da_somerset_business_news da-ot-somerset-trust-elects-directors-declares-dividend-20130618 Somerset Trust elects directors, declares dividend June 18, 2013 The annual meeting of Somerset Trust Holding Co. was held at the Somerset Trust Co. Historic Building along North Center Avenue in Somerset Borough. Somerset Trust Co. is the sole subsidiary of Somerset Trust Holding Co. <p>The annual meeting of Somerset Trust Holding Co. was held at the Somerset Trust Co. Historic Building along North Center Avenue in Somerset Borough. Somerset Trust Co. is the sole subsidiary of Somerset Trust Holding Co.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Corporate shareholders elected Andrew F. Cook, Thomas J. Cook, Barbara W. Davies and John M. Kriak to three-year terms on the board of directors. Other board members are Vickie L. Beer, G. Henry Cook, Jon C. Clapper, Sean C. Isgan, James Knepper Jr., Jay Scott Roberts and Richard C. Yeager.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The bank's board of directors voted to set the number of directors to serve for the next year at 11. G. Henry Cook was elected president, chief executive officer and chairman of the board. Thomas J. Cook was elected vice chairman. All officers of Somerset Trust Co. were re-elected.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>A second quarter dividend of 21 cents per share was declared to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 10, payable on June 20.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Total assets of the bank rose to $812,250,000 as of March 31, compared with $737,452,000 in 2012. Net income for the first quarter was $2,701,000 compared with $2,631,145 in 2012.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Somerset Trust Co. is headquartered at 151 W. Main St. The bank has 22 branches serving communities in Somerset County, the greater Johnstown area, and portions of Bedford, Fayette and Westmoreland counties.</p> 2013-06-18 16:28:15.0 2013-12-17 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-trust-elects-directors-declares-dividend-20130618,0,6078101.story da-ot-new-market-open-in-central-city-20130528 New market open in Central City May 28, 2013 Paula Contrillo and Keith Ross were driving by the vacant building that once was Mike's Market along Rock Cut Road in Central City when they had an idea: open up a store of their own. BY KAYLA PONGRAC http://www.trbimg.com/img-51a53093/turbine/da-ot-new-market-open-in-central-city-20130528/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-51a53093/turbine/da-ot-new-market-open-in-central-city-20130528/400/16x9 <p>Paula Contrillo and Keith Ross were driving by the vacant building that once was Mike's Market along Rock Cut Road in Central City when they had an idea: open up a store of their own.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>By late March, they worked out a rental agreement with former Mike's Market owner Mike Sandusky and decided to call their store PK's Consignment and Flea Market. The store opened to the public May 1.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Inside, shoppers can find items from local vendors from Central City, Richland, Westmont and Windber, among others. Some of the items for sale include clothes, DVDs, purses, tools, antiques, old money, crafts and furniture.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Contrillo said that the variety means that there's something for everyone &mdash; and for a cheap price.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"Every customer so far who has come in has said that we have very reasonable prices," she said.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In order to cater to former Mike's Market customers, Contrillo and Ross also sell groceries.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"A lot of people wanted produce when they heard that we were going to open up the store, so we have a whole aisle of groceries, plus a produce and lunch meat counter," Contrillo said.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>They plan to host an outdoor flea market every Sunday throughout the spring, summer and fall.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Contrillo and Ross said that there is still plenty of room for interested vendors, including vendors who want to participate in the outdoor flea market.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Given the positive feedback they've received so far, the owners expect to expand.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"I definitely see it expanding," Contrillo said. "We have something new every day. And things are local; people don't have to run out of town to get anything."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"It's a new store for the community," Ross said. "It's not just a vacant space anymore."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The store is open year-round.</p> 2013-05-28 15:31:16.0 2013-11-26 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-new-market-open-in-central-city-20130528,0,3758500.story da-ot-devilbiss-healthcare-marks-125th-anniversary-20130514 DeVilbiss Healthcare marks 125th anniversary May 14, 2013 DeVilbiss Healthcare is celebrating its 125th anniversary. http://www.trbimg.com/img-5192e0ef/turbine/da-ot-devilbiss-healthcare-marks-125th-anniversary-20130514/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-5192e0ef/turbine/da-ot-devilbiss-healthcare-marks-125th-anniversary-20130514/400/16x9 <p>DeVilbiss Healthcare is celebrating its 125th anniversary.