Corridors july 2017

A Pharmacist’s Top 5 Tips for Staying Healthy Why a Healthy Detox Rocks Deducting Travel & Entertainment Expenses Member of the Month

July 2017

C O N T E N T S

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4 Chamber Headquarters 5000 Brooktree Road, Suite 100 Wexford, PA Cranberry Twp. Office 2525 Rochester Road Cranberry Township, PA P: 724.934.9700 F: 724.934.9710

Jim Boltz President JBoltz@PghNorthChamber.com For more information on the Chamber’s program of work, please contact: Patty Bittle Marketing and Events Director PBittle@PghNorthChamber.com Al Davidson Membership Account Executive ADavidson@PghNorthChamber.com Kristina Hall Program Director KHall@PghNorthChamber.com Heather Schwartzbauer Membership Coordinator HSchwartzbauer@PghNorthChamber.com Amy VanAtta Executive Assistant AVanAtta@PghNorthChamber.com

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From the The 2017 Pittsburgh North Community Resource Guides ARE HERE! Every year, the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber publishes a Community Resource Guide. In this magazine, you will find valuable information regarding our area.

The 411 section of the publication includes a listing of the local government offices that you need to know. Contacts for fire departments, police departments, local government offices and driver’s license centers of most of the communities that we serve are included.

Ever wonder about the demographics of North Pittsburgh? You’ll also find interesting statistics regarding the workforce, housing and transportation.

The Education section details what is happening in the academic world. Our area is well known for its achievements. High school, vocational tech, college and independent study are all highlighted in this section.

We are also very proud of the advancements in healthcare that have come out of this region. The Healthcare section explains how North Pittsburgh has become known as a healthcare mecca with its combination of patient -centered medical treatment and world class facilities.

Want to know about recreation in the area? The Lifestyle section details the numerous activities throughout our region.

Last, but not least, the Community Guide has a directory of all the current members of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber. A special thanks goes out to all the advertisers who make this magazine a possibility.

The 2017 Community Resource Guide is now available for free in both Chamber offices and numerous local businesses. It is an excellent hand out for real estate agents, apartment managers, hotels, banks and moving companies. If you would like to have copies to give to your clients, just stop by our offices

Jim Boltz

Member Testimonials Our joining The Pittsburgh North Regional chamber was the best business decision that we ever made! We could see immediately the value of having a membership in a growing and thriving chamber. The staff members work tirelessly to make each member’s experience the best ROI possible and are there to answer the trivial and even complex questions that members may have. We have grown so much professionally while attending many of the over 250 events a year - Connections, After Hours, Lunch and Learns, Ribbon Cuttings…

We not only benefit as a small business working with other big and small businesses, but the friendships we have developed are truly remarkable. The McCool’s feel that there is something for everyone at our chamber and hope that you do also. Do a favor for a non-member by inviting them to attend what can be, a life and business changing experience!

John & Kandy McCool Independent Associate Directors LegalShield & IDShield Protection Small Business & Group Benefits Specialists

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B USINESS A FTER H OURS July 6 Terrace on Fifth 1014 Fifth Avenue—4th Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15219

July 20 Ember & Vine 910 Sheraton Drive Mars, PA 16046

Business After Hours are from 5-7pm

E VENTS

Summer Bash

Thursday, July 13 5:00-8:00pm Presented by PNRC & McCandless Crossing McCandless Crossing, PA

Social Media Conference Monday, August 7 7:30am—4:00pm La Roche College 9000 Babcock Blvd.

