September 2013 Business Magazine

Join with fellow manufacturers across the country in marking the second

annual Manufacturing Day on Friday, October 4, 2013.

Hosting an open house provides manufacturers with an opportunity to tell

their company’s story, dispel outdated myths about manufacturing, inspire

a new generation of manufacturers, and connect with their communities.

In opening your plant to visitors, you can also open minds — expanding

knowledge about and improving public perception of careers in manufac-

turing, as well as showcasing manufacturing’s value to the U.S. economy.

Visit www.mfgday.com to schedule your company’s Manufacturing Day

event or to access their easy to use resources.

Manufacturing Day (MFG DAY) addresses common misperceptions about manufactur-ing by giving manufacturers an opportunity to open their doors and show, in a coor-dinated effort, what manufacturing is — and what it isn’t. By working together during and after MFG DAY, manufacturers will begin to address the skilled labor shortage they face, connect with future generations, take charge of the public image of manufactur-ing, and ensure the ongoing prosperity of the whole industry.

www.mfgday.com

BUSINESSM A G A Z I N E

VOLUME XXVI, NUMBER 9 SEPTEMBER 2013Manufacturer & Business Association

MBA, EEA-PA and NRG: Trust and Expertise Navigate the Grid / Page 12

12FEATURES > 3 / SpotlightPenelec President Scott Wyman discusses how his company, a subsidiary of the Ohio-based FirstEnergy Corp., has been impacted by deregulation of the Commonwealth’s electric industry and how teaming with third-party energy suppliers has created more choices for the consumer.

12 / MBA, EEA-PA and NRGSince 2009, the Employers’ Energy Alliance of Pennsylvania (EEA-PA) has supported members’ energy needs and ensured their ability to maintain a competitive edge. Officials explain how a new partnership between the MBA, EEA-PA and NRG Business Solutions provides an additional level of trust, service and industry expertise that is unmatched — and inspires confidence that companies are getting the best possible value.

25 / On the HillThe development of natural gas in the Marcellus Shale region has greatly impacted the Commonwealth. Here, Kathryn Z. Klaber, CEO of the Marcellus Shale Coalition, explains how continued exploration in the region is set to ensure Pennsylvania’s position as a magnet for new jobs and manufacturing.

27 / EventsSee extensive photo coverage from the 2013 Golf Classic Tour at Whispering Woods Golf Club in Erie.

EDITORIAL > 9 / Health Matters Discover how defined contribution plans can offer choice and greater engagement for your employees.JOHN MILLS

11 / Legal BriefWhy development of the natural gas industry faces legal and technical uncertainties.THOMAS A. PENDLETON

Special Section > Training InsertLearn about the Association’s upcoming HR, professional development and computer training courses in our new Training Catalog.

September 2013

4 27

DEPARTMENTS > 4 / Business Buzz16 / HR Connection

22 / HR Q&A28 / People Buzz

Read on the Go!For the most current Business Magazine updates, visit our website, www.mbabizmag.com, fan us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

September 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 1

100 State Street Suite 700 Erie, PA 16507 MacDonaldIllig.com 814-870-7600

FIRM.

VOL. XXVI, NO. 9 SEPTEMBER 2013

© Copyright 2013 by the Manufacturer & Business Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial, pictorial or advertisements created for use in the Business Magazine, in any manner, without written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope bearing sufficient postage. The maga-zine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. The Business Magazine and Manufacturer & Business Association do not specifically endorse any of the products or practices described in the magazine. The Business Magazine is published monthly by the Manufacturer & Business Association, 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, Pa. 16508. Phone: 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

Mission StatementThe Manufacturer & Business Association is dedicated to providing information and services to its members that will assist them in the pursuit of their business and community interests. – Board of Governors

Manufacturer & Business Association2171 West 38th Street Erie, Pa. 16508 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 www.mbausa.org

Manufacturer Joel Berdine& Business John ClineAssociation Board Dale Deistof Governors Bill Hilbert Jr. Mark Hanaway Donald Hester Timothy Hunter Paul Kenny J. Gordon Naughton Dennis Prischak Sue Sutto

Editor in Chief Ralph Pontillo [email protected]

Executive Editor John Krahe [email protected]

Managing Editor & Karen Torres Senior Writer [email protected]

Contributing John Mills Writers Thomas A. Pendleton Tungsten Creative

Photography Shutterstock.com NRG Business Solutions Casey Naylon

Advertising Sales Patty Welther 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 [email protected]

Design, Production Printing Concepts Inc. & Printing [email protected]

ON THE COVER: Since 2009, the Employers’ Energy Alliance of Pennsylvania (EEA-PA) has supported members’ energy needs and ensured their ability to maintain a competitive edge. Officials explain how a new partnership between the MBA, EEA-PA and NRG Business Solutions provides an additional level of trust, service and industry expertise that is unmatched — and inspires confidence that companies are getting the best possible value. For full story, see page 12.

SPOTLIGHT > Contact: www.mbabizmag.com

How has electricity deregulation affected Penelec/First Energy? Penelec is still the company that delivers electricity to your place of business, restaurant, manufacturing facility, or house. We’re still responsible for the poles, wires, transformers — all the equipment required for delivering that electricity. Penelec is still the company that bills you for your electricity use, and we’re the company that repairs your service if you experience an outage. Penelec is the company you call if you have billing questions or service questions, most especially if you experience an outage. The only thing we don’t do anymore is gen-erate or produce electricity. Penelec sold its power plants in the late 1990s — we are an energy/electricity delivery company.

What are the advantages of deregulation for your company and your commercial customers? There are currently more than a dozen alternate suppliers offering electricity to Penelec customers. The major advantage of deregulation for Penelec customers is choice. In addition, competition for customers among alternate suppliers leads to lower electricity costs for Penelec customers. Deregulation allows Penelec customers to shop for an electricity supplier based on many factors including price, green power and other factors. Finally, if a Penelec customer chooses not to shop, we will provide electricity to those customers at a competitive price. Penelec conducts auctions periodically throughout the year to purchase electricity for those customers who choose not to shop. The auctions are designed to purchase electricity in the wholesale electricity market at competitive prices.

What advice do you give commercial customers who are shopping for an electrical supplier? Penelec encourages all of its customers to go to www.papowerswitch.com and at least look at the options available in terms of price and the companies offering electricity to Penelec customers. The papowerswitch.com website is constantly updated with pricing information and is maintained by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. And with more than a dozen companies offering service in the Penelec service territory, there are plenty of options available to Penelec customers around pricing and the type of generation used to produce the electricity. In addition, Penelec recommends that any customer who chooses an alternate supplier clearly understands the terms and conditions of that supplier — things like length of the contract, price that may be involved for switching suppliers, etc.

