The Voice of Vibrancy Vol.1 | Issue 10

The Voice of Vibrancy

Letter From The President

Fall is Upon Us in Butler County!

October is always a boo-tiful time of year yes, that’s my Halloween pun! �� Between the haunted attractions, vibrant fall foliage, and those last golden rays of sunlight, you just can’t beat it

As we turn the page into fall and the holiday shopping season quickly approaches, I encourage everyone to shop local and make a day of it. Visit one of our vibrant main streets, find that perfect gift for someone special, grab a coffee to start your morning, enjoy some brews and food afterward, and encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to do the same.

It’s no secret that this is a tremendously challenging economic environment for small retailers I think I speak for all of them when I say — they really need us this holiday season. The economies of scale have never squeezed smaller retailers more than they do today, making it harder than ever to compete with national chains and online giants.

That’s why it’s so important that we skip the scroll and shop small this holiday season. Every local purchase you make strengthens our community, supports local jobs, and keeps our economy thriving.

As always, it remains the honor and privilege of my life to serve as President of this incredible organization — one made up of the very best people on earth.

Let’s start the holiday season off the right way by Looking Local First. With that said, welcome to Small Business Season! May the months ahead be filled with family, friends, and support for the small businesses who make Butler County so special. ❤

With gratitude and fall cheer,

Jordan Grady

President

Butler County Chamber of Commerce

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BC3 Receives Largest Gift of Kind Through Tax-Credit Program

MSA Safety’s $50K contribution to support high school programming, financial literacy.

(Butler, PA) The Butler County Community College Education Foundation has received the largest Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit contribution since its first in 2012 and from the Cranberry Township-based MSA Safety, an international developer and manufacturer of advanced safety products.

MSA Safety’s $50,000 gift will support a BC3 program that enables sophomores through seniors to earn affordable and transferrable credits in college courses instructed at their high school or learning centers, and benefit a game played by pupils as young as fourthgraders that increases financial literacy.

The state Department of Community and Economic Development lists 880 approved educational improvement organizations in Pennsylvania, including eight in Butler County. MSA Safety’s corporate giving and community support committee selected BC3 after the company ’ s application to participate in the EITC program was granted.

Jonathan Bagamery, a Butler County Community College faculty member, teaches a speech class Monday, Aug 25, 2025, on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township to Butler Senior High School seniors enrolled as Early College Pioneers as part of BC3’s College Within the High School program. A $50,000 Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit contribution from MSA Safety to the BC3 Education Foundation will help to support BC3’s College Within the High School program

Jackson Froilan, left,

all of Butler, are shown in a speech class Monday, Aug 25, 2025, on Butler County Community College’s main campus in Butler Township. The Butler Senior High School seniors are enrolled as Early College Pioneers as part of BC3’s College Within the High School program. A $50,000 Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit contribution from MSA Safety to the BC3 Education Foundation will help to support BC3’s College Within the High School program.

Fourth-graders through high school seniors who were place-winners in Butler County Community College’s Stock Market Game in the 2024-2025 academic year review financial materials Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at an awards ceremony in Founders Hall on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township. A $50,000 Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit contribution from MSA Safety to the BC3 Education Foundation will help to support BC3’s Stock Market Game.

MSA Safety focuses its support primarily on organizations located in regions where the company operates and where its employees live, according to Glennis Williams, vice president and chief human resource officer at MSA Safety in Cranberry Township.

Additionally, “...companies like MSA recognize that cultivating a quality workforce is one of the top business challenges for any organization,” Williams said. “MSA is always looking for talent coming out of our region’s universities and technical schools.”

Mikayla Moretti is executive director of the BC3 Education Foundation and external relations. “A very generous gift,” Moretti said about MSA Safety’s contribution. “One like this allows the foundation and the college to create opportunities and have something for everyone. It will have a very big impact and can support a lot of students.”

BC3’s College Within the High School program expanded this fall to include Slippery Rock Area High in Butler County and to West Middlesex Area Junior-Senior High in Mercer County.

Reduced-tuition college-level courses are also being offered this fall at participating high schools in Armstrong, Clarion, Clearfield, Jefferson and Lawrence counties, according to James Frank, BC3’s assistant director of high school programming.

