BEST IN THE STATE Advanced Surgical Hospital named top joint replacement hospital
SLOVENIAN SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION
A century of funding the region
6 MADE IN CANONSBURG: Cookware built to last
10 DRIVEN BY HOPE: Fueling change across Washington County
22
ADVANCED SURGICAL HOSPITAL celebrates two top honors
{from the editor}
Inspiration is everywhere
12
CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT: Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce
30
SLOVENIAN SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION celebrates a century of service
18 INNERACTION MEDIA lands West Virginia Lottery contract
I get story ideas all over the place. My eyes and ears are always open and looking for new businesses, trends and people to profile. Sometimes, I get suggestions from readers or coworkers. I might meet a new person at a social function who does something I’ve never heard of, so I ask for their contact information. Other times, I happen upon something organically in the wild, and I ask myself, “What’s that?” I rely on people like those at the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, which is an invaluable community resource.
My thought process for deciding what merits coverage can’t be described with any specificity. It’s an art, not an exact science, honed over years of experience writing and editing in local news. Usually, it’s just a gut feeling.
I don’t often turn down story suggestions. If someone thinks it’s worth reading about, I typically agree, not out of mercy to the person who suggested it, but because I try to listen to the communities I am in. The best barometers for what’s going on in the area are the people in it.
Often, though, I feel that if I have a question or want to know something, someone else in our readership area must have also thought the same at one time or another.
But I invariably want to know whether or not I’m on the mark. If you have a suggestion for a piece, please let me know. I’m always happy to hear from our readers. Please email me at tthurston@observer-reporter. com
Thank you so much for reading. Take care, stay safe and see you in the next edition.
Editor
Employees inspect cookware at All-Clad Metalcrafters, headquartered and made in Canonsburg
South Main Street, Washington, PA 15301 724.222.2200
Editor Trista Thurston
Advertising Director
Carole DeAngelo
Graphic Designer
Eric Tomlinson
Contributors
Kristin Emery
Emily King Rick Shrum
Photo courtesy of the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency
Offer available on the purchase or lease of the following eligible new 2024-2025 For & Lincoln vehicles ONLY: Ford Mustang, Escape, Bronco, Bronco Sport, F-150, F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E, Maverick, Ranger, Transit, E-Transit, Lincoln Corsair and Nautilus; new 2024 Ford Super Duty (pick-up models only), Expedition and Lincoln Navigator only, and new 2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator only. Excludes all new Ford Raptor models, Mustang Dark Horse, Mustang GTD and all Chassis Cab models U.S. residents only. Prior purchases not eligible. A/X/Z/D Plan Ineligible. Place a new retail order or take new retail delivery from an authorized Ford Dealer or Lincoln Retailer’s stock by 7/7/25. See a participating dealer for details.
Made in Canonsburg: Cookware built to last
All-Clad Metalcrafters has been a pioneer in the cookware industry for over 50 years, manufacturing stainless steel cookware that is bonded, engineered and assembled in the USA. All-Clad’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship is deeply influenced by its rich heritage in our region. The dedicated community of Canonsburg, home to All-Clad’s factory, has truly nurtured the brand’s growth since 1971.
Renowned for its steel production, this region provided the perfect foundation for All-Clad and its founder, John Ulam, a metallurgist with extensive experience in bonding metals. He patented a unique bonding process that revolutionized cookware by layering aluminum and stainless steel, which delivers unparalleled durability and performance. This technological leap, echoing the robust industrial fabric of Pennsylvania, has propelled All-Clad into a league of its own.
Commitment to excellence
The unwavering commitment to excellence is evident in every All-Clad product. From raw materials to finished cookware, meticulous attention to detail is paramount. Stainless steel, aluminum and copper are chosen for their exceptional properties and engineered meticulously to create cookware that professionals and home cooks alike cherish.
Each piece undergoes rigorous inspection and testing to guarantee adherence to the highest standards of quality.
