Corridors March 2024

the

FROM PRESIDENT

March is Women’s History Month. The Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber values the contributions that women have made to our organization and our community. This year, in our recognition of fifteen individual Community Champions, eight were women Moreover, of the 37 total Community Champions including small businesses and nonprofits, 22 were from the efforts of female leadership.

Within the chamber, eleven of our eighteen board members are women, as is 60% of our staff. Our last Board Chair was a woman and so is our current Chair Elect.

Women are making a big impact in the business world. Our Women’s Leadership Program is one of our fastest growing groups. Led by Dr. Ann Gatty of Strategic People Solutions, the monthly virtual meetings average 22 in attendance. Their quarterly mixers have grown to over 40 attendees. Last year’s Women’s Leadership Brunch sold out with 120 attendees We expect more to attend this year on May 17th, so we’ve reserved more space.

Julie Campbell, a consummate regional women’s advocate, is also a major contributor to our Women’s Leadership Program She also leads PNC Bank’s Project 257 Their mission is to accelerate women’s financial equality.

The chamber has also seen strength in partnering with several of the region’s prominent women’s groups in some of the things that we do. We have had projects and events with the Women’s Small Business Association, Women in Business, United Way’s Women’s Leadership Council, and the Center for Women’s Leadership at Chatham.

Ladies, the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber salutes you. Thank you for all your contributions.

Sincerely,

Jim Boltz

President, PNRC

Wednesday, March 6th

11:30a - 1p

Tequila Jalisco - Gibsonia

5517 William Flynn Highway Gibsonia, PA 15044

Register HERE

Every Tuesday, 11:30a - 1p

@ Discovery Christian Church in Mars

Every Friday, 7:30a - 9a

@ Panera Bread in Wexford

Want to present at a Connections Meeting?

Email Kelvin Mack

Thursday, March 28th

8a - 9a

Virtual via Zoom

Celebrate Women in Business! Sign up HERE for the Zoom link

Presenting Sponsor:

Tuesday,March26th

5p-7p

FajitaPete’s 6298NorthwayMallDr, Pittsburgh,PA15237

RegisterHERE

Zoom link for all virtual meetings will be provided after you register on the event page Thanks to the generosity of WesBanco Bank’s Cranberry Township Branch, we are able to provide virtual networking events

Jazmyn Phillips

1-800-STRIPER OF NW PITTSBURGH

“In a very short time Jazmyn has been a member, she has made significant contributions to the Chamber. She not only has attended several networking events, but she has become a member of HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Excel) and has sponsored both the Community Champions Small Business Category and last month’s Business After Hours at Cranberry Sports Grille. Jazmyn found ways to not only promote her business, 1-800-Stiper, but also build relationships with other members of the Chamber, particularly with young professionals and women’s leadership.”

~Carrie Nolan-Robson, PNRC Director of Events & Programs

Presented By:

The Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber of Commerce invites you to attend the 2024 Annual Meeting. This event recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments and excellence of our business community each year. This year, our Annual Meeting will take place on two separate dates.

Part 1 of our Annual Meeting will be held virtually. Join us on March 19th at 2PM via Zoom to:

Celebrate 2023's accomplishments

Welcome the newest members of the Board of Directors

Highlight goals for 2024

Find out who the Annual Award Finalists are and how to VOTE!

Register now for the VIRTUAL portion of our Annual Meeting!

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

2:00 to 4:00p

Register on our website here.

Virtually via Zoom link. Thank you to WesBanco's Cranberry Twp Branch for providing the Zoom account.

Vote early and often for the Prom King & Queen on our website: click here to vote. All proceeds benefit the PNRC Education Foundation Scholarship Fund

Thank you to our sponsors:

COMMUNITY BUILDERS

Thank you to our Members who have generously contributed to furthering the mission and vision of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber!

2 Krew Security & Surveillance

A Comfort Service

Advantage Energy Partners, LLC

AdVenture Development dba McCandless Crossing

AJ Technology Group

Alliance for Nonprofit Resources

Anchor Wave Internet Solutions

Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry

Arvos Schmidtsche Schack, LLC

Arvos Schmidtsche Schack, LLC

Ashton Commons

Assisted Living Locators North Pittsburgh

Atria at Cranberry Woods

Atria McCandless

Axis Business Consultants

Baierl Auto Group

BDS Supply Chain

Bethany Christian Services of Western PA

Bill Few Associates, Inc.

Borough of Seven Fields

Boy Scouts of America - Laurel Highlands Council

Bridge Home Realty

Bruster's of Ingomar

Butler County Symphony Orchestra

C W Howard Insurance Agency, Inc

CHROME Federal Credit Union

Clean Express Auto Wash

Clearview Federal Credit Union - Wexford

Cole Management, Inc

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

Community Park Storage

Concordia of Cranberry

Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh North

Cranberry Highlands Golf Course

Cranberry Messenger Service

Cranberry Public Library

Cranberry Supply Co

Cranberry Township

Cranberry Twp. Volunteer Fire Company

Cranberry Village Estates

Cremation Society of Pennsylvania - Pittsburgh

Crisis Center North, Inc

CTR Payroll Services

Dairy Queen - Cranberry

Dented Keg Brewing Company

Dillon McCandless King Coulter & Graham LLP

Diversified Plan Services Inc

Drayer Physical Therapy - Cranberry

Early Years Community Learning Centers

ECCA Payroll+

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Harmarville

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Harmarville

Express Employment Professionals

Fairfield by Marriott Pittsburgh North / McCandless Crossin

Fairground Market, Inc

Farmers National Bank of Canfield

First City Company-McIntyre Square

First Commonwealth Bank - Wexford

Flowers by Gerard

Franklin Inn Mexican Restaurant

Fun Fore All Family Fun Park

General Rental Center

George A. Reed Agency, Inc.

