ERIE Magazine December - January 2014

eriepa.comErie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership

New adventures in aging

Active Senior Spotlight

active seniorLifestyLe

Dec/JAn 2014

Retirement and Senior Living in Erie

A look into the trends and options available for retirement in our region

celebration of excellencethursday, april 10, 2014Bayfront convention center

golf outingWednesday, May 21, 2014Peek’n Peak resort and spa

Beer on the Baysaturday, July 26, 2014 Liberty Park/BK amphitheatre

Fall Member FestThursday, September 25, 2014shades Beach

Annual Meeting thursday, november 6, 2014Bel-aire clarion Hotel & conference center

erie regional chamber and Growth Partnership Upcoming signature events

save tHe Dateercgp StAFFBarbara C. ChaffeePresident/CEO

Jacob A. RouchVice President, Economic Development

August P. SchiavaVice President, Chamber

Linda C. RobbinsFinancial Officer

Nadeen M. SteffeyDirector of Marketing and Communications

Sabrina ChircoDirector of Research

eDitorNadeen M. Steffey

contriButing WriterSMary Ann FrewNicholas G. Plonski

DeSignPAPA AdvertisingPAPAadvertising.com

ADvertiSing inForMAtion:Brett WilerAccount Executive814 454-7191 [email protected]

Douglas M. MasseyDirector, Business Action Team

Cathy NobleEvents Coordinator

Benjamin C. PrattDirector, Growth Partnership Division

Susan M. RontoMembership Coordinator

Brett WilerAccount Executive

4-105-217-269-25

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11-6Sponsorships are available; contact [email protected] details!

ercgp BoArD oF DirectorS

2014 oFFicerSDr. Keith taylor, CHAIRMarsha Marsh, VICE-CHAIRDavid Tullio, SECRETARYMike Weber, TREASURER.BoArD oF DirectorSDr. Jay BadamsJoel BerdineDr. Donald BirxJohn BloomstineCarl CarlottiTerrence CavanaughGary ClarkJohn DillMary EckertScott EighmyJeffrey EvansJames FiorenzoCharles “Boo” HagertyTimothy HunterChuck KnightJohn Leemhuis, Esq.Jim E. MartinBob MazzaMarlene MoscoJack MunchNeil ParhamJim RileyJim Rutkowski, Jr.Matthew SchultzNick Scott, Jr.Gretchen SethRon SteeleTom Tupitza, Esq.Russell Warner, Esq.Scott WhalenMary Beth WilcherDr. Julie WollmanScott Wyman

ercgp leaders elected for 2014 2

new investors 4

featUre articLesActive Senior lifestyle 12New adventures in agingby Mary Ann Frew

retirement & Senior living in erie 18 A look into the trends and options available for retirement in our region by Nicholas G. Plonski

sPeciaL eDition ercgp Announces Staff changes 24

ribbon cuttings 27

2014 Business After hours 28

in eacH issUeorganizational updates 6Chamber Economic Development regional initiative update 9Destination Erie

erie Ambassador 11Eileen Williams

consistent Feature 22Erie Entrepreneurship

ERIE MAGAzINE Dec/JAn 2014

Follow, Fan, Tag, Connect…

ercgp BoArD oF DirectorS

2014 oFFicerSDr. Keith taylor, CHAIRMarsha Marsh, VICE-CHAIRDavid Tullio, SECRETARYMike Weber, TREASURER.BoArD oF DirectorSDr. Jay BadamsJoel BerdineDr. Donald BirxJohn BloomstineCarl CarlottiTerrence CavanaughGary ClarkJohn DillMary EckertScott EighmyJeffrey EvansJames FiorenzoCharles “Boo” HagertyTimothy HunterChuck KnightJohn Leemhuis, Esq.Jim E. MartinBob MazzaMarlene MoscoJack MunchNeil ParhamJim RileyJim Rutkowski, Jr.Matthew SchultzNick Scott, Jr.Gretchen SethRon SteeleTom Tupitza, Esq.Russell Warner, Esq.Scott WhalenMary Beth WilcherDr. Julie WollmanScott Wyman

december/January 2014

Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership

ercgp leaders elected for 2014The Annual Meeting of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership was held on November 7, 2013. Members in attendance voted on the slate of officers and board of directors as proposed by the nominating committee. The results are as follows:

2014 oFFicerSchAir: Dr. Keith taylor, Gannon Universityvice-chAir: Marsha Marsh, Marsha Marsh Real Estate ServicesSecretArY: David tullio, Custom EngineeringtreASurer: Mike Weber, Smith Provisions

BoArD oF DirectorS, terM enDing 2016John Bloomstine, Insurance Management CompanyMary eckert, Millcreek Community Hospital and LECOMchuck Knight, Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Co.John Leemhuis, esq., Quinn Law Firmneil Parham, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shieldron steele, GECACtom tupitza, esq., Knox McLaughlin Gornall Sennett, PCscott Whalen, Saint Vincent Health Systemscott Wyman, Penelec–First Energy Corporation