Supporting local communities
The synergy between AllClad and Pennsylvania is more than just geographic; it’s a deep-seated connection to the local communities and skilled workforce that contribute to the brand’s success. Generations of artisans have perfected their craft within AllClad’s facilities, embodying the dedication and craftsmanship that the brand proudly stands for. This mutual enrichment has not only fostered economic growth but has also strengthened the social fabric of the region.
Innovating for the future
While rooted in heritage, All-Clad remains committed to innovation. The brand continuously evolves to meet the needs of modern kitchens,
its dedication to providing the best culinary experience.
In a rapidly changing world, All-Clad’s blend of tradition and innovation serves as a reminder that true craftsmanship endures. By honoring its heritage and forging ahead with cutting-edge advancements, All-Clad is not just a cookware brand; it’s a celebration of what artisan dedication and local pride can accomplish.
combining timeless techniques with contemporary advancements. Whether it’s enhancing the durability of non-stick coatings or refining ergonomic designs, All-Clad’s pursuit of innovation exemplifies
As part of the longstanding history in the region, they return this Summer, June 27 and 28, at the Washington County Fairgrounds to hold their All-Clad Summer Factory Sale, offering up to 70% off products. Shoppers can expect to see significant discounts up to 70% off on All-Clad cookware, bakeware, kitchen tools, electrics and accessories, as well as products from sister brands. In addition to factory seconds, which are products with minor defects or damaged packaging, the sale also includes overstock and discontinued items.
Driven By Hope: Fueling change across Washington County
Story by Emily King
Community connection matters more now than ever, and a partnership between Washington Auto Mall and the ObserverReporter called Driven by Hope is making a lasting impact on local nonprofit organizations. The initiative selects a different local nonprofit each month to receive both a financial award from Washington Auto Mall and a spotlight in the Observer-Reporter.
The goal of this collaboration is to uplift organizations that are quietly doing the hard work of helping the community. At the heart of this effort is a shared belief in giving back and a deep commitment to strengthening the place we call home. To learn more about this partnership, we spoke with Natalie Gloady from the Observer-Reporter and a member of the selection committee for Driven by Hope.
Driven by Hope was launched in early 2024 when the ObserverReporter partnered with Washington Auto Mall with the shared goal of giving local nonprofits the recognition they deserve for their work throughout the community.
“With deep roots in Washington County and a long-standing tradition of community involvement, the partnership felt like a natural fit,” says Gloady.
As the program’s financial sponsor, the Washington Auto Mall makes it possible to provide direct funding to deserving nonprofits.
“The Observer-Reporter serves as the media partner — helping to amplify these nonprofits’ stories and expand their visibility throughout the community,” says Gloady.
In addition to publishing a full-page article in the newspaper, each feature is promoted digitally through online ads, paid social media and targeted email campaigns, with the aim of increasing engagement and visibility.
The selection process for the featured nonprofit each month is a thoughtful and in-depth process. A dedicated volunteer committee comprised of representatives from the ObserverReporter and Washington Auto Mall carefully reviews eligible nonprofits.
Each member of the committee brings a unique perspective, representing different areas of Washington County and diverse experiences with local organizations, events and causes.
“Each month, the team evaluates how these nonprofits are actively making a difference in the community and what specific projects or needs the funding would support,” says Gloady.
“While we do take into account national observances, themed awareness months and current initiatives being led by local organizations, we’re also intentional about ensuring geographic diversity and a broad range of causes are represented,” she says.
Past recipients of the Driven by Hope Award include Western Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors, Community Circle Food Pantry and the Johnson-Shaw Foundation.
“Each of these nonprofits serves a very different purpose, from supporting veterans to fighting food insecurity to preserving local history,” says Gloady. The diversity of the organizations they spotlight is what makes Driven by Hope so unique.
Beyond supporting these organizations financially and through media coverage, members of the Driven by Hope committee participate in a variety of volunteer opportunities and community events for nonprofits throughout the region, not just those that are specifically selected.
Projects like Driven by Hope reflect the commitment to the community.