How do you work with third-party suppliers such as the MBA’s energy savings program, the Employers’ Energy Alliance of Pennsylvania? Penelec, and our parent company FirstEnergy, maintain a working relationship with suppliers in the Penelec service territory. This is especially true in the area of customer education. Penelec and alternate suppliers conduct customer education on an ongoing basis throughout the year. This education is rooted in how to shop for electricity and an alternate supplier, pricing, where to go for information on alternate suppliers, and the need to understand the terms and conditions an alternate supplier uses when you sign up with them to serve you. Again, the papowerswitch.com website is a wonderful source for this information, and customer choice information is also available at www.firstenergycorp.com. Finally, if a customer has any questions about choosing an alternate supplier, or has concerns about a supplier, they are encouraged to call the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission at 800/692-7380.

What does the future hold in terms of electricity costs and supply? Nobody can accurately predict the future price of electricity. And, the supply of electricity is governed by the regional power pool in which Penelec operates — PJM. However, environmental regulations are sure to play a part in both the price and supply of electricity in the future. Already there are many companies who are retiring existing generating stations due to new and changing environmental rules and regulations. Many of those regulations will also impact the construction of new generating stations. The economy — when it improves — will also play a role in the price and supply of electricity.

Nearly three years after the deregulation of the Commonwealth’s electric industry, both energy companies and their customers are operating in a very different energy market. And with more than 590,000 customers in 31 Pennsylvania counties, Penelec, a subsidiary of the Ohio-based FirstEnergy Corp., is one of the region’s largest energy delivery companies. The Business Magazine recently sat down with Penelec President Scott Wyman to discuss how the company has been impacted by deregulation, and how teaming with third-party energy suppliers has created more choices for the consumer.


2013 ERIE CONFERENCE FOCUSES ON EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATIONThe 2013 ERIE conference, held July 29 at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, approached the value of early childhood education from an econo-mist’s perspective, with one basic ques-tion: Is there a measurable economic benefit to these programs?

According to Jim Kurre, associate professor of economics at Penn State Behrend and director of the Economic Research Institute of Erie, there is.

”There is a huge economic payoff,” he said. ”It requires a long-term view — it takes some time for these kids to age through the system — but the research is solid.”

He sees a benefit even for businesses, and for families without young chil-dren. The conference’s keynote speaker, Timothy Bartik, a senior economist for

NATIONAL MANUFACTURING DAY SLATED FOR OCTOBER 4 To celebrate the second annual Manufacturing Day on Friday, October 4, 2013, manufacturers, educational institutions and others are encouraged to host events that will highlight the importance of manufacturing to the nation’s economy and draw attention to the many rewarding high-skill jobs in manufacturing fields.

In its first year in 2012, more than 240 events were held in manufacturing facilities in 37 states and more than 7,000 people participated. This year’s celebration will feature open houses, public tours, career workshops and other activities to increase public awareness of modern manufacturing.

”Manufacturing Day is a great opportunity to shift Americans’ perception that it is not our grandfather’s manufacturing anymore and to showcase the tremendous career opportunities manufacturing has to offer,” said Jay Timmons, president and CEO of the National Association of Manufacturers, a co-sponsor of the event. ”This day is an engaging way to attract young people and get them excited about pursuing a career in a technology-driven, innovative environment that will also provide a good-paying job. We encourage all manufacturers and manufacturing associations to get involved and share what we already know — manufacturing makes us strong.”

To get involved in Manufacturing Day, visit www.mfgday.com.

Business Buzz

4 < www.mbabizmag.com < September 2013

the Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, discussed that during his talk.

The conference also included presenta-tions by Nick Scott Jr., vice president of Scott Enterprises and a member of the Pennsylvania Early Learning Investment Commission; and Marlene D. Mosco, regional president of PNC Financial Ser-vices Group, which in 2004 launched the ”Grow Up Great” campaign, a $350 million bilingual initiative for children.

For more information or highlights from the 2013 conference, visit www.eriedata.org.

VELOCITY NETWORK LAUNCHES OFFICE TECHNOLOGY MAKEOVER PROGRAM

Office technology and fiber optic Inter-net service provider Velocity Network is sponsoring a $50,000 office technology makeover program for Erie County busi-nesses and nonprofits.

The program will award two $25,000 makeovers — one to a for-profit busi-ness and a second to a nonprofit orga-nization — that will include office tech-nology products including workstations, security appliances, software, printers and more from Lenovo, Dell Sonicwall, Xerox, Microsoft and Velocity Network.

”For more than 20 years, the Erie community has helped Velocity Network grow to its leadership position for which we are tremendously grateful. Our Office Technology Makeover Program is a way to show how grateful we are,” said Joel Deuterman, CEO of Velocity Network.

Program guidelines and applications will be available online only at Make-overMyIT.com. Applications can be submitted until 11:59 p.m. September 20, and the winners will be announced October 22.

Since 1990, Velocity Network has pro-vided enterprise-level IT solutions to organizations throughout northwest Pennsylvania.

For more information, visit www.velocitynetwork.net.

ERIE INSURANCE EARNS TOP RANKING FOR SIXTH STRAIGHT YEARFor the sixth year in a row, Erie Insurance (ERIE) has been named by the Ward Group to its Ward’s 50 list of top performing property and casualty companies.

The Ward Group, an industry leading provider of industry benchmarking, analyzes the financial performance of 3,000 property-casualty insurers before naming the top performers in safety, consistency and financial performance over a five-year period. >

DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Karen Torres


This is the 16th time ERIE has been on the list, published annually since 1991.

”Our customers believe in and have benefitted from ERIE’s value proposi-tion — superior coverage and service at a competitive price,” said Terry Cavana-ugh, president and chief executive offi-cer of Erie Insurance. ”The Ward’s 50 list affirms that we have the financial stabil-ity our customers, agents, shareholders, and employees expect and depend on.”

Based in Erie, Erie Insurance is the 15th largest homeowners insurer and 12th largest automobile insurer in the United States, with more than 4.6 million policies in forces and operations in 11 states and the District of Columbia.

For more information, visit www.erieinsurance.com.

DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Karen TorresBusiness Buzz

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For local decision making and expertise in lending, treasury management,

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HOFFMAN INDUSTRIAL PURCHASES NEW EQUIPMENT

Hoffman Industrial Company recently added a new piece of equipment, the Versa-Lift 40/60, a forklift capable of lifting up to 60,000 pounds. The Versa-Lift complements the company’s current line of equipment, which includes numerous forklifts that range from 8,000 to 60,000 pounds, a 22-ton Link Belt crane, and a fleet of tractors and trailers for hauling equipment and machines.

