brains to think more optimistically. you get to wear your favorite winter jacket and boots and take on the day in style.
• Identify the negative stimuli in your
life. That does not mean live in a fantasy land and ignore the world around you to avoid certain uncomfortable feelings. Acknowledge those negative or uncomfortable feelings but choose to disrupt your state of mind when those negative feelings present themselves.
• Get moving! Go for a walk, run, stretch, do a small workout, or just stand and stretch in place. The vast majority of the population is stationary more than ever before. There is indeed a direct connection between physical activity and positive mindset, even if it is just for a few minutes.
Most will agree that this year has collectively not been one of our best. It has been easier than ever to dwell on negativity. Think about how your thoughts are affecting your health before focusing on what could go wrong. Disrupt your state when negative feelings arise. Optimism is a key part of our resilience, giving us hope and inner strength when navigating life. Take advantage of the power of your thoughts and put effort into thinking positively. Your body will thank you.
Dr. Daniel Lovette practices with Westmoreland Chiropractic & Rehab Associates, a wellness group that includes Chiropractors, Nutritionists, and Massage Therapists.
Greensburg Office 724.216.5004 Export Office 724.325.2112 nelsonchirorehab.com
@WestmorelandChiropractic
• Push yourself to learn something out-
side your norm. Living and thinking inside a box is only limiting your potential, which may be the cause of certain constant negative triggers. Continuing to learn and grow will only allow you to learn more about yourself and about others, but also may allow you to substitute new, positive influences or habits for old negative ones. For instance, maybe you always told yourself you hate brussel sprouts, but have actually never tried them before. Turns out, you actually like brussel sprouts, and now
(L to R) Dr. Reed Nelson and Dr. Daniel Lovette
www.go2goalus.com 17
Chad Amond Presented With Prestigious
by Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals
KEYSTONE AWARD
C
and management – most notably with the Philadelphia Flyers, Philadelphia 76ers, and at Pittsburgh’s Civic Arena.
The Keystone Award was established in 1963 to recognize outstanding service in, and contributions to, the profession of chamber management in Pennsylvania. It is the highest honor bestowed by the Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals (PACP). It is not presented on an annual basis, but only at such times as an individual has merited such recognition. Amond is only the 26th recipient of the award.
The Keystone Award was established in 1963 to recognize outstanding service in, and contributions to, the profession of chamber management in Pennsylvania. It is the highest honor bestowed by the Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals (PACP). benefits including advocacy for a businessfriendly environment, leadership development, and a forum for building professional relationships.
Chad was named President & CEO of the Westmoreland County Chamber in December 2011. Under Chad’s leadership, the Chamber has grown significantly and is dedicated to supporting, encouraging, and advancing responsible business development by providing a number of member
Previously, Chad served as President of the Monroeville Area Chamber. Prior to his service as a chamber of commerce executive, Chad served as the key communications and marketing executive at Forbes Hospital and held several senior level positions in the field of sports marketing
He was recognized in 2008 by Pittsburgh Magazine as one of Pittsburgh’s 40 under 40 and in 2013 by PA Business Central as one of their ‘Top 100 People.’ He is a graduate of the highly competitive Leadership Pittsburgh program and the PA Business Council’s Executive Leaders program.
had Amond, President & CEO of the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce, was recently awarded the Keystone Award for outstanding service by a Chamber of Commerce Executive. The award was officially presented to him by members of the PACP Board of Directors at his office in Greensburg.
Chad earned his Bachelor’s Degree of Communication from Slippery Rock University, his MBA from Seton Hill University, and attained certification from the Institute for Organization Management at Villanova University through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. He was a Cohort Participant in the Talent Pipeline Management Academy and a participant in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Leads Fellowship Program.
Chad has served as a member of the PACP Board of Directors, and he was Chair of the association in 2016. The Keystone Award was established in 1963 to recognize outstanding service in, and contributions to, the profession of chamber management in Pennsylvania. It is the highest honor bestowed by the PA Association of Chamber Professionals (PACP).
Photo credit: Brian Schill, Peters Township Chamber of Commerce. Pictured with Chad are: Kellie Goodman Shaffer Board Chair, Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals Fred Gaffney-Board Vice Chair, Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals.
18 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
2020 Award Recipients
T
he Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce was pleased to recognize leadership, excellent business practices, and service to our community as part of the 2020 Annual Awards Ceremony held on Thursday, October 8th, 2020. With the help of the broadcast experts at Westmoreland Sports Network, the event was streamed via Facebook Live
from the stage at Westmoreland County Community College. Pre-show red carpet interviews kicked off the show. Jessica Urbanik of SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management and GOAL Magazine served as emcee for the evening. Jessica serves as Secretary of the Chamber’s Board of Directors and was also the 2019 Chamber Member of the Year. The event’s presenting sponsor
was S&T Bank and was represented by Janeen Moffa. “Each year, the Chamber seeks to honor excellence in Westmoreland County – a significant reason why our region is a great place to live and do business. Each year our award recipients exemplify that concept,” commented Chad Amond, President & CEO of the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber Member of the Year – Dan Galbraith
Not-for-Profit of the Year – Angela’s Angels
(Left to right) Janeen Moffa, S&T Bank – Presenting Sponsor; Dan Galbraith, accepting the 2020 Chamber Member of the Year Award presented by Chad Amond, President and CEO, Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce and Jessica Urbanik, Westmoreland County Chamber Board Secretary.
(Left to right) Janeen Moffa, S&T Bank – Presenting Sponsor; Angela Rose-O’Brien, founder of Angela’s Angels; Chad Amond, President and CEO, Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce and Jessica Urbanik, Westmoreland County Chamber Board Secretary.
Business of the Year – Elliott Group
ATHENA Award – Dr. Beatriz De La Roche
(Left to right) Janeen Moffa, S&T Bank – Presenting Sponsor; Michael Lordi, CEO accepting the 2020 Business of the Year Award on behalf of Elliott Group; Chad Amond, President and CEO, Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce; and Jessica Urbanik, Westmoreland County Chamber Board Secretary.
(Left to right) Janeen Moffa, S&T Bank – Presenting Sponsor; Dr. Beatriz De La Roche accepting the 2020 ATHENA Award; Chad Amond, President and CEO, Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce; and Jessica Urbanik, Westmoreland County Chamber Board Secretary.
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www.go2goalus.com 19
Volunteer advocates from CASA of Westmoreland, Inc. at the county courthouse in Greensburg, PA. Clockwise from the front: Michelle Walters, Carolyn Turner, Paul Milz, Terry Griffiths and Erin Hyland. CASA estimates revenue losses from COVID-19 at $137,000 this year. Image by Jason Cohn for The Pittsburgh Foundation.
Westmoreland County nonprofits hit hard by COVID-19 losses Statewide survey most comprehensive to date on lost revenue and extra costs by Kitty Julian
T
he COVID-19 pandemic has had grave economic consequences on the nonprofit sector in Westmoreland County and across Pennsylvania, a recent survey of organizations found. About 800 nonprofits across the state responded to the survey, including 95 from Westmoreland County. Their answers show how the pandemic has dramatically changed demand for services leading to lost revenue, increased expenses, and reductions in wages and jobs. Westmoreland-based nonprofits who responded to the survey reported revenue reductions of $26.8 million and COVIDrelated expenses of $12.6 million, for a total of $39.4 million in losses. The 808 nonprofit leaders who responded— just 2% of the statewide total in that sector—report revenue losses and new operating expenses of $708 million. It’s estimated that the impact balloons to
billions of dollars when extended across the entire nonprofit sector. The toll has nonprofit officials in the region concerned about how they will be able to serve vulnerable populations, especially now as virus infection numbers and deaths are spiking across the region. “Risks to the health of the nonprofit sector hurt all of us, particularly the region’s most vulnerable people—the elderly, low-income families and people with disabilities—and people of color who face the greatest risk from the virus,” says Phil Koch, vice president of Policy and Community Impact at The Pittsburgh Foundation, which is among the organizations sponsoring the survey. “Now more than ever, it’s critical to make sure those safety-net nonprofits have what they need to protect their frontline workers and help our region recover from the pandemic.”
20 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
Westmoreland County nonprofits reported layoffs and furloughs of 1,255 people, pay reductions for 933 workers, and an estimated 411 more jobs at risk through the end of the year as result of the pandemic. This means that people who previously had steady jobs in the nonprofit sector may find themselves out of work and unable to obtain life essentials such as food and health care. Nonprofits are not always able to access government COVID assistance. CASA of Westmoreland, Inc. is a volunteer-based organization that advocates in the courts on behalf of abused and neglected children in Westmoreland County. Earlier this year, the federal government passed the CARES Act through which it awards COVID relief funding to state, local and tribal governments. CASA applied for a CARES grant from the county in July based on its losses through June 30, but didn’t qualify for the funding because hardships, including event cancellations,
didn’t kick in until July. By Oct. 31, its revenues were down by $137,000, about 27% of its annual budget.
