GOAL Magazine Winter 2024

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MAGAZINE

Every Work of Art Has a Story to Tell Exploring the Past, Present and Future of The Westmoreland Museum of American Art

Page 24 INDIVIDUAL COMMITMENT TO A GROUP EFFORT | Winter 2024

This is not a sit-down dinner and program style event...This is a Party!

M A G A Z I N E Proudly Presents the

5th Annual

FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2024 6:30 p.m. –10:30 p.m.

Greensburg Country Club $150 PER PERSON ADMISSION INCLUDES:

• Professional Red Carpet Photos • Hors D’oeuvres • Top Shelf Open Bar • Multiple Food, Beverage and Dessert Stations • Live entertainment, Photo Booth, *Casino Tables and so much more! *Participation at the casino tables, 50/50, basket auction and special raffle are additional and can be purchased in advance or at the event.

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We are raising funds so these children can have the opportunity to go shopping with a police officer from their area right before Christmas.

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A portion of the registration fee may be tax deductible. Please consult your tax advisor.

Winter 2024

MAGAZINE

24

In this issue, we commemorate the 65th anniversary of The Westmoreland Museum of American Art. The artwork credit for the captivating painting on the cover is: Charles W. Gibbons, III, Summer, from the series The Four Seasons, 1991–92. Oil on canvas.

Gift of The Westmoreland Society, 1991. The Westmoreland Museum of American Art.

Cover Story:

The artwork credit for the abstract masterpiece featured at left is: Scott Hunter, Bluffs, 2016. Oil and acrylic on canvas. Gift of The Westmoreland Society, 2017.

The Westmoreland Museum of American Art.

Every Work of Art Has a Story to Tell:

Both pieces are currently on display in the Robertshaw Gallery—an engaging introductory space located on the first level of the Museum.

Exploring the Past, Present and Future of The Westmoreland Museum of American Art

by Jenna McGuiggan,The Westmoreland Museum of American Art

21

Celebrating Four Decades of Economic Development

22

by Jason Rigone Westmoreland County Industrial Development Corporation

5 In Case you Missed It!

by GOAL Magazine

6 Estate Planning: The New Year’s Resolution That Helps You and Your Family

by Jessica Rafferty, Esq. Rafferty Legal

7 Keeping PA Competitive for Business

by Pennsylvania State Senator, Pat Stefano (R-32)

8 What To Do When a Spouse or

Parent Passes by the SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management Team

10 The DA’s Dialogue: Aging with Confidence

by Westmoreland County District Attorney, Nicole Ziccarelli

11 Mindfulness

by Nicole O’Barto-Trainer, Ph.D, MS, LPC, Native

12 The Overlooked Aspect of Health:

Your Relationships

by Dr. Reed Nelson, Westmoreland Chiropractic and Rehab Associates

The stunning photography throughout the issue, including the Cover and Table of Contents, as well as numerous photos within the cover story, were skillfully captured by Autumn Stankay, the accomplished owner of SkySight Photography in Greensburg, PA. With over 19 years of experience, Autumn is a celebrated commercial, portrait, and wedding photographer. Additional photography contributions within the cover story were provided by The Westmoreland Museum of American Art.

Recognizing Children’s Grief Awareness Day

by Maria GrazianoBickerstaff, HartmanGraziano Funeral Home, Inc.

36

Investing in the Future: The Power of Planned Giving through Generous and Motivated Donors

by James Bendel, Saint Vincent College

15 Roots Run Deep

28 The Rhythm of Winter

40 Business Insurance Basics

16 Captain Joseph Rochefort: The

31 Nine Home Organizing Mistakes

42 Medicare and Social Security:

by Ryley Quinn, Former Greater Latrobe School District Student Unlikely Hero of Midway Island and the Battle That Saved America

by Captain Bradley D. Galbraith, Intelligence Officer, 7th Marine Regiment

18 Strengthening

Westmoreland County

by McCrae Martino and Jordan Pallitto, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County

20 Westmoreland County

Manufacturers’ Most Valuable Product: Careers

by Dan DeBone, President/CEO Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce

23 Westmoreland County: Building a Brighter Future

by Westmoreland County Commissioner, Sean Kertes

by Ann Nemanic, GO Laurel Highlands

That Experts Know to Avoid

by Scott Ludwick, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

32 Secure Act 2.0: Enhancing 529 and Retirement Planning

by Bryan Kisiel, CPA Kisiel and Associates

34 Photography 101

by Autumn Stankay, SkySight Photography

38 Exploring the World and

Creating Bonds: The Impact of Group Travel Programs

by Briana Tomack, President Greater Latrobe Laurel Valley Chamber of Commerce

Landscape Design Shafferslandscaping.com Lawn & Garden Care 724.454.7034 Snow & Ice Removal

by JJ Rettura, CIC, Laurel Highlands Insurance Group, LLC Debunking Myths and Understanding Changes

by Allison Clayton, Insurance Services, LLC

44 8th Annual GOAL Magazine Golf

Outing PLUS Paint-n-Sip raises $27,000 for Greater Latrobe Partners in Education Foundation

by GOAL Magazine

46 Ten Must-Have Marketing Tools to Transform Your Small Business

by Matthew Fridg, Headspace Media

47 Candles and Connections with the Ladies of SHE

by GOAL Magazine

MAGAZINE

Production Team

William J. Urbanik Co-Founder

Anthony E. Slezak Co-Founder

Jessica M. Geary Co-Founder

Tawnya Rockwell Chief Production Manager

Jaimee Greenawalt Chief Designer

Autumn Stankay Photographer

Bree Edgerly Writer

Paul Nickoloff Official Printer

Amanda Mayger Editor

Kathleen Lloyd Editor

Noele Creamer Editor

Jennifer Gendron Relationship Manager

What is GO2GOAL?

GO2GOAL

is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that is best known for publishing GOAL Magazine, which utilizes the talents of local business and community leaders to provide an authentic and informative resource to our community.

However, we feel GOAL Magazine is more than a publication - it’s a movement!

GO2GOAL is deeply committed to giving back to our community by supporting a variety of nonprofit organizations via GOAL Magazine events such as our Annual Golf Outing PLUS Paint-n-Sip and Gala.

GOAL University GOAL University was created to bring the magazine to life and provide an outlet for our professional contributors 4 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

and other local professionals, who have a wide-ranging area of expertise, to present a curriculum for the public on a variety of topics.

SHE (Sophisticated | Humble | Empowered) is a female networking group founded by the women of Go2GOAL as a way to provide a forum for women to empower one another without judgment. SHE organizes purposeful social events that support local female-led businesses and bring awareness to local charities that help women and children.

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.

How can I get involved? To learn how you can contribute to this publication, please email us at info@go2goalus.com.

How can I get my own copy of GOAL Magazine?

The majority of GOAL Magazine recipients receive the magazine because one of the contributors within the magazine is sending the magazine as a gift, or currently subscribe.

Magazine subscriptions are available at go2goalus.com/subscribe.

In case you missed it!

Here's a recap of our last issue ...

A Progressive and Practical Approach to Education:

F

Two Local School Districts Color Outside the Lines to Prepare Students for Real Life

or the Summer 2023 edition of GOAL Magazine, released in July, we showcased the endeavors of local Superintendents Michael Porembka of Greater Latrobe School District and Dr. Gennaro Piraino of Franklin Regional School District. The spotlight was on their districts' innovative educational initiatives, emphasizing the preparation of students for the future through real-world experiences. These

programs involve the meticulous crafting of curricular frameworks, allowing students to meaningfully explore career pathways as early as elementary school.

Bree Edgerly, writer for GOAL Magazine, orchestrated the article, incorporating insights provided by each Superintendent.

The captivating cover photo, skillfully captured by Autumn Stankay, owner of SkySight Photography in Greensburg,

PA, set the tone for the feature.

Photography throughout the cover story was generously provided by the Franklin Regional and Greater Latrobe School Districts.

We visited both of the Superintendents featured in the article at their school districts to capture photos of them alongside an oversized canvas of the magazine cover.

View the entire article and the 1. Open your smartphone to the camera app.

2. Center the QR code in the frame. last issue of GOAL Magazine 3. View the entire magazine! The story starts on page 24. by scanning this QR code

If you missed this issue and would like to read more, visit

www.go2goalus.com/past-issues

5 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

www.go2goalus.com 5

Estate Planning: The New Year’s Resolution That Helps You & Your Family

by Jessica L. Rafferty Esq.

H

appy New Year! I know that a lot of people have estate planning on their to-do list. If you’re looking for a resolution for 2024, maybe this is the year you create or update an estate plan. Most people have a lot of questions about the process, so I’ll try to cover some important points.

assets during your lifetime and upon your death are:

Creating an estate plan is unique because you’re the only one who can create your plan, but it isn’t about you, and it isn’t something you are doing for you. It’s something you’re doing for the people you love most. They’re the ones who will benefit from this plan when you are gone or should you become incapacitated.

• L iving Will/Advance Health Care

When Should I Do This?

Usually, a life event reminds you that you should create an estate plan or update an old plan. Some of the most common events are: having a baby, getting married, getting a divorce, retiring, being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, needing skilled nursing home care, or having a death in your family.

What Can I Do to Accomplish This?

Some of the most common estate planning tools that we use to protect your

• Last Will & Testament • Asset Protection Trust • Gifting • Durable Financial Power of Attorney • D urable Health Care Power of Attorney

Directive

Where Do I Start?

When most people think about estate planning, they think about a will. They want to ensure that the right people inherit their possessions when they die – and these people aren’t wrong. Putting strategies in place to protect your assets and pass on your wealth 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.

Planning that’s focused solely on who gets what when you die is ignoring the fact that death isn’t the only thing you must prepare for. You must also consider that, at some point before your eventual death, you could be incapacitated by accident or illness. Unlike death, which is by definition a final outcome, incapacity comes with an uncertain outcome and timeframe.

6 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

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 from the emotional trauma. An effective estate plan can address these issues and can protect your assets for the benefit of your spouse, children, and loved ones if you need longterm skilled nursing care.

Be Proactive

None of us know when we’ll die and we cannot prevent our incapacity, but proper estate planning can at least give you control over how your life and assets will be managed when and if it does occur.

Such planning can prevent your family from enduring needless trauma, conflict, and expense during an already trying time.

If you don’t already have a plan in place, please give us a call. I’d be happy to work with you to determine the best plan for you and your circumstances. Everyone’s goals are different, so everyone’s plan should be customized to accomplish those goals.

If you already have planning strategies in place, I’m happy to review your plan to make sure it has been properly set up, maintained, and updated. Give us a call (724-520-2222) to get started.

KEEPING PA COMPETITIVE FOR BUSINESS

by Pennsylvania State Senator Pat Stefano (R-32)

Y

ears into a post-pandemic world, the word “inflation” is uncomfortably brought up in conversation all too often. The sad fact is that it’s devastating effects are inescapable.

It’s not news that people face the dire consequences of increased pricing everywhere they look. Hard-working families are being hit from all sides by ever-rising costs at the grocery store, gas station, and on their utility bills. Every day, people are forced to make difficult decisions about how to best spend what they have and how to make their investments reach their full potential.

At a time when consumer spending power feels at its weakest, it is our responsibility as leaders in Pennsylvania to keep necessities affordable for consumers and empower businesses to expand into further opportunities, despite the dreading “I” word.

I, along with my Republican colleagues in the Senate, believe that people should not be restricted in the success they can realize.

That’s why we remain focused on how we can create an environment in our commonwealth that gives everyone the opportunity to achieve based on their level of talent and motivation. All that starts with a flourishing, weather-resistant business environment.

At the end of the last session, we passed landmark legislation to decrease the corporate net income tax (CNIT) rate that had not changed since 1995. The rate dropped

Heading into the new year, Pennsylvania’s ranking in the Tax Foundation’s State Business Tax Climate Index has improved from 33rd to 31st among the 50 states. from 9.99% to 8.99% in 2023 and now falls to 8.59% in 2024. The rate will continually decrease by 0.5 percentage points each year until it hits 4.99% in seven years.

Though half of a percentage point may seem insignificant, and seven years may seem distant, the results of this effort are already being noticed on a national level.

Heading into the new year, Pennsylvania’s ranking in the Tax Foundation’s State Business Tax Climate Index has improved from 33rd to 31st among the 50 states.

The Tax Foundation credits the rise in rank to this CNIT reduction and predicts a continuing escalation for the commonwealth’s status.

By the beginning of 2031, Pennsylvania will have gone from having the nation’s second-highest corporate income tax rate to being a more viable player among the competitive system of corporate taxation, estimated to have the eighth lowest CNIT rate in the country.

We are in a position where building business in the Commonwealth is becoming more attractive than the commerce climate of some of our neighboring states.

As traction gains, employers know that Pennsylvania is open for business and there is considerable opportunity to succeed here.

And when business booms, we all thrive.

As companies bring family-sustaining jobs and a legitimate infusion of cash into our economy, Pennsylvanians will soon see the power return to their dollar.

Entering into a new year and looking to the future, we will continue to take consistent steps towards a more competitive system of corporate taxation here in the Commonwealth. With that, I stand committed to furthering our economy and empowering every business, organization, and resident in Pennsylvania to reach their full potential.

Sen. Pat Stefano represents the 32nd Senatorial District, covering all of Bedford, Fayette, Somerset counties and parts of Westmoreland County.

www.go2goalus.com 7

by The SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management Team

What To Do When a Spouse or Parent Passes When you lose a spouse, partner, or parent, the grief can be overwhelming.

In the midst of that grief, life goes on.

There are arrangements to be made, things to be taken care of – and in recognition of this reality, here is a checklist that you may find useful at such a time.

First, gather documents.

Ask for help from other family members if you need it. Start by gathering the following.