Hoffman Industrial, Erie’s oldest family owned company, has been in business since 1846 and is an expert in moving and hauling equipment and machinery.

For more information, visit www.hoffmanindustrial.com.

The Versa-Lift 40/60 is capable of lifting up to 60,000 pounds.


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We’re local people who are familiar with businesses in

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from our full line of financial products with the opportunity

to bring credit union benefits to your employees.

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(814) 825-2436 Ext. 1035 • [email protected]

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(814) 825-2436 • (800) 480-0494www.eriefcu.org

The rising cost of health care has caused employers to re-examine how much they pay for insuring their employees and caused them to think more about defined contribution plans.

With a defined contribution plan, an employer can decide exactly how much they want to contribute to an employee’s health insurance and have certainty about cost. Moreover, a defined contribution plan can be offered by a company of any size.

What is a Defined Contribution Plan? Technically speaking, a defined contribution plan is not any specific kind of health plan. Instead, it is a concept that can be applied to different approaches that employers can use to manage health care for employees.

With a defined contribution plan, a company gives each employee a fixed dollar amount that the employees can use to purchase health insurance and dental and vision benefits. Some employers will allow employees to put any money not spent on these benefits into a Flexible Spending Account or to take it as a cash benefit.

Certainly, the rising cost of health insurance is a major factor in the increased popularity of defined contribution plans. Any plan that can place some kind of limit on health care expenses, or provide some certainty about how much money will be paid, will get close scrutiny by companies concerned about the bottom line.

Defined contribution plans also touch on some areas that are becoming more important to both employers and employees. These include:

• The consumer’s desire to have more choice and involvement in health care;

• Concern about quality;

• Increased information; and

• More freedom for providers than was possible under managed care.

Common Characteristics of Defined Contribution Plans

1. Choice. The most common characteristic. Defined contri-bution plans are intended to give members greater flexibility in benefit decisions. The choices include: plan choices, care choices and the ability to opt out.

2. Increased cost sharing. The increase will be between the employer and the member.

3. Greater engagement. Because the member has more involvement in the cost of care, the member often has greater knowledge and engagement in management of their health care.

Positives for Employers • There is no limit on the amount

of money an employer can contribute to an employee’s defined contribution health plan.

• There is no minimum contribution requirement for an employer.

• Employer is able to set the amount that makes the most sense for the company.

• Employers can also give employees different contribution amounts based on classes of employees.

The popularity of defined contribution plans is rising along with the costs of premiums, but there are additional factors that explain the rise.

Providers like the fact that defined contribution plans enable them to regain control over decisions concerning patient care. At minimum, they want a greater ability to advise patients who will make the final decision.

Concerns about quality are another factor driving popularity. There is evidence that defined contribution plans will enhance the quality of care and also increase the amount of information available on the quality of health care, which makes it pop-ular in these days when that focus is preferable for many. And small businesses find that with defined contri-bution plans, they can have a feasible way to provide some kind of health insurance for their employees.

For more information about defined contribution, consumer-directed health plans offered by UPMC Health Plan, visit http://www.upmchealthplan.com/healthyu/hia.html.

Defined Contribution Plans Offer Choice, Engagement

Health MattersEDITORIAL > By John Mills

John Mills is senior director, Consumer Products for UPMC Health Plan, which is part of the UPMC Insurance Services Division. The integrated partner companies of the UPMC Insurance Services Division, which offer a full range of insurance programs and products, also include UPMC WorkPartners, LifeSolutions, UPMC for You (Medical Assistance), UPMC for Life (Medicare), UPMC for Kids, Askesis Development Group, EBenefits Solutions, and Community Care Behavioral Health.


prepare for employment in the

natural gas industry

Penn College offers degrees that work.

Prepare for your career in the natural gas industry today. Visit www.pct.edu/naturalgas or call the Admissions Office at 800-367-9222 for more information.

An affiliate of The Pennsylvania State University

Penn College operates on a nondiscriminatory basis.

Penn College® and degrees that work® are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

ShaleTEC was established to serve as the central resource for workforce development and education needs of the community and the oil and natural gas industry.

A sample of current course offerings include:

PEC Basic – SafeGulf/SafeLand Orientation

Shale Exploration, Development & Production Overview

Fall Protection Competent Person

Qualified Rigger & Signal Person

Confined Space Entry & Rescue

Heavy Equipment Safety

Aerial Work Platform Safety Operations

Rough Terrain Forklift Certification

H2S Awareness

Hot Work Air Monitoring

OSHA 10 & 30 General Industry

Medic First Aid – Basic Plus CPR, AED & First Aid for Adults

Incipient Fire Extinguisher Training

Intro to Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)

Classes can be customized to meet your company’s needs

and held at your site or one of these ShaleTEC locations:

Penn College, Main Campus, Williamsport, PA

Penn College, Energy Technology Education Center, Montgomery, PA

Penn College, North Campus, Wellsboro, PA

ShaleTEC Affiliate locations:

Penn State Beaver (Monaca, PA)

Penn State DuBoisPenn State Fayette (Lemont Furnace, PA)

Penn State Wilkes-Barre (Northern Tier Center in Towanda, PA)

Visit www.shaletec.org or call 570-327-4775 for a complete listing of classes or for more information.

A collaboration of Pennsylvania College of Technology and Penn State Extension

Shale Training & Education Center

Just like any other commodity, the price of natural gas is determined by the laws of supply and demand. Five years ago, the price of natural gas was approximately $13 per 1,000 cubic feet (mcf). This price, which was high by historical standards, created a financial incentive for energy companies to explore new sources of natural gas. Two of the sources discovered were the shale formations known as the Marcellus Shale and the Utica Shale.

As the new supply of natural gas from these shale sources increased (along with a decrease in demand caused by the recession in 2009), the price of natural gas began to fall. Currently, the price of natural gas sits at about $3.75 per mcf.

This decline in price has caused energy companies to look for ways to become more efficient in their drilling efforts. For example, energy companies can now drill a shale gas well in 20 days, a process that took nearly 40 days several years ago. This decline in drilling time saves the energy company approximately $500,000 per well.

Furthermore, energy companies have improved their well design and fracking strategies so that they can recover more gas through each well. Drill pads are now smaller in size and more water is transported through above-ground pipelines, rather than by truck, which reduces traffic congestion and damage to roads.