Ten courses this fall are being offered for the first time at Butler Senior High and include French I and II, Spanish I and II, introduction to computer programming with JAVA and trigonometry and functions.

Tuition and fees cost $225 for a three-credit BC3 course instructed Monday through Friday at a Butler County high school or learning center during its regular hours, and $250 for a high school or learning center outside of Butler County during its regular hours.

“I do know many people who are in college who have huge debt,” said Alaina Daily, a Butler Senior High School senior enrolled as an Early College Pioneer as part of a BC3 College Within the High School program instructed on the college’s main campus in Butler Township. “I feel pretty good about the way I am starting. And when I do go to college after my high school career, I will already have those credits.”

BC3’s Professor David C. Huseman Center for Economic Education administers a 30-week Stock Market Game that begins in September, and 10-week competitions in the fall and spring.

Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit contribution from MSA Safety to the BC3 Education Foundation will help to support BC3’s Stock Market Game.

“ “It’s truly a win-win for the college and for MSA.

Fourth-graders through high school seniors competing in the game receive a hypothetical $100,000, make buy-and-trade decisions and track how those decisions would have played out in the market had they been real, Huseman said.

Fourth-graders through high school seniors who were place-winners in Butler County Community College’s Stock Market Game in the 2024-2025 academic year are shown Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at an awards ceremony in Founders Hall on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township. A $50,000 Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit contribution from MSA Safety to the BC3 Education Foundation will help to support BC3’s Stock Market Game

BC3’s Stock Market Game drew 1,547 students on 482 teams from 33 schools in Armstrong, Butler, Clarion, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, Lawrence and Mercer counties in 2024-2025, according to Huseman.

The college recognized teams that were placewinners at an awards ceremony May 6 in Founders Hall on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township.

A team from Butler Intermediate placed first in the Western Region and second in Pennsylvania among middle schools in the fall 2024 competition. Phoenix Fancher, Cheza Harbaugh, Brielle Myers, Maxwell Oddo and Hunter Ryan ended the game with an equity of $141,110.29.

“Before I had access to this game, I was trying to figure out how I would introduce the stock market to my students. So once I found out BC3 would make it possible to participate in this Stock Market Game, it just opened up so many more lessons I could teach about finance and investing.”

Luke Daubenspeck, Schaney Kamerer, Adelynn Miller, Kendall Rose and River Wolfgram were members of a Butler Intermediate team that finished second in the region and third in the state in the fall middle school competition with an equity of $140,521.23.

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“They start to learn about personal finance and investing early, which is important so that your money has time to grow, ” said Jamie Veltri, a family and consumer sciences teacher at Butler Intermediate and adviser of both teams.

The game engaged her sixth-graders, Veltri said. “I put the rankings up on the board and they could see how their money was growing,” Veltri said. “Then we look up specific stocks to see which ones were making money and then we would talk about why.”

A team from Seneca Valley placed second in the region in the fall high school competition. Bryce Fredericks, Abby Hock, Landon Newton and Alyssa Westrom finished with an equity of $144,173.55.

Pennsylvania’s EITC program provides tax credits to eligible businesses that contribute financially to a scholarship organization, to an educational improvement organization or to a pre-kindergarten scholarship organization.

The BC3 Education Foundation’s previous largest EITC contribution was $25,000. The foundation received $77,750 in EITC gifts in the 2024-2025 academic year. The first EITC gift totaled $12,000 in 2012.

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Butler County Chamber Energy Program

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Work Life Balance with Lightning Hair Lounge Featured Small Business

I opened my salon, Lightning Hair Lounge, in 2018 d the height of hustle culture. I worked and worked worked some more. I created the salon I had always w I would find when I was searching for my salon hom young hairstylist in the industry. I worked harder. I w longer. I worked until I had truly nothing left in me to Burnout and exhaustion set in.

In 2020, I expanded Lightning Hair Lounge to a space times the size of our first location. I grew my team expanded our services, and on the outside, every looked like it was going great. And it was… excep commitment to my business was greater than commitment to take care of myself.

I was achieving new heights in my career traveling al the country, working with celebrities, and growin business. However, I had no energy left to do anythin me. Even the fun things. When I finally had free tim mind was overwhelmed. I couldn’t think of some enjoyable to do, and even if I could, I didn’t have the energy to leave the house unless I had to. I was going at a pace I couldn’t keep up with, and the things I once loved had started to feel like chores. When I hit rock bottom, I knew something had to change.