Pittsburgh, PA 15237

M ARKETPLACE L UNCH M EETINGS July 5: Bravo! Cranberry, 11:30am - 1:00pm 20001 Route 19, Cranberry Twp July 12: Monte Cellos at The Hampton Shoppes ,11:30am1:00pm 4655 William Flynn Highway - Route 8, Allison Park July 19: Cranberry Sports Grill, 11:30am - 1:00pm 1294 Freedom Road, Cranberry Twp. July 24: Family Bowlaway Fun Center, 11:30am - 1:00pm 540 Fairground Hill Road, Butler

2017 B OARD OF D IRECTORS E XECUTIVE C OMMITTEE John Tubridy – Board Chair Franchise Network of Pittsburgh Ann Gatty, Ph.D.– Chair-Elect Strategic People Solutions Philip J. Scolieri, J.D.– Vice-Chair Scolieri Law Group, P.C. Lisa Hunt - Past Chair USX Federal Credit Union

Gary Basilone – Foundation Chair Basilone Executive Search Kent Clifton - Treasurer AXA Advisors, LLC Gregg Hill – Secretary Dollar Bank Jim Boltz - President Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

B OARD

OF

D IRECTORS

Tracy Armstrong, North Pittsburgh Greeting Company Judith Bernhard, Advance Sourcing Concepts, LLC

July 26: Bravo! McKnight Road, 11:30am - 1:00pm 4976 McKnight Road Pittsburgh, PA

Ryan Breen J.D., Breen Law Firm, LLC

CONNECTIONS

Andrew Chiapusio, Mars National Bank

Daily networking events for business leaders throughout our Pittsburgh North region Wexford: Tuesdays, 7:30 a.m. Chamber Headquarters, 5000 Brooktree Rd., Suite 100 Warrendale: Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m. DoubleTree By Hilton 910 Sheraton Drive. Sponsored by Dollar Bank Cranberry Twp.: Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m. Council Chambers, 2525 Rochester Road. Sponsored by WORD FM Ross Twp.: Thursdays, 7:30 a.m. Treasure House Fashions, 7607 McKnight Road Gibsonia: Fridays, 7:30 a.m. St. Barnabas Health System 5847 Meridian Road. Sponsored by i.e.Insurance

Steve Carpenter, Northwood Realty Steven W. Diffenderfer, NexTier Bank Todd Harris, Liberty Insurance Agency Nicholas D. Kennedy, FamilyWealth Management Group John Laslavic, ThistleSea Business Development, LLC Al Marschke, ACN Business Essentials Robert O’Friel, Luttner Financial Group Dan Penberthy, NexTier Bank Jan Stevens, Coldwell Banker Kim Yerace, Petroleum Technical Services, LLC

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

PNRC Member Jerry Walkins Send Out Cards “Jerry Walkins has been a proud member of the PNRC since 2009. He is a regular attendee at the Tuesday, Thursday and Friday morning Connections meetings. He always welcomes new guests with a warm smile and makes them feel like they are immediately part of the chamber family. His thoughtful nature makes him not only a fabulous representative for his company, Send Out Cards, but for the chamber as well,” said Jim Boltz, PNRC President.

Al Davidson of PNRC said, “Jerry definitely has his own style; that suave, debonair and continental charm that rubs off on those that he comes in contact with. Jerry is quick to assist in any way he can, from filling in as host for a Connections meeting, picking up the Panera or giving some valuable professional insight as to how business should be done. The Chamber would certainly have less character if Jerry weren’t around.”

“Jerry is very passionate about being a chamber member, but even more passionate about being an active member.

He plays an integral part of three Connections Meetings weekly. His words of wisdom in reference to his business enlightens all of us to the importance of networking, and how the PNRC has the best networking opportunity available in the region.

Jerry also played a role on the Board of Directors for three years, as well as being on several committees and even being a committee chair of the Marketing committee. He is the first person to extend his hand and introduce himself to a new member, guest or prospect. Then he proceeds to introduce them to everyone at the event. Making them feel extremely comfortable and at ease with the organization. He has attended a myriad of signature events, BAH and ribbon cuttings, informing everyone in his part all of the great attributes the Chamber has to offer, as well as volunteering for a Plethora of events. We are extremely fortunate to have Jerry as a fabulous member,” said Gary Basilone of Basilone Executive Search.