The increased availability of natural gas, which is an environmentally cleaner energy source than coal, has caused consumers of energy to switch their energy suppliers. Electric utilities are shutting down their coal-fired boilers and converting to natural gas. Chemical companies and plastic manufacturers are bringing operations back to the

United States or expanding existing domestic facilities because the price of natural gas in our country is now substantially cheaper than the price of natural gas abroad.

A Look Ahead Trying to project how the energy market may look five to 10 years from now requires an understanding of both legal and technical factors. Generally speaking, each of the 50 states controls the environmental requirements for producing natural gas within their boundaries. These state-specific requirements vary widely. For example, Pennsylvania and Ohio encourage the development of shale gas by limiting the ability of municipalities to enact local ordinances that impose greater restrictions on drilling than the regulations passed at the state level. Conversely, New York has a statewide moratorium on the development of shale gas, and New York courts have also upheld municipal bans on drilling, which would become effective if the statewide moratorium is lifted.

Technically speaking, development of shale gas continues to evolve. Extracting natural gas from the Utica Shale is still in the research and development stage. We know from experience that developing the Marcellus Shale took about three to four years to get production and costs to their current levels. Further development of natural gas from both of these formations requires additional investment in pipelines to transport the larger volumes of natural gas. Once these pipelines are in place, we will have a better understanding of the levels of production that wells drilled into the Utica Shale are likely to achieve.

Finally, some studies have shown that by the year 2020, the production

of natural gas in the United States will exceed our country’s anticipated demand for this resource. As a result, plans are underway for numerous liquefied natural gas (”LNG”) export terminals to ship LNG overseas. These potential exports may decrease available supply for new or expanded domestic uses, such as increased use of LNG for transportation (long-haul trucks, locomotives, passenger vehicles), and power generation. If demand for natural gas begins to exceed the available supply for domestic uses, the price of natural gas will likely rise.

These are just some of the economic, legal, technical and political influences on the price of natural gas. And although the future cannot be predicted with certainty, one thing is clear: natural gas will remain an important energy resource for Pennsylvania’s manufacturers and residents for years to come. For more information, contact Thomas A. Pendleton at MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP at 814/870-7756 or [email protected].

Thomas A. Pendleton is a partner with MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP and has been representing businesses, nonprofit corporations and individuals in a wide variety of legal matters for more than 15 years. He is a graduate of the Vanderbilt University School of Law.

Legal BriefDevelopment of Natural Gas Faces Legal, Technical Uncertainty

EDITORIAL > By Thomas A. Pendleton


MBA, EEA-PA and NRG: Trust and Expertise Navigate the Grid

Nearly three years have passed since the electric industry was completely deregulated in Pennsylvania. Results of deregulation are mixed among the 24 states that have enacted electricity deregulation plans, as increases in demand, supply and prices in some areas continue to raise questions about its viability. In Pennsylvania, however, deregulation has been a success.

Deregulation is actually the culmination of a process that began in 1935 when the Roosevelt administration forced the break up of large, multistate holding companies controlling approximately 75 percent of the country’s electric generating capacity. Utilities were given a government-sanctioned monopoly over a limited territory in exchange for the promise to provide dependable electric service at a regulated rate. Approximately 300 power systems and 800 rural cooperatives were created under the legislation.

During the 1970s, rising electric prices and global oil embargos stimulated public demands for more economical and alternative energy. And in 1978, Congress passed legislation requiring utilities to use renewable energy from wind, solar and other sources. The desire for change was sustained into the 1990s when the push for free competition began. The Energy Policy Act of 1992 addressed energy efficiency, conservation and management, and opened the industry for competition by permitting power generators

to compete in selling electricity to utilities. Four years later, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission issued an order that required utilities to open their transmission lines to competitors. Shortly thereafter, six states, including Pennsylvania, launched pilot programs.

Deregulation and third-party energy managementOver the past decade, there has been a proliferation of third-party energy management firms — companies providing consultative services and expert analysis to help clients reduce energy costs, protect budgets and navigate the complexities of deregulated market trends. This became the mission of Employers’ Energy Alliance of Pennsylvania (EEA-PA), a third-party energy management firm founded in 2009 by the Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) to support members’ energy needs and ensure their ability to maintain a competitive edge. In August 2009, EEA-PA — one of the MBA’s most highly sought-after member services — became licensed as a third-party provider just as deregulation was taking place in the central Pennsylvania region.

The menu of electrical rate options was complicated even before deregulation was fully implemented in Pennsylvania. That complexity is now compounded as businesses have the ability to proactively procure their generation rates and, at the same time, implement cost-reduction strategies to


protect budgets. To effectively deal with the intricacies of pricing, scheduling and utilization rates, many commercial customers are turning to third-party advocates such as EEA-PA to help them navigate the maze of pricing options and effectively manage risk in the volatile energy market.

Trust, service and industry expertiseEducating members how to make informed decisions about purchasing electricity is a priority of EEA-PA. The company instructs managers on how to compare providers using benchmark criteria, and how to apply that information to their own usage profiles. EEA-PA also provides an e-newsletter, keeping members updated on trends and developments in the erratic energy market, along with an instant, online Q&A service that links members to immediate information from industry experts.

During its first three years, EEA-PA members realized significant savings through variable pricing in the Day-Ahead Energy Market. Soon, however, EEA-PA began working with customers who could benefit from a greater variety of purchasing options. In the fall of 2012, EEA-PA entered into an alliance with NRG Business Solutions — a division of NRG Energy, one of the nation’s largest power generators — to expand the electrical purchasing products it could offer along with its risk management capabilities.

EEA-PA, with the assistance of its partner, NRG Business Solutions, applies quantitative skills, market insights, energy trends analysis and regulatory expertise to develop solutions that translate into significant bottom-line savings for its members. At the heart of its service is the company’s engagement with MBA membership, a partnership that ensures complete objectivity and absolute dedication to managing members’ energy needs. ”Our mission as a third-party energy management company is the same as all of our MBA services — to enhance the productivity of our members,” says John Krahe, vice president of MBA. ”This engagement with the membership ensures trust, and instills confidence that members are getting the best possible value through EEA-PA.” >

Start Saving NowTrust and expertise: Wise choices when choosing an energy supplier. EEA-PA has helped hundreds of MBA members, businesses of every size and type, save more than $11 million on their electricity costs.

The only way to find out which energy savings plan is right for your business is to contact the Association. Contact one of the EEA-PA’s energy representatives at 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660, or click on ”Request a Quote” on www.eeapa.com. While you’re there, you can also register for the free MBA-Energy News newsletter, which delivers insightful Q&A in the ”Ask an Expert” section and timely energy updates to your inbox each month.


