The Voice of Vibrancy
Letter From The President
Dear Members and Stakeholders,
What an honor it is to serve as President of the Butler County Chamber of Commerce. 2025 has been an incredible year. Our small yet mighty staff has worked tirelessly alongside a dedicated group of stakeholders to turn ideas and concepts into meaningful action.
Over the past few months, we launched “Bloom Butler County,” a one-stop shop to start and grow a business right here in our community. In the near future, this platform will feature a video library with expert content from Butler County professionals, as well as invaluable free resources. A full marketing strategy will soon roll out to raise awareness and maximize the impact of this resource.
We also launched our Volunteer Management Portal, in partnership with the Alliance for Nonprofit Resources. This tool allows volunteer opportunities to be posted, tracks hours served, and converts those contributions into free and discounted products and services from local businesses. Final details are being refined now, and a comprehensive marketing plan will follow.
Both of these initiatives highlight the power of our members and committees. By contributing their time, resources, and expertise, they are making a measurable difference for Butler County. Let me be clear: we are nothing without our stakeholders. Their volunteer contributions are the driving force behind our success.
As we move through the final stretch of the year, we are also laying the foundation for the next wave of exciting updates. 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year, and I am proud to lead an organization at the very center of it.
If you are interested in being part of something larger than yourself, I encourage you to contact our office and join us in this important work.
With deepest appreciation,
Jordan Grady
President Butler County Chamber
#BowTieBusinessGuy
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Last Issue’s Highlight
The Butler County Community College Education Foundation has announced the appointment of Mikayla Moretti as its new executive director of the BC3 Education Foundation and external relations. A lifelong Saxonburg resident and dedicated community advocate, Moretti has been described as “ a true believer in and champion of BC3.”
Since joining the Foundation in 2017, Moretti has advanced through progressively responsible roles, leading fundraising efforts that have secured more than $274,000 to support student success and community initiatives. Her work has fueled programs combating student food insecurity, supporting opioid recovery through BC3’s Hope is Dope initiative, and enhancing educational opportunities with resources such as 3D printers and simulated medical equipment.
Moretti’s leadership has also brought new strategies to the Foundation’s signature golf outing, increasing revenue by up to 28 percent and generating recordbreaking results that benefit scholarships, emergency assistance, and student programs. Recognized for her commitment to teamwork and continuous improvement, Moretti now leads a staff and board dedicated to advancing BC3’s mission. “It’s not just a job for her,” said Foundation Board Chair Tony Shakely. “She really believes in what she is doing.”
With 164 scholarships available for 2025-26, Moretti’s vision ensures every partnership and every dollar raised continues to make a lasting difference for BC3 students and the Butler County community.
Butler County Chamber Energy Program
Since launching last summer, our energy program has delivered... thousands in cost savings for our members and reinvested hundreds more into the community investment fund. Let our local energy experts help you uncover cost-saving opportunities for your business today!
MEET
With 50 years of combined experience in the energy industry, Dave Grupp and Stephanie Grenier help our members in making the right choice for their business.
To learn more about our program or get a free price quote, scan the QR code or click HERE to visit our ‘Energy’ program page.
Model Homes Open for Tours
Zelienople has welcomed a vibrant new Ryan Homes community, Glade Run, that promises to redefine community living in Butler County. Nestled less than a mile from the heart of downtown and offering seamless access to I-79, this thoughtfully designed development is more than just a place to live it’s a place to thrive.
Located within the highly regarded Seneca Valley School District, the community is tailored to generational living, offering townhomes, singlefamily homes, and ranch-style homes to suit every stage of life. Whether you ' re a first-time buyer, growing family, or downsizing retiree, there's a home here for you.
Residents will enjoy resort style amenities including a community pool, clubhouse, fitness center, pickleball and bocce ball courts, along with community sidewalks throughout the development, encouraging strolls, conversations, and a sense of belonging.
Zelienople has long been known for its charm and close-knit spirit. This new development builds on that legacy, offering a fresh yet familiar way of life. Where neighbors become friends and everyone finds their place.
Welcome home.
Spotlight on Leadership: Curt Knotick Named Five Star Professional
The Five Star Professional distinction is not only an honor for Curt personally...
but also a testament to the values his firm is built upon trust, education, and genuine care for the community. For clients, this recognition reaffirms what they already know: that Curt leads with integrity and a passion for making a difference in people’s lives.
