A Trusted Resource
AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE PITTSBURGH NORTH REGIONAL CHAMBER
2025 PNRC Executive Committee
Chamber President Denise Martin
Board Chair
Sheila Talarico, Glade Run Lutheran Services
Past Chair
Rakesh Unnithan, WesBanco Bank
Chair Elect
Tom Baker, Variety - the Children’s Charity of Pittsburgh
Vice Chair
Beth Machine, Wesley Family Services
Foundation Chair Jada Lehman, JIL Solutions
Secretary
Jackie Boggs, North Hills Community Outreach
Treasurer
Steven W. Diffenderfer, Dollar Bank
2025 PNRC Board of Directors
Tracy Armstrong, North Pittsburgh Greeting Company
Nadia Bloom, Best Western Plus Cranberry Pittsburgh North
Louis Civitarese, Three Rivers Diversified Capital
Sherrie Dunlap Gallagher, United Way of Southwestern PA
Lisa Hunt, U$X Federal Credit Union
Donna Kline, HBKS Wealth Advisors
Ryan Kociela, Butler County Community College - Cranberry
Nate Musselman, IXOYE Designs
Amy Smith, Cranberry Township
Felipe Valdez, Nothing Bundt Cakes
Bradley Wilkins, KeyBank
PNRC Staff
Director of Events and Programs
Lorry Perkins
Marketing & Programs Coordinator Matt Popchock
Membership Account Executive Rachel Shepler
Cover photo: Jackie Boggs, representing North Hills Community Outreach and the PNRC Board of Directors, speaks with an attendee of the annual Health & Wellness Fair at the Pine Community Center. Inside cover: 2024 Health & Wellness Fair. (Photo Credit: Al Marschke, BluMars Media)
Zoom Sponsor:
Contact Denise Martin, Chamber President, at 724-934-9700 x16 for more information on becoming a Chamber Partner.
A Letter from the President
Dear Chamber Members,
Autumn is my favorite time of year and I’m sure many Pennsylvanians would agree with me. The variation of colors that burst from the trees as I drive along 79 North are both inspiring and majestic. It’s therapy for my soul and the splash of rusty colors against an autumn blue sky remind me to breathe in the day and be fully present in the moment.
As we move into the autumn season at the PNRC, we prepare for a beloved event: the Health & Wellness Fair at Pine Township Community Center. This special event creates an opportunity to be mindful of all the things we can be doing for a healthier body and lifestyle. The focus is on internal and external well-being with a variety of healthcare professionals and vendors to guide us through our best options for a well-balanced life.
The coming cooler days may lure us inside, but that shouldn’t mean we neglect our mental and physical health. In fact, we should make it a priority to stay connected, gather together, and maintain good emotional health and physical activities. The PNRC offers wonderful opportunities to stay connected and partner with members to keep you active and involved. Listed in our Fall Corridors edition, be sure to save the dates for Barktoberfest, the Health & Wellness Fair, and our Holiday Social. And if you really want to spread some holiday cheer, get involved with our Giving Tree Program that works with local non-profit organizations to collect and distribute holiday gifts for individuals, families, and seniors in need.
Personally, I can’t wait to grab my sweaters and boots and head outside to hike. The crunch of fallen leaves under my feet, the smell of woodsy air, and the welcome chill make my heart smile. Spending time in nature is the best remedy to disconnect from work, reset your mind, and celebrate the beauty God created all around us. Take a few moments to think of all the things you are grateful for, the family and friends that you love, the victories you’ve won, and the hope of good things to come.
With a grateful heart,
Denise Martin President, PNRC
Landfill Diversion: A Smarter Way to Haul
The Junkluggers of Pittsburgh strive to solve the unseen problem in our homes: the silent epidemic of clutter.
By Julie Snider Business Development The Junkluggers of Pittsburgh
As a team member at The Junkluggers, I’ve seen firsthand how a seemingly simple problem—unwanted items and clutter—has grown into a complex, real-world issue. It’s an epidemic that affects everyone from young families to businesses, but nowhere is it more poignant and challenging than within our senior population.
Our homes are more than just spaces; they are repositories of memories, and often, a lifetime of accumulated possessions. When it’s time to move, downsize or transition into assisted living, this cherished clutter can become a significant battle for adult children to face on behalf of their parents.