A success-driven Fortune 500 company, NRG brings the strength and resources of a true industry leader, meeting the needs of customers of any size, offering them a wide-ranging energy portfolio. This depth and breadth makes possible the energy solution that can be developed and delivered efficiently, reliably and reassuringly. These solutions keep the power on — always on — in homes, businesses, factories, stadiums, campuses, hospitals and municipalities across the country.

”Many organizations want to improve energy efficiency, minimize their impact on the environment or simply reduce energy costs,” says Scott Hart, vice president of Sales, NRG Business Solutions. ”NRG has deep experience and insight that allows us to offer solutions that will help customers, of any size, meet their energy goals.”

NRG is more than a generator of power — they are a provider of solutions including renewable resources, smart energy solutions, backup generation, energy management systems, electric vehicle charging stations, grid power, district energy systems, and combined heat and power.

To date, they have invested more than $1 billion to deploy cleaner energy systems in their own operations. Renewable energy development, electric vehicle infrastructure and smart grid technology are just a few of the ways their innovative solutions can help people, businesses and communities build a sustainable future.

”NRG stands out for its best-in-class customer service and we will continue to raise the bar for what customers should expect from their energy company,” says Hart. ”Our integrated solutions help organizations make well-informed

decisions about all aspects of energy, including energy efficiency and sustainability.”

This combination of trust, industry expertise and extensive product offerings translates into strong relationships between Association members and EEA-PA. The company is immersed in electrical markets, and offers understanding of trends and how to implement the most effective energy supply strategies. Supply management strategies are tailored to each company’s needs, incorporating pertinent, individualized information regarding variables affecting usage.

An important benefit of EEA-PA products is the ability to accommodate any type of business or organization, regardless of size. EEA-PA’s product spectrum ranges from fixed price to fixed/variable to completely variable pricing to complement customer desires for budget certainty and degree of risk. After the initial contract is created, EEA-PA distinguishes itself in the arena of customer service. The company has a shared interest in the welfare of its members, and frequent communications are integral to the MBA partnership.

To date, more than 500 members have contracted with EEA-PA. ”We provide members who are interested in EEA-PA with a thorough evaluation of their electrical usage,” says Krahe. ”We find that for some, current suppliers and purchasing models are yielding the best results, and we recommend they stay the course. For others, partnering with us makes the most sense. They get industry expertise along with the trust that comes through the association. It’s the best of both worlds.”

For more information, visit www.eeapa.com.

EEA-PA Regional Representative Chuck Jenkins; Scott Hart, vice president of Sales, NRG Business Solutions; and MBA Vice President John Krahe say the EEA-PA, NRG and MBA are committed to providing Association member companies with low-cost energy solutions.


Training That Develops

Effective Leaders

T R A I N I N G S C H E D U L E

As a leader in professional development and computer training programs for more than 20 years — the Manufacturer & Business Association’s expert trainers deliver the knowledge and skills you need to compete in today’s business world.

Certified Supervisory Skills Series

From left: Jennifer Nelson, graduate Pete Greene and Heather Evans, AirBorn, Inc.

“We have been using the Manufacturer & Business Association for our training needs for over 15 years and we have never been disappointed. We are very fortunate to have a local resource available to us that is ready to help us whenever our business demands change. We will continue to use the Association to help our company grow and stay competitive.”

— Heather EvansHR ManagerAirBorn, Inc.

October NovemberProfessional Development

Certified Supervisory Skills Series Course I 11/7 and 11/14 Course II (Corry) 11/7 and 11/14 Course III 11/5 and 11/12 Course III 11/13 and 11/20 Course III (St. Marys) 11/19 and 11/20 Course IV (Williamsport) 11/12 and 11/13 Price: $295 Members, $415 Nonmembers

Leadership for Team Leaders Course IV 11/6 Price: $175 Members, $315 Nonmembers

Food Safety Certification 11/18 Price: $145 Members, $250 Nonmembers

HR Essential Certification Series Terminations 11/14 Price: $70 Members, $140 Nonmembers

ComputerExcel 2007/2010 Level I 11/5 Excel 2007/2010 Level II 11/26 Price: $175 Members, $310 Nonmembers

Access 2007/2010 Level I 11/7 Price: $175 Members, $310 Nonmembers

Access 2007/2010 Level II (Two Days) 11/14 and 11/21 Price: $350 Members, $460 Nonmembers

Quickbooks 2012 11/15 Price: $195 Members, $310 Nonmembers

Professional DevelopmentCertified Supervisory Skills Series Course I (Corry) 10/3 and 10/10 Course I (St. Marys) 10/1 and 10/2 Course II 10/8 and 10/15 Course II (Williamsport) 10/8 and 10/9 Course II 10/16 and 10/23 Course II (St. Marys) 10/22 and 10/23 Course III (Williamsport) 10/29 and 10/30 Price: $295 Members, $415 Nonmembers

Leadership for Team Leaders Course III 10/9 Price: $175 Members, $315 Nonmembers

Food Safety Certification 10/21 Price: $145 Members, $250 Nonmembers

HR Essential Certification Series Interviewing & Hiring (Clarion) 10/15 Terminations (Clarion) 10/15 Employment Law (Clarion) 10/15 Discrimination & Harassment (Clarion) 10/16 Compensation & Benefits (Clarion) 10/16 Exempt vs. Nonexempt (9 a.m. - Noon) 10/17 Performance Management (1-4 p.m.) 10/17 Discrimination & Harassment 10/24 Price: $70 Members, $140 Nonmembers

ComputerExcel 2007/2010 Level I 10/10 Excel 2007/2010 Level II 10/17 Excel 2007/2010 Level III 10/24 Price: $175 Members, $310 Nonmembers

T R A I N I N G

“Shorty after joining the Manufacturer & Business Association, I learned of the HR Essential Certification Series. Knowing that our company was growing and there were aspects of Human Resources with which I needed guidance, I signed up for the series. Our instructor was very familiar with both PA and federal laws. I enjoyed the fast-paced classes, which were packed with pertinent, up-to-date information and real-life scenarios from other local businesses. No matter what level of HR experience you have, you will find these classes very educational.”

— Tammy Ricci,Office Manager

Moody and Associates, Inc.

“Environmental Reclamation Services takes pride in the continued education of our employees. In seeking out a program that clearly defines the expectations we have for our supervisors, we looked no further than the Manufacturer & Business Association in Erie, Pa. Their leadership seminars identify and sharpen the skills necessary to produce qualified supervisors while fine-tuning the natural abilities our employees bring to the table.”