“We hope the project inspires other local media organizations to think creatively about how they can uplift the nonprofits around them. Because when every part of a community supports the other, that’s when we all can truly thrive,” says Gloady.
Nonprofits interested in being considered for the Driven by Hope award can contact Washington Auto Mall or the ObserverReporter directly. Many of the recipients have been submitted by readers and customers as well.
“We’re constantly looking for ways to expand the reach of our efforts and build meaningful connections throughout Washington County. It’s exciting to see how this initiative continues to grow and evolve, and we’re just getting started.”
Natalie Gloady
Natalie Gloady, second from right, at the check presentation for the first Driven By Hope recipient. Each Driven By Hope nonprofit recieves a $1,000 donation and an article in the Observer-Reporter
CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT: MON VALLEY REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
By Executive Director Leanna Spada
Editor’s note: This is part of a series from area chambers of commerce to provide these vital organizations a space to showcase their efforts and members.
Your business is our business: How chambers work for you
When it comes to supporting local businesses, fostering economic growth and strengthening communities, chambers of commerce play a vital, often underestimated role. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, professional or simply a community-minded citizen, joining or partnering with your local chamber can offer a wide range of benefits. Here’s a closer look at how chambers work and why getting involved can be a game-changer for you and your business.
Networking that matters
At its core, a chamber of commerce is about relationships. Chambers provide ongoing opportunities for members to meet other local professionals, exchange ideas and create lasting partnerships. From monthly luncheons and after-hours mixers to large-scale expos and annual galas, these events help members expand their network and increase visibility. These meaningful connections can lead to new clients, collaborators, or mentors.
Visibility and credibility
Educational resources and professional development
Chambers often host workshops, webinars and speaker events covering topics such as marketing, finance, leadership, technology and HR. These resources help members stay informed, inspired and ahead of industry trends. It will grow your knowledge and sharpen your skills to run your business better.
Support for small businesses and startups
Chambers understand the challenges that small businesses face and often provide tools, mentorship, grant information and referrals to help them thrive. Many also partner with local economic development organizations to help entrepreneurs access capital and navigate red tape. Get the support you need to start, grow or sustain your business.
When you join a chamber, your business becomes more visible to the community. Many chambers offer directory listings, social media promotions, ribbon-cuttings, press releases and spotlight opportunities. Additionally, being a chamber member signals to potential customers and partners that your business is invested in the community and committed to ethical practices. This will help boost your reputation and reach a wider audience.
Advocacy and representation
Chambers advocate for the interests of local businesses at the local, state and even federal levels. Whether it’s zoning issues, taxes, regulations or economic development plans, your chamber is often working behind the scenes to protect and promote your best interests. This gives your business a voice in decisions that impact your business and your community.
Community impact and involvement
Chambers are deeply committed to enhancing the quality of life in their regions. Through scholarships, cleanup days, holiday events and partnerships with schools and nonprofits, chambers help strengthen the community fabric. Contribute to and benefit from a more vibrant, engaged, and prosperous community.
Cost-effective marketing opportunities
From sponsorships to co-branded events and advertising in chamber publications, members often gain access to low-cost ways to market their business to a highly engaged audience. Stretch your marketing dollars with strategic exposure opportunities.
A chamber of commerce is more than just a networking group; it’s a powerful engine of local progress. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, learn new skills, advocate for your industry or simply give back to your community, your local chamber is a valuable partner. Investing in your membership isn’t just good for business; it’s good for the community as a whole.
If you haven’t yet explored your local chamber, there’s no better time to see how they can help you connect, grow, and succeed.
For more information or to have a conversation about how a chamber can work for you, please call us at 724-483-3507 or visit mvrchamber.org.
SWIFT AUDIOLOGY: PROUD TO BE PART OF YOUR COMMUNITY FOR 38 YEARS
Debra Swi and her team at Swi Audiology have been providing hearing care services to the people of Pittsburgh since 1987. Her personal and business mission to help individuals with hearing loss has remained steadfast. Over the years, the practice has expanded to three locations: Washington, Bethel Park/South Hills, and North Hills. e diverse sta includes Doctors of Audiology, Board-Certi ed Hearing Instrument Specialists, and dedicated support sta .