Member testimonials are the Chamber’s best and most effective way to promote the benefits and services that a Chamber membership provides. Share your success with the Chamber and your story may be featured in an upcoming edition of Corridors. Email all testimonials to Patty Bittle

PghNorthChamber.com

July 2017

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Why 60% of Hypothyroid Issues Go Undiagnosed by Joe Killian portant, is only the “tip of the iceberg”.

Only running a TSH test may exacerbate the patient’s condition because it can provide false indications of the true problem. A TSH test may come back “normal” or “in range”, but it may not be normal for you as your thyroid function may be declining as you age or as a result of stress Most physicians do not make this distinction. The goal Would you jump out of an airplane if you knew that should be to OPTIMIZE thyroid levels for each individual

Why 60% of Hypothyroid Issues Go Undiagnosed.

your parachute would fail 60% of the time?

Or would you eat at a restaurant knowing that 6 of 10 patrons get sick?

And yet it is estimated that 60% of the time, doctors misdiagnose low thyroid symptoms, also known as hypothyroidism. To understand why, it is helpful to know how thyroid works.

The pituitary gland sends a signal to the thyroid gland to make Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). A healthy thyroid converts the TSH to T4 which is a storage hormone and the most abundant. The T4 is meant to convert to T3, the most active thyroid hormone. patient taking into consideration lab results as well as symptoms.

Tests for T4, T3, and Reverse T3, in addition to TPO (Thyroid Peroxidase) anti-bodies should be done. High levels of TPO anti-bodies may mean the patient has an auto-immune disease called Hashimoto’s, where the body attacks the thyroid. Hashimoto’s may not show up on a regular TSH test. Ordering the tests is only the first step.

Medical providers must have specialized training on how to interpret the results in combination with a patient’s symptoms. Lastly, providers need to know what to do after interpretation; mainly, how to order effective treatments often through customized prescriptions.

In any situation where your body needs to conserve energy, such as emotional, physical, or biological stress, ex“You may be low-thyroid if . . . .” cess T4 converts to the inactive Reverse T3 (RT3) as a way to clear out the extra T4.

The outer third of your eyebrows are thinning.

If you’re on a cholesterol medication. (According to Problems can arise if your body produces excessive Lauren Loya M.D., no one should be on cholesteramounts of RT3. If you are on a T4 medication (e.g. ol medication until a comprehensive thyroid check Synthroid) the possibility exists that you will make too is completed). much RT3. Too much RT3 can you make you feel letharYou have the following symptoms: gic, depressed, and result in weight gain, to name a few Depression symptoms.

Low Energy/Fatigue MANY PATIENTS WHO ARE ON SYNTHROID DO NOT Weight Gain HAVE A T4 PROBLEM. They have a T3/RT3 conversion Cold Intolerance (hands/feet) issue. Giving patients MORE T4 when they don’t have a Menstrual Cycle Changes T4 problem can make the patient feel worse. The patient Impaired Concentration/Brain Fog will call the doctor to communicate that they feel worse on Constipation the T4 medication and the doctor will RAISE THE DOSE. Muscle Aches THE IMPORTANCE OF COMPREHENSIVE TESTING Traditional medicine typically only runs a TSH test to If you have any questions or need additional information please check for low thyroid. While testing TSH levels, is im- visit: www.HormoneCenter.net or call 412-432-7909

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PghNorthChamber.com

July 2017

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A Pharmacist’s Top 5 Tips for Staying Healthy by Dr. Christina Tarantola I grew up working in my father’s pharmacy in Long Island. Dad was a diligent, ambitious entrepreneur that taught my siblings and I that success comes from hard work. I started sweeping floors, fixing the vitamins on the shelf and helping the elderly customers find greeting cards for family. That drug store was where I developed a strong passion for pharmacy and a love for people.

The day I got into pharmacy school was the best day of my life and I was excited to help people understand their medications so that they could feel better. Fast forward 6 years and many hours of studying later, I realized I wanted something different.