Glade Run Foundation

Goddard School - Wexford

Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center

Green Apple Barter

Guardian Storage- Hampton

Guardian Storage- Marshall

Guardian Storage- Ross Twp

Guardian Storage- Seven Fields

Hand & Shoulder Center

Handel's of McCandless

HEARTH

Herbein + Company, Inc

Highmark Caring Place

Hill, Barth & King LLC

Holsinger

Home2 Suites by Hilton Pittsburgh/McCandless

House of 1000 Beers

i.e. Insurance

IMA | ESS

Instant Imprints

Izzazu Salon, Spa & Blowout Bar

Jason's Deli- Cranberry Twp

Jason's Deli- Cranberry Twp

Joe Palmieri Construction, Inc.

Juniper Grill

Kontos Mengine Law Group

Kress Restoration

Limbach Company

Lisowski Tree Service and Landscaping,LLC

Living in Liberty

COMMUNITY BUILDERS

Thank you to our Members who have generously contributed to furthering the mission and vision of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber!

Lou Negley's Bottled Water Inc

Lutheran SeniorLife

Mark Mashuda Excavating Inc

Masonic Village at Sewickley

McCandless Corporate Center

McCandless Floral

McGuire Memorial Foundation

Medicine Shoppe of Ingomar

MHY Family Services

MOD Wash - Wexford

Mr. Electric of Cranberry Township

Myers, Patsy & Associates, LLC

NexTier Bank

Nexus Financial Network, LLC

North Hills Family Dental

North Pittsburgh Greeting Company

Northland Public Library

Nothing Bundt Cakes - Cranberry

Oliver Outdoor

OMEGA Federal Credit Union- North Hills

OMEGA Federal Credit Union- Wexford

Organic Remedies, Inc

Owl Cleaners Inc

Penn National Insurance

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Perform Physio, LLC

PetSuites Cranberry Township

Phelps Nursery PGH, North Inc

Piatt Sotheby's International Realty

Pittsburgh Business Times

Pittsburgh Jet Center

Pittsburgh Job Corps

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

PNC Investor Center - Wexford

Polesky Agency, Scott Berney - Erie Insurance

Pressley Ridge

Print Tech of Western PA

Priority2Work

Pursuit

R.M. Stoof & Associates Inc.

Realty ONE Group Gold Standard

Restart, Inc

Restore It

Rex Glass & Mirror

Richard Goettle, Inc

Richland Mall

Ridge Insurance Agency, Inc

Riverview Carpet & Flooring, Inc

Riverview Carpet & Flooring, Inc

Rose E Schneider Family YMCA

Ross Township

Rossman Hensley, Inc

Rt 228 Auto Mall

S & T Bank- Cranberry Township

Salem Media Group

Sam's Club

Scolieri-Beam Law Group, PC

Seneca Valley School District

SERVPRO of Southern Butler County

Sherwin-Williams Cranberry

Signature Settlements Services Agency

Skander Tire Service, Inc.

Special T Electronics

Special T Electronics

Specialized Staffing and Industry Recruiters, Inc.

SportClips

SSB Bank

St. Barnabas Health System

Staples-Cranberry Twp

Star Limousine Service Inc

Strutz International

Terry's Plumbing, Inc

The Arc of Butler County

The Arc of Butler County

The Blessing Board

The Block Northway

The Block Northway

The Haven at North Hills

The Haven at North Hills

The Lighthouse Foundation

The Payroll Shoppe

The Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School

The Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School

The Thrasher Group, Inc.

The Waters of Wexford

The Waters of Wexford

The Woodlands Foundation

Three Rivers Paintball, Inc.

Tierra Realty Management

Toplak & Associates

TownePlace Suites by Marriott

Township of Hampton

Treasure House Fashions

COMMUNITY BUILDERS

Thank you to our Members who have generously contributed to furthering the mission and vision of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber!

Trib Total Media

Two Men and A Truck

Ultimate Granite Surfaces, Inc.

UPMC Passavant

Urish Popeck & Co LLC

USX Federal Credit Union

Vector Security

Vincentian

Vincentian

Vitalant (Central Blood Bank)

Vogel Disposal Service, Inc

Vrabel Plumbing Company, LLC

Wain Landscaping, LLC

Wain Landscaping, LLC

Walnut Grill Wexford

WesBanco Bank - Perry Highway

West Penn Multi-List, Inc

Wichman Landscape Construction, LLC

Wiest Asphalt Products & Paving Inc.

Williams Industrial Sales

Wine Concrete Products Inc.

Win-Son Inc.

Your CBD Store - Shaler

Your CBD Store- Gibsonia

Your CBD Store- North Hills

AffinityPartner Corner

Why Employee Benefits Matter

As most company leaders and workers can attest, employee benefits play a critical role in the long-term success for businesses of all sizes.

A comprehensive and well put together compensation package, including both wages and benefits, goes a long way in meeting corporate goals for attracting and retaining necessary talent. A targeted, rich benefit package can help a company stand out among its competitive peers and can provide the company with a competitive edge when it comes to attracting necessary new and top talent Corporate leaders also know that employees who feel valued and cared for through benefits like health insurance, retirement plans and liberal paid time off programs are more likely to remain with their current employer rather than seek opportunities elsewhere.

Additionally, by providing employees with access to benefits that can help meet their health and well-being needs, employers can help their workforce achieve a better work-life balance, reducing absenteeism and creating a healthier, happier, and more engaged workforce. And as most employers know, an engaged workforce provides a crucial boost toward their goal of increased employee productivity and the overall profitability of their business.