Many may not realize that cognitive decline is one of the most common issues associated with aging. Research increasingly shows a correlation between hearing loss and cognitive decline. Hearing loss is the number one modi able risk factor for dementia, and treating it with hearing aids is one of the best ways to preserve cognitive health. “One comprehensive hearing evaluation includes a full hearing test to identify the degree and type of hearing loss you may have,“ notes Swi . is information helps determine whether you could bene t from hearing aids.
What sets Swi Audiology apart for our patients is the commitment of our dedicated sta members, who work closely with them to ensure they feel heard and cared for. “Our patients experience a family-like atmosphere that combines cutting-edge innovations with the best options to meet their hearing needs,“ explains Swi . “We understand that in today’s market, individuals are o en overwhelmed with promotions and gimmicks. While the ultimate choice is the patient’s, we strive to educate them by considering their needs, lifestyle, budget, and hearing pro le to assist in making the right decision.“
rough Swi Audiology’s hearing aid test drive program,
patients can try their hearing aids in real-life scenarios. “You wouldn’t buy a car without a test drive, so why would you buy a hearing aid without one?“ Swi asks. It is incredibly ful lling for our patients, their families, and Team Swi to know that we have improved someone’s quality of life. To learn more, visit swi audiology.com.
Comorbidities and Hearing Loss
When
When Your Health Can’t Wait: New Urgent Care Coming Soon to Waynesburg
WVU Medicine continues to bring excellent care to the Greene County community at the Waynesburg Outpatient Center. We are expanding services to include a new Urgent Care clinic, making care more accessible for when your doctor’s office is closed, or you can’t wait for an appointment.
Urgent Care provides treatment for nonemergency health issues, like broken bones, coughs, colds, flu, infections, rashes, sprains, strains, and more. Our expert team is prepared to help your family get back to feeling their best with compassion and efficiency. We can easily assist with followup appointments and specialty referrals, if needed.
Urgent Care at the Waynesburg Outpatient Center will be open seven days a week, 8 am to 8 pm.
No appointment is necessary at any WVU Medicine Urgent Care clinic.
Services offered include:
• Treatment for minor illnesses and injuries
• Lab and imaging
• Vaccinations
• Sports physicals
The Waynesburg Outpatient Center also offers primary, OB-GYN, pediatric, and specialty care services.
Days, evenings, weekends, and holidays – you can’t predict when you’ll get sick or hurt, but WVU Medicine Urgent Care is prepared to help when you do.
Waynesburg Outpatient Center is located at 451 Murtha Drive in Waynesburg. Visit WVUMedicine.org/ UrgentCare for more information.
DAY 8 am - 8 pm
InnerAction Media lands West Virginia Lottery contract
By Rick Shrum
InnerAction Media has hit the lottery big time.
An advertising and marketing agency based in Morgantown, InnerAction has been awarded the West Virginia Lottery advertising contract.
“It’s a competitive bidding process, and being selected as the agency of record for the lottery is a
very big honor for our team,” said Jim Matuga, InnerAction president.
The agency has cashed in on its first attempt at securing the lottery contract. It entered the fray in the fourth quarter of 2024, and learned in late January it had hit its version of the jackpot. The InnerActionLottery partnership began operations shortly thereafter.
“We knew what we had to put into it, and it would
take a lot of creative work,” Matuga said. “We just did our thing, followed procedures and outlines and put our best foot forward.
“We’re honored to take on this role and highlight the Lottery’s impact on education, senior programs and tourism across the state.”
John Myers, director of the West Virginia Lottery, said in a statement: “We are happy to partner with InnerAction Media, an in-state agency already familiar with
our mission and vision, to help us continue to tell the stories of the West Virginia’s Lottery’s positive impacts … Their understanding of our state and their creative expertise are something we are excited to leverage in our business relationship.”