I started to see a problem within pharmacy that was not being addressed. Patients were coming back to the pharmacy each month for the same refills and never getting better. They may have had even more medications. Many of them did not want to be on so many medications and wanted safer alternatives to feel better. I wanted to change that.

Nutrition had always intrigued me and I knew that helping patient’s adopt healthy lifestyle habits could be the solution to this problem. I studied the science behind nutrition, stress management, exercise, the impact of emotional health and how it relates to the prevention or perpetuation of disease. A light bulb went off and I knew I had to incorporate these principles for my patients at the pharmacy!

When I tell people I am a pharmacist and nutrition consultant, some people scratch their head. “That is an interesting combination. Don’t you dispense pills…?” Yes, I am a pharmacist by trade (no longer actively practicing in the retail setting), but my fiancé and I actually want to help people come off of medications! I believe that food is medicine and can heal the body. Of course, medications do have their place and I won’t tell you to rub a clove of garlic on your broken toe. I’ll tell you to go see a doctor!

Pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals and yet we do not get nutrition training in pharmacy school. Our goal at The Diet Doc is to change that. It is estimated that up to 90% of all doctor visits are due to stress.1 NINETY PERCENT! I believe that the majority of disease can be prevented through lifestyle changes like healthy eating, exercise, stress management and a positive mindset. I focus on all of those aspects with my clients and help them feel empowered to make healthy choices for life! At The Diet Doc we focus on nutrition and can also assess appropriateness of medications, Over-The-Counter items and herbal supplements through our Medication Therapy Management Program. Your wealth is in your health!

What are some simple tips to get started on the path to health?

Get moving! Exercise keeps your heart healthy, improves your metabolic rate, detoxifies your body and boosts your mood. If you are just starting, create small goals like walking the dog for 10 minutes a day.

Gradually build up your endurance from there.

Hydrate. Now that we are in 90 degree weather, this is even more important! Dehydration can lead to headaches, dry skin, fatigue and can trick your mind into thinking you are hungry when you are really just thirsty! Divide your body weight by half and that is the amount of ounces recommended per day.

Have a flexible mindset. Black-and-white thinking occurs when we are rigid and do not allow ourselves to enjoy our food. This can lead to binge eating or overeating. Know that each day will be different and a healthy lifestyle isn’t about being perfect, but progressing!

Reduce stress as much as possible. I know- I can already hear the grunts and picture the eyes rolling. Get rid of stress? Stress is part of our lives, yes. However, we can manage it by exercising, deep breathing, taking time out to decompress and spending time with friends.

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

A Pharmacist’s Top 5 Tips for Staying Healthy Continued Use the Plate Method. Divide a 9” plate in half. Half of the plate should be a non-starchy vegetable like Brussel sprouts, kale, cucumbers or spinach. The other half of the plate can be divided and ¼ of the plate will be a lean protein (turkey, grilled chicken, fish) and ¼ of the plate can be a starch (brown rice, whole grain roll, corn, sweet potato).

All of these tips can be slowly integrated into your life. Go with the tips that seem realistic and enjoyable to you.

Set two small goals each week and you will feel empowered to keep the momentum. With these concepts in mind, you will be on your way to optimal health!

Sources: 1. National Institute of Mental Health: "Fact Sheet on Stress."

Submitted by: Dr. Christina Tarantola, The Diet Doc Pittsburgh North

PghNorthChamber.com

July 2017

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The 2 Must Have Supplements for Whole Body Health by Dr. Dan Turo There is a sea of supplementation options and it’s often hard to determine what is right for you.

Your first question might be “why do I need a nutritional supplement at all?” I see two main reasons. First, no one eats a “perfect diet”. Supplements ensure that our bodies get the nutritional building blocks that they require, even when our healthy eating intentions fall short. Reason number two is that research now shows that the food we eat today often lacks the nutritional value that it held in previous decades. Adding a supplement helps make up for that gap.