The emotional and physical toll of this process is immense. Adult children are often tasked with the daunting responsibility of sifting through decades of belongings, many of which hold deep sentimental value. The question isn’t just, “How do I get rid of this?” but also, “How do I honor my parents’ past while making way for their future?” This is a problem that requires more than just a truck and a strong back. It requires a solution with a conscience.
Every year, millions of tons of unwanted items—from old furniture and appliances to clothing and electronics—end up in landfills. This wasteful cycle contributes to pollution, consumes valuable space, and perpetuates a throwaway culture that is unsustainable.
For a long time, the junk removal industry was built on a simple premise: haul it away as quickly as possible, usually straight to the dump. But we knew there had to be a better way—a way that respects both the items and the memories they represent, while also being kind to our planet.
Our Solution with a Conscience: The Junkluggers’ Rehome Program
We have built our business model on a different philosophy, guided by a mission to solve the problem of clutter and waste with an eco-friendly and community-focused approach. Our solution is our Rehome model, designed to give unwanted furniture, home goods and other items new life.
We’re not just a junk hauling service; we’re a service that focuses on donating, reselling, and repurposing your items.
Our program is built on three core principles:
1. Donating to Community: The first step is always to find a new home for your items through donation. We have long-standing partnerships with a wide network of local nonprofits and charities that distribute clothing, furniture and household goods to families and individuals in need. We work tirelessly to ensure that items we collect—a gently used sofa, a set of dishes or an old television—find their way to a good home. This process not only directly helps people in your community, but also provides you with a tax-deductible receipt for all donated items.
2. Reselling in Our Remix Market: For items in good condition that can’t be donated, our team carefully selects those that can be resold. We showcase these treasures in our very own Remix Market—a one-of-a-kind destination where quality finds get a second chance. From vintage lovers and collectors to bargain hunters and antique dealers, anyone can be a “Remixer.” Best of all, a portion of every sale supports local nonprofits, so shopping with us gives back to the community, too.
3. Repurposing for a New Use: For items that may not be suitable for donation or reselling, we look for opportunities to repurpose them. We partner with local artisans, upcyclers and community organizations that can give these items a new lease on life. An old dresser might become a piece of art, or salvaged wood from a deck might be used for a new community garden project. This creative approach keeps materials out of landfills and injects them back into the local economy in innovative ways.
Diverting from the Dump: Our Recycling Promise
Beyond our core Rehome program, a crucial part of our mission is our unwavering commitment to the environment. Our goal is to keep as much material out of landfills as possible. For the items that can not be donated, resold or repurposed, we take on the responsibility of sorting and recycling.
We meticulously sort materials like metal, cardboard, paper and glass, diverting them from landfills and sending them to the appropriate recycling facilities. We also specialize in the proper disposal of e-waste, such as old computers and televisions, ensuring that harmful materials are handled safely and don’t contaminate the environment.
It is only as a last resort, after all other options have been exhausted, that an item is ever taken to a landfill. This “last resort” approach stands in stark contrast to traditional junk removal services that often prioritize speed over sustainability, dumping mixed loads without a second thought.
Peace of Mind in a Time of Transition
The process of moving can be stressful enough without the added weight of dealing with a lifetime of possessions. We handle the entire process with care and empathy, ensuring that each item is given the best possible outcome. Our commitment is to never dump an item we believe can be Rehomed. This thoughtful approach turns a daunting chore into a positive act—a chance to not only reclaim a space, but also to contribute to a cleaner planet and a stronger community.
In the face of our modern clutter crisis, The Junkluggers stands as a model for how a business can address a pressing societal problem by integrating ethical, environmental and social responsibility into its very foundation. We prove that you can get rid of what you don’t need without getting rid of your conscience. ■
Julie Snider and The Junkluggers helped PNRC President Denise Martin refurnish the Chamber’s Wexford office in April.
Presented By
Thank you to our staff and volunteers, the staff of Pittsburgh National Golf Club, and all our valued members who made this year’s signature event an incredible success for the Chamber. The Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber congratulates our top finishers, by virtue of a scorecard tiebreaker: the Allegheny Health Network foursome of Tim Carney, Kevin Gundlach, Dr. Stephen Spencer and Dave Boguslawski!
Photos: Al Marschke, BluMars Media
Chamber Champions Civic Engagement at Workforce Development Breakfast Panel
Four General Assembly members convened at BC3 @ Cranberry to discuss locally relevant issues.