Myers said the West Virginia Lottery has been an integral part of the state’s economy since its launch in 1986, adding that in fiscal year 2024, it generated $1.3 billion in sales, resulting in the allocation of about $569 million to programs
InnerAction Media
President Jim Matuga
that directly benefit residents statewide.
Winning the contract also boosted the inner office at InterAction. Matuga said he had 10 on staff beforehand, and now has 15. “We’re adding to the local economy and helping people find jobs, providing more economic opportunities in Morgantown.”
He said he anticipates more growth and more clients, adding that WVU Medicine
is among InnerAction’s major clients, “particularly with video production.”
Matuga founded InnerAction in October 2011, overseeing its development in Morgantown for the past 14 years. The agency’s offices are at 1440 Center Hill Ave., near West Virginia University’s WVU Coliseum, but the agency will be relocating
to the Sabraton section of the city. Other top officials at the agency are Brian Jarvis, vice president, Dylan Sheldon, vice president of operations and Liza Heiskell, director of video production.
Matuga is thrilled to be associated with the lottery, a relationship he anticipates will strengthen ties throughout the state.
“As a West Virginiabased agency,” he said, “working with the lottery will enable us to showcase the amazing work that it does. It gives us status and celebrates everything the lottery does. Being able to connect with West Virginians makes it very meaningful.”
Photos courtesy of InnerAction Media
Members of the IAM team on a Pittsburgh Pirates outing last August
Laurel College of Technology, a branch of Laurel Business Institute in Uniontown, PA, is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider located in Morgantown, WV. In 2024, LCOT welcomed its newest 20-month Specialized Associate Degree program, HVAC Technician. Laurel has designed the courses of this program to provide students with an awareness of the value and dignity of people - helping shape them into integrated, unique individuals ready to take on career opportunities in this growing field. “Trade workers like HVAC technicians, electricians, and welders are in dire need. We live in a world where the demand for blue collar jobs is growing, so the need for training is higher than ever.” says Justin Caldwell, Laurel’s Director of Trades.
The curriculum includes courses in HVAC-R and Heating Systems, Ductwork Fabrication, Plumbing Basics, HVAC Maintenance, Electrical Motors, Boiler Systems, Pump Systems, and much more! “We are excited to begin training students in this growing trade. American tradesman, Mike Rowe, recently stated that in the last ten years, for every five tradesmen that retire, only two replace them, ” states Douglas Decker, Executive Vice President of Operations of Laurel Institutes “we feel programs like this are vital to the growth and continued development of local communities.” The material covered in the new HVAC program will provide lectures and hands-on laboratory experiences led by seasoned instructors with years of experience.
Advanced Surgical Hospital celebrates two top honors
By Kristin Emery
Advanced Surgical Hospital in Washington has been awarded top honors in two national rankings for patient experience and joint replacement. The physicianowned hospital has been named a 2024 Human Experience Pinnacle of Excellence Award winner by Press Ganey, which annually ranks top hospitals and health systems across the country based on performance in patient experience. As a winner, Advanced Surgical Hospital ranked in the top five percent of healthcare providers in delivering patient experience over a minimum of three consecutive years. Advanced Surgical Hospital has picked up another top ranking,
as Healthgrades has named it the number one hospital in Pennsylvania for joint replacement for 2025. Healthgrades is an online platform that connects patients with hospitals and doctors, basing its rankings on clinical outcomes. Based on risk-adjusted mortality and complication rates alone over three years, Healthgrades ranked Advanced Surgical Hospital as the number one hospital in Pennsylvania for joint replacement for 2025, marking the third time in the last four years the hospital has received this accolade. The award is based on outcomes compared to other hospitals in the state for inpatient total knee and total hip replacements.