I recommend two go-to supplements that I personally use on a daily basis for optimal health. Keep in mind that I’m speaking in generalities here. Because every person is unique, you may have additional health needs that you should discuss with your trusted healthcare provider.

Now let’s dive in to that sea and pull out the two most important supplements #1: A Quality Multi-Vitamin A good multi-vitamin will cover a number of things that the body needs.

You should see the 4 major fat-soluble vitamins (A, E, D3, and K2).

You’ll also want to see that the spectrum of B’s is covered: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12. These B’s might only be listed by the long chemical name, which you can easily find by searching the internet for “B vitamin names”.

You should also look for a mixture of Calcium and Magnesium. These two elements work together in bone, muscle, and nerve health. Other trace minerals are also important, including Iron, Manganese, Iodine, Selenium, and Zinc.

How you take your multi-vitamin is also important. Tablets and gummies often have fillers and binders that do not dissolve well during digestion. This leads to poor absorption of the nutrients and amounts to taking the tablets and dropping them, and your money, in the toilet.

In fact, I have even seen well known, brand name, tablet multivitamins completely whole and undigested in the colon on x-rays. Instead of tablets, look for a thin capsule or, better still, a liquid vitamin option instead.

A good multivitamin will have some vitamin D3 and anti-oxidants as part of their spectrum, but adding additional D3 and anti-oxidants are great nutritional support for many reasons that I expand upon on our website. #2: Omega 3 (or Fish Oil) Omega 3s are considered “Essential Fatty Acids”. Essential in this context means that it’s not something that our bodies make – we have to ingest it. Omega 3s and Omega 6s support your nervous, cardiovascular, immune, and reproductive systems. You want to keep a healthy Omega 3:6 ratio (ideally a 1:1 – 1:4).

The problem is that we typically ingest a much larger amount of Omega 6 in our diets, which come from the vegetable oils that are used in fried and processed foods. This will tip the ratio way out of balance and can lead to inflammation, pain, and other more serious chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

To balance things out, I take up to 3000mg of a high quality Fish Oil daily. Look for one made with small fish like anchovies and sardines, and with both EPA and DHA, which are the two main types of Omega 3’s.

Always remember, when it comes to supplements, you get what you pay for. There is a reason the big box stores can sell vitamins so cheaply. The quality is not the same as a supplement that you can only get through a health provider.

As with anything, better quality products will produce better end results.

These are very general guidelines that can benefit everyone. Adding only these two quality supplements into your daily routine is an inexpensive, easy habit that will set you up for a healthier future. If you would like to learn more, please check out our website or join us for our next community event. You can always call my office to speak with me directly about your specific health questions. Remember, I’m here to help you get healthy and stay healthy for life.

Submitted by: Dr. Dan Turo, Turo Family Chiropractic

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Why a Healthy Detox Rocks by Dr. Dan Turo No one eats a perfect diet. And if they tell you they do, they are lying! But we can make up for our imperfections by gently detoxing our bodies from time to time.

Detox can be a scary word – and there are some scary ones out there, don’t get me wrong – but done right, a detox is a great way to support digestive function, and in turn, whole body health. It gives your body a chance to reset its normal functions and clears the path for continued healing.

The body eliminates toxins through the liver, kidneys, intestines, lungs, lymphatic system, and skin. When toxins build up, the body’s natural detoxification process becomes stressed and is often unable to keep up with its workload. Taking it upon yourself to actively participate in a detoxification program will not only improve the function of this process, but also support whole body health and function.

Let’s start with the wrong way to detox: Many of the “weight loss” detoxification programs that fill the internet are not the best way to support your body function – drinking magic potions or eating cabbage for a month are obviously not the best paths to health. That’s why I recommend speaking with your healthcare professional about how to do a healthy detox that’s right for you. Every body is different and may need different forms of support

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

throughout a program.

A good detoxification program will include fresh vegetables, a limitation on protein to rest your liver, and the removal of processed foods and sugars, alcohol and caffeine. The program should also limit fats and focus on good fats to fuel the body.