Paul Milz volunteers with CASA of Westmoreland, Inc. and advocates for children when cases of abuse and neglect go to court. Image by Jason Cohn for The Pittsburgh Foundation.
“We haven’t laid off anyone because of COVID, but it’s still challenging because we have to be very conservative with expenditures. Even though we have a diversified set of revenue channels, we are very worried about next year,” says CASA of Westmoreland Executive Director Karen Burns. According to the survey, Burns and her team aren’t the only organizations struggling: 52 Westmoreland County organizations were forced to cancel or delay events, which are often a source of revenue. Demand for services also changed: 27 nonprofits saw needs increase, while 33 were forced to suspend or reduce services. The combination of event cancellations and shifts in demand is placing nonprofits in an impossible position. CASA of Westmoreland saw a 10% increase in referrals, which is significant, Burns explains, because the organizations get cases the court considers to be most at risk. Fortunately, they’ve also been successful using social media to recruit new volunteers and have brought in 25 new advocates this year – up from 20 in all of 2019. “We’ve been able to pivot to virtual outreach, using social media and virtual information sessions and Facebook live streams, which we didn’t do before. We want to keep doing those in addition to our in-person outreach when it’s safe to do that again,” says Burns. “We’ve got 87 advocates now but could use 187 to change a child’s story while in foster care.” About the survey: The Impacts of COVID-19 on Pennsylvania Nonprofits survey was conducted by the national community and
economic development firm Fourth Economy and coordinated through a partnership of The Pittsburgh Foundation, its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, The Forbes Funds, the Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations (PANO) and the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania. The survey is the most comprehensive data gathered about the economic impact of COVID on the nonprofit sector to date. Regional and county-specific data is available for review online at pittsburghfoundation.org/COVID-PaNonprofits. Survey organizers are especially concerned about human services organizations, which provide basic needs such as food assistance, physical and mental health care, child care and housing. Nonprofit leaders who responded – 290 statewide – represent just 7% of total human services deliverers. They reported increased costs of $64 million and revenue decreases of $255 million.
“Our state’s human services safety net relies heavily upon this part of the nonprofit sector to function and to provide essential needs through assistance programs, including community public health, protection from domestic violence and helping people manage various disabilities,” says Lisa Pittsburgh Foundation President and CEO Lisa Schroeder with Phil Koch, Schroeder, president and the Foundation’s vice president of Policy and Community Impact, at an event last year. Image by Joshua Franzos for The Pittsburgh Foundation.
CEO of The Pittsburgh Foundation, which funded and organized the study partnership. “The increased vulnerability for those nonprofits alone is significant, but the survey findings on the sector overall should sound four alarms about the threat to the state’s economy and general quality of life,” says Schroeder. “Our ability to recover from this pandemic is very much dependent on the ability of nonprofits to continue their missions.” The survey ran from Aug. 3-28. Study partners provided guidance and encouraged nonprofits across the state to respond. Anne L. Gingerich, executive director of PANO, says the report provides solid evidence of a nonprofit sector in trouble, and that does not bode well for the overall economy. “If nonprofits close, more individuals will look to government as their safety net, raising costs for all of us. We must have more nonprofit-designated funding distributed as efficiently as possible,” says Gingerich, “and we need innovative collaboration among nonprofits, businesses, and government.”
Kitty Julian is director of Communications at The Pittsburgh Foundation and assists its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County. More information on the Foundation is available at www.cfwestmoreland.org.
www.go2goalus.com 21
Individual Taxpayers: Recap for 2020 by Bryan Kisiel
A
s we close out this year and get ready for the upcoming tax filing season, here’s what individuals and families need to know about tax provisions for 2020.
$72,900 for single and head of household filers, $113,400 for married people filing jointly and for qualifying widows or widowers, and $56,700 for married taxpayers filing separately.
Personal Exemptions
Pease and PEP (Personal Exemption Phaseout)
Personal exemptions are eliminated for tax years 2018 through 2025.
Standard Deductions
The standard deduction for married couples filing a joint return in 2020 is $24,800. For singles and married individuals filing separately, it is $12,400, and for heads of household, the deduction is $18,650. The additional standard deduction for blind people and senior citizens in 2020 is $1,300 for married individuals and $1,650 for singles and heads of household.
Income Tax Rates
In 2020 the top tax rate of 37 percent affects individuals whose income exceeds $518,400 ($625,050 for married taxpayers filing a joint return). Marginal tax rates for 2020 are as follows: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%. As a reminder, while the tax rate structure remained similar to prior years under tax reform (i.e., with seven tax brackets), the tax-bracket thresholds increased significantly for each filing status.
Estate and Gift Taxes
In 2020 there is an exemption of $11.58 million per individual for estate, gift, and generation-skipping taxes, with a top tax rate of 40 percent. The annual exclusion for gifts is $15,000.
Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)
For 2020, exemption amounts increased to
Both Pease (limitations on itemized deductions) and PEP (personal exemption phase-out) have been eliminated under TCJA.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is limited to $2,750 per year in 2020 (up from $2,700 in 2019) and applies only to salary reduction contributions under a health FSA. The term “taxable year” as it applies to FSAs refers to the plan year of the cafeteria plan, which is typically the period during which salary reduction elections are made.
Long-Term Capital Gains
In 2020 tax rates on capital gains and dividends remain the same as 2019 rates (0%, 15%, and a top rate of 20%); however, taxpayers should be reminded that threshold amounts don’t correspond to the tax bracket rate structure as they have in the past. For example, taxpayers whose income is below $40,000 for single filers and $80,000 for married filing jointly pay 0% capital gains tax. For individuals, whose income is at or above $441,450 ($496,600 married filing jointly), the rate for both capital gains and dividends is capped at 20 percent.
Miscellaneous Deductions
Miscellaneous deductions that exceed 2 percent of AGI (adjusted gross income)
22 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
are eliminated for tax years 2018 through 2025. As such, you can no longer deduct on Schedule A expenses related to tax preparation, moving (except for members of the Armed Forces on active duty who move because of a military order), job hunting, or unreimbursed employee expenses such as tools, supplies, required uniforms, travel, and mileage. Business owners are not affected and can still deduct business-related expenses on Schedule C.
Individuals - Tax Credits Adoption Credit
In 2020 a nonrefundable (i.e., only those with tax liability will benefit) credit of up to $14,300 is available for qualified adoption expenses for each eligible child.
Child and Dependent Care Credit
The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit was permanently extended for taxable years starting in 2013 and remained under tax reform. As such, if you pay someone to take care of your dependent (defined as being under the age of 13 at the end of the tax year or incapable of self-care) in order to work or look for work, you may qualify for a credit of up to $1,050 or 35 percent of $3,000 of eligible expenses. For two or more qualifying dependents, you can claim up to 35 percent of $6,000 (or $2,100) of eligible expenses. For higher-income earners, the credit percentage is reduced, but not below 20 percent, regardless of the amount of adjusted gross income.
Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents
For tax years 2018 through 2025, the Child Tax Credit increases to $2,000 per child. The refundable portion of the credit increases from $1,000 to $1,400 - 15 percent of earned income above $2,500, up to a maximum of $1,400 - so that even if taxpayers do not owe any tax, they can still claim the credit. Please note, however, that the refundable portion of the credit (also known as the additional child tax credit) applies higher income when the taxpayer isn’t able to fully use the $2,000 nonrefundable credit to offset their tax liability. Under TCJA, a new tax credit - Credit for Other Dependents - is also available for dependents who do not qualify for the Child Tax Credit. The $500 credit is nonrefundable and covers children older than age 17 as well as parents or other qualifying relatives supported by a taxpayer.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
For tax year 2020, the maximum earned income tax credit (EITC) for low and moderate-income workers and working families increased to $6,660 (up from $6,557 in 2019). The maximum income limit for the EITC increased to $56,844 (up from $55,952 in 2019) for married filing jointly. The credit varies by family size, filing status, and other factors, with the maximum credit going to joint filers with three or more qualifying children.
Individuals - Education Expenses Coverdell Education Savings Account
You can contribute up to $2,000 a year to Coverdell savings accounts in 2020. These accounts can be used to offset the cost of elementary and secondary education, as well as post-secondary education.
between $80,000 and $90,000 ($160,000 and $180,000 if you file a joint return). You cannot claim a credit if your MAGI is $90,000 or more ($180,000 or more if you file a joint return).
Lifetime Learning Credit
A credit of up to $2,000 is available for an unlimited number of years for certain costs of post-secondary or graduate courses or courses to acquire or improve your job skills. For 2020, the modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) threshold at which the Lifetime Learning Credit begins to phase out is $118,000 for joint filers and $59,000 for singles and heads of household. The credit cannot be claimed if your MAGI is $69,000 or more ($138,000 for joint returns).
Employer-Provided Educational
Assistance As an employee in 2020, you can exclude up to $5,250 of qualifying postsecondary and graduate education expenses that are reimbursed by your employer.