• A will, a trust, or other estate documents. If none of these exist, you could face a longer legal process when settling the person’s estate.

• A Social Security card/number.

Generally, the person’s Social Security number will be retired shortly following the death. If you are uncertain, consider checking with the Social Security office.

8 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

Then, gather these additional highly important items.

• A ny account statements • D eeds/titles to real estate • C ar titles or lease agreements • S torage space keys/account records • A ny bills due or records of credit card statements • A ny social media platform information, if applicable Last, but not least, look for a computer file or printout with digital account passwords. Prior to their loved one’s passing, some family members may try to centralize all this information or state where it can be found.

In addition, see if the person left a letter of instructions. A letter of instructions is not a legal document; it’s a letter that provides additional and more-personal information regarding an estate. It can be addressed to whomever you choose, but typically, letters

of instructions are directed to the executor, family members, or beneficiaries.

Next, take care of some immediate needs.

• C ontact a funeral home to arrange a viewing, cremation, or burial, in accordance with the wishes of the deceased.

• C all or email the county clerk or recorder to request 10 to 12 death certificates; a funeral home director can often help you with this matter.

(Counties usually charge a small fee for each copy issued.) Ten to 12 copies may seem excessive, but you may need that many while working with insurance companies and various financial institutions.

• I f the person was still working, contact the human resources officer at your loved one’s workplace to inform them what has happened.

Prior to their loved one’s passing, some family members may try to centralize all this information or state where it can be found.

The HR officer might need you to fill out some paperwork pertaining to retirement plans, health benefits, and compensation for unused vacation time.

• C onsider speaking with an attorney – this can be the lawyer who helped your loved one create a will or estate plan. Should your loved one die without a will, you may want to contact a lawyer for an overview of how the probate process will work and see to what degree you might become liable if your loved one had any outstanding debt obligations.

• R esolve to keep track of any recurring debts that your loved one had set to autopay. Consider placing the monthly bills for these debts in your name (or another family member or the executor).

Notify creditors and credit card companies that were part of your loved one’s credit history. Creditors may want to know when existing debts will be paid, either by you or your loved one’s estate. You can also notify the “big three” credit bureaus – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion – of their passing, which can usually be done online, over the phone, or by letter.

Following these steps, address financial, insurance, and credit matters.

Investment and retirement plan accounts and insurance policies should have beneficiaries, so reach out to the financial and insurance professionals who helped your loved one as well as the person overseeing their workplace retirement plan. Talk with these professionals to learn about the possible tax implications from inheriting these assets.

State and federal taxes for your loved one will also need to be paid, and possibly, other taxes for the year of their death.

Remember, this article is for informational purposes only and is not a replacement for real-life advice, so make sure to consult your tax, legal, and accounting professionals before modifying your any tax or estate strategy.

If your loved one owned a small business or professional practice, a discussion with business partners (and clients) may be necessary as well as a consultation with the attorney who advised that business.

Look after your future.

Working through several of these issues may help bring closure to your loved one’s estate.

Jessica M. Geary, CFP®, MPAS™, ABFP™ , William J. Urbanik, MBA and Anthony E. Slezak

2519 Ligonier St. P.O. Box 421 Latrobe, Pa 15650 724.537.2799 www.shcwealthmanagement.com info@shcwealthmanagement.com

SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management SecondHalfCoachWealthManagement SHCteam SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

www.go2goalus.com 9

The DA’s Dialogue: Aging with Confidence

by Westmoreland County District Attorney, Nicole Ziccarelli check in order to make the check payable to themselves and steal from the individual’s bank account.

W

hile every prosecution is a priority for our office, crimes against seniors and our elderly population are especially heart-wrenching, even more so around the holiday season. Not only has our office charged and prosecuted crimes against seniors, but we are seeing these scams become more sophisticated and more challenging to apprehend offenders. We often see these offenders target a population that is trusting, generous and easy to exploit for financial gain.

Other notable, trending scams include the social security administration and IRS imposter scam and tech support scams. Victims may be told their accounts will be seized or frozen if they fail to act quickly. Perpetrators often use robocalls to reach victims. Victims may be told to “press 1” to speak to a “support representative” for help. This just adds to the believability of the scam, but the IRS will not call you and ask for your personal information.

Romance scams can even infiltrate the senior population. Online dating sites and social networking could lead unsuspecting victims to false profiles in order to create and build relationships. These perpetrators could then convince the victim to send them money -all in the name of love.

Today, criminal activity targeting our senior population is ever-changing in creativity and technology resulting in difficulty to find the perpetrators and hold them accountable.

We not only want citizens to be mindful of the narratives presented by people preying on our aging population, but we also want to share tips to prevent people from falling victim.

Oftentimes, scams start with a phone call. The person on the other end states a grandchild or a child was hurt in an accident or may be in trouble, and you need to pay a monetary value to help alleviate the situation. The perpetrators could ask for banking information over the phone, or gift cards as forms of payment. We have even seen these scams go as far as manipulating the relative’s voice and spoofing numbers to create a sense of urgency and credibility.

If you are not familiar with the person you are communicating with -- hang up and report it to your local police. Never reveal or share personal or sensitive information over the phone.

Requests for payment through gift cards, wire

Sweepstakes scams mimic the look of a legitimate company and ask the potential victim to send money in advance to claim the prize.

In recent years, check washing scams have hit area residents and businesses. Offenders will steal a victim’s outgoing mail to obtain a check that may be used for bill payments or birthdays. Offenders will then “wash” those checks of the writing, create a fraudulent

10 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

transfers, cryptocurrency or Green Dot prepaid cards are usually a tell-tale sign of a scam.

While our office handles the prosecution of these crimes, we want to make a conscious effort toward prevention. Despite the advances in technology, tracing phone calls and IP addresses on computer software is extremely difficult and complex when it comes to scammers and hackers. Once you send payment through gift cards and wire transfers deriving from deceptive and fictitious banking information, there is no way to trace it.

Locally, our municipal police departments are aware of ongoing trends and suspicious criminal behavior. A phone call to your local police department could thwart an attempted scammer from financial gain at your expense.

Police departments have employed their own officers to visit high-rise buildings and senior care facilities to warn residents of local scams targeting the area.

While the county will use as many resources as available to investigate such crimes, we are collaborating on the federal level. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has a division dedicated to investigating such crimes – called the IC3 or Internet Crime Complaint Center. This division daily receives and tracks thousands of complaints reported by victims of fraud.

The Department of Justice is also a partner of law enforcement with the Elder Justice Initiative. The DOJ provides resources and assistance to report crimes of financial exploitation to the appropriate investigating agencies and shares informative research and reports to help combat senior crimes.

The DOJ also utilizes a Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force to educate and expose elder fraud trends.

As District Attorney, it is my duty and my mission to protect and prevent any type of criminal offense from happening – but we especially want to protect our most vulnerable and valued populations.

M

indfulness is a popular concept but what exactly is mindfulness and why should someone consider developing a mindfulness practice. Mindfulness is a form of meditation and involves paying attention to the present moment with curiosity, openness, and nonjudgment. It involves fully engaging with our thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, and the surrounding environment.

Mindfulness is both a practice and a way of being. With regular practice, you can expect to become more present or aware in your day-to-day life, developing a heightened awareness of your thoughts and emotions.

This increased awareness can help you respond to challenging situations with more clarity and resilience, rather than reacting impulsively.

Another way of thinking of it, is that mindfulness helps create a gap between our automatic reactions and responses. This gap allows us to pause, reflect, and choose a more intentional approach, even in the face of struggles.

Mindfulness meditation has been shown to be an effective tool for reducing stress, enhancing self-awareness and insight, improving concentration and cognitive functioning, boosting emotional resilience, and increasing overall quality of life.

Enhanced Self-Awareness and Insight

Mindfulness meditation nurtures selfawareness and insight, which are crucial aspects of personal growth and emotional well-being. Through regular mindfulness practice, you’ll become more attuned to your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations.

This heightened self-awareness allows you to recognize negative thought patterns, habitual reactions, and limiting beliefs that may be contributing to your stress and ultimately undermining your physical and mental health.

Mindfulness By training your mind to stay present in the moment, you can develop the ability to direct your attention consciously. This skill becomes particularly valuable when faced with distractions or when working on tasks that require sustained focus. Mindfulness empowers you to approach your work, relationships, and daily activities with a sense of clarity and purpose.

Strengthened Resilience and Coping Mechanisms

Life inevitably presents us with difficulties and adversities. Mindfulness equips you with the tools to build resilience and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Mindfulness encourages you to cultivate a compassionate and accepting attitude toward your experiences, both positive and negative.

Through meditation, you’ll learn to navigate challenging emotions, such as stress, anxiety, and sadness, with greater ease.

Rather than suppressing or avoiding these

by Nicole O’Barto-Trainer, Ph.D., MS, LPC

emotions, you’ll develop the ability to acknowledge and hold space for them. This shift in perspective helps prevent emotional overwhelm and fosters a greater sense of inner strength and resilience.

Enhanced Well-Being and Quality of Life

By integrating mindfulness meditation exercises into your daily routine, you’ll notice a profound shift in how you experience the world around you. Mindfulness opens up the possibility of finding joy, gratitude, and contentment in the simplest moments and even the most challenging ones.

As you develop your mindfulness practice, you’ll begin to appreciate the interconnectedness of your mind, body, social relationships, and environment. Mindfulness encourages you to make conscious choices that support your well-being, nourish your relationships, and create a sense of harmony within and around you.

The purpose of this self-awareness is to begin to cultivate a compassionate and non-judgmental attitude toward yourself.

You’ll learn to observe your thoughts and emotions without getting entangled in them, fostering a sense of inner freedom and resilience.

Improved Concentration and Cognitive Functioning

In our fast-paced world, maintaining focus and concentration can be a constant challenge. Mindfulness meditation offers valuable tools for improving cognitive functioning. Regular mindfulness practice has been shown to enhance attention span, memory, and cognitive flexibility.

www.go2goalus.com 11

The Overlooked Aspect of Health:

Your Relationships

By Dr. Reed Nelson

W

hen contemplating health, I notice it is common for individuals to focus on the well-being of their individual body parts.

While the health of your knees and heart are important, one often overlooked aspect of health is the health of our relationships.

In this article, I will shift your focus away from your blood work and into the realm of your interpersonal relationships. My GOAL is to share the right words to motivate a few to make conscientious steps to improve their health by improving relationships.

While you may already be thinking about a certain relationship, many do not realize how many relationships we actually have.

In some way or another, we have a relationship w/ everything. You have more relationships than you think you do and each one plays a little role in your well-being.

Types of Relationships Work Relationships: Colleagues, Managers, Employees, Owners, Customers, Competitors.

School Relationships: Teachers, Bus drivers, Students, Coaches and Principles.

Family Relationships: Mothers, Fathers, Husbands, Wives, Significant others, Siblings, Grandparents, Uncles, Aunts, Cousins, and Stepfamily.

Healthcare Provider Relationships: Physical providers like Chiropractors, Physical Therapists, Yoga and Massage Therapists as well as Medical Doctors and Specialists in Hair, Nails and Skincare.

Relationships with the World: Acquaintances, Community, Country, the Earth, and Oneself.

Could you improve a few of these relationships? The truth is, you likely can and with a little effort plus some knowledge you could benefit your health and also the world. To facilitate improvement in your relationship, here are some dos and don’ts to consider.

Dos:

1. Focus On Giving: Give what you want, trusting that you will at some time in the future receive exactly what you need. Afterall, trust is the foundation for all healthy relationships.

2. Argue Well: There is a difference between a response and a reaction.

12 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

A response is typically a kinder share of your vantage point and results in healthy debate versus anger reaction which can damage a relationship.

Don’ts:

1. Focus on what you’re receiving: Instead of fixating on what you’re getting, focus on what you’re giving to the relationship.

2. Neglect work relationships: Recognize the importance of work relationships and contribute positively to your work environment.

Work Relationships: Thriving with work relationships has a cascading effect, making you more valuable to the company, typically leading to career advancement and increased income. Successful companies are comprised of individuals committed to adding value and going above and beyond for their customers and colleagues.

Relationship with Oneself: When it comes to improving the relationship with yourself, many people don’t know where to

If you take a moment to self-study, you can replace a belief that does not serve you with something better and the new belief will typically contain more truth. start. I encourage people to think about three categories. 1. Self-talk 2. Self-study 3. Self-improvement. Self-talk is the things we say to ourselves. If you tell yourself that you can’t dance, you will never become a dancer. One particular kind of self-talk is your I AM statements. I AM statements manifest so be careful what they are. When you tell yourself that you’re terrible with names, you will be. The antidote, tell yourself something better.

Our experiences influence the beliefs we establish. We all end up establishing a few beliefs that don’t serve us. If you take a moment to self-study, you can replace a belief that does not serve you with something better and the new belief will typically contain more truth.

Choosing self-improvement is one of the best things an individual can do. There are endless vehicles to become a better self.

Books, mentor’s, YouTube and podcasts are just a few. By committing to the process of improving ourselves, we improve families, companies and ultimately the world.

Relationship with the World: A common teaching about our relationship with the world is that we are a distinct separate part of it.

Are we really just born into it? Are we a separate tiny human on a specific spot on a big earth floating around a huge universe?

Could we possibly be the actual process, a continuation of a magnificent transformation that continues on and on. I am not here to decide for you; however, I will encourage you to question, think and arrive at your own relationship with this world. It’s an important one.

fulfilling and healthier life.

Take time to slow down, reflect and make efforts to improve these relationships and you will witness a positive transformation in your health and also the world.

Benefits of Healthier Relationships: Numerous studies highlight the positive impact of healthy relationships.

Benefits include lower rates of anxiety and depression, increased immune function, decreased perceived stress levels, increased oxytocin and heightened empathy, all contributing to increased longevity.