The length of time that you do a detox is up to you. I’ve found that a simple detox of 5-7 days twice a year can be very effective. Depending on your goals and the health challenges you are working to overcome, detoxing for up to a month or on a more regular basis may not be a bad idea.

In my office, I offer several different types of detox programs, depending on a person’s individual needs. As a healthcare professional, I guide patients through the process and also offer a variety of nutritional supplements to both gentle cleanse their bodies and support healthy function.

If you would like to learn more about improving your health or working through a detox program, please check out our website or join us for our next community event.

You can always call my office to speak with me directly about your specific health questions. Remember, I’m here to help you get healthy and stay healthy for life.

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Community Connection

Cranberry Township Cranberry ranked among America’s top family communities At the end of May, HomeUnion, an online real estate investment management firm, released a list of the best places for families to live based on housing affordability and school quality. Cranberry, with a median home price of $274,000 and a school ranking: 83.9%, came in as the seventh best community in the entire nation. Blue Springs, a suburb of Kansas City, Missouri, was rated first. Click here to read more.

Shop ‘n Save liquor license transfer approved Cranberry’s Board of Supervisors has approved the liquor license transfer from a restaurant in Cabot, Butler County, to the Shop ‘n Save supermarket on Freedom Road. State law requires local governments of destination communities to agree that an inter-municipal liquor license transfer will not adversely affect its public health, welfare, peace or morals. The sale of alcoholic beverages is already permitted in the SP-1 zoning district where the store is located. The Board’s resolution of approval was adopted at its June 1 meeting.

Apartment complex poised to transform central Township location The area between the old Auction Barn and Executive Drive along Brandt Drive, which is currently undeveloped, is poised to become one of Cranberry’s newest neighborhoods. At its June 1 meeting, Cranberry’s Board of Supervisors agreed approve the developer’s PRD plan. The project, involving six buildings which provide ground-level parking with four stories of apartment units above, includes a courtyard clubhouse community center, an outdoor pool, a trail system, sidewalks, and the Township’s first protected bike lane. Click here to read more.

McCandless Township DUMPSTERS FOR FLOOD DAMAGE Public Works has ordered dumpsters to be placed by the Lorraine G. Rogers soccer fields off Grubbs Road for residents with items damaged by the flooding that took place earlier this month. The dumpsters are to be used for FLOOD-DAMAGED ITEMS ONLY. If you have any questions, please contact Public Works at 412-364-0616 Ext. 184 or public.works@townofmccandless.org.

2017 Side Yard and Blighted Structure Program

The Town of McCandless is once again participating in Allegheny County's Vacant Recovery Program (Side Yard and

Blighted Structure Program). The program gives residents the opportunity to improve their community by purchasing side yards and blighted structures at a reduced rate. For more information click here.

Pine Township Pine Residents...Savvy Citizens App is now Available Introducing the Savvy Citizen App, a free notification system for Apple and Android users that will enable the Township to provide you with useful updates, community news and event reminders directly on your smartphone or other devices. Notifications are populated by Township officials to assure the information is accurate. Residents may access the Savvy Citizen App by downloading the smartphone app or visiting the Savvy Citizen website. Click here to read more.

Pine Township Community Day This years event includes: Petting Zoo, Children's Activities, Bounce Houses, Food, Ice Creation performances, Pie and Watermelon Eating Contest, Train Rides and will feature The Eldorado Band & fireworks by Pyrotecnico!

Date: Saturday, July 15 Time: 4:00pm - Dusk

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NexTier Bank Nonprofit Spotlight The Baierl Family YMCA The Baierl Family YMCA located at 2565 Nicholson Road in Franklin Park is a branch of the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh. The Baierl Family Y services areas of Franklin Park, McCandless, Marshall, Pine- Richland, Wexford, Ross and Warrendale but all are welcome to be members of the Y regardless of where they live.