Finally, while the compilation of a good employee benefit program does come with expense, it often leads to a long-term cost reduction snot only through the efficiencies mentioned above but also through a reduction in healthcare costs due to lower rates of claims utilization.

Employee benefits contribute significantly to producing a positive company culture, leading to improved employee and long-term success for the organization.

PNRC Affinity Partners Program

Your Chamber membership is a valuable business tool that is complemented by our Affinity Program Partners who help you to save time and money. Save on everything from payroll to energy and you don’t have to spend your valuable time researching - your Chamber has done it all for you!

Nonprofit Spotlight

Nonprofit Name: National Ovarian Cancer Coalition

Mission: The mission of the NOCC is to save lives through the prevention and cure of ovarian cancer and to improve quality of life for survivors and their caregivers.

Upcoming Events:

Together in Teal Fundraising Walk – Sunday, September 15th at North Park Pool Loop.

Information/Donation Contact:

Kellie Kaminski-Johnson, Great Lakes Regional Manager, kjohnson@ovarian.org. Visit www.ovarian.org/get-involved for more information about events and partnerships.

What impact does your organization wish to make in the world?

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest of all female gynecologic diseases. Sadly, there is no screening test for this insidious disease, yet anyone born with ovaries is at risk. Due to the lack of an early detection test, most ovarian cancer cases are caught too late, when the disease has advanced to a late stage. We must do more in our fight against this “silent killer.”

Since 1991, the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) has provided support to thousands of cancer survivors, delivered millions of educational resources, and connected with countless local community partners to raise awareness about ovarian cancer. The NOCC is an influential national advocate for patients, survivors, caregivers, and their families facing an ovarian cancer diagnosis and remains

Nonprofit Spotlight

steadfast in its mission “to save lives through the prevention and cure of ovarian cancer, and to improve the quality of life for survivors and caregivers.” At the NOCC, our teal team leads with our values and unique experiences to provide support and education across all communities, ensuring that every person is empowered to advocate for their health.

What needs would help your organization to put your mission into action?

NOCC's work cannot be done alone. As an underrepresented cause, we need a community of dedicated teal advocates, volunteers, and fundraisers to turn action into activism. More voices are needed to spread awareness about the risks, signs, and symptoms of ovarian cancer throughout the nation, amplifying our collective impact. Financial resources are also critical in raising awareness, providing qualityof-life programs for survivors and their caregivers like complimentary meal delivery for anyone in treatment and mental health support, and funding life-saving research. Lastly, collaborations with trusted partners are key in sustaining our programs and making our support resources a reality. We are always looking for corporate partners on a local level to support the work we do here in Pittsburgh and the entire Great Lakes Region. There are many ways to get involved, from sponsorship of our Together in Teal Walk to in-kind donations for our survivor programs. If your company would like to get involved with our work for ovarian cancer survivors, please contact Regional Manager Kellie Kaminski-Johnson (kjohnson@ovarian.org) for more information. As our anthem reads, "Together we are strong, and we will never back down!"

How Women Entrepreneurs Practice Allyship:

By Ann N. Gatty, Ph.D, Strategic People Solutions

In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, fostering inclusivity and practicing allyship has become not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage. Here is what we have come to know as allyship. First, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an ally is “one that is associated with another as a helper: a person or group that provides assistance and support in an ongoing effort, activity, or struggle Allyship is defined as: actions a person takes to support, amplify, and advocate with others, most especially with individuals who don’t belong to the same social identities as themselves. So, how does this apply to the workplace or any place for that matter?

As a business development consultant, I find most of my clients are entrepreneurs and I am coaching an increasing number of women entrepreneurs. These women exhibit tenacity, resilience, and overcome the self-doubt that can creep into any business owner’s mind at the most inopportune times! In honor of International Women’s Month, I thought it appropriate to focus this article on women entrepreneurs because I have found it an honor to be a part of their worlds.

Entrepreneurs, including women, have a unique opportunity to drive positive change by actively supporting marginalized groups and creating an environment where diversity thrives. Here are some concrete ways in which entrepreneurs can practice allyship to promote diversity in their businesses and communities.

Educate Yourself: One exemplary woman entrepreneur, let's call her Sarah, demonstrates allyship by continuously educating herself about the challenges faced not only by women, but other marginalized communities. Sarah actively seeks out resources, attends workshops, and engages in discussions with individuals from diverse backgrounds to broaden her understanding of systemic barriers, discrimination, and unconscious biases. We have all experienced this at one time or another in our lives. By raising awareness that everyone has value and perspectives to offer, we can recognize different points of view and begin to have open and honest conversations.

Listen and Amplify Marginalized Voices: Another example of allyship comes from Emily, a female entrepreneur who practices active listening and amplifies marginalized voices within her organization. When Emily holds a meeting, she makes certain that all voices are heard., Let’s say that a female, Joyce, makes a suggestion which is ignored by those in attendance. Later in the meeting, a male, John, makes the same suggestion which is recognized. Emily, an ally of Joyce’s, reminds everyone that Joyce had already mentioned this suggestion. This is a simple way to make certain that women and any other members of a marginalized group are not ignored.

Advocate for Policy Change: Alexandra, a female entrepreneur with a strong advocacy mindset, uses her platform for influencing the community to advocate for policy changes that promote diversity in the workplace. Alexandra engages with policymakers, participates in advocacy campaigns, and supports initiatives aimed at addressing systemic inequalities, driving meaningful change at both the local and national levels. She also authors a blog in which she regularly posts about ways women can support each other and highlights women and minority success stories.