BoArD oF DirectorS, terM enDing 2015Dr. Jay Badams, Erie School District

current BoArD oF DirectorS, terM enDing 2015Dr. Donald Birx, Penn State Erie–The Behrend CollegeGary clark, Stonebank Management LLCJames fiorenzo, UPMC HamotMarsha Marsh, Marsha Marsh Real Estate ServicesJim e. Martin, Northwest Savings Bank

Bob Mazza, Mazza VineyardsJack Munch, Baldwin Brothers, Inc.nick scott, Jr., Scott EnterprisesDr. Keith taylor, Gannon UniversityMike Weber, Smith ProvisionsDr. Julie Wollman, Edinboro University

BoArD oF DirectorS, terM enDing 2014Joel Berdine, GE Transportationcharles “Boo” Hagerty, UPMC Health Plan–Northern Tier MarketsMary Beth Wilcher, Erie Federal Credit Union

current BoArD oF DirectorS, terM enDing 2014terrence cavanaugh, Erie Insurance Groupscott eighmy, American Turned Productstimothy Hunter, McInnes Rolled RingsJim rutkowski, Jr., Industrial Sales and ManufacturingMatthew schultz, John V. Schultz Co.Gretchen seth, Logistics PlusDavid tullio, Custom Engineering

MeMBerS At lArge, chAirMAn’S AppointeeScarl carlotti, National Fuel GasMarlene Mosco, PNC Bankrussell Warner, esq., MacDonald Illig Jones & Britton

pArtner AppointeeS, one Year AppointmentJim riley, Visit Erie and Cumulus ErieJeffrey evans, Young Erie Professionals and Evans Capital ManagementJohn Dill, Economic Development Corporation and Citizens Bank

Congratulations to all!

Active Senior Lifestyle

eriepa.com

Bob Mazza, Mazza VineyardsJack Munch, Baldwin Brothers, Inc.nick scott, Jr., Scott EnterprisesDr. Keith taylor, Gannon UniversityMike Weber, Smith ProvisionsDr. Julie Wollman, Edinboro University

BoArD oF DirectorS, terM enDing 2014Joel Berdine, GE Transportationcharles “Boo” Hagerty, UPMC Health Plan–Northern Tier MarketsMary Beth Wilcher, Erie Federal Credit Union

current BoArD oF DirectorS, terM enDing 2014terrence cavanaugh, Erie Insurance Groupscott eighmy, American Turned Productstimothy Hunter, McInnes Rolled RingsJim rutkowski, Jr., Industrial Sales and ManufacturingMatthew schultz, John V. Schultz Co.Gretchen seth, Logistics PlusDavid tullio, Custom Engineering

MeMBerS At lArge, chAirMAn’S AppointeeScarl carlotti, National Fuel GasMarlene Mosco, PNC Bankrussell Warner, esq., MacDonald Illig Jones & Britton

pArtner AppointeeS, one Year AppointmentJim riley, Visit Erie and Cumulus ErieJeffrey evans, Young Erie Professionals and Evans Capital ManagementJohn Dill, Economic Development Corporation and Citizens Bank

Congratulations to all!

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new investorsinveStor levelB-Dry System of erie, inc.Specializes in basements waterproofing.

Ms. Maxine Kobert2637 West 30th Street / Erie, PA 16506(814) 833-4103

Brevillier villageHousing and healthcare options for the elderly and older adults on a 17 acre campus in Harborcreek Township right on the shores of Lake Erie.

Ms. lisa Anderson5416 East Lake Road / Erie, PA 16511(814) 899-8600 www.brevillier.org

connecto electric, inc.A commercial electrical contractor.

Mr. JJ Johnson3716 McClellan Avenue / Erie, PA 16510(814) 454-6421

global green technologies, llcWe are a turn key company that provides free energy audits, advanced green technologies, 100% financing, rebate/depreciation services and optional installation. Information is available on our technologies from established American companies that have the longest warranties and shortest ROI.

Mr. Ben Winslow1001 State Street 14th Floor / Erie, PA 16501(814) 397-7797 / www.globalgreentechnologiesllc.com

home 2 Suites by hiltonAn innovative all-suite extended stay hotel brand where you’re free to be you. We’re all about being connected, being eco-conscious, and being the kind of place you can kick back and be yourself.

Ms. lisa chilson8035 Oliver Road / Erie, PA 16509home2suites3.hilton.com

Silver levelSenior retirement Management inc.Parkside Senior Living is independent living that focuses on preventative health & social engagement for Erie residents. We have 3 newly re-decorated communities: The Regency at South Shore, Parkside at Westminster and Parkside at North East.

Ms. Melanie Brewer2601 West 26th Street / Erie, PA 16508(814) 833-8900 / www.parksideerie.com

Bronze levelFlexcut toolSpecializes in the manufacturing and sales of woodcarving tools.

Ms. Darlene gillies8105 Hawthorne Drive / Erie, PA 16509(814) 864-7855 / www.flexcut.com

grapevine laundry & linensDry cleaner, linen rental, special order lines, chair covers, 120” round table cloths, toppers, napkins and sashes.