Student Loan Interest
In 2020, you can deduct up to $2,500 in student-loan interest as long as your modified adjusted gross income is less than $70,000 (single) or $140,000 (married filing jointly). The credit cannot be claimed if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is more than $85,000 for single filers ($170,000 if married filing jointly).
Individuals - Retirement Contribution Limits
For 2020, the elective deferral (contribution) limit for employees who participate in 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan is $19,500 ($19,000 in 2019). For persons age 50 or older in 2020, the limit is $26,000 ($6,500 catch-up contribution).
Retirement Savings Contributions Credit (Saver’s Credit)
In 2020, the adjusted gross income limit for the saver’s credit for low and moderate-income workers is $65,000 for married couples filing jointly, $48,750 for heads of household, and $32,500 for married individuals filing separately and for singles. The maximum credit amount is $2,000 ($4,000 if married filing jointly). As a reminder, starting in 2018, the Saver’s Credit can be taken for your contributions to an ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) account if you’re the designated beneficiary. However, keep in mind that your eligible contributions may be reduced by any recent distributions you received from your ABLE account. If you have any questions about these and other tax provisions that could affect your tax situation, don’t hesitate to call your tax advisor who can assist you navigate the ever changing tax code.
Bryan Kisiel, CPA CEO, Kisiel & Associates Director of Tax Planning, SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management
American Opportunity Tax Credit
For 2020, the maximum American Opportunity Tax Credit that can be used to offset certain higher education expenses is $2,500 per student. For 2020, the amount of your credit begins to phase out if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is
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www.go2goalus.com 23
#FerraroStrong Jerry, Peyton and Pam Ferraro
A beloved family man, educator, coach and mentor’s lasting impact on our community
Jerry Ferraro 1971-2020 by William J. Urbanik
“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” In the heart and memory of every adult is an image of a teacher, mentor or coach who embodies this Henry Adams quote. The image they reflect upon when hearing these words is that of a person who went above and beyond the calling of their profession. This person was special because they reached beyond the expectations of a job description. They aspired to do more than just work and earn a living. They didn’t see their role as a job; they saw it
as an opportunity. With that in mind, they embraced every single interaction as a chance to make a difference. Here in our own small corner of the world, a former Greater Latrobe history teacher’s name is synonymous with the notion that a teacher’s influence carries on indefinitely:-my dear friend, Jerry Ferraro. Jerry passed away on October 20, 2020 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. It was during this struggle that his
24 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
#FERRAROSTRONG mantra came to life and served as a rallying cry for an entire community. At times, his illness weakened his body, but it never weakened his spirit or passion for life. His will to live and fight to destroy this dreaded disease was inspirational beyond words and served as a stark reminder of how life, the mere privilege to breathe, should never be taken for granted.
If I could have picked one person whose personality most resembled our community, it would have been Jerry. We live in a small community that values its history and traditions, that sees itself as one big family with both a shared past and a shared future, where people are compelled to be there for one another in both times of glory and sorrow. This community rallied behind Jerry and his family and gave them great comfort and strength during an extremely difficult time. I am proud to be a part of this community.
Jerry and Peyton at a Pittsburgh Steelers game in 2019.
Jerry’s story showed us that life is worth fighting for and should be cherished, nurtured, experienced, and most importantly shared. Jerry used to call himself a “rich man” in reference to how rich he felt in life, not the amount of money he had saved. He felt rich because he valued relationships more so than anything else and invested himself in more relationships than most people. He was a loving son who involved his parents, Fred and Georgie, in every facet of his life. He was a devoted husband who wanted nothing more than to share every second he had with his wife, Pam. He was a nurturing father to Peyton who has grown to embody many of his most obvious characteristics -- a sense of humor to make you laugh and a sense of humanity to make you feel important. He was a proud brother to Freddie and the brother-in-law, nephew and uncle who made it a point to have a meaningful connection with each person within his family.
Jerry enjoying life at Indian Lake with Jacob and Aidan Urbanik.
Jerry viewed strangers as friends he had not yet met. He was only a stranger or the friend of a friend the first time he met you. From that moment, he was your friend and you felt as though you knew him your entire life. He was the life of the party and the guy whose absence was always questioned at events. He could have a conversation on any topic and make you laugh or cry (or both) with just about any thought he chose to share. He was the definition of a “people person” and achieved this distinction by treating each and every person as though they were extraordinary. He had a way of making you feel important, valued, and appreciated: people felt their best in his presence. He was truly the friend that made you better, made you feel better, just by merely being around. Jerry was an educator by profession, but a teacher, mentor and coach at heart. He did not see his position as one of authority, but always cherished it as a joyful opportunity to inspire and motivate. Many of his students went on to become teachers, crediting him as the reason they chose that path. Jerry never stopped believing in the students and players he had the chance to know and encourage, and these relationships flourished long past the classroom and playing field into lifetime friendships of reciprocal respect.
Jerry and his wife of 20 years, Pam at the 2019 GOAL Magazine Gala.
To me, Jerry was my closest friend, the brother I never had. He was the best friend a guy could ever hope to have: an unclelike figure to my sons and kind to my wife, always making it a point to engage with my entire family. He was not a friend of the family; he was a part of our family -- a part of who we are.
Close friends Kate and Jason Piper enjoying some laughs with Jerry and Pam at a graduation party.
Gettysburg was Jerry’s favorite place to visit. He loved giving friends and family tours and sharing his deep knowledge of history with them. People were always drawn to Jerry’s outgoing personality and other visitors would actually leave guided tours to learn from Jerry. Bill Urbanik and Jerry having fun at a GOAL Magazine cover reveal party.
We all have our share of challenges: they come in many forms and affect everyone differently. It always seems to be that the hardest challenges never come in a manner or at a time we expect. Maybe more than any other time in Jerry’s life, maintaining hope during this period of anxiety and fear proved to be a challenge beyond comprehension. Yet, Jerry knew no challenge greater than the power of the human spirit, and he remained determined, hopeful and committed to recovery until the very end. In the words of Martin Luther King, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands during times of challenge and controversy.” What this historical quote suggests, and Jerry ultimately proved, is that adversity does not build character, it reveals it. Two years ago, Jerry had the distinct honor to speak at graduation. The theme of his address was “Community” and he called for the students, in the midst of their monumental transition, to realize that they had both an opportunity and responsibility www.go2goalus.com 25
to make a conscious decision to become a productive member of their community. This five-minute speech was marvelous -- it was well written and delivered perfectly. It was a call to serve and be inclusive while working to fulfill an obligation to improve the communities we inhabit. The 2018 Greater Latrobe Senior Class voted for Jerry to deliver the commencement speech.
There are people who become teachers, and there are people who are born to teach: Jerry was born to teach. His graduation speech proclaimed a crucial and timeless message that should be heard by today’s leaders and tomorrow’s potential difference-makers so that the benefits of a pure sense of belonging can be woven into the fabric of all our lives like a blanket of safety and security. To hear this speech and share it with others, open your smart phone to the camera app, center the QR code above the frame, and watch the video.
Jerry observed that humans naturally possess a need for the sense of belonging, and that social scientists argue that a sense of belonging is as important as any other staple of life. He asked that students become more deliberate in their efforts to make a difference and to not forget “that service without expectation will garnish immeasurable reward.” Jerry asked the students to look in all corners of their world for someone in need of being invited into their community. He admitted that we can all do a better job of being inclusive, effectively shielding ourselves from the damaging effects of exclusion. Jerry spoke to how his investments into the lives of students have brought back to him a community of professionals from doctors to servicemen and women to coaches and teachers. He continued by saying that his family’s investment in people has resulted in him being surrounded by their communal spirit in his time of need. He ended by saying that regardless of where you live the “standard remains the same - improve your surroundings, be inclusive and raise your community.” This short speech has a message that is more powerful, more accurate, more necessary than any other speech I have heard in recent memory. This speech did not represent empty rhetoric. This speech was not divisive and did not highlight how we differ. It was charged with profound substance and a call for each and every person to look in the mirror and take the initiative to better their community by bettering themselves.
Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some people stay for a while and give us a deeper understanding of what is truly important in this life. They touch our souls. They lead through personal strength and by example. We gain strength from the footprints they have left on our hearts and we will never be the same. We will never forget Jerry, nor the last time we saw him. We will be forever grateful for his contributions to this magazine as one of its original writers and most ardent supporters. In honor of Jerry’s memory, we humbly offer this edition of GOAL Magazine as a tribute to a man who, in life, sought to achieve greatness by inspiring others to be great and, in death, still inspires others to be better -- not just for themselves, but for their community. In the hours, days and weeks that have passed since Jerry left us, so many people have shared touching stories and thoughts on social media, and we wanted to share some of those to express the depths and range of his influence. We love you Jerry and miss you dearly!
So many people posted on social media about the passing of Jerry and the impact he made in their lives. Here are a few of our favorites that truly touched our hearts.
Aldo Pomposini ~ Do you need a ticket?