Featured Small Business

I became my first priority and started asking for help. I put boundaries in place for when I would answer messages. I started auditing my calendar. I nourished my body with the right foods. I implemented daily movement. I got very disciplined and intentional about what I allowed in my life. During my healing season, I spent most weekends doing absolutely nothing for a few months so my body and nervous system could actually reset and recover.

I reduced my hours behind the chair to create some form of balance. When you ’ re a technician in your business, you have to work extra hours to get anything done behind the scenes—you can’t do paperwork and perform your craft at the same time. This is when I learned the difference between working in your business and working on your business. I leaned into the support of my team and allowed them to help me. I spent more time creating systems and procedures, so my team was empowered to know exactly what to do when they came into the salon. In return, that removed pressure from me. I was finally having fun again. I loved coming into the place I worked so hard to create. I had an overflow of electric energy to give to myself, my family, my team, and my clients.

This is when the Lightning Lifestyle was born.

I was living and developing the practices of the Lightning Lifestyle before I even realized it. I transformed my life through daily habits and disciplined routines.

Featured Small Business

I had spent so long searching for the answer to “balance,” but no one can define balance for someone else. We are the only ones living our lives. We have to listen to our bodies and our minds. Balance is created through boundaries, healthy habits, and disciplined routines.

I now coach small business owners, salon owners, and hairstylists to break through to their next level through the six Lightning Lifestyle Pillars: Faith, Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, Community, and Beauty with accountability and ownership leading the way.

In addition to Lightning Hair Lounge & Lifestyle Co., I own Lightning Lifestyle Coaching, where I work solely as a coach. I help small business owners, salon owners, and hairstylists take back their joy, happiness, and life through our six Lifestyle Pillars and the implementation of bold habits and disciplined routines. I offer 1:1 coaching, group programs, and a full journal collection for those who prefer a self-guided transformation. I also speak at beauty industry events across the country to empower others to take back their life through the Lightning Lifestyle.

This journey is how the culture and mission of Lightning Hair Lounge & Lifestyle Co. came to life. We can only care for others as well as we care for ourselves. As hairstylists and small business owners, we take care of people all day long and experience a wide range of emotions and personalities.

Featured Small Business

As the manager of Lightning Hair Lounge, we implement monthly team meetings and monthly 1:1 check-in to ensure everyone is creating a life they love. My team knows I will hold them to their highest potential and hold them accountable for what they committed to when they joined Team Lightning. The systems and policies we have in place— developed through working on the business create clarity for everyone, from new hires to long-standing stylists.

The foundation of our culture was intentionally designed so that we can love both our personal and professional lives. I truly believe we should love most of the days we are blessed to live and that is possible when we are willing to put in the work.

- Shelbie Moser Owner of Lightning Hair Lounge

America 250 PA Award’s with 10K Grant for 2026

The Butler County Symphony was awarded a $10,000 grant from America250PA’s second Semiquincentennial Grant Round for their annual patriotic concert celebration, “Music Under the Stars”. This funding enables the nonprofit to elevate this already popular event to become an even bigger draw for locals and tourists alike.

“We are proud to support this incredible concert event as partners of the Butler County Symphony,” said Experience Butler County President, Amy Pack. “The proud performance of patriotic pieces is a perfect way to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—and to engage our neighbors in meaningful ways that reflect our shared values while pointing toward a hopeful future.”

“It’s thrilling to see so many Pennsylvania communities and organizations stepping up with meaningful, engaging, and inspiring plans as we approach the Semiquincentennial,” said Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA. “These grants are giving Pennsylvanians the tools to come together, remember where we ’ ve been, and imagine what comes next. America250PA is incredibly proud to support this work, and grateful to Governor Shapiro and the General Assembly for making it possible.”

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Butler Symphony Celebration

About Experience Butler County PA: Since being founded in 2002 by the Board of Commissioners as the official tourism promotion and development organization for Butler County, Experience Butler County has been dedicated to working with a variety of organizations including agritourism, fairs and festivals, golf, historical societies, museums, great outdoors, arts and culture, family fun, dining, shopping and accommodations to promote tourism. Our mission is to promote Butler County’s welcoming spirit, natural beauty, and vibrant tourism industry through innovative partnerships with local businesses to drive economic growth.