Ms. Mary Beth gramel2826 State Street / Erie, PA 16508(814) 217-9288 / www.grapevinelaundryandlinens.com


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lgo international connectionsTo support the “Pennsylvania - Brazil Partnership” by providing communication services, promoting relationships, and building a multinational presence for companies willing to grow beyond borders.

Ms. lilian o’Brien(814) 490-3767 / [email protected]

Millcreek Metal Finishing, inc.A metal finishing company.

Mr. charles Fiscus2401 West 15th Street / Erie, PA 16505(814) 833-9045 / www.mcmetal.com

pennant MotorsPennant Motors is a used car business specializing in European cars - BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, Audi, VW, Jaguar etc. We also sell Subaru’s. We have a complete service department capable of working on many types of cars.

Ms. Susan Davis7589 West Ridge Road / Fairview, PA 16415(814) 833-0170 / www.pennantmotors.com

pointe Foure vintagePointe Foure is a upscale vintage contemporary boutique. Specializing in recycled and revamped clothing and houses. Locally made crafts, furniture and gifts.

Ms. emily george1804 West 8th Street / Erie, PA 16505(814) 882-9854 / www.pointefoure.com

Signs by toddDelivery to your door: Banners, Signs, Buttons, License Plates, Screen printed or embroidered T-Shirts, Hoodies, Blankets and other custom made promos or gifts.

13790 Kline Road / Edinboro, PA 16412(814) 450-9588 / www.signsbytodd.com

the razors edgeWe are a family oriented salon specializing in hair services including cuts, color, perms, and waxing. We have over 10 years experience and are dedicated to our customers!

Ms. giorgina pearson5124 Iroquois Avenue / Erie, PA 16511(814) 323-4962 / www.facebook.com/pages/The-Razors-Edge/181301708613977

tires For lessLocally owned since 1983. As a Michelin Authorized tire dealer we offer automotive, light truck, and SUV tires and tire service. Also offering computer alignment service, PA State inspection and emission testing. Norm Loesch and company is proud to be your Erie’s Choice for Tire Dealers in 2012.

Mr. norman loesch2147 West 12th Street / Erie, PA 16505(814) 455-2342 / www.tiresforlesserie.com

odyssey Builders, inc.Customer satisfaction has been the driving force for 33 years of steady growth for Odyssey Builders, Inc. We have earned an excellent reputation for quality and cost effective construction focusing largely on the light commercial construction industry.

Ms. Kathleen Stancliff1521 Lowell Avenue / Erie, PA 16505(814) 833-0261 / www.odyssey-builders.com


C O N T R I B U T E D C O L U M N

Keep up to date with all of our organizational happenings

at eriepa.com

cHaMBerby August Schiavavice president, Chamber

Buying local:•Helps to build community•Strengthen our local economy•Shape the character of the community

and create a healthier environment•Creates jobs and opportunities•Increases local support to non-profits

in the community•Increases wealth of residents

I am one of those that say “We Love Erie”! Enjoy the experiences of buying local, dining local and playing local.

Erie Inland Port. Destination Erie. Innovation Collaborative. GAF Property. Scott Enterprises Bayfront Property. Northwest Pennsylvania Workforce Investment Board (WIB). Supply Chain Analysis of Natural Gas and Transportation Equipment Sectors. Project Jobs. Regional Consortium of Higher Education & Training.

These are a sampling of the economic deve lopment projec t s , in it i a t ive s , programs and plans underway in Erie and Northwest Pennsylvania. They all are unique yet complimentary and prove a point we have made many times: the Erie regional economy is a dynamic, complex living entity that is in a constant state of transformation – components dying, others growing, and new pieces being born – every day.

Many of you question why we undertake all of these initiatives and plans and projects and programs. Many of you wonder what good comes of it. Legitimate questions. Here are some of the answers.

In the world of economic development and community transformation, there is a simple rule that applies: “blueprints get funded, ideas don’t.” Go to the private sector or public sector and ask them to fund your “idea”, and you will get a nice pat on the head and then you will be sent back to the sandbox. Bring in a blueprint to the same group of people, and you will have their attention and dramatically turn a lot of “talk” into action.

What are some examples in our community that are proof of such ideas that were blueprints becoming realities? The Burke Center at Penn State-Erie (formerly known as RED-C), Jerry Uht Ballpark, Knowledge Park, Bayfront Highway, Bayfront Convention Center, Erie Art Museum, Griswold Pa rk Redesign, Union Station, Shades Beach. There are many, many more, but the point is, they didn’t “just happen.” They were part of a planning process that involved hundreds of people over a period of time. They were transformed from “ideas” at a staff meeting or cocktail party into “realities” because someone or some group took responsibility for transforming the idea – into a blueprint.

The other reason our region continuously is developing and working on plans, projects, and programs is because – just like a garden – our economy needs to be constantly managed in order to maximize its growth…compete better…improve our competitive position. In the world of a regional economy, there is no finish line.