These are the words that you would hear over countless weekends throughout the fall, winter, and spring seasons. Attending Steelers, Riverhounds, Penguins and Greater Latrobe School District (GLSD) games with friends and family, Jerry always had a ticket available and it was the best of company who surrounded him at these games. I will come back to the tickets…I met Jerry over 14 years ago when I tried out for the GLSD soccer team. Jerry made the team an absolute blast to be a part of. The team known as “Jerry’s Kids” came together and made close bonds that will last a lifetime. Jerry brought the best out of everyone. He always wanted to get to know you better every day. Over the years I became close with his family, Pam and Peyton and shared many memories. I will still never forget 10 years ago when we acquired our first set of Steelers seats from Mario in Arnold, PA which seemed to be too good of a deal at the time. We did our due diligence of background checks before sealing the deal. Jerry and Pam were just coming back from Superbowl 43 the year prior, and we all had a love for soccer and football. That is when we decided to go in together which would evolve into the Steelers going to Superbowl 45 in 2011 vs. Green Bay. Over the course of time, tickets grew, and we met new friends at the weekly tailgates before games. At one point I think Pam said we have enough seats. February 23, 2010 was the date that began our memories together which evolved over a decade. I will cherish the times we have spent together forever. Aside from sports, we would text and chat all the time. I would hang out over his house, we would go golfing, have dinner, or even go on vacation. His words of advice throughout the years helped me with many things and I am forever grateful for that. However, this ticket was not just about the sports – it was about everyone’s ticket. Jerry’s ticket was his selfless ability to educate, lead, and help students, friends, family, and the community. His “ticket” gave the student body the ability to create their own ticket to success and opportunities for the future. Some tickets could be bought and borrowed, but Jerry gave us all a ticket that no one could ever replace and opened our eyes for the better. His strong Christian faith was enormously powerful and resonated with me over the years. You could feel God’s presence in Jerry and Pam’s house and that is something I will never forget.
Jerry with close friends, Jessica and Bill Urbanik, at a Greater Latrobe High School football game.
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His ticket could never be bought or copied, but it gave me hope and a vision for the future. Depending on your path in life, he always wanted you to grow, learn and embrace friends you meet along the way.
I will miss sharing tickets, laughs and memories with you during all our sporting events, but I know that you received the best one-way ticket that money can’t buy – right into Heaven with Jesus for eternity. Look over all of us until we meet again brother. Many prayers for Pam, Peyton, and family.
Jerry at the “Gentlemen of GOAL Cover Reveal Party” with close friend Aldo Pomposini and his parents Georgie and Fred Ferraro
Julie McLuckie ~ It is evident after his funeral service how
much of an impact Jerry Ferraro truly had on this community. I feel that I owe it to him to continue to teach students and form relationships with them to pay tribute to the way he lived his life. I promise to do so to the best of my ability day in and day out. A beautiful service today and many kind words said by some great friends of his. Jerry is gone but he will never be forgotten. Much love and prayers to his family.
To say that Jerry was a born teacher is an understatement. No one did it quite like Jerry. I have never met someone able to teach in any situation without even thinking about it. This could be at a Steelers game, a classroom, a church pew, or a two-hour kitchen table analysis at 1:00 a.m. of everything you should have done and why he beat you at Catan complete with pictures. The dynamic nature of his teaching inspired many like me to become teachers and always strive to be better. His ability to teach using analogies and games is second to none. Many have talked about his ability to say the right thing at the right time EVERY time. His wit and his humor have kept me going this week sometimes laughing until I cry and crying until I laugh about the good times. With Jerry, the good times were plenty and the bad times were few. His gift of gab was felt by anyone near him with an ear. In conversation with him, his gift to us was his attention and his time. I bet there is a line at the gates and his conversation with St. Peter is just now wrapping up. He knew the importance of serving his community and his friends and above all his family and faith. He would want us to carry that torch for him. It was his time before and it is our time now. So, through our tears and our laughs I know we have a “Guardian Wildcat” who just earned his wings. He is in a place now where there is no pain, and he can fully look over what he called his “Gemeinschaft”- Jerry’s word for family.
influence on me as a high school student at GLSHS still impacts me on a daily basis. My career as a high school history teacher is testament to this fact. I regret never telling Jerry how much he meant to me. Jerry ignited my passion for military history, specifically the Civil War era. He set the gold standard as a history teacher that I continue to strive to reach. Most importantly, Jerry became a friend to me at the school, always willing to listen and show interest in my life. He never stopped caring about the nerdy, shy kid who liked to visit his classroom. _______________________________________________ Several days before Jerry’s passing, a special rally was held at Charter Oak Church to lift his spirits. Jerry, who thought he was attending a meeting, was surprised to arrive and see many of his friends, family and colleagues cheering with signs of support. Jerry’s message to the crowd that evening was incredibly special and touching. You can see his message by scanning the QR code with your smartphone. A special thank you to the Dry Ridge, Pleasant Unity and Marguerite Volunteer Fire Departments for bringing their trucks that evening. View the rally by: 1. Opening your smartphone to the camera app. 2. Center the QR code in the frame. 3. View the article or video! Jerry and his older brother, Fred, enjoying a selfie.
Matthew Mayger ~ Yesterday we laid to rest a father, husband,
teacher, friend, brother, and pillar of the Latrobe community. This man had a monumental impact that stretched continents. He inspired people of all walks of life to follow their dreams, do good for their world, enjoy a slow cup coffee, and love the Pittsburgh Steelers. I have struggled the past few days on what to say and how to feel. The sadness for me is only softened by the laughs that Jerry Ferraro, his family, and mine shared countless times. I grieve for his parents having to bury a child, a wife having to bury a spouse, a child burying her parent so young, a brother burying a sibling and a community who buried someone who loved them as his family. When I walked into Jerry’s classroom in 2003, I had no idea the connection and impact he would have on my life. I am not the only student of his to have that thought lately. However, Jerry did know his impact because he strived to make that impact with everyone he met. He had the amazing ability to connect with anyone and everyone, even Browns fans. Our connections ran deep and included a history degree from our beloved Clarion University, a love of history, being a father and husband and an undying passion for teaching.
Frankie Piper showing her love for Jerry at the rally held at Charter Oak Church. Jerry and Pam with close friends, Matt and Amanda Mayger, at Heinz Field before a Pittsburgh Steelers game.
Mary Grace Ferraro ~ Today, we said goodbye to an amazing husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. I was blessed to be his cousin and his friend and honored to spend some time with him shortly before he passed. The past 2 days served as testament to the type of person you were. “Now you are perfect.”
Daniel Trout ~ I recently learned the incredibly sad news regarding the passing of Jerry Ferraro. His
Jerry with his sister-in-law, Melissa; nephew, Alex; and niece, Gianna at a Pittsburgh Penguins game. www.go2goalus.com 27
A quote from Jerry Ferraro on November 15, 2018 I have two choices. Live or die? I choose life. Believe or don’t believe. I choose life. I know someday I will “transition” to Heaven, but I also know that I shall NEVER die. I will NEVER Rest in Peace. I will live. I Believe. To view the QR Codes:
1. Open your smartphone to the camera app. 2. Center the QR code in the frame. 3. View the article or video!
Read Jerry’s obituary.
Video slideshow and Jerry’s funeral service.
Previous GOAL Magazine articles written by Jerry Ferraro.
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28 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
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Scott Ludwick
Associate Broker Ranked in Top 100 Agents Nationally Since 1998! Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty
Preparing Your Home to Stand Against the Cold, Snow and Ice of Winter With cold upon us, you’ll likely want to ensure that your home is ready to deal with the hazards of winter weather like ice, snow and cold temperatures. Don’t assume that just because everything seems to be in good shape now that you won’t experience any problems over the course of the winter. Here are some minor repairs and different inspections you can do to ensure that your family stays warm and dry through winter:
Foundation Inspection
Walk around the external foundation of your home to look for cracking, crumbling or other signs of decay. Loose, weak or broken foundation cement or bricks can let in moisture that could cause serious damage in the months ahead. Inspect the inside foundation for similar problems and call a specialist to repair any damage before cold weather arrives.
Furnace Updates
Schedule an annual maintenance visit with an HVAC expert to keep your furnace working efficiently. If it’s getting old or worn out, it may be time to consider a new furnace installation to keep your home comfortably warm through the winter months. You don’t want your heating system to give out during the winter over a weekend when an HVAC technician’s emergency visit costs more than a regular weekday appointment. It’s easier to have a new furnace installed while the weather is still mild instead of waiting for a snowy, icy day when the driveway might be slippery and snow could get tracked through the house. You’ll appreciate the peace of mind of having an up-to-date, reliable furnace that can supply the heat your family needs.
Roof Repair
Strong winds or heavy rain can damage a roof over the summer without you even knowing it. Have a professional roof inspection done to check for missing or broken shingles, deteriorating gutters and downspouts, or a missing chimney cap. Don’t wait until several inches of icy snow has piled on your roof and caused a leak in your home. Have any needed repairs done now before the weather turns frigid.