The Baierl Family YMCA offers a variety of programs to families and individuals of all ages including before and after school care, pre-school, day camp, swim lessons, sports, over 100 fitness classes, water aerobics classes, special needs programs, bridge club, the Y Guides and Princess program for fathers and sons and fathers and daughters and a community herb garden.

The YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh is a 501c(3) charitable organization dedicated to nurturing the potential of all people, improving the nation’s health and well-being and providing opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Every day, the Y works side by side with its neighbors to ensure that everyone regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

THE Y’S BELIEFS We believe that when we devote our full strength to the Y’s mission and cause, work in partnership with others, and build on our history of innovation, we can address the most pressing issues of our time unlike any other organization.

We believe all people have potential.

We believe active and connected families make for active and connected communities.

We believe in a holistic approach to development, promoting healthy spirit, mind, and body.

We believe that in a diverse world, we are stronger when we are inclusive and our doors are open to all.

We believe in honoring our mission, living our cause, acting in accordance with our values, and placing the greater good above self.

When you join our Y, you join a community organization that offers health, hope and opportunity.

Parents find a safe, nurturing environment for their children to stay active, be engaged and learn positive values.

Families come together to have fun and spend quality time with each other.

Children and teens play and develop self-confidence while feeling accepted and supported.

Adults connect with friends, pursue interests and learn how to live healthier.

People from all backgrounds and walks of life come together to volunteer and help strengthen their community.

We all build relationships that further our sense of belonging and purpose.

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The Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber would like to thank those who have renewed.

We thank you for your continued support!

20 +Years

Welcome to those who have joined!

Thank you for your referrals!

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Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber

Deducting Travel and Entertainment Expenses Tax law allows you to deduct two types of travel expenses related to your business, local and what the IRS calls "away from home."

1. First, local travel expenses. You can deduct local transportation expenses incurred for business purposes such as the cost of getting from one location to another via public transportation, rental car, or your own automobile. Meals and incidentals are not deductible as travel expenses, but you can deduct meals as an entertainment expense as long as certain conditions are met (see 2. Second, you can deduct away from home travel expenses, including meals and incidentals, but if your employer reimburses your travel expenses your deductions are limited.

Local Transportation Costs

The cost of local business transportation includes rail fare and bus fare, as well as costs associated with use and maintenance of an automobile used for business purposes. If your main place of business is your personal residence, then business trips from your home office and back are considered deductible transportation and not nondeductible commuting.

You generally cannot deduct lodging and meals unless you stay away from home overnight. Meals may be partially deductible as an entertainment expense.

Away From-Home Travel Expenses

You can deduct one-half of the cost of meals (50 percent) and all of the expenses of lodging incurred while traveling away from home. The IRS also allows you to deduct 100 percent of your transportation expenses--as long as business is the primary reason for your trip.

Here's a list of some deductible away-from-home travel expenses:            

Meals (limited to 50 percent) and lodging while traveling or once you get to your away-from-home business destination.

The cost of having your clothes cleaned and pressed away from home.

Costs for telephone, fax or modem usage.

Costs for secretarial services away-from-home.

The costs of transportation between job sites or to and from hotels and terminals.

Airfare, bus fare, rail fare, and charges related to shipping baggage or taking it with you.

The cost of bringing or sending samples or displays, and of renting sample display rooms.

The costs of keeping and operating a car, including garaging costs.

The cost of keeping and operating an airplane, including hangar costs.

Transportation costs between "temporary" job sites and hotels and restaurants.

Incidentals, including computer rentals, stenographers' fees.

Tips related to the above.

For more information or to read more click here.

Are you getting all of the tax breaks that you are entitled to? Maybe you are…but maybe you’re not. Why take a chance? Let the tax experts at Holsinger provide the guidance you need. Call Holsinger today and make sure you get all of the tax breaks you deserve.

PghNorthChamber.com

July 2017

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Thank you to our Valued Corporate Sponsors and Chamber Partners