By Sherrie Dunlap Gallagher Legislative & Economic Development Committee Chair Major Gifts Officer, United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania
Civic engagement is a cornerstone of strong communities. By participating in local initiatives, individuals, businesses, nonprofit and community-based organizations have the opportunity to influence decisions that directly impact the region’s economic vitality and quality of life.
The Legislative & Economic Development Committee of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber serves as a vital nonpartisan platform for members to stay informed, voice concerns, and participate in advocacy for issues affecting this region.
Involvement in this committee allows members to engage with elected officials, advocate for legislation that will support businesses and residents, and support strategic economic initiatives. It also fosters collaboration between the public and private sectors, helping to drive sustainable growth and innovation throughout the region. By participating, members not only strengthen their own networks, but also contribute to the long-term success of the Chamber and the Pittsburgh North business community.
On Friday, September 19, in partnership with the Chamber, the committee held a Workforce Development Breakfast Panel that I had the honor of moderating. We were grateful to have bipartisan participation from State Senators Elder Vogel Jr. (PA-47) and Lindsey Williams (PA-38); and State Representatives Jeremy Shaffer (PA-28) and Dr. Arvind Venkat (PA-30), as well as a fresh continental breakfast provided by Panera Bread in Wexford.
Dr. Ryan Kociela, my PNRC Board colleague and Butler County Community College’s BC3 @ Cranberry Center Director, hosted the event, which filled the room with interested Chamber members.
State Senators Lindsey Williams (PA-38) and Elder Vogel (PA-47) were among our guests at the Sept. 19 Workforce Development Breakfast Panel.
To begin, our panelists were able to share information about their districts, the state committees on which they serve, and their recent passion projects, so to speak.
Senator Vogel, for example, is most proud of getting the Telemedicine Bill passed last year, while Congressman Venkat is working diligently to keep vaccines accessible to Pennsylvanians.
Senator Williams is excited about her push to raise childcare worker salaries, while Congressman Shaffer is working to address the state’s failure to pass a budget on schedule in seven of the past 10 years.
The panelists found plenty of common political ground under the umbrella of workforce development within the PNRC’s footprint.
They share a strong belief in the need to better support community colleges and trade schools, and to promote career training and development in the interest of retaining a young population. The related issue of making childcare more affordable was also discussed, as well as the need for an improved regional transit system that benefits young professionals, seniors and veterans alike.
Of equal importance, all four General Assembly members stressed the need to pay living wages to workers in childcare, senior care, and other service industries. Furthermore, they encouraged those PNRC member businesses that offer it to promote childcare options, as well as other forms of employee flexibility, to attract and retain labor.
Two of the hottest topics that were discussed during the hour were the effects of AI and/or immigration on our local workforce. Collectively, our panel sees AI as a growth opportunity for the region, especially when it comes to managing the technology itself and the potential to save costs on building apps.
As Shaffer pointed out, these things could make our region a leader in the field. However, his colleague, Venkat, sees an urgent need for regulation, especially over AI’s various medical and educational applications.
Regarding immigration, there was a shared focus on the immigrant population that contributes positively to our regional economy. That both Democratic and Republican leaders see a need for national immigration reform and border security, while supporting more legal paths to citizenship, did not go unnoticed.
Ultimately, the panel agreed that Pennsylvania needs to be smarter when it comes to evaluating immigrant labor and assisting legal immigrants who are facing injustice.
We appreciated our guests helping us achieve nonpartisan civic engagement over our shared vision: making our region an attractive one for those looking for a great place to live, work and play.
For more information about the PNRC’s Legislative & Economic Development Committee, contact sherrie. dunlapgallagher@unitedwayswpa.org. ■
Unpacking the New Tax Laws: What You Need to Know
By Bill Hecklick Founder/Enrolled Agent Hecklick Tax
On July 4, our friends in Washington, D.C. passed sweeping new tax legislation that will affect most taxpayers, both business and personal.
It’s not exactly easy to distill over 1,000 pages of legislation into something that we average folk can understand. Unfortunately, this led to a cascade of misinformation and confusion about what’s in the bill, and how it will affect you.