Plumbing Checkup
Drippy faucets or clogged drains can cause water buildup or mold growth. For problems like these that you may have been ignoring or if it’s been a while since your plumbing was checked, contact a plumber for an evaluation of your water lines and pipes. Make sure the plumbing is insulated adequately so your pipes won’t freeze and burst in the freezing temperatures. Have these important home features checked out now so you can rest easy through winter. Inspections, assessments, repairs and replacements will keep your home operating comfortably and safely!
If you have questions about this, or anything real estate related reach out to Scott Ludwick at 724-838-3660 or Scott@ScottLudwick.com
© 2020 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.
What is
?
SHE was created by GOAL Magazine to provide a forum for women to empower one
We believe thejudgement. true success of a woman is found in her ability to have make another,that without SHE organizes purposeful social events which always a a philanthropic component and highlights local female-led businesses. difference rather than noise in whatever capacity she is able. Whether you are a CEO, a secretary or a stay-at-home mom, we welcome you and your unique abilities to join our efforts in SHE. For the launch party and every event Our most recent event thereafter, we will plan not just a networking event, but a girls' night out with a greater purpose that connects inspirational women doing what makes them happy. We want to Animal create a safe space for womenin to Latrobe, feel confident was held at The Friends Sanctuary Pa. about telling their story without judgement. At our launch party, Lisa Hegedus, owner of Caffe Barista, will tell her short story about how she started her business and will share a wine and appetizer pairing.
“Yappy Hour-Social Distancing Style,”
What is Dress for Success?
In lieu of admission, attendees were encouraged to bring donations for the shelter pets from a top 10 needs list provided by The Animal Friends of Westmoreland. This incredible local charity is committed to the vision of a no kill shelter and being You can help by donating your new and a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.
gently worn women’s interview and work-appropriate clothing, shoes, accessories and jewelry. Your donations allow women to enter an interview, job training program, and/or new job with confidence. You can be part of the community that helps to serve over 2,600 women each year in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Each donation you make directly helps change women’s lives. All of your donations are tax deductible. THEIRmust MISSION Clothing be ready to wear, so that women who have same-day is to help abandoned, abused, interviews cananimals walk and out of our office looking and feeling fabulous and and neglected their passion is to educate confident! the public to spay and neuter, to spread awareness on to donate visit: For guidelines on what embracing pet adoption and https://pittsburgh.dressforsuccess.org/get-involved/donate/ to inspire others to become animal advocates. We were able to fill a huge box full of items and raised monetary donations for the shelter.
For more details, visit our social media accounts: Instagram: @she.of.goal Facebook: SHE
30 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
t is
? SHE attendees were
ss of a woman is found in her ability to make a to bring encouraged whatever capacity she is able. Whether their youpet areto the event, which many did. Several home mom, we welcome you and your unique shelter staff members, HE. For the launch party and every eventboard members and volunteers conducted t a networking event, but a girls' night out with tours of the sanctuary and introduced pets ts inspirational women doing what makes who were in need of te a safe space for women to feel confident adoption. ut judgement. At our launch party, Lisa ta, will tell her short story about how she started wine and appetizer pairing.
Dress for Success?
r new and gently worn women’s interview and oes, accessories and jewelry. Your donations view, job training program, and/or new job with f the community that helps to serve over 2,600 stern Pennsylvania. Each donation you make Laura Guskiewicz of The Lucky Dog Biscuit Company had healthy s lives. All of your donations are tax deductible. treats available to purchase at the event. She generously donated ar, so that women who have same-day a portion of her sales to The Animal Friends of Westmoreland. All treats, which are wheat-free, are made in small batches with office looking and feeling fabulous and
nate visit: cess.org/get-involved/donate/
no preservatives, and flavors include apple pie, blueberry yogurt, coconut carob, cranberry sweet potato, peanut butter banana and pumpkin.
Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, we have not released a date for a future event but cannot wait to see you ladies! Please follow our social media pages for updates.
, visit our social media accounts: @she.of.goal Facebook: SHE mail us at sheofgoal@gmail.com
www.go2goalus.com 31
The Resiliency of Tourism in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands by Ann Nemanic, Executive Director, GO Laurel Highlands
T
he Laurel Highlands has always been a destination for outdoor adventure and relaxation any time of year. The region’s beautiful landscape, diverse recreation opportunities, classic family fun, historic attractions, and plentiful state parks are attractive to visitors and locals alike. It comes as no surprise to anyone that the Covid-19 pandemic has done severe damage to the national and global travel, tourism, and hospitality industry. Closer to home here in the Laurel Highlands, we have certainly felt the pain, but have been able to ride out the storm better than other destinations. Before the pandemic, the region’s tourism industry was booming, producing recordbreaking economic impact figures. For instance, in our most recent reports for 2018, travelers to the Laurel Highlands spent more than $1.85 billion dollars in our tri-county region, a record figure that we anticipated would be repeated or even exceeded in reports for 2019. While our overnight lodging figures are down 37%
overall for the year as a direct result of the pandemic, we are holding steady and as a region doing better than some forecasts had predicted. In the early days of the pandemic, it was critical for our team to reach out to our tourism partners, rally the troops, and keep our sense of community. The #LHStrong campaign was launched to encourage residents to support local establishments offering take-out and/or virtual offerings. These assets were showcased on social media to promote a unified message within our hospitality community. As the weather continued to improve and businesses were able to adapt their operations to new guidelines, visitors and locals were looking for ways to get away from home to enjoy fresh air and open spaces. Our marketing team launched our #FreshAirFun campaign focused exclusively on activities people could enjoy with their families. These included hiking, biking, camping, strolls in our local county parks, fishing, golfing, and any other number of outdoor activities. Our Google Analytics
32 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
indicated locals and visitors were searching for campgrounds and vacation rentals as early as mid-April, and those continue to be the highest lodging searches on our website golaurelhighlands.com We were pleased to see reports showing marked improvement in consumer confidence as lodging occupancy began to grow in June 2020. That sentiment held steady through the summer and into the fall. The Laurel Highlands have seen a steady progression in lodging since our lowest occupancy numbers in April 2020. We have rebounded 40%, and in September the region’s occupancy figures were just 21.8% behind 2019. This can be attributed to the abundance of outdoor assets we have in all three of our counties. From late spring through fall, visitors continued to seek outdoor activities in wide-open,
fresh air spaces, a trend we anticipate this to continue throughout winter. During the pandemic, the Laurel Highlands saw many first-time visitors. We expect them to return to experience yet another season and enjoy the bounty of outdoor winter activities the region has to offer. All the while, we have taken phone calls from locals and visitors who are looking to try new things - new trails, new hikes, and even a new sport like kayaking or canoeing. The chance to chat with callers, share ideas, hear their feedback, and make connections has been rewarding and reassuring. Visitors love the Laurel Highlands and are excited to explore our region time and again.
Speaking of excitement, the Laurel Highlands Pour Tour, which debuted in Fall 2019, continued to be highly successful. The passport-based guide to the region’s craft beverage industry provided participants with a fun incentive to support locally owned breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries. While festivals, fairs and large-scale events were postponed in 2020, the Pour Tour guided
participants to locations to enjoy outdoor sipping and tastings, live outdoor music, food trucks, and more. Since Summer 2020, we have seen hundreds of redemptions, indicating a six-figure impact on local craft beverage businesses. “Helltown loves the Laurel Highlands Pour Tour,” said Heather Foster, taproom manager for Helltown Brewing. “We’re always looking for ways to attract new customers to the taprooms, and that’s exactly what the Pour Tour does. We’ve talked to countless people who have said, ‘we would have never known you were here,’ and that’s what it’s all about. It’s a fun way for people to explore local breweries, and it has absolutely helped us bring in new business.” We are optimistic about the future as regular consumer sentiment surveys shepherded by VisitPA indicate our region will rebound more quickly than some other destinations. There will be a lot of work to do for our local tourism industry to recover, but our industry is adept, creative, and primed for success.
www.go2goalus.com 33
by Briana R. Tomack President of Greater Latrobe-Laurel Valley Chamber of Commerce PO Box 463, Latrobe, PA 15650 724-537-2671 • www.latrobelaurelvalley.org
M
Motivation &CHANGE
y first job out of college, I was hired to a company with a robust training program. The seven days training in Washington, D.C. was memorable in many ways; including an assignment to read the book “Who Moved My Cheese?” by Dr. Spencer Johnson. It is a book I have reread and recommended to others many times since then.
The book is a parable about four characters -- two mice and two little people -- in constant search for cheese inside a maze. It details the attitudes of each character, their thoughts about the cheese, and how we fall into patterns of complacency. Why would a large, multinational corporation have each of its new employees read this book? My takeaway was it showed new, unseasoned managers that the only constant is change and that any job comes with challenges. However, if you approach a task anticipating that change may happen, you are already in the mindset to move in a new direction and take a different strategy to achieve the desired outcome. Rarely does a process stay stagnant when there are advances in technology, different measures of success, or other unexpected interruptions. Fear of the unknown is what makes us anxious about change. We know the way we do things already works. Until It does not. Fear is what keeps us working inside the confines of our everyday, normal, comfortable routine. When you continue down the path expecting to find the cheese that has always been there only to find it missing, it can be frightening.