Consequences of Unhealthy Relationships: Conversely, a lack of healthy relationships has been shown to lead to headaches, gastrointestinal pain, muscle tension, elevated blood pressure, decreased self-esteem and sleep problems.

In conclusion, many aspects of our health hinge on the quality of our relationships. In essence, the quality of your life is the quality of your relationships. So, whether it’s in the workplace, with oneself or in connection with the world, nurturing your relationships will lead you to a more

Dr Reed Nelson (aka Nelson Loguasto) is the founder of the practice 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 www.go2goalus.com 13

Selling nationwide at route30cigars.com Greensburg Location

Walk-In Humidor, Retail, and Aladino Lounge 645 Mount Pleasant Street Greensburg, PA 15601 724.217.8042

Nlcigar.com Reed Nelson Loguasto Owner-Partner 724.516.7777

Norwin Hills Shopping Center Location Walk-In Humidor and Retail 8775 Norwin Ave Irwin, PA 15642 724.515.5818

Roots Run Deep

by Ryley Quinn, Former Co-Editor-in-Chief for The High Post Student Newsletter at the Greater Latrobe Senior High School, 2023 Graduate

R

“No matter where you are from, it can be done. You don’t have to go to a premiere high school to follow your dreams and make it far, he showed me that,” said Trent.

obert “Bo” Ruffner Sr. is often recognized as an athlete, a coach, a teacher, a mentor, a father, a husband, a grandfather (Bopa to his ten grandkids), a brother, and a friend. As Bopa, he inspires his grandchildren to strive for excellence with sportsmanship and character.

A Latrobe native, Bo carried the Latrobe gridiron legacy to Clemson, South Carolina to play Division 1 football. Bo was a star athlete at Greater Latrobe in high school, his name engraved on the plaque for the Ray V. Wild award that hangs outside the GLSD gym. In his time at Clemson from 1964-1968, he was a fullback on the team that won the ACC championship three years in a row. His passion, athleticism and hard work not only made him an ACC champion but also the winner of the Jacobs Blocking Trophy as the best blocker in the state of South Carolina.

After Clemson, he came back to his hometown of Latrobe. He married Phyllis Waters and raised four kids, who equally appreciate the roots of Latrobe: Sherri [Holler], Kelly [Grejtak], Bo Jr, and Becky [Quinn]. The GLSD neighborhood allowed Bo’s roots to dig deep as he became a history teacher and coached football and tennis.

A man with so many athletic accomplishments, Bo’s true pride is with the community.

To Bo, family and God have always come first. As a father and grandfather, he loves being involved in his family’s lives. Spending countless hours cheering any of his grandkids in their sports and being there for them when needed, he is the definition of a true family man.

Sharing the experiences with his Bopa has been one of Trent’s favorite parts of playing the game he loves on the college level. “Something that he did, I also get to do. Bopa and I talk about games. He’ll come to see me play, and after we talk about everything that happened. He knows what I see and feel. We get to share the same experiences.”

His family emanates his passion for athletics as they made their own footsteps in sports.

He showed his family how to work hard, to be competitive, to get involved in what you love, and to never give up on your dreams, all while never forgetting to show them how proud he was. His admiration expanded when his grandson Trent Holler followed in his footsteps to play Division 1 football.

Trent Holler, C’ 2019, was a star on the football field--just like his grandfather--starting on Varsity from his freshman to senior year.

He excelled as a center and defensive end for Latrobe, being selected four times for First Team All-Conference. His senior year he earned a spot in the Pennsylvania Big 33 game; his team won.

Trent committed to East Carolina University, where he redshirted his freshman year and then considered a change. Trent ultimately found the right squad at Marshall University in West Virginia, where he excelled at both right and left guard. In 2023, Trent will return to being a strong center. Having diversity in positions on the field created opportunities for Trent to become a better player.

Following in his Bopa’s footsteps was a surreal experience for Trent, and every day he uses it as motivation. His Bopa showed him that dreams can come true for anybody.

Football is a tough sport. Trent said, “It’s unlike any sport, it’s unique. The physicality is the best part. You can hit someone as hard as you can.” But with physical toughness, Trent also finds strength in his mental toughness when playing D1 football.

“You have to do your best every single day in and out without a break. That's the hardest part, there is always someone watching, and you have to bring your A-game, or someone will take your spot.”

This mental and physical toughness and grit is what brought Trent and his Marshall team to a huge upset win over Notre Dame in South Bend in the fall of 2022. “Winning that game was a surreal feeling. Nobody gave us a chance. The stadium was Marshall loud.” Proving himself to the ones who said he couldn’t is just as important as sharing the experience with his grandfather. Trent, as a part of the herd, proved themselves yet again when Marshall’s Thundering Herd beat UConn 28-14 at the Myrtle Beach Bowl Game.

For Bo, the world of sports has always been one of his greatest joys and priorities, even when his family became his center, and he was able to share his passion for sports with his kids and grandkids. Because of his toughness and motivation, Trent was able to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps and have the determination to make it to Division 1 football. Because in this Ruffner family, the roots truly run deep.

www.go2goalus.com 15

by Captain Bradley D. Galbraith, Intelligence Officer, 7th Marine Regiment

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The Unlikely Hero of Midway Island and the Battle That Saved America

ne of the most fascinating aspects of American history, in my opinion, is studying specific events that could have influenced the very existence of the United States as we know it.

Reading examples of heroism and brilliance that have helped keep this beautiful republic afloat helps one gain a truer appreciation for what it means to be uniquely American.

One such example is the story of Joseph Rochefort and his efforts in planning for what would be the Battle of Midway. The story of Rochefort is one near and dear to my heart; the eccentric and perpetual underdog intelligence officer who ultimately used his brilliance and cunning to, in my opinion, save America. ​ ochefort’s story, and how he fumbled his R way into one of the crucial moments in world history, begins rather unremarkably. Growing up in the Greater Los Angeles area just after the 20th century kicked off, Rochefort decided he was interested in doing something great with his life, something that would

drag him out of the monotonous high school classes that bored him to no end. So, in 1918, he lied about his age to successfully enlist in the US Navy, all without having obtained a high school diploma. Miraculously, after peers and superiors noticed the young sailor’s penchant for solving crossword puzzles at lightning speed, his ability to manipulate card games in his favor, and his ability to digest books and regurgitate knowledge at superhuman levels, Rochefort was recommended for commissioning into the Naval Officer Corps. ​ oon after, Ensign Rochefort began his S training in the Washington D.C. area as a crypto analyst, studying under the legendary American codebreaker Agnes Meyer Driscoll in 1924. From there he would be the second in command to a newly created Naval Intelligence organization, before conveniently studying the Japanese language and culture for three years from 1929 to 1932. In the years that followed, Rochefort would hold positions and rank of increas-

16 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

ing authority until in early 1941, when he would be assigned to a Naval Outpost in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Naval Flag Officers and Intelligence Representatives in the United States Government, growing concerned with Japan’s increased influence and military might, tasked Rochefort to assemble a team to break Japanese code to assist allies in the war the was ravaging Europe and parts of the Pacific. ​ hen on December 7th, 1941, everything T changed. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, American intelligence was the last line of defense for a country that was staggering into a corner, with a knockout blow lingering around the corner. Captain Joseph Rochefort and his team were determined to find out where the Japanese Imperial Fleet would mass their power to deliver that potential knockout blow. Captain Rochefort, much to the chagrin of peers and superiors, would spend days in his secure intelligence vault without sleep, pontificating the next move of the Japanese high command.

​ porting a bathrobe, slippers, and pipe S instead of a uniform, Rochefort spent countless hours intercepting Japanese radio traffic and decoding it. Finally, Captain Rochefort convinced the new Pacific Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz that the attack would occur in May or early June on an island in the Central Pacific. This assessment was in stark contrast to Rochefort’s superiors’ assessment, and they quickly rebuked him as being uncooperative and counterproductive to Naval Intelligence efforts.

Still, Rochefort began working harder to prove his theory. The last piece in the puzzle that baffled Rochefort and his team was Japanese radio traffic increasingly referencing a place codenamed “AF”. Expert codebreakers and intelligence operatives were called in from all over the world to determine the meaning of “AF”, but to no avail. Finally in the spring of 1942, Rochefort, through sheer brilliance, intuition, and memorization, thought he remembered a single intelligence report that referenced the code. The report was typed among thousands of reports during an era in which computerized records of reports were not yet available, meaning they had to be manually sorted through. Even still, the report that Rochefort was thinking of was one in which a young analyst with next to no credentials was led to believe that “AF” referred to Midway Island through his own process of elimination. The odds were steep that the team was correct, and Rochefort certainly needed to prove his hunch if he was to salvage any credibility he had with superiors.

So, Jasper Holmes, a member of Rochefort’s team, devised a trap to prove the theory.

Midway Island depended on a clean internal water and food resupplies to sustain the Marines and Sailors situated there. Assuming Japanese Intelligence was tracking American supply schedules and radio transmissions if they were planning an imminent attack, Holmes suggested Midway Island would fake a water supply failure, using an unencrypted

emergency warning system that Japanese Intelligence would easily be able to intercept. The hope was that once intercepted by the Japanese, American Intelligence would in turn be able to intercept radio traffic stating that “AF” had a water supply emergency, thus confirming “AF” was Midway Island. Rochefort’s team received confirmation to proceed with the plan from Fleet Admiral Nimitz shortly thereafter.

The Japanese fell right into the trap. Within hours, they broadcast instructions to load additional water and desalination equipment onto troop-carrying ships. This not only confirmed Rochefort’s hypothesis, but also revealed a startling fact. Desalination equipment was known to be utilized by Japanese troops that intended to occupy islands for an extended period, meaning the Japanese were going to launch a full amphibious assault on Midway Island before mid-June.

The intelligence was believed by Admiral Nimitz, who recognized Rochefort’s diligence and brilliance. The intelligence was not as well received in Washington D.C., however, and was still not completely digested by many intelligence professionals due to their perceived credibility of the source. Running low on time, Nimitz trusted his gut and mobilized the entire American Pacific Fleet to lie in wait to attack what was assumed to be the advancing Japanese Imperial Fleet. It was only right before the battle commenced that many realized Captain Joseph Rochefort had been right all along, and that it was he and his team’s combined effort that allowed Admiral Nimitz to assemble what was left of a decimated American Navy and lay in an ambush for the advancing Japanese.

What would soon ensue would be one of the hardest and closest fought air to sea naval battles of all time. Through another series of miracles, the Americans won the Battle of Midway. Nimitz soon recommended Rochefort for a Navy Distinguished Service Medal, but the recommendation was rejected by superiors who unfairly considered Rochefort one of

the most unmilitary-looking officers they had ever encountered. Rochefort also requested Nimitz stop pursuing the recommendation since it would only make trouble. Rochefort received no official recognition during his lifetime for his work leading up to the Battle of Midway, and was reassigned to another unit, never to serve at sea again. The fact that Rochefort received no higher recognition at the time was considered by some to have been an outrage. Rochefort would go on to head the Pacific Strategic Intelligence Group in Washington after the war. He died in his sleep in Torrance, California, at 76 years of age.

Since his death, Joseph Rochefort has been portrayed in two movies, has been inducted into the National Security Agency Hall of Fame, has been awarded the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and in 2012, had an NSA facility named in his honor. To learn more about Captain Rochefort, I suggest reading Joe Rochefort’s War by Elliot Carlson.

Joseph Rochefort’s story is every American’s story. From the beginning we have collectively been the rebellious underdogs, who were never believed or taken seriously.

We have tried, and we have failed, countless times. But instead of being deterred and overcome with a victim mentality, we persevered and worked harder to prove ourselves. And when our opportunity for greatness came, we exploited it. In the face of an unwavering criticism and looming danger, Captain Joseph Rochefort succeeded. Had he not, the American Navy would not have been properly prepared to defend itself in what was already a close fought battle. A loss at Midway Island would have prompted a hard Japanese advance towards American soil, against what would have been an even more decimated American military. It is hard to imagine what would have happened to America itself had Captain Joseph Rochefort not succeeded.

by McCrae Martino and Jordan Pallitto

Our plan for a brighter future for Westmoreland County Our county is facing a critically important moment. While the needs are great, greater still is the will of people across sectors to develop meaningful solutions together. In 2023, with guidance from the communities we serve and the full support of our advisory board, we at The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County announced the strategic priorities that will guide our communityinvestment strategy over the next five years.

We will Promote Philanthropy across the

2023-2027 Strategic Priorities campaigns that connect them to current community needs.

•A ttracting new individual and institutional donors to increase investment in Westmoreland County.

• I nspiring donors to align their giving by connecting them to the Foundation’s grantmaking interests and community impact work.

•C elebrating the Foundation’s 30th anniversary in 2025 and documenting its positive impact on communities.

We will Support Community Success.

We will build trusting relationships with nonprofit organizations across the region to advance our shared goals by:

region, involving individual donors, corporate and government leaders, private foundations and many others. We will continue to be a strong community partner and fiscal steward dedicated to meeting the needs of county residents by:

•S trengthening capacity building and providing opportunities for them to improve organizational effectiveness.

•E nhancing donor engagement: involving donors through ongoing education events, experiences and fundraising

•R efining our grantmaking focus to increase impact by attracting, coordinating and directing financial resources to

18 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

•S treamlining our application processes to make it easier for organizations to work with us.

the areas of greatest need as defined by data and community-informed processes.

Increasing the transparency of our work by sharing what we learn and explaining the impact of Foundation investments.

We will Catalyze Partnerships. We will

leverage our roles as a leader, supporter and partner to promote positive change in the community by: •C onvening to support community initiatives by utilizing our expertise, resources and capacity to mobilize partnerships.

•A mplifying our impact by working with others to deepen existing partnerships and form new alliances across the region.