Take Action: Rebecca, a woman entrepreneur, is always on the lookout for ways in which she can practice allyship. Rebecca is proactive in addressing discriminatory behavior, whether overt or subtle, and takes steps to create a zerotolerance policy for discrimination, demonstrating her commitment to allyship through her actions and decisions. She promotes diversity within her organization by implementing inclusive hiring practices. Rebecca actively recruits individuals from underrepresented groups, provides equal opportunities for advancement, and creates a supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected Lastly, as a women entrepreneur, Rebecca tries to hire contractors and vendors who are also women business owners. She believes that through these actions she can help promote women‘s visibility in the workplace.

Collaborative Skill Sharing: Consider the partnership between Lisa and Maya, two women entrepreneurs who exemplify allyship by supporting each other's businesses through collaborative skill sharing. Lisa, an expert in digital marketing, recognized Maya's need for marketing expertise to grow her business Instead of viewing Maya as a competitor, Lisa offered to share her knowledge and skills in digital marketing strategies with Maya.

In return, Maya, who excels in financial management, offered to provide Lisa with guidance and support in managing her business finances. By collaborating and sharing skill sets, Lisa and Maya not only strengthened their respective businesses but also set an example for other women entrepreneurs to follow. This type of collaborative allyship not only enhances individual businesses' success but also contributes to the overall growth and empowerment of women in entrepreneurship.

Incorporating examples of women practicing allyship not only highlights their contributions but also emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in driving positive change. By following in the footsteps of these examples, both men and women can create more inclusive businesses, drive positive social change, and contribute to a more equitable world for all.

Woman Leaders: Meet Your Inner Board

By: Merilee Smith, Coach with Merilee

When asked to write this article, I felt honored and excited for the chance to make a positive impact on the women in our region.

Then, within moments, my energy shifted. I heard an inner voice say, “Who are you to write such an article? There are women out there who are far more talented than you. What value could you possibly share?” As I listened to this voice, I felt stressed and unsure. I was about to decline this opportunity, when another voice spoke up.

This voice whispered, “Merilee, you are a leader. In fact, you are a woman business owner with a successful business helping women leaders take charge of their stress so they can lead their best lives. You love doing this, you’re absolutely qualified to write this article, and you will make a difference by doing so.”

Since you’re reading this article, you can guess which voice won. But what if I believed the first voice? Then I would have played small and not shared my knowledge and gifts. This is a perfect example of how powerful our mindset and thoughts truly are.

I like to visualize my thoughts as the Inner Board Members in my head. They’re sitting around a table directing how I respond to life’s opportunities and challenges. Each member offers its unique perspectives and beliefs They each impact how I lead others and myself.

I will introduce you to your Inner Board Members a little later in this article. For now, it’s critical to know that your mindset and thoughts are everything. They will either energize your success and happiness or they will fuel your stress and get in the way of your goals and dreams.

As women leaders, we’re constantly striving to be our best! With our success, comes never-ending expectations and demands from those we lead and love. It’s easy to run on autopilot and get sucked into energy-draining stress and low vibe thinking at work and in our personal lives.

Woman Leaders: Meet Your Inner Board

When this happens, we lose focus on what’s important and who we are. We feel the pressure to do and be more. We can judge ourselves and even others. This stress affects our overall well-being and relationships. It blocks us from our highest leadership potential and living a fulfilling and peaceful life It’s exhausting! Right?

The great news is there’s a way to end this energetic struggle and be the leaders we want to be. The truth is, our world needs our leadership, now more than ever. If we want to be strong woman leaders and changemakers in our families, workplaces, and communities, then we must first lead ourselves.

Jennifer Herold, CEO of Vaughan Herold LLC, says, “Work on yourself first and work on yourself hardest before you try to work on someone else”

I’m not suggesting that you’re not already leading yourself, because I’m quite sure you are. As a leadership and mindset development coach, I see many successful women, of all ages and leadership levels, get in their own way. Why? Because of the stress they put on themselves by listening to and battling the Inner Board Members in their heads.

So, who are these Inner Board Members and how do they impact your leadership and happiness potential? There are seven members on your Inner Board, ready to give you advice. Each one of them is driven by your thoughts and beliefs. They have a specific job and will produce different emotions, energy, actions, and outcomes. Allow me to introduce you to your Inner Board now.

-Meet Defeat. This board member’s job is to keep you safe and in your comfort zone. When you listen to it, you might tell yourself, “I can’t do this. I have no control. I’m not good or smart enough. I’m not valued. People will judge me. Who do I think I am?”

Remember, your thoughts are very powerful. Such messages will make you feel overwhelmed, powerless, and stuck. You will have very little energy for action.

Woman Leaders: Meet Your Inner Board

From a leadership perspective, this is when you see other people, specific situations, and even yourself as problems instead of opportunities. Fear runs the show. You find yourself complaining or worrying about a decision you need to make or a recent mistake made

This is also where self-doubt hangs out. As a result, you might not speak up or go after what you want. You will procrastinate and avoid taking responsibility and action.

As high achieving women, we don’t like to feel like victims. We get frustrated with ourselves when we have self-defeating thoughts and then we’re even harder on ourselves.

Please know these thoughts and emotions are normal. Rather than judge yourself for having them, get curious and understand them. Every woman, no matter where she is in life, has them. This is especially true when we feel stressed or want to make a change. It’s our reptilian brain jumping into the classic fight, flight, freeze, or appease mode to protect us.

Here's the thing, stress will never go away. It’s part of our human experience and growth process There are plenty of things outside of our control However, we absolutely can control our thoughts and how we perceive the situations that stress us out.