Healthgrades previously recognized Advanced Surgical Hospital as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement and awarded it the Joint Replacement Excellence Award and two five-stars in Total Knee and Total Hip Replacement over the past twelve years. What makes the feat impressive is that Advanced Surgical Hospital only opened its doors fifteen years ago and has been awarded Healthgrades’ Outstanding Patient Experience Award for thirteen straight years. That places it among the top five percent of hospitals in the nation for overall outstanding patient experience,
Dr. Gregory B. Christiansen, Dr. John M. Gibbons, Nicole Patzer from Healthgrades and Dr. Joseph P. Stracci.
Colleen White, director of inpatient services, Dorothy Kennedy, Diane Yarosh and Melanie Jacobs
and it is the only one in Western Pennsylvania to hold this distinction. “Being recognized as Pennsylvania’s number one hospital for joint replacement surgery underscores our commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centered care,” says Diane Hritz, chief executive officer of Advanced Surgical Hospital. “This year, as we celebrate fifteen years of service, our devoted team of clinicians remains as passionate as ever about delivering superior orthopedic care and a seamless, supportive experience for every patient who walks through our doors.” To conduct its rankings, Healthgrades evaluated risk-adjusted mortality and complication rates for more than 30 of the most common conditions and procedures at approximately 4,500 hospitals nationwide, then determined the top performers in specialty care.
same building as some of the worst germs in the town or in the county?” Stracci says. “It was a way of separating and keeping the healthy folks away from other infections.” That was one factor in the creation of the hospital. The other goal was to create a specialized workforce. “When you work at another hospital, you have surgical teams that may be doing a gallbladder in the morning and then doing a neuro case later,
expedite surgeries, which leads to less time under anesthesia. The hospital has only 14 inpatient beds, focusing on orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery. “Our nurses are all orthopedically trained,” he adds. “They’re all ortho nurses, so they’re really good at what they do. And again, it’s because that’s what they do over and over and over.”
Advanced Surgical Hospital recently celebrated receiving two top rankings for hospitals in Pennsylvania and the country,
Advanced Surgical Hospital opened its doors fifteen years ago with a focus on being different. One of the founding partners, Dr. Joseph Stracci, says creating a facility that focuses solely on elective surgery for otherwise healthy people seemed like common sense. “Being a healthy person that’s coming in for an elective procedure, why would we want to put you in the
and then an ortho case,” Stracci explains. “Sometimes there’s a learning curve for people’s routines. Repetition is learning, right? The more cases you do the same, you become quite proficient at it. So, our staff now, they know what I want already while I’m in the middle of a case.” Stracci credits the staff’s knowledge and experience with helping to
Speaking to the awards, Dr. Stracci says they absolutely validate Advanced Surgical Hospital’s existence. “I mean, this is the reason that we wanted to do this,” he says. “We thought we could provide better quality of care and have better outcomes for patients, and I think it’s kind of borne out in the numbers. Those surveys and those numbers are not subjective. There is a lot of objective data that goes into the database that comes up with these awards and who gets what, and for us to come out on top, it’s kind of like, hey, you know what? We were right about what we were doing. We are doing the right thing.”
Your Health, Your Journey: Expert Women’s Care You Can Trust in Waynesburg
Every woman deserves compassionate, comprehensive healthcare tailored to her unique needs. At the WVU Medicine Waynesburg Outpatient Center, that’s exactly what we provide. From adolescence to menopause and beyond, our women’s health specialists are here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way.
At WVU Medicine, we don’t just treat symptoms, we listen. Our experienced team of OB-GYNs, nurse practitioners, and wellness professionals take a holistic approach to women’s health, blending advanced medical expertise with personalized care. Whether you’re navigating pregnancy, managing menstrual concerns, exploring birth control options, or experiencing perimenopause, we’re committed to helping you feel informed and in control of your body.
Our services include:
• Contraception and family planning
• Female pelvic medicine and reproductive surgery
• Midwifery services
• Preventive health maintenance
• Routine obstetrics and gynecological care
• Ultrasound imaging
We understand that your health journey is personal. That’s why we create a safe, supportive space where you can ask questions, express concerns, and make decisions with confidence. Our goal is not only to care for you but to educate and empower you — because when you’re informed, you thrive.