•S trengthening the WestCo Nonprofit Network for greater collaboration and education among members.

•A dvancing the nonprofit sector’s advocacy efforts to change policies and practices so that quality of life is improved across the region.

•E nsuring community perspectives on local and regional initiatives are considered.

Images by Joshua Franzos and Renee Rosensteel.

•P artnering to build philanthropic investments and leverage opportunities to collaborate.

•D istributing grants from donor-advised funds.

We promote philanthropy by: •U nderstanding our donors’ interests and supporting their philanthropic goals.

•A ttracting new donors, helping them grow their funds and develop planned gifts.

What We Do We invest financial resources, making grants of nearly $3 million annually, in the following areas: •S upporting the needs of vulnerable populations and investing in the communities where they live through the Healthy Communities and Revitalizing Westmoreland initiatives.

•B ringing financial advisors, attorneys and tax professionals together for education and partnership opportunities.

We strengthen community impact and the nonprofit sector by: •P roviding networking, education and advocacy through the WestCo Nonprofit Network.

•S upporting the Greensburg community through the Greensburg Foundation Fund.

•C onvening stakeholders and facilitating partnerships to address opportunities and challenges in the County.

•S chool-based programming through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program.

•C apacity building to strengthen individual nonprofits and the sector overall.

McCrae Martino is the Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Westmoreland and Jordan Pallitto serves as the Chair of the Community Foundation of Westmoreland Advisory Board.

cfwestmoreland.org

www.go2goalus.com 19

by Dan DeBone President/CEO Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce

Westmoreland County Manufacturers’ Most Valuable Product:

A

CAREERS

sk most residents of Westmoreland County about the fourth week of May this year and they’ll tell you it was just like any other. The Pirates hosted the Rangers for a three-game homestand. Students and relatives started to trickle in from out of town in preparation to observe Memorial Day. But it was anything but ordinary for the community members packed into an auditorium on Old Route 30 in Irwin.

Everyone had gathered to celebrate the latest recipients of the Grow Westmoreland and Achieving True Self scholarship and grant program. This year, these organizations distributed 11 Career Startup Scholarships, 13 Tools of the Trade Grants, and 3 Achieving True Self Scholarships, totaling more than $20,000 in awards.

This is just one of the many efforts that our region’s business leaders are taking to develop the next generation of skilled workers. They want to ensure our leading industries—particularly manufacturing and agriculture—are equipped with the best and brightest talent for years to come. Bolstering our area’s workforce is critical to shoring up our local communities that are wrestling with population decline, erosion of the tax base, and challenges associated with an aging citizenry.

The best way to address these issues is by showing younger residents the tremendous opportunities that await them right here in Westmoreland County.

Fortunately, our region’s manufacturers have a great pitch for young job seekers.

For over a century, U.S. Steel has been producing the American-made products and materials that build our country’s homes, cars, appliances, and more right here in the

Sustaining these critical and innovative companies requires a steady supply of skilled labor, which is why local entities like the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce and the Westmoreland-Fayette Workforce Investment Board are dedicated to providing prospective workers with the tools they need to succeed while helping our businesses attract and retain top talent.

In early May, Governor Josh Shapiro joined political and business leaders to announce Re: Build Manufacturing’s $81 million investment to create the New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park— and 300 new jobs— in Westmoreland County.

Mon Valley. U.S. Steel supports thousands of good-paying jobs across the greater Pittsburgh area.

In Greensburg, General Carbide builds finished tooling, wear parts, and other components for an array of markets, including the automotive, aerospace, and oil and gas industries. The company also administers an internship program for high schoolers looking to pursue a career in manufacturing.

20 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

For example, the Westmoreland-Fayette Workforce Investment Board provides a wealth of resources for job seekers, including job training programs, career and technical education curricula, and assistance for dislocated workers and vocational rehabilitation. The Board also shares employment information, including average wages and annual job demand, for high-priority industries, such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, and logistics.

This is part of a broader effort to leave no stone unturned when it comes to building out our regional workforce and making sure western Pennsylvania remains competitive on the national and international stage.

To illustrate how these efforts pay off, consider an event that took place a few weeks before the Grow Westmoreland’s awards ceremony. In early May, Governor Josh Shapiro joined political and business leaders to announce Re: Build Manufacturing’s $81 million investment to create the New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park—and 300 new jobs— in Westmoreland County. It’s thrilling to think that one day, one of the scholarship recipients in that Irwin auditorium may lay claim to one of those 300 jobs.

Westmoreland County’s future is bright.

How will you be a part of it?

Celebrating Four Decades of Economic Development

With a snip of the oversized pair of scissors, officials celebrated the completion of Phase II of development at Westmoreland Distribution Park North.

G

iven that November is the month for giving thanks, it’s fitting that the Westmoreland County Industrial Development Corporation (WCIDC) chose that month to celebrate our 40th anniversary. We were joined at Live! Casino by colleagues, economic development professionals, partners, and many of the business leaders who call our industrial parks home.

Organizations don’t last 40 years without strong leadership, dedicated staff, and great partners. Throughout its history, the WCIDC has been fortunate to consistently have all three. We are led by a Board of Directors composed of the current county commissioners, and regardless of political affiliation, they have, without fail, worked together to improve the local economy through their leadership at the WCIDC. Our staff regularly goes above

by Jason Rigone, WCIDC Executive Director

and beyond expectations, and our many partners—in the public sector and private sector alike—have enabled us to have a much greater impact on the economy than we would if we acted alone.

Although the WCIDC was founded in 1983, its origins can be traced to the economic malaise that plagued the region in the midto late-1970s. To counter an unemployment rate that was in the 14- to 16-percent range, county commissioners adopted a strategy that involved the development of industrial parks. That led to our creation, and 40 years later, the WCIDC has 20 assets that are home to 165 companies with approximately 9,000 workers.

I don’t have nearly enough space here to go into detail about our story, but if you’re interested in learning about the recent history of economic development in Westmoreland County, I invite you to watch the anniversary video that we have on our homepage at WestmorelandCountyIDC.com.

Industrial Park Expansion

Speaking of celebrations, the WCIDC held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the completion of Phase II of development at Westmoreland Distribution Park North in October. The project created three pad-ready sites of 21.4, 10.4, and 4.1 acres, bringing the number of available, pad-ready sites in the park to five.

We estimate that those lots can support up to 750,000 square feet of new building space.

The signs were all there at the WCIDC’s 40th anniversary event: Our staff is proud to support economic development!

We embarked on Phase II following a period of brisk sales involving several of the largest pad-ready lots available in our park system.

These new lots will enable us to continue

to attract businesses to the county and to provide land for the growing companies that already call Westmoreland home.

Phase II's $6.3 million cost was covered

by WCIDC funds, state grants, and a lowinterest state loan. With support from officials such as Senate Majority Leader Kim Ward and state Rep. Eric Davanzo— both of whom represent East Huntingdon Township, where the park is located—we’ve cleared development obstacles from these properties and quite literally leveled the playing field when it comes to competing for economic development projects. And of course, we’re grateful for the support of our local partners in East Huntingdon and Southmoreland School District.

SCI Greensburg

The WCIDC and Hempfield Township have joined forces to revitalize a 96-acre property that has been unused ever since the state closed the SCI Greensburg state prison complex in 2013.

With concerns about deteriorating structures, the partnership aims to eliminate blight and stimulate economic development that aligns with Hempfield's comprehensive plan.

Hempfield purchased the Route 119 property and will identify the land-reuse goals for the project. The WCIDC will lead the effort to demolish the prison complex and prepare the site for redevelopment—much like we did with the Jeannette Glass and Monsour Medical Center properties in Jeannette.

As I write this, we’re still in the process of hiring an engineering consultant for the project, so a project timeline hasn’t been finalized, but demolition likely will begin in 2024. Both we and Hempfield officials are excited about the possibilities for redevelopment.

For additional details, visit westmorelandcountyidc.org and follow us on social media www.go2goalus.com 21

R E C O G N I Z I N G

by Maria Graziano-Bickerstaff, Funeral Director

he surprising prevalence of children around us who have had someone close to them pass away means there’s likely a child you know who is grieving.

Families interested in bringing their children to the annual event can be added to the 2024 art registration list by calling the Hartman-Graziano Funeral Home Inc. at 724-537-5575.

Children’s Grief Awareness Day, observed on the third Thursday of November each year, draws attention to children who have suffered these terrible losses.

Neighborhood Kids

Created in 2008 by the Highmark Caring Place, A Center for Grieving Children, Adolescents, and Their Families, we hope to create a greater level of understanding about how to support a grieving child.

Since its inception, this day has been recognized around the world, including in our small neighborhood of Latrobe.

In addition to the annual Children’s Grief Awareness Day, there is support offered throughout the year to help grieving children feel less alone and more supported.

“Neighborhood Kids” is a family-based bereavement support program designed to bring families together during a time of loss and sadness, utilizing alternative therapies such as art, music, poetry, songwriting, and pet therapy. This is part of a full complement of bereavement services offered through Independence Health System Home Care & Hospice.

Children’s Grief Awareness Day Art Activity

On Thursday, November 16, 2023, The Hartman-Graziano Funeral Home Inc., Independence Health System Home Care & Hospice, and Innersight LLC partnered together again to raise awareness and offer a free activity to support grieving children within the community. The Latrobe Art Center graciously hosted the free art activity.

“Adults often worry about how to talk to children about grief and loss,” said Maureen Ceidro, Bereavement Counselor for Independence Health System Home Care & Hospice. “Through activities like this one, we hope to provide not only information – but also assurance, encouragement, and support to families as they journey through their grief.”

“The art activity highlighted the importance of self-care and honoring feelings while the

22 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

“What do you do with the sad that you feel?”

This question was posed by Fred Rogers as part of the episode of “Mister Rogers Neighborhood” children’s television show dealing with loss. It’s integral to the organizations in the community that strive to fulfill a vision to offer a world of support for grieving children.

When we held the free art activity program for the first time in 2022, we immediately knew that we had to make it an annual event. Children’s Grief Awareness Day is so important because it shows caregivers that even though we may not be able to make everything ok, we can support these children and create an environment where we show them it’s safe to ask questions about their loved one and continue to share stories about them.

At the conclusion of the art program last year, the art therapist asked the group, “What did we learn today?”

A young girl, who’d worked diligently on her project, shared memories of her loved one as she worked, and was proud of the keepsake she created, raised her hand and said “It’s okay to be sad.”

Neighborhood Kids is supported by the Jamie Cordial Hall Foundation, which was created to honor the memory of Jamie, a young mother, following her untimely death a few months after giving birth.

Neighborhood Kids was developed in 2018 through a collaboration among the Fred Rogers Center, Seton Hill University, and Independence Health System.

e mily S rving Y a F ou ur

rs

In 2022, participating children worked on remembrance ornaments. This year they decorated miniature flowerpots and planted seeds of hope.

For questions about the groups, and how to register, please call the Independence Health System Bereavement Counselors at 724-516-8605.

O

T

children witnessed growth and transformation,” said Kristy Walter, a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and a licensed practicing counselor (LPC) with Innersight LLC. “Each finished art piece created a tangible space for them to visit to grieve, remember, and pay homage to their loved one.”

Westmoreland County:

BUILDING A BRIGHTER FUTURE

W

estmoreland County is making significant investments in various programs and initiatives to move into the future. By removing blight, developing its workforce, investing in capital improvements, and upgrading broadband services for underserved communities, the county is positioning itself for success in the years to come. With continued investments in these areas, Westmoreland County will be well-positioned to attract new business, create new jobs, and provide a high quality of life for its residents.

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) passed in March of 2021, provided federal fiscal recovery funding to states, tribal governments, cities, counties, and other units of local government. The funding is intended to support economic recovery and change the negative economic course caused by COVID19. The US department of Treasury limited the use of funding to seven categories: replacing lost revenue; providing premium pay to essential workers; negative economic impacts; infrastructure; public health; and administrative.

Westmoreland County is using American Rescue Plan dollars to their fullest extent by investing in one-time infrastructure improvements. These projects can be completed in the constricts of the requirements and will not require any additional funding in years to come. The county has started to look toward the long term advantages the use of ARPA funding can provide.

Blight

With the help of Westmoreland Counties Redevelopment Authority and Land Bank, commissioners were able to identify vacant and abandoned properties located in QCT’s (Quality Census Tracts). An allocation of 10.4 million of ARPA funding will make neighborhoods more appealing to homeowners, and potential businesses. This attention will make a tremendous difference to residents of Penn Borough, Jeannette, Vandergrift, New Kensington, Arnold, Greensburg, and Monessen.

Workforce Development Programs

The people of Westmoreland County have and continue to show their strong work ethic and adaptability. Dating back to the Industrial Revolution our workforce has been instrumental in industries necessary to grow our nation. Starting with steel, and coke Westmoreland County’s residents possess skills to work in industries that range from financial services, manufacturing to electrical distribution.

The county supports our working residents through the Economic Growth Connections of Westmoreland (EGC). This non-profit organization offers programs to help residents gain skills through job training, career counseling, and job placement services.

Westmoreland County looks forward to further developing our 27 Industrial parks through IDC and welcoming industry leaders like Amazon to Westmoreland County. The expansion of our manufacturing community and the addition of new businesses will only increase the need for qualified employees.

Keeping our youth in Westmoreland County has been a passion of mine since I took office in 2019. In 2021 I was fortunate to work with a few like minded individuals to start Grow Westmoreland. A non-profit that focuses on providing training and scholarship opportunities for local individuals aged 18 to 25 who are interested in careers in agriculture and skilled labor. Grow Westmoreland raises private donations to award scholarships to local students to continue their education and job training.

by Westmoreland County Commissioner Sean Kertes Investing in Capital Improvements

Investing in Capital improvement is a crucial aspect of a thriving county. One of the areas of focus is the water and sewage infrastructure. Westmoreland County has been working diligently to upgrade its water and sewage lines to ensure that they can meet the needs of residents and businesses. In 2021, the county received a grant of $3.4 million to help fund the replacement of aging water and sewage lines. By investing in the water and sewage infrastructure, Westmoreland County is taking significant steps towards a better future for its residents and businesses.