This is why it’s critical to know your Inner Board Members. The messages they tell you affect your energy and what you do and say as a leader. The more aware you are of your perspectives, the more you can consciously create thoughts that will empower you to be the amazing leader you are.

From the wisdom of my colleague and dear friend Niki Campbell, Founder and CEO of The Flourish Group, “Don't let the fear of judgement by others hold you back from pursuing your career or business dreams. Make a heart-led, brain-backed decision that's best for you and don't worry about what everyone else thinks.”

Enough about Defeat, let’s meet your next Inner Board Member.

Woman Leaders: Meet Your Inner Board

- Meet Judgment. When Judgment speaks you hear, “I have to do more. I must hustle and work harder. Everything needs to be perfect. I must fight to prove myself. I like to be right and control things.” Sound familiar?

This is a go to Inner Board Member for many go getters! We can get a lot accomplished with this energy. It creates the urgency and high expectations we need to take action and achieve our goals. While this Inner Board Member can motivate us and others for the short-term, it’s not sustainable and can lead to negative results.

When we approach work, relationships, or even our health, from this perspective, we get sucked into black and white thinking This limits our ability to see alternative opportunities. We judge things as all or nothing. We believe things and people need to be a specific way. This can cause us to be overly critical of ourselves and other people.

As leaders, when we overuse this Inner Board Member, we don’t ask for help or support. We struggle to properly delegate and develop our team members. This breaks trust and damages relationships.

To sum this board member up, it can help us take action and drive results but it’s also fueled with judgment energy. Too much of this is frustrating, stressful, and will cause burnout.

To move beyond Defeat and Judgment, you can tap into your next Inner Board Member, Rationalization.

-Meet Rationalization. Rationalization’s role is to help you take responsibility for how you think and feel. This will help you reduce stress so that you can be productive and keep moving forward.

You will know Rationalization is doing its job when you hear yourself say any of the following, “What can I do to let go of my frustration? How can I make this work to my benefit? What’s the silver lining here? Things can always be worse. I’m fine. It’s fine.”

Woman Leaders: Meet Your Inner Board

As women leaders who want to make things happen, we use our Rationalization mindset a lot! This can be both helpful and harmful to our success and happiness. In order to know the difference, your self-awareness will be key.

Looking at life from this perspective enables you to focus on what you can control. It gives you the ability to prioritize tasks and pick your battles so that you can make progress towards your desired goals. This Inner Board Member is a productive one, but you must beware of over-rationalizing things in your life.

When we constantly tell ourselves “We’re fine. Things are fine,” and they’re really not fine, guess what happens? We get sucked into the low-vibe energies of fear, judgment, and frustration We incessantly tolerate the things we want to change because it’s easier to stay in our comfort zone. We accept mediocrity, avoid challenges, and we stop evolving.

Yes, change is scary but it also elevates our leadership and leads to incredible possibilities. And the world needs the change that fearless women leaders can bring.

Next up, is your Inner Board Member, Service.

-Meet Service. Tapping into this member will energize your heart with compassion, kindness, and gratitude. You’ll hear yourself saying, “How can I help this person? What support do they need? How can I listen and connect with this person?”

Approaching life from this lens makes you feel lighter and fulfilled. It feels good to be there for others and make a positive impact.

It’s important to be mindful of how much you listen to this voice. Women as leaders, mothers, and caregivers are often expected to take on a nurturing role. Our identity and self-worth can get wrapped up in the constant pressure to help people at work and at home.

When we overserve, we disempower people from taking ownership of their own life and actions. We can also feel burned out and undervalued by others. We may feel resentful towards people for taking advantage of our time and energy.

Woman Leaders: Meet Your Inner Board

The goal is to find the right flow with this board member. It’s energizing and important to help others. It’s equally important to ask for help and gives ourselves the grace, space, and love we need to take care of our own well-being.

I love this guidance from Lee Ann Munger, Development Officer, Women’s Leadership Council United Way, “Don’t try to do it all yourself. Recognize the importance of relationships and know that there is support available. Whether it’s forming strong relationships with other successful women in business, finding inspiring mentors or hiring a great accountant, be open to reaching out and drawing into your circle those who can support your success."

Now let’s explore the Inner Board Member that opens the door to Opportunity

-Meet Opportunity. This Inner Board Member offers tremendous value. When you listen to it, you successfully lead and take action without doubt or frustration.

From this viewpoint, you believe that all experiences are valuable, even the most challenging ones. You confidently make decisions because you know that no matter what you will learn and grow from them.

As the bold and brilliant MJ Klimas, Principal of Presence Plus says, “Yes, or no, either answer is right! Make the decision! Live with the results. If the outcome is not what we expected, then we can fix it. Make another decision!”

Your Opportunity board member tells you to approach life with curiosity instead of judgment. You’re able to accept the facts of a specific situation, yourself, and others as they are. From here, you can clearly and consciously choose the best response and the next step that will lead to your desired outcome.

This mindset motivates you to challenge the status quo and continuously grow. It brings out the potential in people and creates a win-win for all.

Lastly, this inner voice gives you the wherewithal to ditch guilt and set boundaries to honor your energy and time so that you can live true to yourself.

Woman Leaders: Meet Your Inner Board

I think as women, we can all resonate with Sarah Halperin’s, Founder, Process Works, advice, “Your time is an incredibly valuable resource - treat is as such; conserve it where you can, and spend it intentionally. And, while you can elaborate on it if you'd like, "No" is a complete sentence”

When you lead with your Opportunity mindset, you are confident, creative, resilient, and agile. You naturally feel peaceful and content.

An Inner Board Member that works well with Opportunity is Connection.