My biggest concern is the use of the word “permanent” in both the legislation itself, and in news coverage of the legislation. As we all know, nothing is truly permanent, especially when it comes to politics. In this case, “permanent” merely means that there’s no set expiration date for these laws. The last tax law was due to expire at the end of 2025, which is why we ended up with The Big, Beautiful Bill, as it is commonly called. Also, many of these changes do have expiration dates.
If a different regime gains control in Washington, these tax laws likely will be up for debate and possible change again. Now that we have clarified this, let’s summarize some of the more significant changes that we know are coming your way:
• Standard deductions and progressive tax brackets are now “permanent”
• Starting in 2025, many taxpayers aged 65 and over can take an additional $6,000 deduction
• State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction caps are raised to $40,000
• Overtime wages can be deducted dollar-for-dollar
• Certain tips can be deducted dollar-for-dollar
• Increases in child tax credits, adoption credit refundability, expansion of 529 rules
• Certain new car loan interest can be deductible
• Repeal of many clean energy credits
There are many more new and updated laws (1,000+ pages worth) that may or may not be applicable to you. Also, many of them are subject to income and other eligibility criteria.
With all these updates and changes, we strongly recommend getting professional tax advice as soon as possible. Even if you do your own taxes, it’s likely worth a consultation with a CPA, EA or other trusted tax professional to help you navigate these uncharted waters.
Hecklick Tax serves PNRC members from six Greater Pittsburgh locations. Click here to book an appointment at the office nearest you, or contact Bill directly at 412-212-6607. ■
Annual Health & Wellness Fair Returns to Pine Township
Experience an array of physical and mental health services at this PNRC Community Event.
By Lorry Perkins | Photos: Al Marschke, BluMars Media
The Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber invites the community to join us for the annual Health & Wellness Fair Presented By AHN Wexford/Highmark on Thursday, November 6, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., at the Pine Township Community Center. Admission is free and open to the public.
This popular PNRC Community Event brings together health-focused businesses, nonprofit organizations, wellness professionals and community members for a day of learning, connection and inspiration centered on living a healthier life.
A Day Dedicated to Health and Wellness
The Health & Wellness Fair is free and open to the public, offering something for every stage of life. Attendees will be able to explore a diverse range of vendors showcasing products, services and resources that promote physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
Expect to see local fitness centers, medical providers, nutrition experts, chiropractors, massage therapists, mental health professionals, holistic practitioners and more. Visitors can take advantage of free health screenings, product samples, and interactive demonstrations designed to help them take positive steps toward healthier living.
Whether you want to start a new fitness routine, learn about stress management, improve your diet, or discover new wellness treatments, this event is for you.
Opportunities for Vendors
For local health and wellness businesses, the fair is the perfect venue to connect face-to-face with people actively seeking your services and expertise. Vendors will receive a space to display materials, demonstrate products and engage with potential customers. This is not just a networking opportunity; it’s a chance to build relationships and trust with community members in a welcoming environment.
Vendor spaces for this year’s Health & Wellness Fair have sold very quickly, so vendors are traditionally encouraged to register early to secure placement and take full advantage of the exposure this event provides. Each space is $200 per Chamber member and $400 per non-member. We ask that vendors bring their own tables, but tables can be provided for a $25 surcharge.
Sponsorship Benefits
Businesses looking to take their visibility to the next level can become event sponsors. The following sponsorship packages are available as of Monday, September 29, 2025:
A 2024 Health & Wellness Fair attendee receives a complimentary massage from a caregiver for Finn Chiropractic in Wexford.
Gold Sponsor: $2,000
• Up to two vendor spaces in a prime location
• Recognition in all advanced publicity and social media
• Recognition in all printed materials and event collateral
• Visual recognition at event
• Logo/hyperlink on Chamber website event page
Silver Sponsor: $1,500
• One vendor space
• Recognition in all advanced publicity and social media
• Recognition in all printed materials and event collateral
• Visual recognition at event
• Logo/hyperlink on Chamber website event page
Sponsoring the Health & Wellness Fair positions your brand as a community leader committed to improving the welfare of our region. It is also an excellent way to show support for local businesses and connect with an engaged audience.
Get Involved
If your business offers health, fitness, nutrition, or wellness-related products or services, we invite you to be part of this impactful event. To learn more about becoming a vendor or sponsor, contact me at lperkins@pghnorthchamber.com
Join us at the Pine Community Center for a day dedicated to health, wellness and community connection. Together, we can inspire healthier living for everyone in our region. ■
Last year, Health & Wellness Fair patrons were able to try such non-invasive services as the Neveskin skin care treatment for free.