So what is your idea to make Erie compete – to make Erie great? As Victor Hugo said, “There is nothing like a dream to create the future.”

econoMic DeveLoPMentby Jake Rouchvice president, Economic Development

Shop ‘Til You DropIt is the time of year for all of us to enjoy the beauty of the Erie area. The shoppingseason with no tax on clothing attracts busloads of senior citizens from Canada and New York to visit Erie for our shopping experience prior to the holidays. As a baby boomer myself, I am motivated to “shop small” at the neighborhood shops, boutiques and antique stores or purchase gift cards for a variety of localexperiences. Like everyone else, I am looking for unique gifts at a bargain and I like to start early to accomplish my quest.

AARP demographics conclude that:•Boomers are 43% of the adult population•88% are already 50 plus•They buy 47% of consumer goods•Have 77% of the discretionary wealth•Growing 3x faster than the 18-49 segment•Projected to be the dominant

demographic for the next 40 years

This information is awesome and to think I am part of it, wow! I want to retireknowing that our quality of life, the support services, the cost of living, and the respect and understanding of this demographic by the Erie community shall be maintained into the future.

Buying local services and goods made in Erie is what I try to do. According to the American Independent Business Alliance, choosing local businesses for your services, shopping, dining and other needs provides real value and personal service.

Organizational Updates

O R G A N I Z AT I O N A L U PDAT E S


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The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits and provider network may change on January 1 of each year. UPMC for Life has a contract with Medicare to provide HMO and PPO plans. Enrollment in UPMC for Life de-pends on contract renewal. UPMC for Life is a product of and operated by UPMC Health Plan, Inc., UPMC Health Network, Inc., and UPMC Health Benefits, Inc.Y0069_14_1071 Accepted

You don’t have to travel far to get quality health care coverage from upmc for Life.

UPMC for Life is a local Medicare Advantage plan that can offer you quality health care in your own backyard. Our provider network includes local doctors and hospitals, which means you don’t have to travel far for your care. And our affordably priced Medicare Advantage plans provide coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. • Access to UPMC Hamot Medical Center, Saint Vincent Health Center, Millcreek Community Hospital, and Corry Memorial Hospital

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by Ben Pratt, executive director of the Growth Partnership

The regional vision for Erie is crafted to be both inspirational and aspirational, reflecting the shared values of the region’s citizens. To date, nearly 3,000 persons have participated in community forums, meetings-in-a-box and online activities, offering ideas which are reflected and woven into this vision statement. The process to develop a regional vision began in May 2012 with kickoff meetings in which citizens were challenged to express ideas for how the region’s environment, transportation and infrastructure systems, economy and workforce, and community facilities could be strengthened in the future. From October through November 2012, participants at the next major round of public input (Workshop Series #1) worked in small groups to record their thoughts on local and regional strengths, challenges, and ideas for the region’s future.

All of the input from project kickoff meetings, the public workshops, and meetings of the CLT and Destination Erie Work Groups was synthesized into 6 vision themes in December 2012. The community reviewed, rated, and commented on the vision themes and each sub-theme during the second public workshop meeting series held from May through July 2013.

The nearly 2,000 residents that participated in the second round of community input strongly supported the vision themes (on a scale of 1-5, each averaged at least a rating of 4). The vision themes and sub-themes have been refined in the vision narrative and strategic directions.

Vision StatementIn 2040, Erie County is one of the nation’s celebrated success stories, renowned for its unique heritage and natural setting, its strengthened, diversified economy, and its livable neighborhoods in a choice of urban, suburban and rural, small town settings. Our culture and identity is one that values innovation and where citizens are connected to the community - our cities, boroughs and townships and to each other. Erie County is a place where businesses, neighborhoods and families thrive, where education is valued and seen as a pathway to success and fulfillment, where the natural environment is conserved for future generations, and where communities are livable and connected both within the county and the larger Great Lakes region.

For 2040, we have successfully addressed the key challenges we face today – the need for a regional economic strategy, high poverty rates and concentration

of poverty, and lack of regional coordination. The Erie region’s leadership supports a clear and bold vision for the county that has been realized through an integrated approach, one in which barriers to regional cooperation have been overcome, allowing Erie to create new synergies between local and state governments, universities, local institutions and foundations and businesses. We have realized this vision by leveraging our assets, correcting our shortcomings, and balancing our priorities for what makes our community outstanding.

Be sure to check out the full vision report at www.planerieregion.com

9

Destination Erie: Our Realized Vision has resulted in an Erie County that is thriving, educated, green, livable and connected.

REGIONAL INITIATIVE UPDATE


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Although Eileen has been volunteering for the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership for the last several years, she is an Erie Ambassador alumni from the Fall 2012 class. “I volunteer, it’s just what I do,” she says. “It gives me the chance to be out in the community and see people I know.”

Eileen can be found helping at the registration table at the monthly Business After Hours and other chamber events. Cathy Noble, events coordinator and Erie Ambassador program coordinator suggested last fall that she go through the Ambassador program. “People thought I already had. I also had strong support from our home office to participate,” Eileen stated.