About America250PA: The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA) was established by the General Assembly and Governor in 2018 to plan, encourage, develop and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States, Pennsylvania’s integral role in that event, and the impact of its people on the nation’s past, present, and future. The Commission is made up of current and past Pennsylvania leaders, celebrating the rich history and diversity of the state. America250PA hopes to engage all citizens of the Commonwealth, from each of its 67 counties, to participate in creating a statewide celebration and bringing the Commonwealth’s history into the conversation. That shared history gives us the foundation to better understand the origins and diverse viewpoints on the challenges affecting both our Commonwealth and our nation.

The Commission’s ability to communicate its vision, engage various audiences, and encourage inclusive and cohesive participation is key to a successful America250PA. The visionary framework – especially our E.P.I.C. theme of Educate, Preserve, Innovate, and Celebrate, contains the essential messaging to bring the Semiquincentennial to life across the Commonwealth.

Member Spotlight & News

Independence Health System Welcomes Dr. James D’Antonio to its Cardiovascular Team in Butler and Clarion

Independence Health System today announced the addition of James D’Antonio, MD, FSCAI, RPVI, to its cardiovascular team at Butler Memorial and Clarion hospitals.

A native of western Pennsylvania, Dr. D’Antonio brings more than 20 years of experience in cardiovascular medicine. His expertise includes cardiology, complex coronary interventions, Impella device placement, vascular medicine, endovascular treatment of peripheral arterial disease, wound care and critical care management. He is board-certified in interventional cardiology, cardiovascular disease and vascular medicine.

“I’m excited to return to western Pennsylvania and collaborate with the highly skilled team of physicians at Independence Health System,” said Dr. D’Antonio. “Delivering personalized care through cross-disciplinary teamwork is essential to achieving the best outcomes for our patients. I’m proud to join a team that shares this commitment.”

Dr. D’Antonio earned his medical degree from Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine, graduating summa cum laude. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, followed by a cardiology fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He also completed advanced training in coronary and peripheral interventional procedures at Western Pennsylvania Hospital.

Member Spotlight & News

Dr. Michael Smith Joins Independence Health System Urology

Independence Health System is pleased to announce the addition of Michael Smith, DO, to the Urology office at its Benbrook offices, further enhancing the system’s urological care services.

Dr. Smith earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Gannon University in Erie, Pa., and a medical degree from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed a residency in urologic surgery at Franciscan Health Olympia Fields in Olympia Fields, Ill.

Dr. Smith treats a wide range of urologic conditions, including bladder and prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), kidney stones, erectile dysfunction and incontinence. His surgical expertise encompasses minimally invasive procedures for BPH, robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy, kidney stone surgery, stress incontinence surgery and penile implant placement.

“I look forward to working with the urology team and contributing my expertise to delivering high-quality, expert care to our community,” said Dr. Smith.

The addition of Dr. Smith strengthens Independence Health System’s commitment to providing comprehensive, cuttingedge urological care to the region.

Member Spotlight & News

CMN + ACE = The Bridge to Stronger and Healthier Kids

Butler Ace Hardware's commitment to Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh through the Children's Miracle Network is supported through customers’ round up of change and seasonal fundraisers. Summer highlights include the CMN Bucket Sale and the Butler Ace and Rod father's Annual Car Cruise event. With the generous support of local businesses throughout the year, customers donate to CMN to be eligible to win prizes like tools and grills! The Keys for Kids program also allows a portion of every key sold at Butler Ace Hardware to be donated to Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Over the past three years, Butler Ace Hardware ranked in the top 10 of over 5900 Ace stores for CMN fundraising -- receiving an additional $10,000 donationfrom Duracell for Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Butler Ace Hardware is humbled to partner with both our customers and fellow small businesses to make an impact on the lives of the children and families receiving care at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Member Spotlight & News

Butler County Veterans In Need Presents Plaque to Owner of Firehouse Subs

“We were pleased to present this plaque to Bill owner of Firehouse Subs for his continuous support of Butler County Veterans In Need.”