Broadband Upgrades for Underserved communities

The importance of Internet reliability was never as apparent as it was in 2020. Reliable high-speed internet is vital to the communities that we live in. Our residents young and old rely on internet for school, work, social interaction, and tasks vital to our daily lives.

Westmoreland county has made the commitment to spent $10 million in ARPA funding as well as $3.5 million of the county’s budget to expand internet to those members of Westmoreland County without this vital service. 30 miles of fiber optic cable has been contracted to be installed in four county projects in Derry, Fairfield, and Ligonier townships. These projects will install broadband to about 400 homes and businesses.

Westmoreland County is a beautiful place to live, work and play. With continued attention to revitalization, workforce development and infrastructure upgrades, Westmoreland County will be well-positioned to succeed for generations to come.

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c o v e r

s t o r y

Every Work of Art Has a Story to Tell Exploring the Past, Present and Future of The Westmoreland Museum of American Art

by Jenna McGuiggan, Digital Communications Specialist

H

ow do you create an art museum without any art?

If you were long-time Greensburg resident Mary Marchand Woods, you began with a vision and a generous bequest. In 1949, Woods allocated her estate to establish a cultural museum for the people of Westmoreland County. She had no art collection to accompany her endowment, rather, it was the Museum’s first director and curator, Dr. Paul A. Chew, who set the Museum

on a course of collecting American art. When the doors finally opened in 1959, the Museum’s collection included 78 pieces of American art.

at any given time, The Westmoreland always has something new to experience, and every work of art has a story to tell.

Now, 65 years later, The Westmoreland Museum of American Art’s collection has grown to more than 3,500 pieces of decorative and fine art from the 18th century to today. Through acquisitions and gifts to the Museum, the collection continues to grow. With only a fraction of the collection on view

Today, The Westmoreland serves the residents and visitors of Greensburg, Westmoreland County, and the Greater Pittsburgh Metro Area. Guided by its mission, vision and values, and a strategic plan centered on diversity, equity, access and inclusion, the Museum offers a place to share

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Photo courtesy Autumn Stankay, the accomplished owner of SkySight Photography.

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Photo courtesy of The Westmoreland Musuem of American Art.

Photo courtesy Autumn Stankay, the accomplished owner of SkySight Photography.

meaningful cultural experiences that open the door to new ideas, perspectives, and possibilities. Through a diversified exhibition schedule and a variety of engaging public programs, the Museum strives to expand the narrative of American history.

The Museum sits on its 1950s original site—over the bridge and up the hill at the top of Main Street in Greensburg.

In 2015, after an ambitious two-year renovation and expansion, led by

then director and CEO Judy Hansen O’Toole, The Westmoreland reopened to the public with a state-of-the-art LEED Silver facility that includes a dramatic cantilevered wing for showcasing major exhibitions and additional spaces for hosting events.

Both the building and the grounds are fully ADA-accessible, and in 2018, Architectural Digest recognized The Westmoreland as the best designed museum in Pennsylvania.

Amenities include the Museum Shop, which features unique gifts, home décor, jewelry, and other items—many made by local and regional artists and artisans. At the Museum’s Café Marchand, guests can purchase grab-and-go items, beverages, and snacks, including signature café drinks, plus entrees and sweet treats from local restaurant partners. Seating is available inside the lobby and on the outdoor terraces, which overlook the Museum gardens.

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Leading the Way

In August 2023, the Museum appointed Dr. Silvia Filippini-Fantoni, PhD as the Richard M. Scaife Director/CEO. Born in the medieval Italian town of Bergamo, she developed a passion for art and history from a young age, which set her on a career path that includes more than 20 years of experience in the museum field.

Filippini-Fantoni has expertise in the areas of art, education, interpretation, and community engagement. She is committed to fostering inclusive and innovative museum experiences and has a proven record of success in cultivating audience growth and diversification.

Dr. Silvia Filippini-Fantoni, PhD Director and CEO - Photo Courtesy of The Westmoreland Museum of American Art.

“Art has the power to inspire, challenge, and connect us,” Filippini-Fantoni said. “I am dedicated to ensuring that this institution continues to be a vibrant space for exploration and dialogue.”

Prior to joining The Westmoreland, FilippiniFantoni held senior positions at the North Carolina Museum of Art and the Indianapolis Museum of Art, where she spearheaded the development of interpretive experiences, programs, and audience research initiatives.

She has also contributed her expertise to renowned institutions such as the British Museum and the J. Paul Getty Museum, and collaborated on award-winning projects with organizations like Tate Modern and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Only the fourth director to lead the Museum in its over six-decade history, Silvia follows in the footsteps of founding director Dr. Chew, as well as O’Toole, whose visionary leadership guided The Westmoreland for 25 years, and most recently Anne Kraybill, who now leads Art Bridges Foundation.

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A Regional Museum with a National Presence

As one of just three American art museums in Pennsylvania, and the only one in the western part of the state, The Westmoreland serves an important role for arts and culture in this region and beyond.

Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, The Westmoreland holds the country’s largest collection of art from Southwestern Pennsylvania, including an extensive collection of works that capture the rich history of the region’s natural beauty and industrial heritage.

The Museum’s permanent collection extends far beyond this region to be national in scope and includes artworks by well-known historical artists, such as Mary Cassatt, Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, and Henry Ossawa Tanner, alongside contemporary masters like Donald Judd, Sol LeWitt, Stephen Towns, Mickalene Thomas, and Will Wilson. The collection includes pieces in a wide variety of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, works on paper, and even video. Decorative art pieces, such as furniture and rare home collectibles, offer a window into cultures of the past. The Museum also houses a large collection of Fraktur, a type of calligraphic folk art from the mid-eighteenth to the mid-nineteenth centuries.

In addition to its extensive permanent collection, the Museum hosts special exhibitions throughout the year. Some, such as Action/Abstraction Redefined: Modern Native Art, 1945-1975, visit the Museum as part of nationally traveling exhibitions.

Others are organized internally, such as the recent Frank Lloyd Wright’s Southwestern Pennsylvania. This exhibit, co-organized with Fallingwater, was a multimedia experience of immersive videos and 3D models of unrealized projects Wright had designed for Pittsburgh and the surrounding region from the 1930s through the 1950s.

Past, Present & Future

This year, the Museum celebrates the 65th anniversary of opening its doors to the public with 65 Artists, 65 Years: An Anniversary Exhibition (February 11 – September 8).

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Organized by Jeremiah William McCarthy, the Museum’s Chief Curator, the exhibition is an experimental, responsive, and selfreflective take on The Westmoreland’s permanent collection. It includes works from well-known artists such as Mary Cassatt, John Kane, and Thaddeus Mosely, as well as lesser-known figures such as Alex Fletcher and Elijah Pierce.

The anniversary exhibition starts with a retrospective of the Museum’s inaugural exhibition, 250 Years of Art in Pennsylvania, which presented some of the first artworks acquired for the collection. The exhibition ends with community voices reflecting on the past, present and future of The Westmoreland.

Here’s a sampling of those voices: “I’ve had a lot of good conversations with good friends at the Museum. It’s a place that you go and already have friends there.”

(Bob Errett, Museum Member) “I see a lot of good things [for the future of the Museum]! I see that The Westmoreland is open to change, open to advancing, open to diversity. There is a hunger, a desire to want to learn about the past, learn about different cultures, and learn about different types of art.” (Pamela Cooper, Artist and lifelong Greensburg resident)

A Welcoming Space for All An art museum is nothing without art, of course. But it’s also nothing without people.

Since 2018, admission to the Museum has been free, a policy anchored in the belief that everyone should have equitable access to the arts.

If you haven’t spent much time in art museums—or haven’t been to one lately—you may be surprised to discover just how fun and interactive they can be! You don’t have to be an art aficionado to visit—and enjoy—The Westmoreland. The Museum prides itself on being a welcoming and engaging space for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Photo courtesy of Savvy Shots Photography.

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Heading into the warmer days of spring, the Museum joins Seton Hill University, Westmoreland Cultural Trust, and other local organizations and businesses for the Greensburg ArtsWalk (April 20). This annual event is a day to discover the visual and performing arts around town, including an exhibition of local students’ artwork at the Museum.

Photo courtesy of Savvy Shots Photography.

Guests often remark upon the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere at the Museum.

When a local college student visited as part of a class assignment, she reported being pleasantly surprised by the experience.

“As a biology major, art is something with which I am largely unfamiliar,” she told her professor. “Because of this, I was nervous to go to the museum. What if I got too close to a piece? What if I went somewhere I was not supposed to be? As I stepped into the building, however, these anxieties were immediately lifted. I was warmly greeted by the staff at the museum, and they never hesitated to answer any of the questions I had. I felt a sense of relief and even enjoyment as I walked through the exhibit.

Although I have never considered myself to be a part of the artistic community, I left the Museum feeling as though I might be.”

Visitors are always welcome to wander the galleries on their own, but if you’d like more direction, gallery hosts are on hand to answer questions. On Saturdays, tour guides offer free tours of exhibitions in the Cantilever Gallery.

The galleries include a variety of hands-on stations with activities to help children and adults connect with the art. And for those who’d like to dive deeper into the exhibitions, the Museum presents a variety of free talks and webinars throughout the year.

You’re never too old (or young!) to learn something new, express your creative side, or meet new friends. The Museum staff members and volunteers strive to bring topnotch educational and social programs to the community. Many events are free, with pre-registration available on the Museum

website. There you’ll find a calendar filled with programs for all ages, including free family fun days, art classes for children and adults, jazz concerts, culinary experiences, and the Museum’s popular Art on Tap social events on select dates from 7-10pm.

Spring at the Museum

If you’re already dreaming of spring flowers, the Museum has just the thing for you. Art in Bloom (March 21-24) is a four-day floral extravaganza showcasing floral compositions inspired by works in the Museum’s collection and created by talented florists and floral designers from the local region.

Art in Bloom is presented by The Committee for The Westmoreland, a group of dedicated volunteers who act as ambassadors and raise funds for the Museum. Entrance to this special event is $10 (free for members), but will conclude with a free Sunday Fun Day: Art in Bloom experience for the whole family (March 24). Visitors are encouraged to photograph the vibrant displays and can even vote for their favorite in the People’s Choice award category.

Special Art in Bloom offerings include a pop-up workshop exploring the art of collaging with pressed flowers and hinged glass frames, as well as a curator’s talk (March 21). At The Flower Bar, guests who are 21+ will learn about the relationship between botanicals and cocktails, and enjoy an after-dark party with drinks, light bites, and a guest DJ (March 22). And at the Art in Bloom Tea, guests will savor a traditional afternoon tea, while a special guest florist demonstrates how to make artful floral arrangements (March 23).

Some of the Museum’s events, such as the Sunday Fun Day: Art in Bloom in March and the ArtsWalk in April, are generously supported by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program. In late 2023, The Westmoreland was chosen as one of just 64 museums nationwide for this program from the Art Bridges Foundation, the national arts nonprofit founded by philanthropist Alice Walton. Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program provides $40 million in funding to institutions in 36 states and Puerto Rico with the aim to increase access to museums across the country and foster engagement with local communities. Access for All funding supports other free programs at The Westmoreland throughout 2024, including Sunday Fun Day: I Heart Art in February and Sunday Fun Day: Asian/Pacific American Heritage in May.

See You at The Westmoreland!

The Westmoreland Museum of American Art has come a long way from those early days of being a museum just beginning to build a collection. Today it is a vital part of the American art scene and a vibrant cultural institution. The Museum continues to engage the community through meaningful partnerships, to celebrate the diversity of American art, and to create transformative experiences that resonate with visitors of all backgrounds.

You are invited to visit the Museum Wednesday through Sunday, 10am-5pm. General admission is free.

Learn more and plan your visit at thewestmoreland.org/visit

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E H T M H T Y H R OF WINTER

by Ann Nemanic, Executive Director, GO Laurel Highlands

A

re you an all-in kind of person when winter rolls around? Just look at our four-legged Laurel Highlands friend, and you can easily see that he embraces the chill, the snow, the chance for a few hours to frolic in a season that can be fleeting.

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Perhaps we take our cues from nature..

There is something to be said about the soft glow of embers in a well-built fire in a cozy cabin, but on the flip side, sitting six abreast on a ski lift anticipating the last run of the day can have equal billing. Oh, the next few months afford an abundance of opportunities.

The decision to fly solo, pair up with a buddy, or pack the Suburban with a crowd is an option that can change every day, just like the weather forecast.

This time of year lends itself to a more leisurely pace. Perhaps we take our cues from nature – a snowflake falls slower than a raindrop. We savor a mug of hot chocolate, we sip a glass of good brandy, we snuggle a little longer with a good mystery book in hand. Why can’t we incorporate this unique and enjoyable rhythm into our lives every day? A blended balance. The ingredients for a life change are afforded to us right now.

Allow the Laurel Highlands to be your guide. Build a portfolio of experiences that are a blend of old favorites and

new ones too. You might be surprised to find cross-country skiing is your new go-to cardio workout. Use the Laurel Highlands Pour Tour 4.0 passport to map out couples’ excursions every weekend. And when the gang’s all here, hit the slopes… last one down buys the first round!

Resolutions are often a part of the winter season too. As we inch closer to a new year, our minds retrace our steps of success, or lack of, and resolve to change. 2024 is a leap year affording each of us one more day… 24 hours…

1,440 minutes… 86,400 seconds.