This year, I have thought and talked about this book a lot relative to COVID-19. Each of us has had to abandon the way we do things in order to keep afloat. What I have found, as a result, is we tend to overthink and over complicate things. Sometimes, making a necessary change can be achieved by having a conversation that explores an alternative way of doing things. “What would happen if we …...?” Sometimes the answer is so simple, you wonder how you never noticed it before.
desire to attain it. So, if you find yourself stuck, or you cannot tame your fear, visualize your goal. That will stoke your desire and give you the energy to move forward.
Who Moved My Cheese? Key Idea #4:
Your cheese, or success in life, may actually be paralyzing you. When we find our “cheese” we can quickly become dependent on it, so much so that our life revolves only around our “cheese.”
Dare to move in a new direction; when you do, you learn how to better embrace unexpected changes. Conquering your fears, just once, provides confidence to move on again. Never again will fear paralyze you as it did previously. Sometimes, the fear you let accumulate in your mind is much more intense than a new situation actually is! Your new “cheese” could be a new friend, a new job, or a new way to handle conflicts or do business. All you need to do is step out in a new direction and start the search.
Who Moved My Cheese? Key Idea #2:
Who Moved My Cheese? Key Idea #5:
Who Moved My Cheese? Key Idea #1:
Good situations never last forever, so be prepared!
Change always happens, sooner or later. Being aware of this can help you keep a closer eye on your current situation and better anticipate the change ahead. You never want to find yourself in this position. Instead, keep your eyes peeled for signs of change and adapt as soon as you can. The sooner you do, the sooner you will find your way again.
Who Moved My Cheese? Key Idea #3:
Visualizing your goals helps you push through the fear that keeps you from dealing with change. Remember this: as long as you are afraid of leaving your comfort zone, things will never get better. Visualizing your goals in vivid detail will increase your
34 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
Use the lessons you have learned from this “cheesy” parable to reach your own goals! How can you apply the lessons of this parable to the benefit of your business or even your life? Consider having your team read the story of our four characters, they may begin to think more favorably about change and the potential benefits it can bring to an organization. Indeed, what works today will not necessarily work tomorrow. As environments change, your business needs to change, too – or you will be left behind. So, remember, even when things look good, keep an eye out for new, exciting opportunities. They may be just around the next corner!!
75th Annual
AWARDS RECEPTION
The Small Business of the Year Award
was presented to Rose Style Shoppe and owner Ronda Goetz. Rose Style Shoppe has been serving generations of women since opening in 1932, by helping them discover their own unique style. The chamber is proud to recognize Ronda for her dedication creating personal experiences for each client of the shop and for being a positive influence on other small business owners in our community.
The Greater Latrobe - Laurel Valley Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated their 75th annual awards recognizing businesses, organizations and individuals who have consistently contributed to the betterment of our community. Although the ceremony looked a little different this year because of the pandemic, it was still an incredibly special evening for the award recipients and their close family and friends.
The Nonprofit of the Year Award
was presented to Latrobe Parks and Recreation for their work bolstering the development of culture and service to the community. This award recognizes director Craig Shevchik, the staff, board, and volunteers who plan programs, coach, and maintain the recreational facilities enjoyed by Latrobeans of all ages. Especially notable is the efforts to solicit grants and other funding sources that allow for continued rehabilitation, upgrading and enhancement of our community parks.
(From left to right) Briana Tomack, GLLV Chamber President and Small Business of the Year Recipient Ronda Goetz, Rose Style Shoppe Owner
scan the QR code to watch their award video
scan the QR code to watch their award video
The Volunteer of the Year Award
was presented to Tawnya Rockwell, of GOAL Magazine and SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management, for her support of the chamber’s projects and initiatives. Tawnya serves on the Banana Split Celebration planning committee, ambassador committee and assists with the annual Golf Classic. In addition, she volunteers with other organizations and endeavors throughout the community with energy, enthusiasm, and pride.
scan the QR code to watch their award video
(Left to Right) Trey Hudock, Parks and Recreation Program Supervisor; Briana Tomack, GLLV Chamber President; Nonprofit Of the Year Award Recipient Craig Schevchik, Parks and Recreation Director; Dawn Vavick, Parks and Recreation Program & Aquatics Coordinator and Cindy Smith, Parks and Recreation Business Manager.
The Community Service Award
honors Dean Miller for his selfless contribution of time, talents, and resources to the Latrobe area. For years Dean has been active with the Action for Animals Humane Society, supporting the efforts of the Trooper Iwaniec Foundation and youth sports. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dean has used his resources as the franchise owner of the Latrobe Dairy Queen to show appreciation to local front-line workers at factories and hospitals with ice cream treats. (Left to Right) Briana Tomack, GLLV Chamber President; GLLV Chamber Community Service of the Year Award Recipient Dean Miller and his wife Terri Miller.
scan the QR code to watch their award video
(From left to right) Isaac McDaniel, GLLV Chamber Staff; Amy Peer, GLLV Chamber Board Vice President; Volunteer of the Year Recipient Tawnya Rockwell, SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management and GOAL Magazine; Briana Tomack, GLLV Chamber President; Lauren Gamrat, GLLV Staff and Brian Edmiston, GLLV Chamber Board Chair.
www.go2goalus.com 35
SAVE A LIFE CAMPAIGN
The Animal Friends of Westmoreland announces a SAVE A LIFE campaign.
A donation of $150 will immediately make an impact, providing medical care, flea treatment, vaccines, micro-chipping, and spay/neuter surgery to an animal in need at the Youngwood-based shelter. Supporters can choose from one of nine unique yard signs to display their support and bring awareness for others to do the same. Sign choices include various dogs, cats, a pig and even a cow, as Animal Friends is also home to farm animals at their Latrobe-based Sanctuary.
rfect Our Giving Sign is a pe pport! way to display your su
Adoptable Pets at Animal Friends of Westmoreland Hi! My name is CINDY LOU! Will YOU be my FURever family? I was found as a stray and brought to the shelter one year ago last December. I'm not sure what happened to my former family, but I sure do miss them! In my new home, I would like to be the main squeeze! No other dogs or cats, please! I love to run and play, and am looking to be a part of an active family! Cindy Lou is a great dog, she loves to go for walks and loves to play If you think I could be the girl for you, please stop by the shelter so that we can meet and spend some time together!!
I'm a pretty shy and independent guy, and appreciate my own space!
Hi! KENT HERE!
I was surrendered to the shelter about six years ago by my owners. As much as I like it here, and like the other cats at the shelter, I sure would like to find a family to take me home. I am known for doing my own thing...
...and taking long naps! www.go2goalus.com 37
2020 by Autumn Stankay, Owner and Photographer of SkySight Photography
T
wenty-Twenty. We will all remember this year more than most years of our lives. If someone said to you, hey what did you do in May of 2006 or November of 2014? Unless it was a significant year like your wedding or child being born, you would really have to think about it, likely not even be able to answer the question. But 2020 is different. It is a year unique to everyone alive on this earth I would think. We will probably remember each month from March until now like it was just yesterday. The last pandemic was about 100 years ago, meaning that even a centenarian currently alive was too young to remember. So, this is uncharted territory for us all, and we are doing our best day by day to make it through. No doubt the hardest jobs right now are those on the front lines of this virus, people working in nursing homes, hospitals and first responders. I give all the credit in the world to the people doing those jobs to help save lives and keep us all safe. There is one other industry that is going through quite a rough road this year. One that many people brush off as non-essential - the event industry. This includes everything from concerts to funerals to... weddings. But I can tell you from personal experience, this is an industry that puts food on the table for a massive number of Americans. As a wedding photographer, I have seen all sides of this incredibly devastating pandemic and what it has done to the wedding industry. I know photographers, DJ’s and other wedding vendors terrified to go to work and be in a room full of 100 people, but contracted to do so, and at the same time also begging people not to cancel their event so they can get a paycheck for the first time in months. I have seen weddings cancelled/postponed/downsized/re-configured in every way possible. I have had clients postpone several times, and now on their third wedding date. I have witnessed couples get married with less than 10 people in attendance, including photographer and the pastor, when it was originally supposed to be 250 loved ones. There is no right or wrong way to get married in a pandemic, but everyone definitely has found a solution that worked best for them. For some people it was to postpone completely to 2021 or beyond. But in some cases, their answer was - “Love can’t wait.”