Born and raised in Warren, PA, Eileen left the area to attend the University of South Florida graduating from the School of Business Administration. She moved back making her home in Erie, and a lot of what she learned through the Ambassador program was new to her even though she has been a resident since 1985. “I found the programs and sessions very enlightening.”

erie aMBassaDor featUre:

Eileen has worked for Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, a company that values volunteering in the community, for seven years and holds the position of Senior Community Affairs Relations Coordinator for community projects. Eileen is also an active volunteer for the United Way and the Downtown YMCA where she currently holds a seat on their Board of Directors.

In talking about the Erie Ambassador program, Eileen said “It is a very well-run program covering all aspects of the city. It was very cool to visit the Coast Guard station and to view the City from out on the Bay”. The Bayfront Tour was her favorite session.

Learn more about the Erie Ambassador Program: www.eriepa.com/chamber/erie-ambassadors or contact Cathy Noble at [email protected].


A M B A S S A D O R S

Eileen G. WilliamsA Giving Spiritby Nadeen Steffey


A neW ADventure in Aging


eriepa.com 13

Contemporary “older adults,” individuals fifty-five and over, are redefining aging. In fact, words used to describe older adults in past decades no longer fit this age group. Baby boomers (born from 1946 to 1964) are especially exempt from familiar characterizations of old people.

No longer content to be called senior citizens, this new breed looks and acts younger than the generation of older adults before them. In general, today’s older adults have more money, more time, more resources and a fervent desire to remain relevant: to be intellectually curious, physically fit, and to continue, whether still working or retired, to make a difference in their community.

Older adults are also choosing to stay active socially and spiritually, with a greater zest not typical of their ancestors. More of today’s aging adults are choosing to live out their lives in their own homes, often the same homes in which they raised their families, and in intergenerational neighborhoods, rather than opting to live in retirement communities.

It is not just the availability of beauty products and procedures that promise the retention of youth for men and women that has captured the minds and hearts of the aging population, it is more the apparent aversion to images of “growing old” interiorly that have been rejected by them, the underlying belief that much of society regards old age as living life without meaning and purpose. The “new” generation of older adults equates meaning and purpose with self-discovery, adventure, learning, acquiring new skills, reconnecting to old loves of both people and interests, reflection, care-taking of grandchildren and other relatives, and serving the community by using their talents and experience.

For those older adults who are no longer working, the word retirement has also taken on new meaning. It no longer means to retire from something; to stop and now rest, to do less. The new interpretation of retirement is to re-try or re-focus living: to forge new paths of interest, even the exploration of new careers, to take the time to do more of what was cherished before the busy years of early adulthood, to not stop being and doing.

by Mary Ann Frew

Active Senior SpotlightA neW ADventure in Aging


Erie diversified its programming and services to meet the needs and interests of a younger cohort of an aging

population, substituting opportunities for lifelong learning, and health and wellness in place of a strictly medical and socialization model. Other centers in Erie, including Mercy Hilltop, provide self-enrichment programs as well, with the underlying objective of promoting optimal, active aging.

LifeWorks Erie, through its Lifelong Learning Institute offers educational lectures on a wide variety of topics with academic support provided by the university consortium: Gannon University, Mercyhurst University, Edinboro University, Penn State Erie-The Behrend College.

Fitness classes are provided at both LifeWorks Erie and Mercy Hilltop….with each center having specialty offerings.

LifeWorks Erie, in response to the needs of a contemporary aging demographic, has also introduced a Creativity Matters Project which includes

“Contemporary ‘older adults,’

individuals fifty-five and over, are redefining aging. In fact, words used to describe older adults in past decades no

longer fit this age group.”


In Erie County, adults over the age of sixty-five currently account for 15% of the population; Pennsylvania has the third highest population of older adults (16%). The percentage of older adults is significantly higher when including individuals fifty (AARP benchmark) to sixty-four.

Our own community, in step with other communities throughout the United States, is adjusting to the interests and needs of this sizable and changing demographic. LifeWorks Erie, formerly Erie Center on Health and Aging was established in 1974 to provide medical care, community preventative services to adults sixty plus years of age. In January 2004, the Millcreek Township Senior Center legally merged with ECHA, and ECHA became the surviving corporation. In February 2012, the name change (from ECHA to LifeWorks Erie) occurred.

This change reflected not only an adoption of a new name, but a new philosophy and direction. In sync with other like-kind centers, LifeWorks


eriepa.com 15

the national New Horizon Music Program for individuals interested in learning to play an instrument or reconnecting with one previously played, and participatory art classes including drawing, watercolor, and photography.

LifeWorks Erie, Mercy Hilltop, the YMCA of Greater Erie, LECOM, the UPMC Hamot Health Connection and other organizations too numerous to mention enable the contemporary older adult to self-define, and find authentic expression, self –worth and contentment.

Erie’s older adults, as a group, are living longer, healthier and more active lives than their predecessors. Although, impossible to measure definitively, most of today’s older adults would add that old age is really just another beginning…one that should not be met with apprehension but rather with great excitement.

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of an aging population...”



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A looK into the trenDS AnD optionS AvAilABle For retireMent in our region.