As an active member of the Butler County business community, Curt’s leadership extends beyond his firm. His dedication to excellence and his heart for service continue to make a lasting impact on both his clients and the region he calls home.
The Butler County Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Curt Knotick, Owner of Accurate Solutions Group, for being named a Five Star Professional by Pittsburgh Magazine. This prestigious award is reserved for financial professionals who demonstrate exceptional service, client satisfaction, and industry expertise.
Curt’s recognition is a reflection of his commitment to helping individuals and families retire with confidence, clarity, and independence. At Accurate Solutions Group, he and his team prioritize relationships over transactions, treating every client like family while guiding them through the complexities of retirement planning.
Congratulations to Curt Knotick on this Well-Deserved Honor!
This award was issued on 06/01/2025 by Five Star Professional (FSP) for the time period 09/18/2024 through 02/28/2025. Fee paid for use of marketing materials Self-completed questionnaire was used for rating This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria. 1965 Pittsburgh-area wealth managers were considered for the award; 211 (11 % of candidates) were named 2025 Five Star Wealth Managers The following prior year statistics use this format: YEAR: # Considered, # Winners, % of candidates, Issued Date, Research Period. 2024: 1,854, 231, 13%, 6/1/24, 9/12/23 - 3/29/24; 2023: 1,818, 233, 12 8%, 6/1/23, 9/12/22 - 3/31/23; 2022: 1779, 252, 14%, 6/1/22, 9/27/21 - 3/25/22; 2021: 1814, 234, 13%, 6/1/21, 9/7/20 - 4/23/21; 2020: 1886, 224, 12%, 6/1/20, 9/16/19 - 4/10/20; 2019: 1667, 251, 15%, 6/1/19, 9/17/18 - 4/12/19; 2018: 1653, 227, 14%, 6/1/18, 9/28/17 - 4/17/18; 2017: 1133, 277, 24%, 6/1/17, 9/27/16 - 4/11/17; 2016: 1064, 423, 40%, 5/1/16, 10/7/15 - 4/19/16; 2015: 1494, 442, 30%, 6/1/15, 10/7/14 - 4/19/15; 2014: 1721, 458, 27%, 6/1/14, 10/7/13 - 4/19/14; 2013: 1777, 545, 31%, 6/1/13, 10/7/124/19/13; 2012: 1863, 493, 26%, 6/1/12, 10/7/11 - 4/19/12
*Winners appearing on this page do not pay a fee to be considered or to win the Five Star Award Professionals with a digital profile have paid a promotional fee
Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Five Star Wealth Managers The award is based on 10 objective criteria Eligibility criteria - required: 1 Credentialed as a registered investment adviser (RIA) or a registered investment adviser representative; 2. Actively licensed as a RIA or as a principal of a registered investment adviser firm for a minimum of 5 years; 3 Favorable regulatory and complaint history review (As defined by FSP, the wealth manager has not; A Been subject to a regulatory action that resulted in a license being suspended or revoked, or payment of a fine; B. Had more than a total of three settled or pending complaints filed against them and/or a total of five settled, pending, dismissed or denied complaints with any regulatory authority or FSP's consumer complaint process. Unfavorable feedback may have been discovered through a check of complaints registered with a regulatory authority or complaints registered through FSP's consumer complaint process; feedback may not be representative of any one client's experience; C. Individually contributed to a financial settlement of a customer complaint; D Filed for personal bankruptcy within the past 11 years; E Been terminated from a financial services firm within the past 11 years; F. Been convicted of a felony); 4. Fulfilled their firm review based on internal standards; 5. Accepting new clients. Evaluation criteria - considered: 6 One-year client retention rate; 7 Five-year client retention rate; 8 Non-institutional discretionary and/or non-discretionary client assets administered; 9 Number of client households served; 10 Education and professional designations FSP does not evaluate quality of services provided to clients The award is not indicative of the wealth manager's future performance Wealth managers may or may not use discretion in their practice and therefore may not manage their clients'
assets The inclusion of a wealth manager on the Five Star Wealth Manager list should not be construed as an endorsement of the wealth manager by FSP or this publication. Working with a Five Star Wealth Manager or any wealth manager is no guarantee as to future investment success, nor is there any guarantee that the selected wealth managers will be awarded this accomplishment by FSP in the future Visit www fivestarprofessional com
Featured Nonprofit: Community Options Expands Impact in Butler County
At Community Options, the mission is simple yet powerful: to develop housing and employment supports for people with disabilities while promoting dignity, choice, and independence. Founded in 1989, Community Options has grown into the largest nonprofit I/DD service provider in the country, supporting more than 7,000 individuals and their families across 12 states.