Challenge yourself, even for one day, to explore something new in the Laurel Highlands. Walk a mile on a trail, take an art class, visit a museum, sign up to volunteer. Whatever you choose, make it count, and make it memorable.

Winter in the Laurel Highlands. It’s fleeting and fabulous. Find your rhythm every second of every single day.

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Scott Ludwick

9 Home Organizing Mistakes That Experts Know to Avoid

Associate Broker Ranked in Top 100 Agents Nationally Since 1998!

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty

One of the most common? Buying home storage organizers without measuring. Home organization is about giving everything the right place (sometimes the donation bin). And while that sounds straightforward, it’s pretty easy to choose the wrong places, turning your attempt at a tidier home into wasted effort.

#1 Trying to Do It in One Fell Swoop Clutter is overwhelming; getting overwhelmed is a great way to make no progress in home organization. The Clutter Cowgirl, professional organizer Jeni Aron, recommends decluttering and organizing one room at a time before you move on to the next. And give yourself more than the sliver of Sunday between your golf outing and dinner with each spot. #2 Starting Without a Home Organization Plan Tidying is tidying. Home organization is changing the way you live. Meg Ricard, of Simply Organized by Meg, says having a plan is essential to elevating your tidying into organizing. “A lot of people will tidy up a space, tucking things away, and then find that two days later it’s a mess again,” says Ricard. “It takes longer to think about and implement a system, but the long-term results of organizing instead of tidying will be that you remain organized.” #3 Tackling the Paper Mountain First Certain tasks can bring decluttering down to a crawl — and even a halt. Amber Kostelny, the Chicago-based certified professional organizer behind Amber’s Organizing, finds sorting out papers and mail is a surefire way to get overwhelmed fast. #4 Trying to Buy Your Way into Organized Sorry, shoppers. Organization is an action, not something you can buy. Common culprits: renting storage space — which costs around $2,800 a year for a small unit — or sinking $400 into some deliciously chic, handwoven baskets (they’d look amazing in your living room!). When you invest big in one decluttering effort, you end up feeling super accomplished when all you’ve done is drain your bank account — and maybe put a few things in one pricey new home storage container.

If you have questions about this, or anything real estate related - reach out to Scott Ludwick at 724-838-3660 or Scott@ScottLudwick.com

#5 Failing to Donate Your Donations Ricard often spies abandoned piles slated for the local charity shop in clients’ households. “After going through the energy of sorting things to get rid of, make sure to complete the task by actually taking them out of the house,” says Ricard. “The cleared space will be a relief!” #6 Buying Storage Without Measuring Shopping is fun. Measuring things is not. But don’t even think about walking into The Container Store before you know the size, shape, and dimensions of organizers you need. Homeowners are constantly “buying things first and getting lured in by cute containers,” says Aron. “But then they realize the stuff they have doesn’t work for the containers.” #7 Ignoring Your Wall Space for Storage Sometimes the best storage option has been right next to you all along: your walls. Forget tucking everything into a bin or taking up more precious floor space with yet another shelving unit. Wall space isn’t just available and efficient; it can make storage more accessible. #8 Skipping a Labeling System Putting labels on everything in the house may make you feel like a bossy taskmaster. But, in fact, it makes you a clever organization educator. Ricard points out that labels may seem over-the-top at first, but eventually, they make organizing second nature by training others (and reminding you) where things belong. #9 Allowing Your Organizers to Get Disorganized Just when you thought your shelves full of tidy, clear, labeled containers were perfect, you open the one marked “gloves” and spend 10 minutes trying to find a single matching pair.

Secure Act 2.0:

Enhancing 529 and Retirement Planning

by Bryan Kisiel, CPA

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n December 23, 2022, the Secure Act 2.0 was enacted, ushering in changes to retirement plans and planning strategies. This legislation, part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, introduces provisions that impact various aspects of financial planning. Below, we outline key highlights with effective dates, focusing on 529 accounts and retirement planning considerations.

beneficiary for a minimum of 15 years, and transfers are subject to annual Roth IRA contribution limits.

Secure Act 2.0 Retirement Provisions (Effective January 1, 2023):

529 Transfers to Roth:

Commencing in 2024, 529 account holders gain the ability to transfer up to $35,000, free from tax and penalties to a Roth IRA for the 529 beneficiary.

This provision addresses uncertainties surrounding unused funds in 529 accounts, providing an opportunity for early retirement savings. Notably, the Roth IRA must be owned by the 529

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1. Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Age Raised: The RMD age is increased to 73 for terminated employees and 5% owners, rising to 75 in 2033. The penalty for missed RMDs is reduced from 50% to 25%.

2. R oth Employer Match: Employers can now allow participants to receive employer contributions on a Roth basis, providing tax advantages.

3. G ift Cards: Employers may incentivize plan contributions with de minimis financial incentives.

4. O verpayments: Employers can refrain from recouping overpayments from retirees, with relief for pre-Secure Act 2.0 overpayments.

5. P enalty-Free Withdrawal for Terminal Illness: The 10% early distribution penalty is eliminated for terminally ill individuals.

6. R educed Service for Part-Time, Long-Term Employees: Eligibility for inclusion in retirement plans is reduced to two years of service.

7. H ardship Withdrawal SelfCertification: Employees can selfcertify hardships for withdrawal purposes, though caution is advised regarding documentation requirements.

Secure Act 2.0 Retirement Provisions (Effective January 1, 2024): 1. A ged-Based Catch-Up Contributions: Contributions made at age 50 or older are treated as after-tax for high-wage employees, with tax-free withdrawals.

2. M atching Student Loan Payments: Employers can match contributions based on employees' student loan payments, with qualifications and annual certifications.

3. Emergency Savings Accounts: Plan sponsors can introduce Roth emergency savings accounts, with automatic enrollment for non-highly compensated employees and tax-free withdrawals after reaching a $2,500 annual cap.

4. P enalty-Free Withdrawals: No 10% early distribution penalty for withdrawals up to $1,000 for unforeseeable emergencies, with repayment options.

Secure Act 2.0 Retirement Provision (Effective January 1, 2025): Catch-Up Contributions: The annual catch-up contribution limit is increased to the greater of $10,000 (indexed for inflation), or 50% more than the regular catch-up limit for individuals aged 60 through 63 ($7,500 to $11,250 in 2023).

If you have questions about 529 and retirement planning as it relates to your tax planning or any of the topics discussed above, you should consult your financial planning and tax professionals before proceeding with any action to avoid unexpected results.

Bryan Kisiel, CPA CEO, Kisiel & Associates Director of Tax Planning, SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management

Other 529 Considerations:

Individual contributions to a 529, up to $18,000 in 2024, remain non-taxable gifts. Front-loading a 529 plan with a maximum of $85,000 in 2023 is penalty-free. While federal deductions for 529s are absent, certain states offer income tax deductions. Beneficiary changes are permissible, but if the new beneficiary is in a younger generation, gift tax implications may arise.

Please like us on facebook: Kisiel & Associates, PC

Please contact our office if you have any questions or need assistance setting up a budget to meet your business financial goals.

724.626.2926 Success Is A Journey, Not a Destination The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax or tax penalties.

Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual tax situation

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Photography

101

by Autumn Stankay, Owner and Photographer of SkySight Photography.

Photography in this article by Autumn & William Stankay

Have you always wanted to take better photographs, but just don’t know how? I’d love to teach you a few basic tips today that could change your photos forever. In fact, if you are intrigued and would like to learn more, consider signing up for my Photography 101 class this winter! More info at the end of this article!

First rule I love to teach is called THE RULE OF THIRDS. The Rule of Thirds is a fundamental principle in photography and visual arts that involves dividing an image mentally into nine equal parts using two equally spaced horizontal lines and two equally spaced vertical lines, creating a grid of nine rectangles or squares.

The idea is to position the most important elements or points of interest in the scene along these lines or at the intersections of the lines. I like the call the intersections the SWEET SPOTS! This can be done on both vertical and horizontal images.

It's important to note that this is a guideline, not a strict rule. While it can be a valuable tool for composition, there are situations where breaking this rule intentionally can lead to compelling and unique compositions.

THE SECOND TIP

TIP

#2

I love to explain is placement of the horizon line when shooting a landscape of any kind. First - make sure the horizon or visual horizontal line is STRAIGHT! Don’t tip either direction by even a small margin or it will feel like the world is falling over. Your brain wants to see it the way your eye would see it, and if it doesn’t your thoughts say “this doesn’t feel right”. So be sure to get that right!

Second tip on horizons, is to try placement at the top or bottom third of the frame - rather than centered. Its more interesting! So in short, choose to show more foreground(earth) or more sky, depending on which is more interesting.

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TIP

#1

THE THIRD TIP IS ABOUT FRAMING.

This is such a simple trick that can make an otherwise common subject more interesting, and highlight the focal point of what you are trying to showcase. You can use anything for framing that is in your foreground - trees, landscaping, architecture or even people.

TIP

#3

TIP

#4 THE LAST TIP ACTUALLY OPPOSES AN EARLIER RULE IN THIS ARTICLE ABOUT HORIZON PLACEMENT. When you find a reflection, it is very powerful and impactful visually if you DO center the horizontal line of the image!

My Photography101 class this winter will be held in our studio in Greensburg, if you’re interested in finding out more information about it, please email autumn@skysightphotography.com!

Explore my galleries for more!

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Investing in the Future: The Power of Planned Giving through Generous and Motivated Donors

by James Bendel, Director of Planned Giving, Saint Vincent College beyond immediate financial support. Such thoughtful giving isn’t just about supporting education; it’s a profound understanding of the enduring needs of academic institutions.

I

n the vibrant world of higher education, the influence of philanthropy goes beyond words. It’s a driving force that propels institutions forward, creating a richer academic experience for students and equipping faculty with the resources to offer exceptional programs.

A remarkable aspect of this impact is seen through planned giving—a genuine commitment from forward-thinking donors who aim to leave a legacy that spans generations.

Let’s dive into the essence of planned giving. It’s not just a donation; it’s a thoughtful, visionary approach where donors carefully structure their contributions.

Whether it’s through bequests in wills, life insurance policies, charitable trusts, or other vehicles, these commitments extend

The heart of this generosity beats for the students. Planned giving makes a profound impact by creating endowed scholarships, breaking down financial barriers and ensuring that deserving individuals have access to quality education, regardless of economic circumstances. This generosity allows students to concentrate on their studies, pursue ambitious goals, and graduate with the skills needed to excel.

Moreover, planned giving becomes a catalyst for the establishment of academic programs that might otherwise face financial challenges. Donors contributing to endowed chairs or programmatic initiatives provide faculty with the resources and flexibility to innovate, conduct groundbreaking research, and offer transformative learning experiences. This not only enhances the educational environment but also positions the institution as a leader in academic excellence.

Let’s not forget the backbone of any academic institution—the faculty. Planned

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giving, with its long-term and sustainable nature, establishes endowments supporting faculty development, research endeavors, and improved teaching resources. Endowed chairs, funded through planned giving, attract and retain top-tier faculty, fostering an environment of intellectual vibrancy and academic excellence that directly benefits students.

Looking forward, planned giving isn’t just about securing an institution’s immediate financial future; it’s about creating a lasting legacy of educational excellence. Donors choosing this path aren’t just contributing to the present; they’re investing in the future of generations to come.

Planned giving, facilitated by generous and motivated donors, stands as a testament to the enduring impact of philanthropy on higher education. These visionary individuals create a ripple effect through their contributions, inspiring others to join in the noble pursuit of empowering students and enabling faculty to shape tomorrow’s leaders. Through planned giving, we’re building a bridge to a future where education knows no bounds, and the potential for positive change becomes limitless.

At Saint Vincent College (SVC), giving is a cherished tradition benefiting every member of our community. Planned gifts are an avenue to extend your benevolence beyond your lifetime, making a commitment to SVC’s future.

Including SVC in your long-term financial or estate plan is a significant decision, leaving a lasting impact on the people and places that matter to you.

These gifts are as unique as the passion, spirit, and creativity of those inspired to give. Whether endowing scholarships or supporting specific areas of interest, planned gifts offer essential support to SVC while helping you achieve personal and financial goals.

For those inspired to contribute to the enduring legacy of Saint Vincent College through planned giving, the opportunity awaits.

Learn how you can provide support to students for years to come by contacting Jim Bendel at james.bendel@stvincent.edu, call 724.805.2948 or scan the QR code with your smart device. Your commitment today can shape the future of education tomorrow.

Picture Perfect

M

any years ago, at one of the often-held mixers Saint Vincent College and Seton Hill College cohosted prior to each going co-ed, Ann Mikulski was there, intending to take photos for the Setonian Magazine, but unfortunately, her camera was not working properly.

An observant young man from Saint Vincent, Fred Moore, C’67, offered to check her photographic equipment. In a brief moment, he identified the problem, and within a few minutes fixed it.

Ann was back in business, and the two were smitten.

That moment served as the beginning of a relationship that grew into a marriage that has blossomed well over 50 years, throughout which they cultivated a lifelong interest and love of theater, music, and the arts.

Ann and Fred have always supported the arts. At Saint Vincent, they have graciously financially supported the

completion of the Verostko Center for the Arts. And recently, they took the lead in having the Montserrat Boys Choir perform in the Saint Vincent Archabbey Basilica.

Fred and Ann credit SVC and SHU not only for bringing them together but also for giving them the foundation upon which they could build happy, successful lives that have ultimately allowed them to readily be philanthropic to their alma maters. Far into the future, students will benefit from the partnership of Ann and Fred that was forged by a simple act of kindness many years ago.