Conley Resort & Golf Club Shares Western PA Golf Choice Awards

“Shoutout to our signature 18 hole for the win!” th

PennEnergy Resources Thanks PER Team for “Grade A” Certification

“Thank you to the hard work of our PER team for once again achieving “Grade A” certification across all areas of our operation against MiQ’s methane emissions performance standard. Efforts included all new 2025 operations as well as recertification of existing locations.

Member Spotlight & News

Independence Health System’s Butler Memorial Hospital Marks Milestone with 100 TCAR Procedure to Treat Carotid Artery Disease th

Independence Health System’s Butler Memorial Hospital has reached a significant milestone, completing its 100 transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) procedure. The hospital’s vascular surgery team uses the FDA-approved ENROUTE™ transcarotid neuroprotection and stent system — the first device specifically designed for TCAR — to treat carotid artery disease and help prevent strokes. th

TCAR is a clinically proven, minimally invasive alternative to traditional carotid artery treatments. The procedure reverses blood flow during stenting, diverting potential plaque debris away from the brain and significantly reducing the risk of stroke. The ENROUTE™ system enables surgeons to place a stent through a small incision in the neck, stabilizing plaque and restoring healthy blood flow to the brain — all in less than half the time of a conventional carotid endarterectomy (CEA).

“This milestone reflects our commitment to offering advanced, patientcentered care, ” said Abdallah Naddaf, MD, FSVS, RPVI, and director of vascular surgery at Butler Memorial Hospital. “TCAR has transformed how we treat carotid artery disease, offering patients a safer, faster recovery and reduced risk of complications.”

“We’re proud to be among the leading hospitals in the region performing TCAR,” added Justin Wallace, MD, MS, FSVS, RPVI, also a physician of the vascular surgery team. “This approach allows us to treat high-risk patients with greater precision and comfort, and the outcomes speak for themselves.”

Member Spotlight & News

Carotid artery disease is a form of atherosclerosis plaque buildup, in the two main arteries in the neck that supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain. If left untreated, it can lead to stroke, which, according to the American Stroke Association, occurs every 40 seconds in the United States and is the fifth-leading cause of death. Fortunately, up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable through lifestyle changes and early intervention.

TCAR offers a safer alternative to traditional treatments such as carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and transfemoral carotid artery stenting (TFCAS), with reduced scarring, a lower risk of heart attack, stroke and nerve injury, and a quicker recovery often within four days.

Northern Cambria resident Dennis shared his experience with a bilateral TCAR procedure, expressing deep appreciation for the care he received. “I give that place Butler Memorial Hospital 100 percent”, he said. “Everything was better than I ever anticipated. It couldn’t have been better.”

Having undergone major surgeries in the past, including a triple bypass. Dennis described TCAR as the simplest and smoothest experience by far. He praised the exceptional staff, noted the rapid recovery, and strongly recommends TCAR over traditional surgical approaches. “This was a much better way, ” he added.

Another patient, Elsie of Ford City, shared a similarly positive experience. When learning she had a 70 percent blockage in her carotid artery, she didn’t hesitate to seek care at Butler Memorial Hospital. “I’d always heard great things about the care there, and from the moment I was admitted to the moment I was discharged, the experience was excellent,” she said.

Member Spotlight & News

Elsie explained that Dr. Naddaf walked her through the procedure in simple terms and even showed her pictures to help her better understand the TCAR procedure. “The staff were incredibly kind and made me feel comfortable every step of the way. I tell anyone going through this not to worry just be your own advocate, take care of yourself, and trust your instincts. I would choose Butler Memorial Hospital again in a minute,” she added.

For Kim of Grove City, the journey began with a routine eye exam in 2022. Her Independence Health System primary care physician, Dr. Timothy Lilly, recognized the urgency of the situation and promptly connected her with Dr. Naddaf for a consultation. The evaluation revealed a significant blockage — more than 70 percent in her right carotid artery.

Within a few weeks of that initial optometry appointment, Kim underwent the TCAR procedure at Butler Memorial Hospital. She described the entire experience as seamless and exceptional: “From the registration desk to the nurses and recovery team, everyone was wonderful. It all went so smoothly.”

Since 2021, Independence Health System’s vascular teams have performed nearly 150 TCAR procedures systemwide. Butler Memorial Hospital’s 100 completed cases place it among the topperforming hospitals in the region, second only to flagship university medical centers.