— Bridget Trojanowski,Human Resource Manager

Environmental Reclamation Services

DecemberProfessional Development

Certified Supervisory Skills Series Course II 12/5 and 12/12 Course III (Corry) 12/12 and12/19 Course IV 12/3 and 12/10 Course IV 12/11 and 12/18 Course IV (St. Marys) 12/17 and 12/18 Course V (Williamsport) 12/3 and 12/4 Price: $295 Members, $415 Nonmembers

Leadership for Team Leaders Course V 12/4 Price: $175 Members, $315 Nonmembers

ComputerExcel 2007/2010 Level I 12/3 Excel 2007/2010 Level II 12/10 Excel 2007/2010 Level III 12/17 Price: $175 Members, $310 Nonmembers

Access 2007/2010 Level III 12/19 Price: $175 Members, $310 Nonmembers

TrainingRegional Locations

All courses are held at the MBA Conference Center in Erie, unless otherwise noted.Bradford: Holiday Inn Express 30 Tarport Drive Extension

Butler: Fairfield Inn & Suites Route 8 and Route 422

Erie: Manufacturer & Business Association Conference Center 2171 West 38th Street

Corry: Corry Higher Educational Council 221 North Center Street

Clarion: Holiday Inn 45 Holiday Inn Road

DuBois: Best Western 82 North Park Place

Franklin: Franklin Industrial & Commercial Development Authority 191 Howard Sreet

Hermitage: LindenPointe 3182 Innovation Way

Kittanning: Armstrong Educational Trust 81 Glade Drive

Meadville: Holiday Inn Express 18240 Conneaut Lake Road

Mercer/Grove City: Hampton Inn, Grove City 4 Holiday Boulevard

St. Marys: Community Education Council of Elk and Cameron Counties 4 Erie Avenue, Suite 200

Titusville: Titusville Community Development Agencies 110 West Spring Street

Warren: Warren/Forest Higher Ed Council 589 Hospital Drive, Suite F

Williamsport: Genetti Hotel 200 W. Fourth Street

* Handicap access and parking available at all sites.

Onsite TrainingGet more flexibility and convenience with our onsite training options — one of the most cost-effective choices for group instruction.

• Flexible and convenient scheduling • Customized instruction • Eliminate travel expenses

Course RegistrationContact Terry Nunez at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or [email protected] to register or for more information on upcoming courses. Online registration also is available at www.mbausa.org.

S C H E D U L E

“Whether it is computer classes or professional development courses, the training provided by the Manufacturer & Business Association has allowed us to provide a cost-effective solution that is critical to our ability to stay competitive.”

— Joy Sherry, Human Resources Director

Ainsworth Pet Nutrition

“After taking the HR Essential Certification Series at the MBA, I have found that all the information has become very useful in my everyday work environment. Our instructor did an excellent job presenting the information in a way that kept your attention and also taught you what you needed to know.”

— Dina Heile,Administrative Assistant

Intellectual Property Services

Howyouneedit. Whenyouneedit. Whereyouneedit.Considered a leader in professional development and computer training for more than 20 years, the Manufacturer & Business Association offers you the ease and flexibility of onsite training for groups of six or more employees.

ONSITE TRAINING

OnsiteConvenience:Nothing beats the convenience of training conducted at your facility. Let our expert instructors bring the training you need, when you need it, where you need it.

CustomizedPrograms: From full-day to half-day programs, all of our courses can be tailored to address your organization’s specific needs.

FocusedInteraction: Facilitated by our training specialists, your employees’ experience is further enhanced through group discussion on key topic areas specific to your company’s work environment.

Call Terry Nunez for more information about onsite training programs at 800/815-2660 or 814/833-3200, or visit www.mbausa.org.

PROFESSIONALDEVELOPMENT

Supervisory Skills

Leadership for Team Leaders

Customer Service

One-Day Food Safety Certification

And much more!

COMPUTERTRAINING

Word Levels I, II, III

Excel Levels I, II, III

Access Levels I, II, III

Outlook

And much more!

NATIONAL FUEL RESOURCES, INC. RETAIL SERVICE AREA

& Archival SolutionPirrello

Enterprises Inc.

HR ConnectionMARCELLUS SHALE PLAY CONTINUES TO GENERATE ECONOMIC BOOMThe Marcellus Shale formation — the second-largest natural-gas field in the world — has been a blessing for Pennsylvania’s workers and our economy, according to a recent article on Philly.com.Almost a quarter-million people in Pennsylvania work to produce natural gas from the Marcellus Shale or in related industries. Due to the growth of hydraulic fracturing, the Marcellus has been responsible for more than 150,000 new hires in the past three years — almost three-quarters of them state residents. The average salary in core fracking industries is more than $90,000 a year. According to the article, in 2010 alone, oil and gas development utilizing fracking contributed more

than $11 billion to Pennsylvania’s economy. Williamsport continues to be at the center of this natural-gas boom, with an economic growth rate of 7.8 percent. For more information, visit www.philly.com.

CONFERENCE TO TACKLE KEY ISSUES IN GROWING NATURAL GAS INDUSTRYExperts say there are still many opportunities for Pennsylvania manufacturers and service providers to profit from the Marcellus Shale industry, and to help these businesses understand the current issues at play, the Penn State Marcellus Center for Outreach and Research (MCOR) is hosting the 2013 Natural Gas Utilization Conference on September 10 and 11 in Pittsburgh.

Through discussions and presentations by industry experts, government officials, and academic researchers, the third annual conference will help participants develop a better understanding of key issues across the nation and the impact shale plays have on the world energy market as America moves to expand its use of natural gas for transportation, manufacturing, and power generation.Featured speakers include: Will Freeman, NGV Market Development, Chesapeake Energy; Mark Brocklehurst, global account executive-Unconventional Resources, GE Oil & Gas; and Dante Bonaquist, senior corporate fellow at Praxair.For more information, visit www.2013utilization.org.


Attorneys at Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. have helped numerous landowners with mineral rights and leasing issues. We have experience with oil and gas leases, Marcellus and Utica Shale land law, pooling and unitizing agreements, and mineral rights conveyances. Members of our estate planning and administration group are also well equipped to advise landowners on estate planning matters to help them preserve assets to be passed on in a manner consistent with their goals. For more information, contact us at 814-459-2800 or via email to [email protected].