Albert J. Novak Jr., currently Vice President for Philanthropy & Alumni Relations at Saint Vincent College, brings a wealth of experience and deep connections to his alma mater. Graduating in Communication in 1987, Novak’s career expanded to institutions like Carnegie Mellon, the University of Pittsburgh, and Excela Health. As Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer at Excela Health, he led successful fundraising initiatives, and at the University of Pittsburgh, he played a key role in overseeing the region’s largest fundraising campaign. Beyond his professional roles, Novak actively serves on boards such as the Westmoreland Museum of American Art and the United Way. Recognized as a Distinguished Alumnus of Greensburg Salem High School in 2019 and Alumni of Distinction of Saint Vincent College in 2021, Novak returned to Saint Vincent in 2022, expressing a deep sense of homecoming. Residing in Greensburg with his wife, he looks forward to collaborating with the community to advance the institution’s mission.

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Exploring the World and Creating Bonds:

The Impact of Group Travel Programs

E

mbarking on a journey to discover new destinations is always an exhilarating prospect, but what if travel could offer something more profound? Over the past two years, the GLLV Chamber’s Group Travel Programs have not only created unforgettable experiences but have also become a catalyst for personal growth and connection.

On a recent trip to Greece, we witnessed the incredible story of a local participant, Nick, who embarked on the journey with the aim of finding his birth family after being adopted as a child.

Traveling as a group provided Nick with a support system, as he connected with fellow local travelers who accompanied him on his journey. Throughout the trip, this shared experience formed a bond that provided continuous support for Nick on his quest.

Group travel goes beyond surface-level exploration, offering a deeper immersion into local cultures.

Our programs provide opportunities to explore rich histories, traditions, and customs, fostering personal growth and a greater appreciation for diversity.

Engaging with local communities, savoring authentic cuisines, and visiting historical sites contributes to the transformative nature of these experiences.

Our groups have not only brought individuals closer, but have also strengthened existing family bonds. Many families, dispersed across various

locations, have come together during our travels, creating a unique family reunion experience.

Exploring destinations like Egypt, Ireland, and Greece, these families build lasting memories and forge stronger connections that withstand the test of time.

Ease, affordability, and safety are paramount concerns for travelers. Our Group Travel Programs address these worries by offering fully organized trip itineraries at reasonable prices, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. This has proven especially beneficial for those hesitant about traveling alone, as the built-in group dynamic provides added security.

Beyond the surface, our Group Travel Programs have the power to transform lives. Through the support of a group, cultural immersion, personal growth, and strengthened family bonds, lasting friendships are forged. As we continue our program, offering two trips each calendar year, we are excited to offer individuals the chance to embark on extraordinary journeys, fostering connections and creating life-changing experiences. Join us and discover the world in a way that goes beyond the ordinary!

Tim and Cindy Haney - One of the

nice things about traveling with a group is meeting new people. That and the fact that someone else did all the planning and secured all the reservations. Each trip includes free time that allows us to explore local venues with our new friends. We’ve seen a lot of places we might never have visited on our own, for example, Egypt. The trips are well planned out and hit all the “highlights” of the area.

We have been on three trips with the Chamber and each has been a great time. We’ve enjoyed traveling with the Chamber and look forward to other tours. Brianna is a wonderful coordinator and gets along with everyone.

38 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

Briana R. Tomack Greater Latrobe Laurel Valley Chamber of Commerce President PO Box 463, Latrobe, PA 15650 724-537-2671 www.latrobelaurelvalley.org

Dr. Matt and Terri Sulecki (photographed with Briana Tomack on left) - My wife and I were

planning to have a family vacation as a way to celebrate my recent retirement. The two of us had a great time on GLLV’s Ireland trip in April 2023 and came across GLLV’s planned Greece excursion. Our children live in D.C. and Tennessee and Indus Travel helped coordinate the inbound flights and we all met in Athens and had a fantastic once in a lifetime experience.

Marcia Dolan - Being of Irish decent; this trip fulfilled a life long dream of mine to visit Dublin and other incredible cities in this beautiful country. I found this trip to be a wonderful travel value that I could not have easily afforded otherwise.

Traveling with a lovely group of local individuals and couples fulfilled my spirit of adventure safely and affordably. Our accommodations, meals and itinerary were excellent!

I made wonderful new friends and memories that I will forever cherish. I will be very enthusiastic to travel again with Briana and GLLV wherever they choose to go next!

Unlock the Power of Knowledge with

UNIVERSITY Class is in session, and our GOAL Magazine writers are taking the mic!

Introducing GOAL University Podcasts! A dynamic initiative that brings our publication to life! Our professional contributors will offer their diverse expertise to present compelling topics that matter to you.

If there is a subject you would think listeners would like to hear about, please email info@go2goalus.com

Follow us on social media and visit our website to stay connected. Wherever you are, GOAL University is just a click away.

BUSINESS INSURANCE

BASICS I

think you can agree that in the last few years, many things have changed, especially work. The pandemic taught us many things about how we make money, how to overcome and adapt, and what works and what doesn’t. We now consider work-life balance by asking ourselves: “Am I happy doing what I am doing?”

Due to these changes, more Americans have decided to go out on their own and take the risk of self-employment, whether full-time or just a side hustle. They invest much of their financial resources to get up and running, build a client base, and get to work taking on a huge risk. But the risk doesn’t stop there.

Every day they’re faced with endless possible consequences of their daily work product, which requires proper protection of their physical and financial investment in their company.

Insuring a business can be complex based on each risk, but the basics of commercial business insurance can be broken into four main parts: • Property Insurance • Liability Insurance • Commercial Auto Insurance • Workers Compensation Insurance

Property Insurance

This type of insurance is designed to cover physical property that you own to operate your business. It provides you with extra coverage depending on the loss.

The easiest place to start is an actual property. Do you have a physical location for your business? Property insurance will cover your building against perils such as fire, theft, wind, water, hail, and vandalism. If you have multiple locations or different types of staging areas at multiple physical locations, most companies allow you to cover all of them on one policy. You can also decide to cover the properties at the full replacement cost (RC) or based on the depreciated amount or actual cash value (ACV).

The property insurance not only covers buildings and locations but also your business personal property used to conduct everyday business. This can include computers, tools, furniture, and machinery. These may be insured on a RC value or ACV basis as well, which helps adjust the overall premium amount.

Lastly, it also aids in instances that may be unforeseen. What happens if an electrical surge occurs that damages a florist’s cooler, and they need to temporarily rent a mobile cooler until the insurance company pays for repairs to the damaged cooler? Property insurance could pay for the business interruption and the extra expense incurred for renting the portable cooler.

40 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

by JJ Rettura, CIC Vice President/Operations Manager Laurel Highlands Insurance Group LLC

Liability Insurance

Lawsuits happen. It seems like everyone is getting sued nowadays for any reason possible. As business owners, we all know and worry about this. Maybe a product manufactured by your business was used by the end user and failed, causing a loss.

Perhaps, as a contractor, you installed a chimney and didn’t construct it correctly, which caused a fire when the homeowner lit it for the first time. During the winter, your patron slips and falls on a sidewalk or in a parking lot that wasn’t cleaned properly. Or you experience allegations of wrongful termination. A general liability policy and other types of liability insurance could help provide valuable protection for these incidents.

A liability policy typically has a limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence. If a suit is brought against you and the claim exceeds that liability amount, what happens? Well… I hate to tell you this, but it comes out of the business’s pocket, resulting in savings depletion, sales of assets, or bankruptcy. For additional protection, you could add an excess liability policy to the insurance program to provide additional liability limits over the underlying policies. These include general liability, automobile liability, and employers liability.

Commercial Auto Insurance

This one is straightforward. If you own or operate a vehicle for business purposes, it covers the vehicle and/or the liability connected to it. Whether you have a fleet of 50 trucks or just have one car, this policy covers you specifically for business use.

Physical damage coverage protects you against losses to your vehicle, comprehensive, and collision losses. This coverage may be required if a vehicle is leased or financed. If you or an employee damage someone else’s property and it needs to be repaired. property damage liability coverage would cover the repair or replacement of those items. If the other party sustains injuries, then your bodily injury liability would be used. The commercial auto policy may include uninsured/ underinsured motorists, rental reimbursement, and first-party benefits.

Workers Compensation

Our employees are our greatest asset.

They complete the work and put money in the business’s bank account. If you have one or more employees on the payroll, you’re required to carry workers comp to protect the business and its employees.

In an employee sustains an injury while in the course of work, workers comp pays for medical care, loss of wages, or a death benefit to the family in the worstcase scenario.

Conclusion

Commercial insurance is a necessary part of any business operation, protecting against all types of risk. Whether your business is straightforward or has complex moving parts, it’s always best to contact a reputable commercial insurance agent. These professionals analyze your risk to provide you with proper protection and guide you through the risk in day-today operations. The relationship you have with your insurance agent should be a marriage and an integral part of how you operate your business. These agents can help you secure proper protection and affordable rates, and they can also provide risk management services, such as employee safety training and annual loss control visits.

As fellow business owners, we urge you not to take your insurance lightly. You have invested your time, energy, and life into creating an organization that provides for you, your family, and your employees.

Do not take this responsibly lightly thinking of only price and not risk.

Laurel Highlands Insurance Group LLC 724-437-2371 info@laurelhighlandsins.com

If you would like to review your existing Commercial Insurance policies or would just like a completely unbiased review, we would love to help. Laurel Highlands Insurance Group LLC is an award-winning, premier, multi-lines, independent insurance agency in the heart of Southwestern PA with decades of experience.

Our agency specializes in Commercial Insurance to businesses large and small and of all classifications. A dedicated staff is provided to all Commercial Clients who know business like the back of their hand to provide the ultimate customer service experience.

We take great pride in providing our clients with fair and honest information so they can make the best decision possible for themselves and their businesses. It’s our goal to leave you with a better understanding of your risk and provide you with the protection to match.

Please contact us by phone, email, or by scanning the code.

www.go2goalus.com 41

Medicare & Social Security: Debunking Myths and Understanding Changes The ‘Money Back’ Myth Exposed

Y

ou’ve likely seen those television ads, the ones with aging sports figures hinting that Medicare beneficiaries can get “money back in your Social Security check every single month!”

But these promises, when examined closely, often require more context.

Is there really a benefit that adds money to your Social Security Check? Well, what those ubiquitous ads are really trying to do is sell you a Medicare Advantage plan.

Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) are programs managed by private insurers but regulated by Medicare. Many Advantage plans provide extra benefits not covered

by Original Medicare, such as dental, vision, and hearing.

Part C plans are popular and beneficial; however, the way these plans are paid for creates room for confusion of which some advertisers may take advantage.

So, how can choosing a Medicare Advantage plan put money back in your Social Security check? That’s where an understanding of how your Social Security check is calculated comes in. You see, every month an amount is deducted from your Social Security check to pay for Original Medicare. Even if you have

by Allison Clayton a Medicare Advantage plan (one of the Part C private plans), money is still withdrawn from your check and given to the insurance company handling your plan (unless you have state assistance helping to pay for your Medicare premium).

Those companies in the “money back” ads are offering a Part C plan with a “premium reduction benefit.” They take a lesser amount than would be paid to Original Medicare, and therefore your Social Security Check looks a little larger.

What’s the downside? These inexpensive Part C plans may have a much smaller network, higher prices for procedures, and in the end cost you more than you are getting back in your Social Security check. That’s why it’s important to understand the details behind the promotion.

Professional Medicare Advice is Available

While TV claims might technically be true, they don’t paint the full picture. It’s essential for beneficiaries to dig deeper, seek professional advice, and weigh the short-term benefits against potential long-term costs.

In the world of Medicare, knowledge and professional guidance are the keys to making informed choices.

42 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

You should also be cautious about taking ‘street advice.’ Depending on neighbors or family for Medicare information can be unreliable, as their experience is limited to what may have been appropriate in their unique circumstances. Following the advice of personal stories may not reflect the wide range of options available and could result in misinformed choices. For example, a friend may tell you that they do not have a premium for their Medicare Advantage plan, but they actually do and it is deducted from their monthly Social Security check with the Original Medicare premium.

Professional agents are constantly updating their training and knowledge of new practices and regulations. They follow stringent rules, such as mandatory call recording and disclaimers, and the newest regulation requires agents to secure appointment approvals 48 hours in advance.

These measures are in place to assure that you are being taken care of by a welltrained, regulated professional, rather than a TV pitchman.

Unfortunately, Medicare is complex with nuances that require careful consideration.

While the allure of TV ads might be hard to resist, it’s important to dive beneath the surface and seek expert advice, weighing

immediate perks against potential future costs. In this ever-evolving world, staying informed and leveraging professional guidance can make all the difference.

The Complex World of Medicare: Looking Ahead

Navigating Medicare can be like trying to find your way through a maze. Each year brings modifications, with more changes expected in 2023 and 2024 than can be discussed in a single piece. However, let’s touch upon some important updates:

Medicare Deductibles

On October 12, 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the 2024 details for Medicare Part A, Part B, and Part D programs. To enhance healthcare access and reduce costs, CMS streamlined enrollment in the Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs), potentially making coverage more affordable for approximately 860,000 individuals.

Additionally, the Inflation Reduction Act expanded the number of people eligible for the Part D low-income subsidy (LIS) which assists in covering the Part D premium and reducing prescription drug costs.

Medicare Part B, which encompasses services like physicians’ visits and outpatient hospital care, will see its standard monthly premium rise to $174.70 in 2024, up from $164.90 in 2023. The annual deductible will also increase to $240, a $14 hike from the previous year’s $226. These adjustments are primarily attributed to anticipated healthcare spending increases and adjustments related to the 340B-acquired drug payment policy.

Medicare Advantage Changes

The average monthly premium for Medicare Advantage plans is set to see a slight increase of $0.64, moving from $17.86 in 2023 to $18.50 in 2024.