Patients at higher risk for carotid artery disease include those with a history of clogged arteries, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity and sedentary lifestyles.

Member Spotlight & News

Lutheran SeniorLife Celebrates Linda Kleemann and Her 50 Years of Service with Them

Fifty years. Half a century. That’s how long Linda Kleemann has devoted her heart, skill, and laughter to Lutheran SeniorLife. LIFE Butler County proudly honors Linda, their remarkable Rehabilitation Technician, for reaching this truly extraordinary milestone.

LIFE Butler County recently celebrated Disney Day in her honor, with Linda spreading joy dressed as Olaf, just one more example of the warmth and spirit she brings to the community every day.

Linda began her journey in 1974 as a CNA at St. John. She spent 35 years in the Rehabilitation Department and five years at Passavant Community. In 2008, she brought her passion and dedication to LIFE Butler County, where she continues to make a difference every single day.

Her impact is felt in every corner of our community, keeping participants strong on the NuStep bicycle, managing durable medical equipment, or quietly ensuring the therapy department runs smoothly, but it’s her warmth, her humility, and her gentle sense of humor that leave the deepest mark. Staff and participants alike are better for knowing her.

Fifty years of service is more than a milestone, but a true legacy of care, compassion, and commitment. Thank you, Linda, for five decades of lifting others and continuing to leave a lasting mark on all of us.

Member Spotlight & News

Green Cabbage Announces Their $40 Million Series B Investment from Sageview Capital

“We’re thrilled to announce our $40 million Series B investment from Sageview Capital, fueling our global expansion and the continued evolution of multi-channel spend cubes.

This milestone marks a major step forward in our mission to redefine procurement intelligence, empowering our clients worldwide to achieve smarter, faster, and more sustainable savings.

A huge thank you to our team, clients, and new partners at Sageview Capital for believing in our vision and growth journey. The best is yet to come. ”

Member Spotlight & News

Slippery Rock University Makes Princeton Review’s List of “Best Mid-Atlantic” Colleges and Universities on the 2026 Best Colleges: Region by Region Guide

Only about a quarter of the nation’s four-year institutions are designated as the “regional best” based upon data collected about academics and administration, quality of life, politics, campus life, town life, extracurriculars, and social scene.

Armco Credit Union Announces

New HR Director

Armco Credit Union welcomes Tracie Williams as their new Human Resources Director. “She brings over two decades of banking and HR experience and a passion for supporting employees and the community--making her a perfect fit for our growing team of 110 employees.”

Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC

Celebrate 175 Anniversary th

From the birth of the Steel City to the accelerating tech, energy and life sciences economy of today. (They got their start around the time the PA Railroad made it across the Alleghenies to Pittsburgh.)

Member Spotlight & News

Representatives from Independence Health System attended the Annual Business Meeting & Awards Ceremony

Independence Health System representatives accepted the award for Business of the Year at the Annual Business Meeting & Awards Ceremony hosted by the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce.

“We are honored to receive this recognition, and it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of our community through compassionate, innovative, and expert care. ”

I.E. Insurance, LLC. Celebrates Winning the 2025 Five Star Home/Auto Professional Awards

Tiffany Nolan shared, “So proud of my team again this year for their 2025 Five Star Home/Auto Professional awards! Congratulations to Eldina Pobric and Jenna Snyder for their multi-year wins!”

Member Spotlight & News

Cranberry Township’s Dedication to Careful Planning and Responsible Financial Management Has Once Again Been Recognized by Moody’s Ratings

Moody’s has assigned the Township a AAA general obligation unlimited tax rating. In announcing the assignment, Moody’s noted the rating, “reflects (the Township’s) robust financial position ... which will continue to exhibit strength in the near term.”

WesBanco has named Amby Bauer as Western Pennsylvania (WPA) Market President and Senior Commercial Banker

In this role, Bauer will lead the growth strategy for the WPA market, partnering with leaders across the bank to help clients achieve their financial goals. He will also play a key role in fostering relationships and initiatives that support and enrich Western Pennsylvania communities, reflecting WesBanco’s strong commitment to local engagement.

With more than 25 years in the industry, Bauer brings leadership experience in commercial, corporate, retail and private banking.