The organization’s presence in Butler County began in 2016 with the opening of two homes as part of the Pittsburgh region. By 2017, the demand for services had grown so rapidly that Butler became its own region. Today, Community Options operates 15 homes throughout the county and provides support for 28 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Beyond residential services, Community Options offers Community Participation Supports, helping people form meaningful connections and take active roles in their neighborhoods. The Supported Employment program provides opportunities for individuals to secure real jobs in the community— building independence, confidence, and career skills.
Community Options also brings people together through its annual Cupid’s Chase 5K, a national run and walk held locally in Butler County each February. The next Cupid’s Chase 5K will take place on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Lake Arthur Golf Club. Registration is available at cupidschase.org.
Local businesses and leaders are also invited to join the Community Options Business Advisory Council (COBAC), which strengthens partnerships and promotes inclusive employment opportunities across the region.
The Butler region has seen inspiring success stories. In 2020, Emma joined Community Options during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. With determination and steady support, she transitioned from requiring one-onone assistance to living independently with a housemate and securing competitive employment at a hotel.
She is now exploring a second role in retail. Emma’s journey paved the way for her twin sister, Olivia, who joined in 2022. Initially reserved, Olivia has since flourished—earning Employee of the Month recognition at her job and enrolling at Butler County Community College in 2025.
With each new home, program, and partnership, Community Options deepens its commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities are valued, included, and supported as active members of the Butler County community. For more information, visit comop.org.
Member Spotlight & News
Accessible Broadband for Children: Expansion Project Launches in Northern Butler County
On July 16, community leaders and partners gathered at Slippery Rock University to celebrate the kickoff of the ABC Broadband Expansion Project. The event marked a major step forward in ensuring that children, families, and businesses in northern Butler County have access to reliable, high-speed internet.
The project developed in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, the Butler County Commissioners, and local school districts will extend fiber broadband to more than 1,500 homes. By bridging the digital divide, this investment will enhance educational opportunities, strengthen community connections, and create new possibilities for future growth.
Leaders from Moniteau and Slippery Rock School Districts emphasized how transformative expanded broadband access will be for students, providing the tools needed to succeed in classrooms and beyond. Local and state officials echoed this vision, underscoring the importance of public and private collaboration in bringing life-changing infrastructure improvements to rural communities.
The ABC Broadband Expansion Project is more than just faster internet. It represents progress, partnership, and promise for Butler County’s future.
Member Spotlight & News
Coherent and Apple Expand Strategic Partnership
Coherent Corp. has entered a new multiyear supply agreement with Apple, expanding their long-standing partnership. Under the agreement, Coherent will continue producing vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) — critical components that enable Face ID on iPhone and iPad devices worldwide — at its Sherman, Texas facility. CEO Jim Anderson called the deal a testament to Coherent’s innovation and Apple COO Sabih Khan emphasized its role in Apple’s $600 billion U.S. investment commitment. The Sherman site features advanced manufacturing platforms supporting next-generation optoelectronic applications, reinforcing Coherent’s impact on both American innovation and global consumer technology.
Slippery Rock Golf Club Welcomes New GM
Slippery Rock Golf Club & Events Center is excited to welcome Tim Tarcha, PGA, as the new General Manager of Golf Operations. A Butler native and longtime PGA professional, Tim brings energy, leadership, and a passion for player development. Members are encouraged to introduce themselves as he begins his first season leading SRGC golf operations.
Member Spotlight & News
William J. Darney
Excellence Award
Each quarter, Butler Technologies honors a team member who exemplifies our core values of Team, Work Ethic, and Curiosity with the William J. Darney Excellence Award. This quarter’s recipient is Sue Courson, Director of Client Success, recognized for her passion in driving process improvements, strengthening collaboration, and always putting customers first.
BC3 Golf Outing Raises $110,000
The BC3 Education Foundation’s annual golf outing at Olde Stonewall Golf Club raised $110,000, the second-highest total in its 30-year history Proceeds support scholarships, food security, emergency grants, and community programs. First National Bank claimed the Champions Cup after a tiebreaker, and BC3 All-American Jacob Marquardt added excitement by driving for teams on a par-3 hole.
UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex Celebrates 10 Years
Ten years ago, the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex opened its doors to the community. Since then, it has grown into a hub for health, wellness, and hockey excellence. As the facility celebrates this milestone, it reflects on a decade of progress and memories and looks ahead to the next chapter.
Member Spotlight & News
Armco Credit Union Expands Through Merger
Armco Credit Union is proud to announce its merger with Corry Jamestown Credit Union, effective September 1. The merger adds 2,700 members and $27.8 million in assets, expanding Armco’s reach into Erie, Crawford, Forest, and Warren Counties. This growth strengthens Armco’s mission of delivering member-focused financial services and building a stronger future together.
Armco Credit Union Celebrates 90 Years
Nearly 1,400 people gathered at Armco Park in Slippery Rock on August 24 as Armco Credit Union marked its 90th anniversary with a Heritage Day picnic The private celebration, hosted in partnership with the Butler County Family YMCA, featured food vendors, live music, and family activities honoring nine decades of community service and member support.
Member Spotlight & News
Butler Native Shines with Savannah Bananas at PNC Park
Butler native Alex “Ziggy” Ziegler, known as the Savannah Bananas’ bat trickster, lived out a dream performing at PNC Park this August. A former Butler High and PennWest California baseball player, Ziggy wowed soldout crowds with his signature bat stunts and even balanced a full ladder on his nose. “It doesn’t feel real,” he said. “I’m just living the dream.”
And here’s a fun “the Chamber knows everyone ” reference. Our very own office administrator’s son once coached Ziggy during his baseball days at Butler High School!
Congratulations to the Butler Eagle
The Butler Eagle earned 11 Professional Keystone Media Awards from the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association, including the prestigious Sweepstakes Award in Division II. Honors included first place in investigative reporting and breaking news for coverage of the July 13, 2024, assassination attempt of Donald Trump in Butler, along with awards for design, photography, podcasts, sports, and graphics.
Armstrong Named Internet All-Star
Armstrong has been named the Cablefax 2025 Company Awards Winner for Internet All-Star. For the second consecutive year, Armstrong also ranked #1 nationwide in a HarrisX Internet Service Satisfaction Survey. With customer experience at its core, Armstrong continues to power strong community connections while building for the future.
BC
Member Spotlight & News
Weddings by Jeff Double Celebrates 12 Years
Weddings by Jeff Double is proud to mark 12 years in business, growing from a small start into a company known for its reputation, community involvement, and meaningful role in so many lives. Jeff extends heartfelt gratitude to his wife, Mary Jane, their dedicated team, and loyal customers whose support has made this journey possible.
Gaiser Center Expands to Greene County
For the first time in its nearly 55-year history, the Ellen O’Brien Gaiser Center is expanding beyond Butler County. A new 10-bed, medically monitored withdrawal management facility will open in Carmichaels Borough, serving adults 18+ as Greene County’s only Level 3.7 center. The location will provide safe, trauma-informed care closer to home for those beginning recovery.
WesBanco Recognized for Promoting Savings
For the 10th consecutive year, WesBanco has earned the America Saves Designation of Savings Excellence award. One of only 11 banks nationwide honored in 2025, WesBanco was recognized for its financial literacy tools, community outreach programs, and in-school “Teach Children to Save” events that help build healthy savings habits.
Member Spotlight & News
Salon 356 Celebrates 9 Years
Salon 356 proudly marks nine years of serving the community. This milestone reflects the support of loyal clients, the dedication of a talented team, and the encouragement of friends and family. Thank you for trusting Salon 356 with your beauty and self-care!
Butler Transit Marks 50 Years
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Butler Transit treated the community at its West New Castle Street terminal with freshly grilled hot dogs, snacks, and drinks for riders and passersby alike.
Total Business Solutions: Tax Insights
Total Business Solutions has released a new episode of its podcast with Will Hoffman and Kelly Bender, breaking down the true impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. From permanent QBI deductions to child tax credits, SALT cap updates, and inflation-tied retirement contributions, this episode helps entrepreneurs and families plan smarter and stay ahead
Kenmac Joins U-Haul
Dealer Network
Kenmac Rentals & Sales is now Butler’s newest U-Haul dealer! From trucks to trailers, U-Haul and Kenmac have your moving needs covered. Visit their new location at 138 Whitestown Road, Lyndora, PA 16045, to explore this exciting partnership and experience trusted service for every move.