-Meet Connection. When you leverage this member, you are deeply connected to who you are -- your purpose and your values You trust your inner guidance and focus on what matters most. Because of this, ruminating about other things is not on your radar. You are purposeful and fully present with yourself, other people, and your top priorities.

You know you are a part of something bigger. Creating synergy and lasting relationships with others is important to you.

With this perspective, you ask yourself, “What can I do to re-energize? What’s my WHY? What am I passionate about? What do I love doing and how can I do more of it? How can we create a shared purpose and inspire each other?”

The best way to elevate your energy is to connect with the people and things that light you up.

Here’s some sage advice from an incredible woman in my network. “Build your squad that you check in with frequently. For context, this is your go to set of people on text, email, etc. You can run things by them, they will offer advice, help with solutions, be a sounding board, offer a pick me up when you have a hard day, hold you accountable, etc. There is so much value in this if you find the right people,” Neha Patel, Founder, Fusion Events.

I have these supportive women in my life. You know who you are and I love you!

Woman Leaders: Meet Your Inner Board

Last, but absolutely not least, we meet the chairman of your board, Your Inner Leader.

-Meet Your Inner Leader This is your highest level of awareness This voice sparks passion, courage, and joy within you. When accessed, you remind yourself of the following, “I create my own peace and happiness. I appreciate all of my life. I consciously choose how I respond to each situation. Life is a journey and not a game to be won. I am fearless. I am the leader of my life.”

This is your most powerful perspective because it gives you the energy to embrace opportunities and make your dreams a reality.

We know life is both beautiful and difficult. Your Inner Leader uses all of your Inner Board Members to celebrate your wins and navigate the tough times.

It gives you the emotional agility to fully acknowledge your setbacks and losses and honor all of the emotions that come along with them. With this strength, you will rise and successfully lead yourself and others through stressful times, changes, and life’s transitions.

Your Inner Leader is YOU. She’s always been there and always will be. She’s brave, kind and leads with conviction. She’s humble and yet, unapologetically herself. She stands up for others and what she believes in. She champions other women and creates collaboration over competition.

Remember you are not alone. Stay the course. You have an incredible Inner Board supporting you. You always get to choose which ones you listen to and promote and which ones you retire. When you listen to your Inner Leader, you radiate your light, inspire others, and elevate our world which needs magnificent women leaders like you!

*This article contains an interpretation of the Energy Leadership model that I use with my clients. It’s from the copyrighted work of Bruce D. Schneider of the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC). *

Governor Shapiro’s Proposed 2024-25 State Budget

By Eileen Anderson, Director, Government Relations, Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA)

Stay informed! Here are some highlights from Gov. Shapiro’s proposed budget. Check out the top-line spending figures and the draw-down on Pennsylvania’s reserves.

Proposed spending is $48.3 billion, an estimated 7.1% more (or $3.73 billion) than last year’s budget of $45.1 billion. That is $3 billion more than the state expects to take in during the fiscal year. $3 billion is a depletion of nearly 40% of reserves which means that that the promises in this budget would only be good for another two years before reserves run out. This will be a key part of the budget debate.

Current reserves have $14 billion. If the budget is enacted as proposed, $11 billion will remain.

Carl Mararra, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association, said $48.3 billion will be the new baseline for future budgets since history shows no budgets have decreased spending from the prior year.

Editor’s Note: The Independent Fiscal Office warned in a November report that state revenues are projected below inflation in the coming five years. The agency predicts a cumulative structural deficit of more than $16 billion through 2028-29.

Most important to businesses - Workforce Development Highlights

$2.4 million increase for Career and Technical Education.

$2 million to build a one-stop-shop for career pathways.

$2 million for business transitions to skills-based hiring practices providing for those without college degrees.

Governor Shapiro wants the minimum wage to rise from $7.25 an hour to $15 an hour.

Governor Shapiro’s Proposed 2024-25 State Budget

Basic Education Funding K-12

The Commonwealth Court found unconstitutional inequities between rich and poor schools in the school funding system which has resulted in plans to increase spending more equitably to school districts with low incomes and low property values.

$1,072 billion - Basic Education Funding

Special Education - Funding increased by $50 million.

Pre-K Counts - Funding increased by $30 million.

A statewide cyber tuition rate set at $8,000 per student.

The 2023-24 budget process halted when Gov. Shapiro vetoed a critical piece of education funding sought by Republicans - Lifeline Scholarships. They would create educational choice by providing school vouchers for poor families in struggling school districts.

Higher Education Funding

Pennsylvania spends less on higher education than many states resulting in increased financial burden on students.

Employers take note – Gov Shapiro calls for a new system of higher education that unites PA’s state universities and the 15 community colleges under a new governance system. Studies show that 85% of those who graduate from community colleges stay in PA.

Funding is increased to $975 million, a 15% increase over the $850 million total funding in the 2023-24 budget.

Direct appropriations to publicly funded colleges and universities would be distributed on the basis of outcomes and will encourage colleges and universities to focus on teaching what is most important.

Funding for Public Transit

The budget calls for an increase of $283 million from an increased allocation of the state sales tax revenue, which must be passed by legislation.

Governor Shapiro’s Proposed 2024-25 State Budget

Continued...

There is a $160 million increase for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority and a $40 million increase (10%) for Pittsburgh Regional Transit.

Economic Development

On January 30, Governor Shapiro presented an Economic Development Strategic Plan to make Pennsylvania a leader in innovation and economic development. Ohio, New York, and New Jersey spend more resources on economic development than PA.

The most important elements included in the budget for the plan are the following amounts:

PA SITES - $500 million for Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites funded through bonds, (loans that must be paid back). All permits are secured, all land cleared and graded, and all utilities already installed in advance.

$25 million - to establish a new Main Street Matters program. (Small Business) $20 million for PA Innovation.