Pittsburgh Hispanic Chamber CEO Unites with PNRC for Latest Women’s Leadership After Hours Event
The Chamber’s Women’s Leadership programs continue to grow in popularity, even beyond the Pittsburgh North region.
By Lisa Hunt | Moderator, Women’s Leadership Roundtable Business Development Officer, U$X Federal Credit Union
The Women’s Leadership Roundtable (WLR) program brings together hundreds of women to develop connections, foster open discussion, share information, and support, empower, inspire, and encourage each other. Throughout the year, our Women’s Leadership After Hours events, presented by Brentwood Bank, provide opportunities for open, in-person networking, idea sharing, and community building with the women of the Pittsburgh North region.
In May, the WLR brought together some of the region’s premier women’s leadership groups to meet, network and collaborate in a relaxed, business-casual setting. Almost 50 members of Women United, the Women’s Interactive Network and the Women’s Small Business Association gathered with the WLR at the Wexford branch of Brentwood Bank for an engaging evening of collaboration and connection enjoyed by all.
Our Women’s Leadership After Hours event in August featured Melanie Marie Boyer, President/CEO of the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Foundation. As Past Chair of the PNRC’s Board of Directors, and a proud Board member of 12 years altogether, I was honored to join Melanie at Walnut Grill in Wexford for an interactive and inspiring discussion, capped off by a lively question-and-answer session with attendees.
The final Women’s Leadership After Hours will kick off the holiday season for the women of the Pittsburgh North region on Thursday, November 13 at the Cranberry Township Municipal Building. Mark your calendars now to join the Women’s Leadership Roundtable for our final in-person event of 2025! ■
Melanie Marie Boyer addresses the PNRC’s Women’s Leadership After Hours event at Walnut Grill Aug. 7.
PNRC’s Giving Tree Continues Spreading Holiday Cheer
By Beth Machine | Community Outreach Committee Chair & Vice Chair, PNRC Board of Directors
Each holiday season, the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber brings warmth and generosity to the community through its Giving Tree program, a cherished initiative that connects local nonprofits with generous individuals and businesses to fulfill holiday wishes for children, seniors and families in need.
How It Works
The Giving Tree Program is a collaborative effort between PNRC member nonprofits and Giving Tree Ambassadors. Nonprofits submit wish lists for their clients, and Ambassadors help distribute tags to the community. Each tag represents a specific wish—often something as simple as a toy, warm clothing or a gift card.
In 2024, the program made a few changes. Nonprofits were paired with Ambassadors, who served as pickup locations for the donated gifts. All gifts were expected to be valued at no more than $50, with a preference for physical items over gift cards to encourage more personal giving.
A Tradition of Giving
The Giving Tree program began as a modest effort by the Chamber’s Community Outreach Committee and has grown steadily each year. In 2021, the program served 13 nonprofits across Butler County and northern Allegheny County, collecting over 600 donated gifts. By 2024, the program had grown even further, with 1,100 gifts collected for 16 nonprofits through the support of 20 Ambassador locations.
Local businesses and community members play a vital role by displaying or distributing tags that list specific wish requests from nonprofit clients. These tags are then matched with donors who purchase and return the gifts, ensuring that holiday joy reaches those who need it most.
The Community Outreach Committee meets at our Wexford office in early November to prepare and distribute Giving Tree tags.
2025 Program Timeline
• October 6: Deadline for nonprofits and ambassadors to apply
• October 10: Community Outreach Committee matches Nonprofits with Ambassadors
• October 26: Nonprofits submit Giving Tree tag wish lists
• November 7: Community Outreach Committee meets in person to prepare, distribute Giving Tree tags
• December 8: Last day to return gifts to Ambassadors
• December 8–17: Gifts distributed to nonprofits
Who Can Participate?
Nonprofits must be active PNRC members to apply. However, all community businesses, including non-members, can sign up to be Ambassadors.
Click here to apply as a nonprofit recipient. Click here to apply to be a Giving Tree Ambassador.
The Giving Tree is a testament to the power of community, compassion and collaboration. Whether you’re a nonprofit seeking support or a neighbor looking to give back, your participation helps make the season brighter for those in need.
Contact pnrcoutreach@gmail.com or call 724-934-9700 for more information. ■