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DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Stacey Bruce

On June 26, 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court decided a landmark case involving same-sex marriage. The court ruled that Section 3 of the Federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which provides that only persons of the opposite sex are recognized as ”spouses” and ”married” for purposes of federal law, violates the Fifth Amendment’s guarantee of equal protection as applied to persons of the same sex who are legally married under the laws of the state. This decision has implications for employers that sponsor retirement, fringe benefit and health-care plans, as well as employers’ payroll systems. By holding that Section 3 of DOMA is unconstitutional, the Court’s decision means that the complexities associated with the differential

treatment of opposite sex and same-sex couples may come to an end, at least in those states that recognize same-sex marriages. Employer plan documents will need to be examined closely to determine if amendments are required to change the definition of a ”spouse” or ”marriage.” This could require revisions in plan documents related to retirement, COBRA and FMLA practices, as well as income tax withholding and employment payroll tax. According to the Groom Law Group, a prominent Washington, D.C. law firm that provided background information for this article, while waiting for guidance from the federal and state regulators, employers should obtain same-sex marriage information, review

and amend plan documents, and modify policies and procedures if necessary. The DOMA decision and its impact will grow if and when more states come to recognize same-sex marriage. For more information, please contact me at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or [email protected].

Court’s Ruling on DOMA Has Implications for Employers

Patty Smith is the director of Employee Benefit Services at the Manufacturer & Business Association.


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Join with fellow manufacturers across the country in marking the second annual

Manufacturing Day on Friday, October 4, 2013.

Hosting an open house provides manufacturers with an opportunity to tell their

company’s story, dispel outdated myths about manufacturing, inspire a new

generation of manufacturers, and connect with their communities.

In opening your plant to visitors, you can also open minds — expanding knowledge

about and improving public perception of careers in manufacturing, as well as

showcasing manufacturing’s value to the U.S. economy.

Visit www.mfgday.com to schedule your company’s Manufacturing Day event or to

access their easy to use resources.

Manufacturing Day (MFG DAY) addresses common misperceptions about manufacturing by giving manufacturers an opportunity to open their doors and show, in a coordinated e!ort, what manufacturing is — and what it isn’t. By working together during and after MFG DAY, manufacturers will begin to address the skilled labor shortage they face, connect with future generations, take charge of the public image of manufacturing, and ensure the ongoing prosperity of the whole industry.

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WE ARE PLANNING TO DO SOME MORE DRILLING WORK IN THE MARCELLUS SHALE PLAY AREA AND NEED TO HIRE A FEW TEM-PORARY WORKERS. ARE THERE GUIDELINES FOR HIRING IN THIS CLASSIFICATION?

Many employers have unfounded fears of ”creating” a co-employ-ment relationship with a tem-porary worker who was hired through a staffing agency, even though it cannot be avoided in many cases (and it doesn’t neces-sarily impose additional obliga-tions on the employer). There is no single source for information on co-employment, in part be-cause the concept applies differ-ently depending on the relevant law. Also, the term is often used interchangeably with the concept of ”joint employment.”

In most cases where a host com-pany uses temporary workers from a staffing agency, certain co-em-ployment obligations will automat-ically exist. For example: A temp is protected by the discrimination laws, which includes protection from actions of the host company, even if the staffing agency is the employer of record.

A temporary worker is considered a joint employee for purposes of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) (see §825.106, Joint em-ployer coverage, noting that ”joint employment will ordinarily be found to exist when a temporary placement agency supplies em-ployees to a second employer”).

Employers cannot take any action to ”avoid creating” a co-employ-ment relationship under these laws

because that relationship is assumed to exist.

WHO IS THE EMPLOYER? As the employer of record, the staffing agency would be responsi-ble for tax deductions, completing a Form I-9 for new hires, and most other aspects of the employer/em-ployee relationship. Still, any rela-tionship where the host employer exercises some control over the temp, such as directing the day-to-day tasks that may create a joint or co-employment relationship under certain laws.

Although a temp is officially employed by his or her staffing agency, the host company is usu-ally a joint employer and can face liability for many of the same viola-tions that result in lawsuits from regular employees.

HR Q&A


Stacey Bruce, SPHR is the HR director at the Manufacturer & Business Association.

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Market pricing is the process of setting wage structures based on gathering, analyzing, and comparing job salary survey data from wages paid in the external market. Organizations use market pricing to establish pay structures and rates for jobs that are market driven, such as information technology jobs, or to follow market rate changes and then adjust their rates accordingly. Because of the time, effort, expense and legal ramifications of conducting a compensation survey, many organizations do not have the resources to properly perform one. Instead, they hire a company that specializes in doing compensation surveys. While this costs money, if a reputable company is hired, the data collection, analysis and final results should be of a much higher quality than an in-house survey.

Always keep the purpose of the survey in mind when judging the accuracy of the survey data.Participating in a Survey Compensation surveys take months to develop and complete, and the exact length of time depends on the number of companies surveyed, how many positions are included, and the amount of detailed information needed for each position. Organizations that participate in a survey — whether by completing it by mail, email or online — provide their own compensation data and usually receive a percentage-discount off the completed report. However, if you participate in the Manufacturer & Business Association’s Salary Survey, you receive it at no charge.It’s in your company’s best interest to participate in a compensation

survey, as the higher the number of participants, the more valid the results. It’s also important to participate in a survey if it has a key job that you can match to one of your jobs. For more information about market pricing, or to purchase the Association’s 2013 Regional Wage and Salary Survey, call 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660, or visit the website www.mbausa.org.

Market Pricing and Compensation Data Can Help Improve Your Wage Structures

DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Stacey Bruce


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The Marcellus Shale Coalition (MSC) is comprised of approximately 300 member companies, each with the same focus: promoting the safe production of natural gas in the Commonwealth and throughout our region, while maximizing the economic, environmental, and energy security benefits of this clean-burning and versatile resource. We represent exploration, production, midstream and local distribution companies, along with a dynamic supply chain comprised of environmental consulting, water management, engineering and manufacturing firms, among others. One of the most exciting parts of our work is being at the heart of Pennsylvania’s manufacturing revival, thanks in part to the safe development in natural gas throughout the state.

As a native of Beaver County and a lifetime resident of the Commonwealth, it is gratifying to see the wave of benefits associated with this historic natural gas revolution. Manufacturing towns and refineries are being revitalized. Small- and medium-sized business are opening and expanding. Jobs are being created, energy costs are more affordable for consumers and businesses, and revenue is pouring back into local economies for critical services and infrastructure improvements.

While the economic benefits of this renaissance are abundant and apparent, so too are the positive environmental effects. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently reported that the Mid-Atlantic region’s air quality, thanks to expanded natural gas availability and use, is improving markedly. And groundbreaking innovations and advances in technology, along with some of the nation’s strongest regulatory standards, are protecting our water and land in the communities we call home.