We offer timely appointments and flexible scheduling because your time is valuable, and your health shouldn’t wait. With on-site lab testing, imaging, and collaborative care options, everything you need is under one roof.
Whether you’re taking your first step into womanhood or navigating the transitions that come later in life, WVU Medicine is here to help you feel your best — physically, emotionally, and mentally. Women’s health is not one-size-fits-all; it’s about care that adapts to you.
Ready to take charge of your health? Experience the difference of care that truly puts women first.
Visit WVUMedicine.org/ Waynesburg or call 855-WVUCARE to schedule your appointment today.
The services we offer at the WVU Medicine Waynesburg Outpatient Center include:
• Contraception and family planning
• Female pelvic medicine
• Midwifery services
• Preventive health maintenance
• Routine obstetric and gynecological care
• Ultrasound imaging
Slovenian Savings and Loan Association celebrates a century of service
By Rick Shrum
A century ago, en route to evolving into the financial institution it is today, Slovenian Savings and Loan Association — per its website — “was organized in 1925 to provide loans to immigrants who were unable to obtain loans.”
Slovenian immigration to the United States was significant in the 1920s, and that included Washington County and other regions across Pennsylvania, where industrial growth helped to spark population growth. Jobs were available in glassmaking plants, steel mills, mines and other industries gained prominence.
This was the climate in which Slovenian Savings and Loan Association was born. Founded by Slovenian immigrants who, themselves, were striving to establish a foothold in a new nation, were providing an avenue where others could turn.
The institution turned 100 on June 4, and is celebrating throughout the month with events, giveaways and open doors.
“We’ve kept in the game,” said Bruce Kurtz, president and CEO of SS&L, located at 130 Boone Ave. in the Strabane section of North Strabane Township.
And while Slovenian Savings was created by immigrants primarily for immigrants, Kurtz and Mary Hixon — secretary, loan officer and a board trustee — said that distinction is not the case today.
“We have grown into a welcoming savings bank for everyone – no membership, no ancestry required,” she said.
“People over the years have thought you had to be Slovenian or belong to SNPJ,” Kurtz said. “That’s not the case. We stay within Washington County, but go into parts of Allegheny County and all of Greene County. We have mortgages in Upper St. Clair, Dormont, Mt. Lebanon and Carnegie.”
Kurtz and Hixon have worked at Slovenian Savings and Loan for a combined 89 years — she for 52, he for 37. They lead a staff of 20 full-timers and three part-timers, whom they consider integral to bank operations.
“We do have room to expand and add employees,” Kurtz said, even though more people are banking online.
“We have personal services and we have very personal and professional employees,” Kurtz said. “Everyone answers the phones, and callers get the right person quickly. People feel very comfortable dealing with us.”
And vice-versa, obviously. Hixon said recently that an individual entered Slovenian Savings after finding an envelope in the parking lot filled with nearly $1,000, “and was not a customer. She thought you had to be a member here.
“This was an honest person who had picked up about $1,000 that belonged to a customer and brought it in.”
Slovenian Savings and Loan appears to be strong financially. Kurtz stated that the institution has approximately $610 million in total assets and $100 million in capital.
“On the residential mortgage and asset side, we’re very conservative,” he said. “We’ve been through a lot of economic challenges, like the Great Recession (2007-2009) and the COVID-19 outbreak a decade later.”
Kurtz and Hixon are two of the bank’s four officers, along with J. Michael Vighetti, vice president, and Patricia Scott, chief financial officer.
One hundred years later, Slovenian Savings and Loan endures. Perhaps its longtime slogan — Big Enough to Serve You, Small Enough to Care — should be expanded to include: Resilient Enough to Continue into a Second Century.
MORTGAGE & CONSTRUCTION LOANS
Check the Advantages
Excellent rates
Low closing costs
Automatic payment
(0) Zero point loans
Entire month to make the mortgage payment
No late fees
Mortgages not sold
(1) One closing
(9) Month construction term
Rate locked at the time of application
Photos courtesy of Slovenian Savings and Loan Association