“The newest trend among retirees in recent years is to go back to where it

all began – home.”


eriepa.com 1919

Retirement … this one word can fill people with such an anxiety that it is often almost as comparable as the ever-so important first job interview they were so nervous about at the very beginning of their career. Once the nerves go away though and people settle into what is in front of them, everything seems to be just a whole lot easier. When thinking about leaving the working world behind there are many decisions and choices that will be made, but some are now becoming more popular than in the past. As new generations are shedding a different light on the varying ways to retire, businesses are vying for an opportunity to gain a unique foothold in the personalized retirement market. The generation that is on the cusp of retirement are going to be making their choices for their futures and thus influencing the very business world that they are leaving behind.

When someone says the word retirement, often thoughts of sitting back on a beach somewhere without knowing exactly what time it is will be the ultimate idealized version

of how one would and should spend their “golden years”. It’s funny how much this sounds like Erie. However, for most people this version of retirement happens to be the hardest to make happen. To abscond to someplace new right after the working world is left behind is unrealistic. In actuality, the newest trend among retirees in recent years is to go back to where it all began – Home. For many of the younger generations, the idea of returning home would sound like a nightmare but the notion to get back to a person’s roots is sounding more and more appealing to a large number of people. There are many reasons for this but more often than not the most important reason is and should always be family. Very often people who move away from home want to get a job that isn’t offered in their city or to get a nice and typically long break from their families. The idea to move back will always be in the back of their minds but usually the opportunity never arises. It turns out that retirement brings the opportunity to reconnect with loved ones back to the forefront.

by Nicholas G. Plonski Intern - ERCGP

Retirement and Senior Living in Erie

A looK into the trenDS AnD optionS AvAilABle For retireMent in our region.


Another major factor to consider why retirement is calling people home besides lower costs, would be the best medical care for your dollar. To have medical care that can treat you effectively now and into the future while still

being able to not break the bank is something that all Americans want. To be able to find it is another story. It seems that many hometowns don’t offer this, Erie does. With multiple health care facilities in the area, people are given a choice many don’t have in hometown-cities of this size.

It appears that when thinking of where to retire, a person must also consider living in a place that has excellent senior living care for when the time comes that the individual will need some help. As a result of the growing number of people reaching the retirement age, the need for Senior Living

services and care has also increased. Erie has many facilities, locations and providers of services that bring peace of mind. Home Instead Senior Care is one such provider of assistance to people that need varying stages

Another possible reason as to why people are returning to their hometowns after retirement is how the recent economic downturn has affected retirement plans as well as property values. It appears that the hometowns that the retirees came from are experiencing cheaper housing values than the cities that they worked in. This is greatly enticing people to move back to the cities that they grew up in to enable them to save more money for their retirement plans. By moving to a location that has less taxes or lower property values, the overall cost to your plan will be substantially less than in the bigger cities as well as improving the ability to save money in the long run. By getting rid of expensive property and moving to ones that are less expensive it can add years of savings to your plan. Even the idea of moving in with family (as scary as that sounds!) is now an option many people are considering and as a result business is increasing in home building and redesigning to include extra family members.


“As new generations are shedding a

different light on the varying ways to retire, businesses are vying for an

opportunity to gain a unique foothold in the personalized retirement market.”


eriepa.com 2121

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of care whether it be from home, assisted living and even a nursing home. They offer companionship, doctor visits, medication reminders, general housekeeping, errands, shopping and meal preparation. To ensure that the necessary care is being given, Home Instead Senior Care partners with various facilities across Erie.

Many of these places include such facilities as St. Mary’s Home of Erie. They provide care ranging from Alzheimer’s Nursing Care to Independent/Residential Living in a homelike environment all the way to a Retirement community that gives an independent lifestyle while still offering the ability to utilize the services of St. Mary’s Home. Other places include Regency at Southshore which is part of the Parkside Senior Living Communities offering assisted living communities at various locations across Erie County. Senior apartments are another option in Erie and Harbor Creek Senior Apartments offer a senior living community with varying assisted living amenities. These places are just a few of the large number of Senior Care facilities and services offered in the region.

Retirement is just another part of life that everyone has to go through and with so many options available nowadays, in some instances, it is even easier for people today than it was for previous generations. With this being said however, failing to prepare for retirement is just preparing to fail. All in all retirement is what you make of it and who doesn’t want to enjoy those hard earned years off. With hope, Erie, with all that it has to offer, is now realizing that it can offer even more when it comes to this increasingly popular choice for retirees to return home.


Start-ups are viewed as the answer to sustainable economic competitiveness and wealth creation.

We all want to see more wealth and more jobs being created here. We look around and see other areas of the country thriving because they are cool places to start and grow a business and see no reason why NWPA can’t enjoy similar successes.

In February of 2011, BlueTree Allied Angels held their first member meeting in Erie, leading the efforts to bring the “professionally managed” angel-investing concept to the region. Our reasoning for this is the thought, “If local angels invest in local start-ups, the angels will get richer and the smart start-ups will grow to be good companies AND create great jobs quicker.”