Take, for example, the reopening of the Marcus Hook facility in Delaware County, just outside of the city of Philadelphia. Once the pulse of the Delaware Valley, the Marcus Hook refinery was forced to close last year,

putting hundreds of local jobs into jeopardy. It was a major blow to the community. However, thanks to the safe development of job-creating, abundant natural gas, the facility has been repurposed to process ethane and propane — both byproducts of our state’s booming Marcellus Shale industry. Likewise, Philadelphia’s Sunoco refinery has had new life breathed into it, thanks to access to affordable supplies of shale resources.

Across the state, in western Pennsylvania, the national gas industry’s vibrant and robust supply chain is leading to new manufacturing in steel and essential equipment, with downstream manufacturing in petrochemicals and other industries poised to experience tremendous growth as development continues in the Commonwealth.

As President Barack Obama said in this year’s State of the Union Address, ”Our first priority is making America a magnet for new jobs and manufacturing.”

Without question, Pennsylvania and the entire region are delivering on this shared goal, which has been made possible by natural gas, a fundamental building block for a strong and sustainable manufacturing sector.

Despite the persistently sluggish national economy, tens of thousands of natural gas-related jobs are being created and preserved among exploration and production operations, midstream and pipeline companies, the supply chain, and into downstream markets. It is quite an exciting time for those of us who live, work, and learn in the area — and our industry is very eager to see what the future holds for this sustainable and trans- formational resource.

For more information about the MSC and its work, please visit marcelluscoalition.org and Marcellus on Main Street (marcellusonmainstreet.org), an online business directory connecting Pennsylvania businesses with the natural gas industry.

Kathryn Z. Klaber is CEO of the Marcellus Shale Coalition.

Manufacturing Renewal Takes Shape Across Our Region



EventsThe Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) recently held its annual Golf Classic Tour at Whispering Woods Golf Club in Erie to benefit three area education programs including Pennsylvania Business Week, the Patrick R. Locco Scholarship Awards and the John P. Tramontano Jr. Education Fund. For complete photo coverage, visit the Photo Gallery on www.mbausa.org.

Members from the Association’s 27-county membership area enjoy a great day of play at the Whispering Woods Golf Club.

Howard Industries, represented by Gary Schneider (third from left) and his foursome, served as the sign sponsor for the event.

MBA Board of Governors Chairman John Cline (second from left) and guests get ready to tee off.

The 15th annual Golf Classic Tour was sponsored by UPMC Health Plan, represented by Boo Hagerty (third from left).

The day ended with a buffet dinner sponsored by the MBA.

Golfers enjoyed a delicious breakfast courtesy of welcome sponsor Maple Donuts.

Val Laufenberg (right), executive director of Americans for the Competitive Enterprise System (ACES), awards the skills prizes. ACES is responsible for presenting Pennsylvania Business Week, one of three programs that benefits from the golf outing.

September 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 27September 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 27

DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Karen TorresPeople BuzzPENNSYLVANIA ELECTRIC MOTOR SERVICE APPOINTS NEW PRESIDENTPennsylvania Electric Motor Service (PEMS) recently announced the appointment of Peter Sutherland as president. Prior to his new appointment, Sutherland served as manager of Integrated Power Services in Chicago. Having earned his bachelor’s and master’s engineering degrees from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Sutherland is a licensed professional engineer with more than 30 years of experience in industrial electric motors. Established in 1993, PEMS employs a work force of more than 70 between two locations and serves heavy industry including steel plants, refineries, power plants and transportation. THE HARTMAN GROUP ADDS TWOThe Hartman Group recently added Lori Prestash and Todd Musheno to their team.Prestash has joined The Hartman Agency in State College as a Commercial Line Client Service Representative. She will be working with the commercial lines team to provide service to commercial property and casualty clients.With Pennsylvania Insurance licenses in Accident & Health, Casualty and Allied Lines, Life and Fixed Annuities, Property and Allied Lines, Pretash previously worked as a Commercial Customer Service Representative/ Account Man-ager, and has achieved the CISR and CWCS designations.Musheno joins The Hartman Agency as an Account Executive, working in the Williamsport office with the commercial lines team providing service to property and casualty clients.

A Penn State grad and a native of Williamsport, Musheno previously worked as a Commercial Lines Underwriter at Cincinnati Insurance Company. He has also worked as a Workers’ Compensation Claims Examiner with Sedgwick CMS. With offices in Williamsport, State College and Duncannon, The Hartman Group consists of The Hartman Agency, Inc., Hartman Employee Benefits, Inc., and Hartman Financial Services, offering commercial employee benefit, commercial property and casualty, financial services, and personal lines divisions. KNOX FIRM ANNOUNCES RECENT ATTORNEY ACHIEVEMENTS Joanna Budde, of Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C., was recently selected as ”2013 Top Rated Lawyer in Insurance Law” and was appointed to the board of Northwestern Legal Services (NWLS), a private nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free legal representation to low income clients throughout 10 counties. In being selected as a ”2013 Top Rated Lawyer in Insurance Law” by Martindale-Hubbell, Budde achieved the AV Preeminent peer review rating, the highest rating in legal ability and ethical standards. A full-time litigator for more than two decades, Budde’s practice focuses on insurance defense, litigation, and civil practice.ERIEZ NAMES HYDROFLOW ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT MANAGERDarrell Milton has transferred from the Eriez metals recycling sales team to the newly created position of Account Development Manager for the company’s HydroFlow line.

Milton has been with Eriez since 1991, first serving on the Canadian sales staff, and relocating to Erie in 2006 when he joined the Erie-based International Division.A world authority in separation tech-nologies, Eriez’s magnetic lift and sepa-ration, metal detection, x-ray, materials feeding, screening, conveying and con-trolling equipment are marketed and manufactured through 12 international facilities located on six continents. CPA FIRM CARBIS WALKER ANNOUNCES PROMOTIONSCarbis Walker LLP, Certified Public Accountants & Consultants, has announced several promotions:Timothy L. Adams, CPA, a member of the Construction & Real Estate Services Team, and Teah M.Donegan, CPA, a member of the Tax — Construction Team, to manager level.Joshua K. Donai, CPA, member of the Firm’s Health Care Services Team, to supervisor level.Michael D. Bryan and Gregory S. Curtis, members of the Manufacturing & Distribution Services Team, and Carl A. Sizer III, a member of the Health Care Services Team, to senior associate level.Carbis Walker LLP is a member of the Carbis Walker Group. The firm has three offices throughout western Pennsylvania, and specializes in the areas of construction and real estate, health care, manufacturing and distribution, and auto dealership services.


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