Member Spotlight & News

American Water Entered into an Agreement to Combine with Essential Utilities

As a leading regulated U.S. water and wastewater utility, they will serve 4.7 million connections across 17 states, and on 18 military installations.

For nearly 140 years, both American Water and Essential Utilities have provided life’s essential services with a focus on safety, trust, teamwork, environmental leadership, and high performance. As on company, we will continue to invest in additional resources to help provide solutions to water and wastewater challenges across the U.S., all while continuing to safely and reliably support our customers and communities.

Slippery Rock University Earned ong Marks in the Wall Street urnal/College Pulse

e validation the Slippery Rock University is a firstce institution! Ranked higher than Pitt and Penn State. Wall Street Journal/College Pulse national rankings, h are based on student outcomes, survey results and diversity, with an emphasis on an important measurement: how well colleges prepare students for financial success. Go Rock!

The Chamber’s Happenings

Butler County Chamber of Commerce and Pittsburgh Business Exchange (PBEX)

Host Women Shaping Our Region

The 6th Annual Women Shaping Our Region luncheon brought together one of the largest gatherings of women in business across the Pittsburgh region. This year ’ s panelists included key figures across the state of Pennsylvania, including: Stacy Garrity State Treasurer, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Kiya Tomlin Owner & Designer Kiya Tomlin, Kenya T. Boswell President, Highmark Foundation Jennifer Bertetto President & CEO, Trib Total Media & 535Media, Victoria Kush Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC, Megan Coval President, Butler County Community College. Moderated by WPXI’s Lisa Sylvester, they discussed what it really means to be a leader, and inspired hundreds of women to reach further.

The Chamber’s Happenings

Third Quarter Butler County Women’s Alliance Event: Breaking Barrier, Building Leaders

Our Women’s Alliance recently held their third quarter meeting, for a night of breaking down barriers in male dominated industries. Our speakers for the evening included: Kathy Hennessy, Vice Chair of Women in Manufacturing, and Dr. Karen Riley, President of Slippery Rock University. Thank you to Cranberry Township for hosting us, and everyone who came out. We look forward to seeing you at our fourth quarter event to close out another successful year!

Dan Swartz Memorial Clay shoot Presented by WesBanco:

We recently held our Dan Swartz Memorial Clay Shoot with our sponsor WesBanco Bank. This event honors late, longtime Board Member Dan Swartz, a 2015 graduate of Leadership Butler County, avid bird hunter, and dedicated community leader. Known for his passion, teamwork, and love for the outdoors, Dan’s legacy shapes this annual event. We look forward to continuing to celebrate Dan’s life every year with this event by fostering friendship and the team spirit we see throughout Butler County.

Business Resources

We provide free and confidential one-on-one business counseling by phone, email, and in-person in Southwestern Pittsburgh. We also conduct workshops for both start-up entrepreneurs and seasoned small business owners.

Our mission is to empower all small business owners to grow thriving businesses that sustain their families and support their communities. Services provided for free

The mission of the Small Business Development Center at the University of Pittsburgh is to grow the economy of Western Pennsylvania by providing entrepreneurs with the education, information and tools necessary to build successful businesses.

For more than 65 years, Pursuit, formerly known as New York Business Development Corporation, The 504 Company, and Excelsior Growth Fund, has offered innovative lending solutions to help business owners in CT, IL, NY, NJ, and PA follow their dreams.

December Events

Donuts & Data Defense:

Dec. 2 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM

@ BC3 Main Campus

Women’s Alliance: Q4 Supporting Yourself, Supporting Others Dec. 9 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM @ BC3 Main Campus

Jingle&Merry:Holiday Pop-UpMixer

Dec.126:00PM-9:00PM @TheHistoricPennTheater

Celebrate The Season Holiday Gathering Dec. 18 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM @ Johnny’s Jolly Holiday Bar

Your Monthly Butler County Fun Fact...

Did

you know?

An Asian Art Treasure in Western PA

Downtown Butler boasts an unexpected cultural gem - The Maridon Museum, which is the only museum in Western Pennsylvania dedicated specifically to Asian art and culture. Opened in 2004 by local philanthropist Mary Hulton Phillips, the Maridon houses over 800 artifacts including Chinese and Japanese art, jade and ivory sculptures, and scroll paintings. This small but impressive museum provides a rare peek at Asian artistic heritage right in Butler County.