After a year of observing the angels’ monthly meetings, we realized that half of our thought process is working; the angels are most likely, over time, creating additional wealth for themselves. They’re much smarter about who they invest with and why, and are enjoying preferred terms when they do invest, because they’re aggregating their money with others’. The other, just as important half of our brainstorm hasn’t quite caught up yet.

Research has shown that our region lags the rest of the country and the state in

all of the indicators that are used to gauge the health of a regional economy. There are support organizations such as the SBDCs, Ben Franklin Technology Partners, micro-loan programs, and incubators, but the region’s support organizations haven’t focused enough on who the real job creators are… companies that are less than five years old.

Enter…. the Innovation Collaborative. The Technology Council of NWPA is leading this initiative to foster and facilitate the creation of a thriving “ent repreneur ia l ecosy s tem” in northwestern PA. Our long-term vision is to learn about, and provide access to, all of the relevant best practice activities for our start-up founders and their investors.

PA’s Department of Community & Economic Development has granted the Tech Council $100,000 to hire a regional “coach” for the Collaborative. Jumpstart (www.jumpstartinc.org) has worked in 15 other regions, guiding them with best practices and lessons learned from others. We are working with them to generate a thorough transitory assessment of the current support assets that are in place around start-ups. We’ll gain an understanding and move quickly towards a prioritized action plan to address what is needed.

In 2014, we’ll be busy plugging the gaps and reporting on progress, all with an eye toward mitigating risk for our entrepreneurs and their investors. We’ll be raising awareness throughout the region around fostering a culture that celebrates our start-ups and encourages new innovation in our existing businesses. Companies, new and not-so-new, will have access to more tools and expertise that will help them grow and prosper sooner rather than later!

If you have interest in learning more and possibly becoming involved, please contact Beth Zimmer at 814.490.5295 or Brian Scott at 814.836.1015.

erie entrepreneurship contributed by Beth Zimmer

“If local angels invest in local start-ups, the angels will get richer and the smart start-ups will grow to be

good companies and create great

jobs quicker.”

C O N T R I B U T E D C O L U M NCO N S I S T E N T F E AT U R E


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The Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership (ERCGP) is pleased to announce the following staff additions and promotions to our organization.

Mr. AuguSt SchiAvA has been named Vice President of the Chamber Division for the organization. Mr. Schiava joins the ERCGP team after nine years of employment as the Corporate Group Sales Manager for Scott Enterprises. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science In

Education degree and Master of Education degree from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, Schiava enjoyed a career in teaching at Hickory High School in Hermitage, PA. In 1975, Schiava moved to the Chicago area to establish a career in the hospitality industry where he was employed with the Holiday Inn and Radisson Hotel organizations.

Mr. Schiava returned to Erie in 1980 to work as Director of Sales and Marketing at the Erie Hilton Hotel. In the 90s, Schiava accepted a position with the Erie Area Chamber of Commerce and the Erie Tourist Promotion Agency. Serving in the capacity of meeting planner for the Chamber, Schiava coordinating many of its events and programs and served as the Community Quality Coordinator. As a representative of Erie County Tourism, he participated in many local and state efforts to promote tourism as a form of Economic Development. Schiava contributed to the formation of the PA Travel Council and the Logo Signing Trust and was instrumental in obtaining designation and funding for the Seaway Trail, PA and for the PA US Route 6 Association which includes eleven counties along the northern tier of PA.

Mr. Ben prAtt has been named Executive Director of the Growth Partnership. Mr. Pratt has accepted this promotion after serving more than two years as the organization’s Director of Research. Since joining the team Pratt assisted in securing more than $2.1 million dollars of federal/state funding

for Northwest Pennsylvania. One of the grants Pratt assisted in securing was the $1.8 million Regional Plan for Sustainable Development grant awarded to Erie County by the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) for the Destination Erie: A Regional Vision project. Ben has assumed the role as Project Coordinator for Destination Erie: A Regional Vision, working with the ERCGP to promote and engage participation in this transformational project.

Prior to the ERCGP, Ben worked at the Office of Governor Rick Perry-Texas conducting research/analysis of bilateral trade relationships between foreign countries and the state of Texas. After graduating Mercyhurst College with a degree in International Business, Ben was hired by a Michigan-Based produce manufacturer to create a strategic business plan that would reduce reliance on wholesale clientele and expand their retail portfolio.

In his new role, Ben will work with ERCGP top-level investors to become intimately engaged in strategic community initiatives that will make a long-term impact on the region’s economic vitality.

MS. nADeen SteFFeY has been named Director of Marketing and Communications. Prior to joining the staff at the ERCGP in the fall of 2012 as Account Executive, Steffey managed the downtown revitalization program in the borough of Canonsburg, south of Pittsburgh. The program

followed the Main Street 4-point approach to downtown

ercGP annoUnces staff cHanGeschamber names new vice president, executive Director of growth partnership and others



eriepa.com 25

revitalization, which includes organization, economic restructuring, design and promotion. Previously Steffey held positions at the Salamanca Area Chamber of Commerce as Member Services Coordinator, Kane Chamber of Commerce and Kane Area Industrial Development Corporation as Executive Director.