Member Spotlight & News
Northwest Bank Celebrates 30 Years on Nasdaq
Northwest Bank marked 30 years as a publicly traded company with President and CEO Louis Torchio ringing the opening bell at Nasdaq. With its recent acquisition of Penns Woods Bancorp, the bank now ranks among the top 100 U.S. banks with $17 billion in assets.
Buchanan Attorneys Recognized as Best Lawyers 2026
Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney announced that 144 of its attorneys are listed in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 Edition. Six were named “Lawyer of the Year” in their respective practice areas and metro regions, while 23 attorneys earned recognition in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch®. These honors reflect the firm’s continued excellence across a wide range of legal practices nationwide.
Member Spotlight & News
Pamela Hepp Named to City & State’s 2025 Trailblazers in Healthcare List
Pamela Hepp, Esq., general counsel for Independence Health System, has been named to City & State Pennsylvania’s 2025 Trailblazers in Healthcare list. The annual recognition highlights physicians, attorneys, nonprofit leaders, and innovators who are shaping the future of healthcare through collaboration, leadership, and forward-thinking initiatives.
With more than 30 years of experience in healthcare law, Hepp serves on the system’s executive management team, providing legal counsel for Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe, and Westmoreland hospitals. Her responsibilities include leading strategic initiatives, overseeing corporate and risk management matters, and providing regulatory guidance across the complex healthcare landscape.
“Pam’s deep expertise and unwavering commitment to healthcare law have been instrumental in guiding our organization through a rapidly evolving landscape,” said Ken DeFurio, president and CEO of Independence Health System. “Her recognition as a Trailblazer reflects the caliber of leadership we ’ re proud to have on our team.”
In addition to her role with Independence Health System, Hepp is a shareholder at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney, where she serves in the firm’s HealthCare Section and on its Compensation Committee. She has been consistently recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® under Healthcare Law since 2018 and was most recently honored in the Chambers USA 2025 guide under the Healthcare category.
Member Spotlight & News
Roger Lutz Named to Becker’s 2025 List of Top Hospital CIOs
Roger Lutz, chief information officer of Independence Health System, has been named one of Becker’s Hospital Review’s “Hospital and Health System CIOs to Know” for 2025. He is recognized among 148 national leaders for driving innovation, strengthening cybersecurity, and leading digital transformation in healthcare.
With more than 30 years of experience in IT, data communication, and information security, Lutz oversees technology operations across Independence Health System’s five hospitals: Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe, and Westmoreland. He played a pivotal role in the merger of Butler Health System and Excela Health, unifying IT teams and systems while reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
Becker’s Healthcare praised honorees as leaders who “ oversee IT strategy, integrate new tools, expand telehealth capabilities, and strengthen cybersecurity.” Under Lutz’s direction, Independence Health System successfully integrated clinical and business systems, launched an Enterprise Master Patient Index for over two million records, and cofounded Avehealth USA, an AI venture with Mitsui & Co. Ltd. to advance predictive, data-driven care.
CEO and President Ken DeFurio commended Lutz’s leadership, noting his ability to guide complex integrations while positioning Independence Health System as a model for innovation and resilience. Lutz also holds multiple industry certifications, including CHCIO, CDH-E, CHISL, and HCISPP Emeritus. BC
Resources For Businesses
We provide free and confidential one-on-one business counseling by phone, email, and in-person in Southwestern Pittsburgh. We also conduct workshops for both start-up entrepreneurs and seasoned small business owners.
Contact
Our mission is to empower all small business owners to grow thriving businesses that sustain their families and support their communities. Services provided for free.
The mission of the Small Business Development Center at the University of Pittsburgh is to grow the economy of Western Pennsylvania by providing entrepreneurs with the education, information and tools necessary to build successful businesses.
For more than 65 years, Pursuit, formerly known as New York Business Development Corporation, The 504 Company, and Excelsior Growth Fund, has offered innovative lending solutions to help business owners in CT, IL, NY, NJ, and PA follow their dreams.
Your Monthly Butler County Fun Fact...
Did you know?
The Utopian Village of Harmony
Founded in 1804 by the Harmony Society, a German religious sect led by Johann Georg Rapp, the village of Harmony was one of America’s earliest utopian communities. The Harmonists built a fully self-sufficient town where property was shared, and celibacy was practiced in anticipation of Christ’s return. Their community thrived for about a decade, making it 19thcentury America’s most successful communal group before relocating west in 1815. Today, Harmony remains a National Historic Landmark District, where preserved German architecture and local museums keep this remarkable chapter of Butler County’s history alive.