About 73% of beneficiaries will experience no premium increase if they stay with their current plan. Additionally, the agency highlighted that there will be more plan options

and an expansion in supplemental benefits in the coming year. Medicare Advantage enrollment is projected to grow from 31.6 million in 2023 to 33.8 million in 2024, raising the percentage of Medicare beneficiaries in these plans from 48% to 50%.

Medicare Part D shifts 2024:

In 2024, significant changes are expected for Medicare Part D benefits. For Part D enrollees reaching the catastrophic phase, the previously required 5% coinsurance will be abolished. To qualify for this catastrophic coverage, Part D enrollees without lowincome subsidies (LIS) must have drug expenditures reaching $8,000, which combines out-of-pocket expenses and manufacturer price discounts from the coverage gap phase.

This change is expected to provide significant savings for those on high-cost drugs.

Allison’s main goal is to simplify Medicare.

In her educational sessions, she explains how Original Medicare works and helps those nearing retirement. Once they’re enrolled in Original Medicare, Allison further assists by evaluating individual needs to recommend the best plan.

“We are licensed with various insurance carriers, so their rates are at our fingertips to compare instantly, and we can access the different insurance carrier rate history over the years, have familiarity with their customer service, and website portals.”

“After we develop a needs analysis that reviews your medication, doctors, and the benefits that are important to you, then we work to narrow down some plans that are right for you.”

Furthermore, Part D plans will shoulder a larger portion of drug costs in the catastrophic phase, covering 20% in 2024, up from 15% in previous years. Another significant milestone is the extended drug coverage for kidney transplant recipients.

They can now utilize Part B immunosuppressive drug coverage for life, as opposed to the earlier 36-month window.

Making Medicare Easy

As an independent insurance agent with Insurance Services, LLC, Allison Clayton offers unbiased advice. She has access to a range of plans and ensures her recommendations, whether for Medigap, Medicare Advantage, or Prescription drug plans, are objective.

Licensed with multiple insurance carriers, Allison can quickly compare rates, provide insights on rate histories, and share her experiences with different carriers’ customer service and online systems.

Allison Clayton is available for in-person, by phone, and virtual appointments. If you would simply like a quick phone review, you can call anytime at 724-879-5030.

Visit Allison’s website at https://www.insuranceallison.com/.

She can answer all your healthcare questions and keep you on the right track!

There is also a website scheduling option at her website: https://www.insuranceallison.com/request-an-appointment/

www.go2goalus.com 43

Golf O uting PLUS PAINT -N- SIP 8th Annual

Magazine's

by The GOAL Magazine Team

W

e are thrilled to announce that the 8th Annual GOAL Magazine Golf Outing PLUS Paint & Sip, held in the fall at Arnold Palmer’s Latrobe Country Club, successfully raised $27,000 for the Greater Latrobe Partners in Education Foundation (GLPIEF). Our sincere gratitude goes to all who supported both events! The funds raised will be dedicated to students with special needs in the Greater Latrobe School District (GLSD), specifically benefiting the autistic support, learning support, and life skills classrooms. Over the past 8 years, thanks to the incredible support system of sponsors, participants, donors, and volunteers, we have collectively raised over $187,000 for this important cause.

Photographed from left to right: Bree Edgerly (GOAL Magazine and SHCWM); Kayla Sutton, President (GLPIEF); Jessica Geary (GOAL Magazine and SHCWM); Amanda Mayger (GOAL Magazine and SHCWM); Eugene Joe, Director of Student Services (GLSD); Tawnya Rockwell (GOAL Magazine and SHCWM); Jessica Golden, Director of Center for Student Creativity(GLSD); Laurie Havrisko, Assistant to the Superintendent Student Services (GLSD); Anthony Slezak (GOAL Magazine and SHCWM); and William Urbanik (GOAL Magazine and SHCWM).

us event Lead Sponsor: ro e m u n e th k n a th to e k SecondHalf Coach We would li ! ss e c c Wealth Management su a ay d is th e k a m d e lp e h o h sponsors w

Gold Sponsors: AGGRESSIVE GRINDING SERVICES IRON BRIDGE KEYSTONE FOAM CORP. KISIEL & ASSOCIATES, PC. ROBINDALE ENERGY SERVICES, INC.

Silver Sponsor

Dinner Sponsor

Defy Security

Westmoreland Mechanical Testing & Research

Beverage Cart Sponsor Fotorecord Print Service

Lunch Sponsor

Golf Cart Sponsor

Latrobe Dairy Queen

KLA Construction

Dessert Sponsor

Photography Sponsor

Westmoreland County Commissioner, Gina Cerilli Thrasher

Moxie Events SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management

Hole In One Sponsor ITLS Laurel Highlands Insurance Group, LLC

Hit The Irs Pig Sponsor Mom's House, Inc. of Johnstown

Longest Putt Sponsor Lopatich Brinker Funeral Home

SARAH CRISPIN THOMAS, STATE FARM® 44 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

Longest Drive Sponsor Commercial Bank & Trust

Snack Box Sponsor Heart -and- Soul Cookies & Pastries

Paint-N-Sip Sponsors Sarah Crispin Thomas, State Farm® Robindale Energy Lopatich-Brinker Funeral Home, LLC Heart and Soul Cookies & Pastries

Raises $27,000

To Support Students With Special Needs Photography courtesy of Moxie Events and GOAL Magazine

Every guest received a warm welcome from our team of volunteers, with each golfer being presented with a GOAL Magazine dry bag. Additionally, a box filled with delightful snacks for the day, generously donated by Heart and Soul Cookies & Pastries, SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management, The Charley Family Shop-n-Save, and Greensburg Sam’s Club, was provided to enhance the overall experience. To capture the moment, each foursome had the opportunity to pose for a photo near Arnold Palmer’s iconic tractor as they passed through hole number one.

Multiple contests took place throughout the golf course, offering some incredible prizes. Two guaranteed winners each secured a 7-night resort getaway, while three participants walked away with VIP tickets to their choice of a major sporting event, Broadway show, or concert. Furthermore, thanks to the generous support of numerous local businesses, over 30 fortunate attendees left with some truly amazing auction items.

New to this year, we added a winning foursome. The 2023 champions were (L to R) Mike Porembka, Nathan Porembka, Zac Heide and Kurt Thomas.

(On the left) Zac Heide and Kurt Thomas successfully reclaimed the title from last year's champions (on the right), Andy and Jake Krinock, edging them out by a single stroke. Heide and Thomas concluded with an impressive score of 58 (14 under), while the Krinock father-son duo managed a 59. Both scores stand out as remarkable achievements on this challenging course. Heide and Thomas proudly earned the Wildcat Championship belts, personalized plaques, a coveted bottle of Tin Cup Whiskey, and Pro Shop Credit as their well-deserved rewards.

Over 25 participants gathered on the patio, overlooking the putting green, and enjoyed a variety of delicious hors d'oeuvres. They also had the option to savor creamsicle punch, red, or white sangria in their takeaway GOAL Magazine travel wine cups. The attendees engaged in a creative experience led by local commissioned artist Nancy Rusbosin and local award-winning artist Nancy Mormack as they painted their own fall-themed canvases.

Save the date! 9th Annual - Latrobe Country C lub - Monday, August 12, 2024.

by Matthew Fridg

S

mall businesses face a multitude of challenges as they strive to carve out a niche and remain competitive. From grappling with limited resources to staying visible in an increasingly crowded online space, these challenges can often seem insurmountable. One of the key areas where small businesses tend to struggle is in effectively marketing their products or services. This is where digital marketing tools come into play. By leveraging the right mix of digital marketing tools, small businesses can optimize their marketing efforts, achieve better results with fewer resources, and ultimately compete more effectively in their market.

Let's explore how some specific tools can address these challenges and provide effective solutions for small businesses in various areas of marketing. We’ll also look at an all-in-one solution to combine everything into one complete marketing platform.

Website Management: Creating and Sustaining an Online Presence Small businesses often grapple with developing a user-friendly and visually appealing website. Tools like WordPress and Squarespace simplify this process, allowing for the creation of attractive, functional sites. For e-commerce integration, Shopify offers seamless compatibility.

Regular updates and maintenance are crucial, and these platforms provide user-friendly dashboards to keep websites current and secure.

CRM Systems: Efficient Customer Relationship Management Effectively organizing and utilizing customer data is a common challenge.

Salesforce and Zoho CRM, with their user-friendly interfaces and customizable features, encourage staff adoption. They help businesses track customer interactions and tailor marketing strategies, offering comprehensive data management solutions.

Lead Generation: Capturing and Converting Leads Identifying the right audience and converting leads into customers requires strategic planning.

HubSpot and Marketo provide specialized tools for audience segmentation, lead interaction tracking, and automated follow-up processes, aiding in targeted marketing campaigns and increased conversion rates.

SMS & Email Campaigns: Personalized Outreach Personalizing SMS and email campaigns while ensuring regulatory compliance is complex. Campaign Monitor and Twilio offer robust features for audience segmentation, compliance assurance, and engagement tracking, aiding in tailored communication strategies.

Email Marketing: Building Customer Relationships Challenges in creating engaging email content and managing subscriber lists are prevalent. Platforms like Mailchimp and Constant Contact offer solutions for crafting, sending, and managing campaigns. Features like list segmentation, A/B testing, and analytics help create personalized content and measure campaign effectiveness.

Proposals/Estimates: Crafting Custom Solutions Creating accurate, timely, and customized proposals or estimates is often challenging.

Proposify and QuoteWerks offer functionalities for proposal and estimate management, allowing customization and integration with CRM systems, and streamlining the proposal-to-closure process.

Advertising: Maximizing Impact with Limited Resources Allocating advertising budgets effectively and creating engaging ad content are major hurdles. Google Ads and Facebook Ads Manager provide comprehensive platforms for ad creation, management, and performance tracking, offering insights to optimize ad spend and content.

Online Scheduling: Streamlining Appointments and Meetings Efficiently managing appointments and meeting schedules is vital. Online tools like Calendly and Acuity Scheduling enable clients and colleagues to book meetings based on real-time availability, integrating with personal and business calendars for seamless coordination and automated reminders.

Forms and Chatbots: Enhancing User Interaction Designing user-friendly forms and customizing chatbots for effective customer interaction can be challenging. Typeform and Drift provide solutions for intuitive form building and customizable chatbot services, respectively, which can be integrated into websites and CRM systems.

Social Media and Reputation Management: Building a Positive Online Presence Managing content across social media platforms and online reviews requires strategic efforts. Tools like Hootsuite or Buffer for social media and Yelp or Google Business Profile for reputation management streamline these processes, enabling post-scheduling, feedback monitoring, and review responses.

46 GOALMagazine: A Publication of Go2Goal | Winter 2024

A New Solution: BizForte While each of these top marketing tools offers distinct benefits for small businesses seeking to enhance their marketing efficiency and effectiveness, the costs can add up and small businesses often find themselves managing multiple subscriptions, which can be both costly and time-consuming. That’s why Headspace Media is rolling out BizForte. BizForte is a cost-effective, all-in-one solution, that combines these functionalities into a single platform. Starting at less than $100/month, it provides an efficient solution for small businesses. To learn more or schedule a free demo, visit https://headspace.media/ goal-bizforte.

You may also email us at sheofgoal@gmail.com Instagram: @she.of.goal Facebook: SHE For more details, visit our social media accounts:

The women of GOAL Magazine founded the female networking group, SHE. The purpose of our events are to highlight local femaleled businesses within our community and raise awareness and funds for a local charity that helps women and children.

//pittsburgh.dressforsuccess.org/get-involved/donate/ uidelines on what to donate visit: dent! iews can walk out of our office looking and feeling fabulous and ng must be ready to wear, so that women who have same-day ly helps change women’s lives. All of your donations are tax deductible. en each year in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Each donation you make dence. You can be part of the community that helps to serve over 2,600 women to enter an interview, job training program, and/or new job with appropriate clothing, shoes, accessories and jewelry. Your donations an help by donating your new and gently worn women’s interview and

What is Dress for Success?

by Tawnya L. Rockwell

usiness and will share a wine and appetizer pairing.

The ladies of SHEBarista, hosted thewill Candles event at Wicks & Wax Greensburg dus, owner of Caffe tell and herConnections short story about how sheStudio started in November. It was a fantastic gathering that brought together a group of 30 incredible women telling story without judgement. our launch Lisa Food Bank. fortheir a creative evening benefiting an amazingAt organization, the party, Westmoreland happy. We want to create a safe space for women to feel confident Hannah Thompson, Wicks & Wax studio owner, A portionwomen of the registration fee was donatedmakes to the Westmoreland Food Bank, ater purpose that doing what played a crucial roleconnects in directing theinspirational event, and attendees were encouraged to bring much-needed items for donation. The allowing participants to engage in the entire and the substantial contribution almostwith 200 pounds of items after, we will plan not justscents, a networking event, but a girls' nightofout candle-making process: selecting adding $330 donation filled the Director of Development for the Westmoreland County Food Bank, the wick, pouring the wax and designing es to join our efforts in SHE. For theLauren launch party and every event Hill's vehicle to the ceiling! customized labels. , a secretary or a stay-at-home mom, we welcome you and your unique A big THANK YOU to all the women who attended and Jessica Geary, managing partner of lead ence rather than noise in whatever capacity able.making Whether you areand showcasing sponsor SecondHalf Coach Wealth Management sponsoredshe the is event, it a success provided fall-themed beverages and Debbie elieve that theoftrue success of a woman found in her abilityback to make their is commitment to giving to the acommunity.

Huey, owner Angelo’s Cucina & Catering

What is

served Chicken Marsala and Spinach Dip with homemade chips, adding to the overall enjoyment of the event.

Open the camera on your smartphone, scan the QR code and follow the link for details on upcoming SHE events.

?

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. © 2024 Go2Goal

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