MS. SABrinA chirco, formerly Economic and Workforce Development Specialist with the organization, has been promoted to the position of Director of Research and Grants. Born and Raised in Brampton, Ontario Canada, Chirco moved to the United States as an

International Student Athlete attending Gannon University and graduating with a Bachelors of Science in 2010 with a major in Marketing. She went on to complete her MBA with a focus in marketing in May 2012.

As the Workforce & Economic Development Specialist Chirco’s duties included research on potential funding sources for clients and referrals for companies to connect them with regional service providers to access resources.

Previously, Chirco assisted with market research and marketing plan strategies for local organizations looking to grow and expand their business through the Small Business Development Center here in Erie.

Mr. DouglAS MASSeY is the Director of Business Action Team for the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership.

Massey attended Edinboro University as a Business Major. Following is studies at Edinboro, he worked for

the Erie County Government where he served twelve years of his professional career in Domestic Relations and as a consultant with the Office of Children Youth and Families (OCYF) where he served as the liaison between the CCIS

chamber names new vice president, executive Director of growth partnership and others

and the State for Information Technology, Regulation and Fund Source Management.

In March of 2006, Doug joined the Erie Regional Chamber as an Economic Development Specialist for the Business Retention and Expansion Program (BREP) focusing on connecting businesses to local, state and federal resources. Now as the Director of the Business Action Team, he is responsible for strategies to implement proactive outreach for business retention, attraction and growth in Erie County as well as strategies to develop a stronger more competitive workforce for the Erie Region.

Mr. Brett Wiler joins the staff in the Account Executive role after serving several months as an Economic Development and Research Intern.

Wiler is an Erie native, graduating from Cathedral Prep. He went on to achieve his Bachelor of Science

in Business Administration from John Carroll University and stayed in Cleveland several years after graduating. Upon returning to Erie, he worked in consumer finance before joining the staff at the Erie Business Center. Most recently Brett served as the Director of Student Services and continues teaching evening Business classes on a part-time basis. He is currently enrolled in Gannon University, and is pursuing his Master’s degree in Public Administration.


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January 165:00 – 7:00 p.m.Medical Associates of erie eastside Medical center 2625 Parade StreetErie, PA February 27 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.Bostwick Design partnership 2631 West 8th StreetErie, PA

March 205:00 – 7:00 p.m.presque isle Downs & casino 8199 Perry HighwayErie, PA

April 24 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.J.h. Bennett Moving & Storage 1705 Raspberry StreetErie, PA

May 15 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.emergycare 1701 Sassafras StreetmocksErie, PA

August 215:00 – 7:00 p.m.habibi Mediterranean cuisine129 West 14th StreetErie, PA

September 115:00 – 7:00 p.m.Breakiron Jewelers & Joe lombardo’s Barber Studio 4026 Pine Ave Erie, PA

october 165:00 – 7:00 p.m.edinboro university219 Meadville StreetEdinboro, PA

november 205:00 – 7:00 p.m.gannon university109 University SquareErie, PA

December 115:00 – 7:00 p.m.peek n’ peak resort & Spa1405 Olde RdErie, PA

Business after Hours is a members only networking event of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership.

Contact Cathy Noble at (814) 454-7191 x146 or [email protected] for more information.


eriepa.com

August 215:00 – 7:00 p.m.habibi Mediterranean cuisine129 West 14th StreetErie, PA

September 115:00 – 7:00 p.m.Breakiron Jewelers & Joe lombardo’s Barber Studio 4026 Pine Ave Erie, PA

october 165:00 – 7:00 p.m.edinboro university219 Meadville StreetEdinboro, PA

november 205:00 – 7:00 p.m.gannon university109 University SquareErie, PA

December 115:00 – 7:00 p.m.peek n’ peak resort & Spa1405 Olde RdErie, PA

The Regional Career & Technical Center is a leading provider of quality career and technical training programs for adults. We offer a variety of courses, affordable

tuition, convenient class schedules and customized training programs.

More than 120 short-term technical classes available in:

8500 Oliver Road • Erie, PA 16509The RCTC is a division of the Erie County Technical School, an equal opportunity educational institution.

Automotive TechnologiesBusiness & ManagementCommercial Truck Driving Computer TrainingConstruction TradesDrafting & DesignHVAC

Industrial TechnologiesInsurance SpecialistManufacturing TechnologiesMedical TechnologiesOil & Gas Technician WeldingSpecial Interest

RCTC is your training partner and more…• Dozens of companies pay their employee’s tuition for RCTC classes• Customized training programs to meet specific company needs

in welding, blueprint reading and other manufacturing skills• Partnerships with apprenticeship programs• Services for adults interested in non-traditional occupations• The region’s primary training site for PA Automotive Safety &

Emissions Inspections• ISO 9001:2008 Certified

Term III classes begin the week of January 20. Register for classes January 2 – 10.

Visit www.ects.org/rctc for a complete course schedule or call 814.464.8601 for more information.

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Documents

ERIE Magazine December - January 2014