38 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
Personally, I shot only 20% of the weddings I was contracted to shoot this year. All of them had significantly less guests than originally intended. Most of them moved venues so that the majority of the event could take place outside or under tents. Of the few that I did shoot, I found their weddings to be incredibly unique, and witnessed their love really shine through to the forefront of the day. The uniting of two people as one - was more the focus of the day. I love big weddings as much as anyone, but there was something extra special about watching brides walk down the aisle with empty seats all the way down. Her eyes did not dart around the room but stayed focused on the man at the end of the aisle. The relief they displayed to finally have this day actually happen was so clear because many feared until the week of their wedding that it could get shut
For a custom photography quote, feel free to reach out to me via my website at SkySightPhotography.com
down completely. Their hugs and embraces with mom and dad lingered a little longer when the ceremony was finished. Some were able to find time to dart off to nursing homes between the ceremony and their backyard receptions to wave to grandparents from their porch or nursing room windows. There were no limos full of bridal parties, but instead a groom driving his bride away in their sports car, her dress stuffed into the front seat giving the opportunity for first conversations alone as husband and wife. The dance floors were not packed, but music still played and champagne and smiles still flowed around the outdoor tent. Less guests allowed for some budget changes, like adding fireworks displays at the end of the night for their 50 closest family/friends.
First dances took place on family pool decks, barefoot in the grass, or driveways of homes they once played basketball as a child. Photography sessions were focused on the bride and groom alone, and less on a bridal party of college friends. And somehow, weddings reverted to what they once were many years ago. Do I miss weddings the way they used to be? Of course. I really cannot wait for normalcy again in the wedding industry. It will be so exciting to see those group activities like limo champagne rides and dance floors packed tight, but I think so many have found a new appreciation for the smaller weddings and elopements that mimic their grandmother’s wedding of 1920.
And for the weddings who postponed to next year, those weddings will be amazing and well worth the wait. Because no matter what, love prevails in a pandemic above all else. Because we love each other, we have made it through one of the most difficult years humanity has seen in an exceptionally long time. I believe the pandemic has taught us all many things about life. After 15 years of photographing weddings, I think I was beginning to get a little worn out on being excited for them. But taking weddings away from everyone has opened my eyes so much to what weddings really do for us all. Weddings give people hope and something to look forward to. They remind us what love is like in the beginning of a relationship and can spark that again in a relationship that
might have gone cold. They bring people together for a night of escape from reality. Family reunions happen for the first time in years. Dance and laughter fill the room and honestly, magic happens. I see it week after week after week. And being the person to capture that in photographs for that family is truly a gift I receive, more than give. Obviously, weddings are a much-needed dose of medicine we can all use right now. But until we can safely have weddings “normal” again, I love that love is prevailing above all else and some people are just saying, “Enough is enough. I want to marry my best friend and it just cannot wait. Even with just my closest 20 people by my side, I am going to say I DO.” Maybe weddings really are *essential* to us all. XO!
www.go2goalus.com 39
Local Businesses Successfully Pivot Amid the Pandemic
W
ith a nearly immediate economic recession triggered by the shutdown in 2020, the Covid-19 virus has affected every individual and business across the world in some way.
by Tawnya L. Rockwell, GOAL Magazine Stay at home orders, social distancing, mandatory business closures and restrictive CDC guidelines: the obstacles and limitations that have been imposed have brought about no shortage of
40 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
negativity in the media. We are proud to feature several local businesses who have found ways to not only sustain but pivot their businesses and efforts over the course of the pandemic.
Tronix3D is more than just 3D printing experts, they will help you understand the 3D printing technology, explore its endless capabilities, and get your product to market faster than ever thought possible. Whether you are just beginning to explore the power of 3D printing or have been harnessing its potential for some time, Tronix3D invites you to bring us your challenge.
W
e had the opportunity to talk with the President of local small business Tronix3D, Buck Helfferich. Located in the Advanced Technology Center in Mount Pleasant (the old Sony plant), this is the Pittsburgh area’s first high-volume 3D/additive contract manufacturer. Having over 35 years of experience in electronics, Helfferich teamed up with Kyle Metsger and started an additive manufacturing 3D printing company in January 2019. Their current team of five produces hundreds of parts, with new technology that is up to 10 times faster than existing 3D printing systems. By harnessing the power of design freedom that the 3D printing process allows their engineers, Tronix3D helps companies, both big and small, fully take advantage of the technologies capabilities and help them validate their prototypes to ensure functionality. They can then produce parts in mass, therefore also fulfilling manufacturing needs. Tronix3D produced 3D printed clips to adhere to face shields for Excela Hospitals When Westmoreland in Westmoreland County. County’s Excela Hospital announced the need for face shields early in the almost 90% of Tronix3D’s regular battle against coronavirus, Helfferich customers had drastically reduced their and his team immediately jumped into requirements. One of their customer’s cut action designing 3D printing custom from nearly 3,000 employees down to clips to hold in place the plastic on the just three in order to stay afloat. Having face shields. However, despite taking only 10% of their regular business left, advantage of this supply demand, two Tronix3D had to take what they knew months into the COVID-19 pandemic, and expand into an unfamiliar direction:
they would need to pivot their business in order to survive. The opportunity to pivot came in the form of a business proposition from an out of state business partner. In May 2020, Helfferich was contacted by a company in New York that was contracted to make COVID19 test swabs. The opportunity presented a huge personal risk as Tronix3D would have to purchase new equipment, learn new techniques, and become FDA approved, a process which typically takes 10 months to complete. In a fortuitous moment of circumstance, within two weeks of accepting the job, Tronix3D had the new equipment purchased, learned the new skills, and acquired expedited FDA approval due to the necessity of the swabs. At a time when they were seeing so many of their clients struggling to stay in business, they added two new employees to their team to be able to make the new test swab contract happen. The team of five worked on rotating shifts to operate 24 hours a day, thus producing 20,000 swabs a week. “We were able to react in a very short time to meet the needs,” Helfferich said. By the end of summer, Tronix3D and their partner had amassed over 1,000,000 www.go2goalus.com 41
410 COVID-19 swabs hanging from the 3D printer plates.
swabs for use in the Big Apple. Tronix3D not only found a way to aid their community, but also for their business to survive during the pandemic.
into the next level of excellence and expanding its overall capabilities. Although they still specialize in their original venture of 3D printing, the business changes they have made over the course of the last year “have now opened the doors to produce Aerospace parts that go out of this world,” Helfferich said. “While so many other businesses were struggling or even had to close their doors, our team had the opportunity to continue operations developing very close bonds and supportive relationships during a worldwide pandemic." When we asked Helfferich what advice he would offer a new business owner based off this experience, he answered, “Stay focused on your goals while being flexible, and be open to creativity and risk.”
The key pivoting moment for Tronix3D was becoming FDA approved in such a quick time frame, launching so many opportunities and catapulting them
Learn more: tronix3d.com
Redstone Highlands is a Christian, non-profit Life Plan community providing quality housing and services to individuals age 55 and better. Serving Westmoreland County since 1980, Redstone is a premier place to live, work and volunteer. They host many events to raise funds to benefit their residents in need.
W
e had the opportunity to talk with Linda Dickson, Director of Community Relations at Redstone Highlands, to discuss how they responded to the challenges imposed by the pandemic.
There is always a safe way for fun. Staff and their families had an outdoor, socially distanced Halloween parade for the residents in North Huntington to enjoy.
Redstone Highlands, a highly recognized Westmoreland County care provider, offers a variety of quality housing choices for older adults who prefer to live with peace of mind in a comfortable community. They strive to provide their seniors in the community with the best care possible. A full continuum of retirement living options include: Villa Homes, Senior Apartments, Supportive Care, Memory Impairment Care, Nursing and Rehabilitation, Hospice Care, and and In Home and Community-based services. These communities can be found throughout Greensburg, North Huntingdon, and Murrysville. 42 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
Senior living homes have been amongst the hardest hit during the pandemic, so keeping their residents safe while continuing to do business was of Redstone’s most utmost priority. The rise in cases within senior living homes, state issued mandates and social distancing restrictions had brought significant challenges to their everyday operations. “Protecting our residents, their family and our employees has always been our highest priority. There were a lot of challenges to get to where we are now, but we are confident in our ability to care for our residents during this unprecedented time,” Dickson said. Once the pandemic hit, the statemandated visitor ban went into effect which was exceedingly difficult for everyone. Prior to the pandemic, seniors and their loved ones were welcomed from all over to tour the campus and see all the services Redstone had to offer. Applications and paperwork were almost always completed in-person. As a response to the COVID-19 restrictions,
Redstone Highlands updated their tour process to a virtual experience available to anyone with access to a cell phone, tablet, or computer. They offer virtual tours at all three campus locations: regular “Facetime” and “Zoom” tours are conducted so that prospective residents and their families can now tour the facility from the comfort of their homes. Redstone also revamped their paperwork processes by going completely contactless through implementing DocuSign, a secured process allowing families and residents to review and sign all documentation from wherever their email can be accessed. In order to keep the residents living within their communities safer, Redstone implemented new safety protocols for visitation. Though inconvenient for those wanting to spend time with loved ones, visitor restrictions have helped to maintain a safe environment for the residents at Redstone. When Pennsylvania moved into the Green Phase, Redstone was able to begin allowing family visits by increasing and rearranging staff to be readily available for immediate sanitation of all highly touched surfaces. They also require the following visitation protocols: •U pon entering any facility, all visitors must undergo a COVID-19 screening which includes a series of questions and a temperature check. •A 14-day quarantine is required for all residents, employees, or visiting families who have been in states which are designated as having a higher case load than Southwestern PA. Due to the list of states constantly changing, Redstone continuously updates their website. • I n-person visits are limited to one hour, while guests who opt out of an in-person visit are permitted to a 30-minute virtual meeting along with window visits.