Possible Revenue Streams

Legalizing adult use cannabis on 1/1/24 with sales beginning 1/1/25 would bring in $253 million.

Taxing skill games at 42% will provide $150 million in revenue.

Q. What was not heard in the budget proposal?

A. Improvements for business tax structure and reducing regulations.

No mention of expediting state permitting so waits are not two years in some instances. Instead, we have a money-back guarantee which is meaningless in many cases.

No mention of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) which when implemented means 20% 35% more in energy costs for all.

No acceleration of the reduction of the Corporate Net Income Tax rate.

Governor Shapiro’s Proposed 2024-25 State Budget

Ironically with all of the focus on competitiveness and innovation the Governor said nothing about Net Operating Losses, (NOLs) now at only 40% carryforward.

Pennsylvania is currently one of only two states in the nation with such a low NOL. The federal code allows 80%.

The proposed budget is the first step in the annual budgeting process which should conclude with passage by June 30, 2024. Next the Senate and House appropriations committees are holding hearings in February and March to examine the proposed budget in greater detail.

Empowering Education: Support the Seneca Valley

Educational Foundation through Pennsylvania's Education Improvement Tax Credit Program

By Annie Mersing, Seneca Valley School District

In the pursuit of nurturing a thriving society, education stands as a cornerstone, shaping the future generations and fostering growth and innovation. Recognizing this, Pennsylvania has pioneered an initiative that intertwines the efforts of businesses with the educational landscape: the Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. This program serves as a beacon, inviting businesses to play a pivotal role in supporting educational programs, especially at Seneca Valley School District.

Enacted in 2001, the EITC program offers businesses a unique opportunity to allocate a portion of their state tax liability (up to 90%!) to support educational initiatives. Through contributions to approved organizations, participating businesses directly impact the educational experiences of our youth. This initiative encompasses a dual benefit: businesses fulfill their corporate social responsibility while concurrently investing in our future workforce and community leaders – Tax dollars become charitable dollars.

One significant aspect of the EITC program is its facilitation of partnerships between businesses and approved Education Improvement Organizations, like the Seneca Valley Foundation (SVF.) The SVF serves as a conduit for channeling resources to various innovative programs and initiatives at Seneca Valley School District. Its funding priorities include STEAM; Early Literacy, Global Citizenship; and the Arts With the help of its partners in public education and their EITC contributions, the SVF supports the following courses at Seneca Valley High School: Women in Engineering; Honors Engineering; and CHS Accounting I and II – all vital courses for students wishing to pursue careers in robotics, technology, and advanced sciences.

The SV Foundation invites businesses to join hands in support of our state's educational endeavors through the EITC program. Participation is not merely an act of philanthropy but a strategic investment in the future prosperity of students in Seneca Valley School District. By contributing to

Empowering Education: Support the Seneca Valley Educational Foundation through Pennsylvania's Education Improvement Tax Credit Program

the SV Foundation through this program, businesses can foster academic excellence and promote innovation by fueling programs that embrace technology, cultivate critical thinking skills and provide enriching experiences.

How to Participate

Participation in the EITC program is straightforward and yields substantial returns. Here is how to get involved:

1. Determine Eligibility: Confirm your business's eligibility to participate in the EITC program based on Pennsylvania's tax guidelines. Full details are available Here

2. Submit an Application: Complete the EITC application process found Here

3. Make a Difference: Upon approval, allocate funds to support educational initiatives, knowing that your investment will make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and educators statewide, and most significantly in the region at Seneca Valley School District.

Join the Seneca Valley Foundation in shaping the educational landscape of Pennsylvania through the EITC program. Together, we can create a legacy of learning at Seneca Valley School District that reverberates through generations to come.

If you would like additional information or have any questions, feel free to contact Annie Mersing, SVF Development Director at mersingam@svsd.net.

Women-Owned Businesses

Making an Impact in our Region.

By Anne Schlicht, Director, Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Chatham University

Educational Corner

Impact: According to the 2023 Wells Fargo Impact of Women-Owned Businesses Report “14 million women-owned businesses make up 39.1% of all U.S. businesses a 13.6% increase from 2019 to 2023, and they are coming out of the pandemic stronger, especially businesses owned by women of color.” The U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship 2023 report stated that “women are creating about half of new businesses for the third year in a row, adding $1.8 trillion to America’s gross domestic product every year.”

As a tireless advocate for women to achieve the dream of business ownership and Director of the Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Chatham University (CWE) our mission is to empower women with the resources, access, opportunities, and connections needed to start and grow their businesses, especially those who have been excluded from the entrepreneurial ecosystem. CWE provide a safe place for women to explore their entrepreneurial ideas to bring novel products and services to diverse markets, often in non-traditional and emerging industries like artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality and robotics.

Success Stories: CWE celebrates Women’s History Month by sharing quotes from a selection of trailblazing women and members of the Center who are operating in non-traditional and emerging industries

Dr. Xiaoyu Kaess is the Co-Founder and COO of Aquatonomy, Inc., a startup that specializes in underwater intelligence through autonomous robots and AI-grounded analytical tools focused on the infrastructure industry. “In my career, I have brought technology products from concept to launch in multiple industries, architecture, construction, engineering, healthcare, and information security. It is important to have a supportive network of peers and mentors to achieve results.”

Kristy Knichel, President & CEO of Knichel Logistics a non asset based third-party logistics provider in Cranberry. According to Kristy, “Being a female leader in a nontraditional industry over the past 25+ years has been a journey of many highs and some lows; however, I have learned some life changing things about myself and other women in positions like my own. First, that a woman’s resilience and strength should not be underestimated – we are strong leaders who create strong cultures by building strong relationships. And secondly, that maintaining a positive and open mindset is what keeps you moving forward and enables you to be an innovative disruptor.”