Because of the fluid nature of the pandemic, Redstone monitors positivity rates and adjusts visiting recommendations as needed. To keep all informed, they continually update visitor guidelines and information on their website and ask all visitors to check the website prior to visiting. For those living in independent living apartments, Redstone now offers contactless grocery shopping services, laundry services, and on-campus takeout orders through their touchpad services. To add these services, Redstone had to reposition its staff to keep up with the
demands to meet these needs.
The sight of beautiful window visits over the pandemic has been some of the most bittersweet things we have seen at Redstone.
Redstone Highlands has always been known for offering a wide variety of amenities to their residents including church services, exercise classes, library, hair salon, gift shop and fun activities. They have succeeded in rising to the challenge of continuing to offer top of the line services in a safer, socially distanced fashion during the pandemic. Redstone issues monthly activity calendars with a variety of options per facility including hallway bingo, dance parties, snack carts, exercise classes and movies. Each resident has opportunities for bingo, movie matinees, documentaries, spiritual programs, and Bible studies within their individual living areas at the touch of their television remote.
Since March, the Redstone facility has worked tirelessly to keep everyone as safe as possible and their relatively low number of positive COVID-19 cases have shown their pandemic efforts to be successful. “We have put in a lot of work and countless hours to keep up with this continuously changing environment and have incorporated many innovative ways to make things work,” Dickson said. “Utilizing available technology for tours and paperwork has truly made life safer and more accessible and we will most likely continue to make use of these well after COVID-19 is in the past.” The creativity they have illustrated in their activity schedule, the increased efficiency they have achieved through staffing changes, and the upgrades they have made to their
technology have pivoted their organization toward success during a time when all providers are challenged with keeping residents safe and their doors open. With the release of the new coronavirus vaccine, we are all hopeful for life as we used to know it to make its way back onto the scene. However, success stories like those of Tronix3D and Redstone Highlands rising to meet the challenges presented by the global pandemic give hope to us all that no matter the obstacles, we as a society are built to adapt, to overcome and move forward together better than we were before.
Learn more: redstonehighlands.org
www.go2goalus.com 43
Leaders, Lovers & Dreamers Enjoy Nelson Loguasto Cigars.
Aladino Lounge
645 Mount Pleasant Street , Greensburg, Pa 15601 Nelson Loguasto Cigar Shop 724-217-8042 Reed Nelson Loguasto 724-516-7777
nlcigar.com
THANK YOU TO OUR 2020 GOAL MAGAZINE GOLF OUTING GOLD SPONSORS
www.go2goalus.com 45
Magazine's by The GOAL Magazine Team
GOLF OUTING AND PAINT-N-SIP
5TH ANNUAL
W
e are excited to announce that the 5th Annual GOAL Magazine Golf Outing PLUS Paint & Sip recently held at Arnold Palmer’s Latrobe Country Club raised $26,500 for the Greater Latrobe Partners in Education Foundation (GLPIEF). Thank you to all who supported the events! The funds raised will be used specifically for students with special needs in the Greater Latrobe School District and for the autistic support, learning support and life skills classrooms.
We would like to thank the numerous event sponsors who helped make this day a success! Title Sponsor: SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management Gold Sponsors: Commercial Bank & Trust of PA Keystone Foam Corp. Modern Art & Plate Glass Three Rivers Marine & Rail Terminals Silver Sponsor: First National Bank Kisiel & Associates, PC Bronze Sponsors: Five Sixty-Eight, LTD Beverage Cart Sponsor: Fotorecord Print Center Golf Cart Sponsor: KLA Construction, Inc. Dinner Sponsor: Westmoreland Mechanical Testing & Research, Inc. Grand Prize Sponsor: Wildcat Championship Belts Media Sponsor: Greater Latrobe Laurel Valley Chamber of Commerce Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce Hors D’oeuvres Sponsor: Sarah Crispin Thomas, State Farm Insurance Dessert Sponsor: Westmoreland County Commissioner, Gina Cerilli Golf Course Contest Sponsors: Graham Insurance Group Hillview Motors Inselmini Construction Company
46 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2021
(Front Row holding the check L to R) Dr. Georgia Teppert (Greater Latrobe School District Superintendent), Maria Graziano-Bickerstaff (Hartman-Graziano Funeral Home and Vice President of GLPIEF)), Laurie Golobish (Greater Latrobe School District Director of Pupil Services) (Second Row L to R) Tawnya Rockwell (GOAL Magazine and SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management), Amanda Mayger (GOAL Magazine and SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management), William Urbanik (GOAL Magazine Co-Founder and Managing Partner at SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management), Jessica Urbanik (GOAL Magazine, SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management and President of GLPIEF) (Third Row L to R) Jessica Marazza (GOAL Magazine Co-Founder and Managing Partner at SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management), Bree Edgerly (GOAL Magazine and SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management), and Anthony Slezak (GOAL Magazine Co-Founder and Managing Partner at SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management)
This was the third year for the Paint-n-Sip, which was held outside at the club and taught by talented local artist Jenny Kemnitz, who so kindly volunteered her time to instruct. Each participant received a GOAL Magazine wine glass and enjoyed an array of heavy hors d'oeuvres and sangria. GOAL Magazine’s Paint-n-Sip attendees show off their spring landscapes.
RAISES $26,500 for
To everyone who helped make our day run smoothly and efficient for all of our attendees...
... a huge THANK YOU!!
Zac Heide (L) and Kurt Thomas (R)
took home the title, each winning 1st place plaques, $100 in pro shop credit, a bottle of Tin Cup Whiskey PLUS customized championship belts with the opportunity to present the belts to next year’s winner.
! E T A D E H SAVE T
Our Event Co-Chairs: Tawnya Rockwell and Jessica Urbanik Our volunteers: Bree Edgerly, Pam Ferraro, Peyton Ferraro, Dan Galbraith, Jessica Golden, Laurie Golobish, Sharon LeJeune, Amanda Mayger, Julie McLuckie, Becky Quinn, Jennifer Quinn, Briana Tomack and our student volunteers and their teachers from Latrobe Elementary and Greater Latrobe Senior High School.
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– Mike P hoto Credit
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To everyone who donated items for numerous aspects of the event: Blue Sky Sign Company, The Charley Family/Shop n Save Greensburg, Joe Corsi, the staff at Latrobe Country Club, Barnes & Noble, Chick-fil-A, Greensburg Country Club, Jessica Golden, Hannastown Golf Club, Indian Lake Marina, The Carriage House on Slope Hill, Sharon LeJeune, Lowes, Nelson Loguasto Cigars, Pleasant Valley Golf Club, Pittsburgh Steelers, Tawnya Rockwell, Basil Russo, SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management, Shear Magic, Anthony and Sheri Slezak, South Hills Country Club, Target, Totteridge Golf Club, Bill and Jessica Urbanik and Walmart.
www.go2goalus.com 47
MAGAZINE P.O. Box 304, Latrobe, Pa 15650 724-209-8219 go2goalus.com info@go2goalus.com
Content provided in GOAL Magazine is for educational, informational, and promotional purposes only. GOAL Magazine does not render professional advice. Recommendations expressed in articles have not been independently tested. Articles contained in GOAL Magazine reflect the perspective and advice of their authors, not necessarily the magazine's publisher. GO2GOAL is a Pennsylvania not-for-profit organization with a 501(c)3 status with the Internal Revenue Service. The official registration and financial information may be obtained from the PA Dept. of State by calling toll free within PA at 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. © 2021 Go2Goal
A Commitment to
Excellence... Recognized!
Redstone Highlands has been recognized nationally by U.S. News & World Report, as a High Performing facility for Long Term Care and Short-Term Rehabilitation for 2020-2021! Some 15,000 organizations are reviewed for their care services relating to Infection Control, Falls Prevention, Vaccinations, RN Staffing, PT Staffing, Consistent Nurse Staffing, ER Visits, Discharges To Home, and most recently subject to the pandemic COVID-19 Cases, to name a few categories.
GR E E N SB U RG 724-8 3 2 - 8 4 0 0 GOAL-Best Nursing Home Ad-8x5-11.20.indd 1
redstone.org
This High Performing designation reflects our organizations commitment to excellence in providing care for clients in our skilled nursing facility and the rehabilitation care received recovering from a hospital stay after a stroke, heart attack, infection, or accidental injury. At Redstone, our entire staff takes great pride in making our community a safe haven for our clients.
N. HUN TI N GDO N 724- 864- 5811
M URRYSV IL L E 724- 733- 94 94 11/24/20 1:38 PM