Marlene Myers, Partner, Ashlar Architecture & Engineering provides comprehensive design and architectural services to a variety of clients. “Being a partner in a womenowned business is very rewarding and provides opportunities to collaborate with others on projects that we might not have pursued on our own. To me the team, inhouse or external, that you build around you is going to directly lead to your success.”

Katherine Jenks, Co-Founder of Pittsburgh Excavation, specializes in all forms of construction excavation, fiberglass pool installation, retaining walls and concrete services. “I have leaned on my background in the construction industry and my technical experience as a Professional Engineer to devise a business plan to grow the company that I started with the support of my husband, Bryan. The challenges we face driven by the types and scale of projects we undertake, have given us the perspective needed to adapt and grow in different ways for the betterment of our business.It is a familiar feeling to be the sole woman in a room and the required confidence it takes to be a leader in those circumstances has given me the ability to take opportunities and pivot when I deem necessary.”

CWE supports these businesses and all our members with free to low-cost business counseling and training programs so they can contribute to their communities by providing jobs, innovative products and services, and sharing of best practices to improve our region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. To learn more about CWE, visit our website www.chatham.edu/cwe or call 412-365-1253.

Alicia Photography

American Cancer Society

Armstrong

AW Beattie Career Center

Basilone Executive Search and Staffing

Baierl Auto Group

Borough of Seven Fields

Butler County Community College

Coldwell Banker - Jan Stevens

Cole Management Inc

Concordia of Cranberry

CORE Environmental Services

Costco Wholesale

Cranberry Public Library

Cranberry Supply Co.

Cranberry Township

Creative Real Estate Development Co

2 Krew Security and Surveillance

AdVenture Development

Allegent Community Federal Credit Union

Armstrong Comfort Solutions

Atria McCandless

Baker Consulting Services, Inc.

Bitar Painting

BluMars Media

BNI Western PA

Bosland Electric, LLC

Bridge Home Realty

Burns, Sweeney & Associates cfsbank

Chatham University Eden Hall Campus

Christian Counseling Associates of Western Pennsyl

Comfort Keepers

Common Sense Cleaning, LLC

Country Hammer Moonshine

Cranberry Supply Co

Cranberry Township

Discovery Christian Church

Dunkin Donuts- Hampton DBA Heartland

Restaurant Group

Edward Jones Investments- Andrew Dobies

EHD Insurance

Farmers National Bank of Canfield

Creese, Smith, Hune, & Co LLC

Crisis Center North, Inc

Dillon McCandless King Coulter & Graham L.L.P.

Dollar Bank - Pine Twp

Dollar Bank Loan Center - Cranberry

Dukovich & Associates

EZ Storage

First City Company - McIntyre Square

Fun Fore All Family Fun Park

Glade Run Foundation

Hill, Barth & King LLC

Holsinger

Huntington Bank - Wexford

IMA | ESS

Kawneer Cranberry - An Arconic Company

Lifesteps

McCandless Corporate Center

Medicine Shoppe of Ingomar

Minuteman Press - Cranberry

MSA- The Safety Company

North Allegheny School District

North Hills Community Outreach

North Hills Monthly Magazine

Seneca Valley School District

The Chadwick

Three Rivers Paintball, Inc

Tierra Realty Management

WesBanco Bank - Cranberry Twp

WesBanco Bank - Perry Highway

Win-Son Inc

Find Your Destination

Glade Run Foundation

Greater Pittsburgh Business Connection

Home2 Suites by Hilton

Pittsburgh/McCandless

Innovate E-Commerce, Inc

InVision Human Services

Jason's Deli- Cranberry Twp JazzHR

JDog Junk Removal and Hauling Cranberry Township

Jewelry by Alicia and Scott Jireh Mobile

JP Diroll Photography

K A Bell, CPA, PC

Kress Restoration

Liberty Insurance Agency

Living in Liberty

MA Thompson Roofing

Mainstream Boutique

McCandless Floral

MHY Family Services

Minuteman Press Gibsonia

MOD Wash - Wexford

Modcon

Mr Electric of Cranberry Township

Mr Sign

Murray Springs LLC - Capriottis

Newt & Ruby Interiors

NexTier Bank

Nick Scotti Concrete Contractor Inc

Nicole Zirnsak State Farm Insurance

Olive Garden/Cranberry

Omnipro Big Oaks LLP

Oxford Athletic Club

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Phelps Nursery PGH, North Inc- DBA

Fratangelo Gardens, INC

Piatt Sotheby's International Realty

Pittsburgh Jet Center

Planet Fitness McCandless

Premier Partners in Dermatology

Pressley Ridge

Print Tech of Western PA

Skander Tire Service, Inc

Spectrum Pest Control

Station No 5 Coffeehouse

The Exercise Coach- Cranberry Twp

The Pavilion at Star Lake - Live Nation

Treesdale Life - BeLocal Cranberry

Turo Family Chiropractic

Univest Financial

USX Federal Credit Union

Vincentian Charitable Foundation

Wellcare Medical Associates

WesBanco Bank - Perry Highway

Wessel & Company Accountants & Advisors

Wine Concrete Products Inc

Allegent Community Federal Credit Union

Senator Elder Vogel

MA Thompson Roofing

Minuteman Press Gibsonia Modcon Station No 5 Coffeehouse

Turo Family Chiropractic Premier Partners in Dermatology Comfort Keepers

Kristy Bursic

Rakesh Unnithan

Kathleen Kuznicki

Variety - the Children's Charity of Pittsburgh