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Founded in 1888, the company has evolved into a leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of respiratory medical products. Its founder, Dr. Allen DeVilbiss, invented the first atomizer.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"DeVilbiss Healthcare has been working since its inception to provide its customers with the highest quality, innovative respiratory care products that meet the needs of the market," Ed Murphy, president and CEO of DeVilbiss Healthcare, said in a press release. "Throughout history, DeVilbiss strengthened its stance with the addition of many highly regarded products and the expansion of our team to provide our customers with products that are true to Dr. DeVilbiss' founding values."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In order to help his patients breathe more freely, DeVilbiss, a nose and throat specialist, began his business by working in his backyard woodshed designing respiratory instruments. In 1888 he founded The DeVilbiss Manufacturing Co. in Toledo, Ohio, to produce his atomizer, which would replace the process of using a cotton swab to apply medication to patients' throats.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span>Since 1951 the company's name and ownership have shifted several times. In 2007 the company moved its </span>corporate headquarters to Somerset in a 152,000-square-foot facility that houses manufacturing, distribution and warehouse space.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In 2010 DeVilbiss Healthcare was split from Sunrise Medical. Today, the limited liability corporation is owned by Vestar Capital Partners, a private equity firm.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>DeVilbiss products are manufactured in the United States, Europe and Asia and are distributed in more than 100 countries worldwide.</p> 2013-05-14 18:10:39.0 2013-11-12 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-devilbiss-healthcare-marks-125th-anniversary-20130514,0,7061255.story da-ot-learning-lamp-earns-exchange-seal-for-nonprofits-20130507 Learning Lamp earns Exchange Seal for nonprofits May 7, 2013 The Learning Lamp has earned the GuideStar Exchange Seal, a mark of accountability and transparency in the nonprofit sector, from GuideStar USA.  <p>The Learning Lamp has earned the GuideStar Exchange Seal, a mark of accountability and transparency in the nonprofit sector, from GuideStar USA.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>GuideStar USA is a public charity dedicated to making charitable giving more efficient by making detailed reports on nonprofits easily accessible via its website, www.guidestar.org. The Exchange Seal is awarded only to nonprofits that willingly make detailed financial and operational information available to the public.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"In order to qualify for the GuideStar Exchange Seal, The Learning Lamp's finances and operations were reviewed by GuideStar and evaluated for transparency, accountability and sound fiscal practices," said Leah Spangler, executive director of The Learning Lamp. "It took some time. We started the application process in 2012."&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Learning Lamp also holds the Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations Standards for Excellence certification. It is one of only 51 nonprofits in the state to meet the requirements, which cover 56 standards across eight guiding principles that outline best practices in nonprofit operations.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The mission of The Learning Lamp is to provide children with the support they need to succeed. Its primary service area is Cambria, Somerset and Bedford counties.</p> 2013-05-07 19:20:02.0 2013-11-05 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-learning-lamp-earns-exchange-seal-for-nonprofits-20130507,0,7734924.story da-ot-somerset-comfort-inn-receives-hospitality-award-20130501 Somerset Comfort Inn receives hospitality award May 1, 2013 The Comfort Inn hotel of Somerset has received a 2013 Gold Hospitality Award from Choice Hotels International, franchisor of the Comfort Inn brand. <p>The Comfort Inn hotel of Somerset has received a 2013 Gold Hospitality Award from Choice Hotels International, franchisor of the Comfort Inn brand.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"The Comfort Inn hotel's commitment to excellence and outstanding guest service has earned it this well-deserved recognition as one of the best hotels among the Comfort Inn brand," Steve Joyce, president and chief executive officer for Choice Hotels International, said in a press release. "We here at Choice Hotels are very proud to award this distinguished honor to the Comfort Inn hotel."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Each year only the top hotels in each brand are eligible to receive Gold Award status. As a top performing property among the company's more than 5,000 U.S. franchised hotels, the Comfort Inn hotel is among the top percentage of properties within the Comfort Inn brand.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The award signifies that the hotel has demonstrated an exceptional focus on guest satisfaction and dedication to providing superior service. Additional award criteria are evaluated by Choice Hotels through its official property ranking reports.</p> 2013-05-01 13:03:51.0 2013-10-30 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-comfort-inn-receives-hospitality-award-20130501,0,7929297.story da-ot-somerset-grad-named-chief-revenue-officer-20130423 Somerset grad named chief revenue officer April 23, 2013 American Circulation Innovations has named Randall Brant, a Somerset high school graduate, as chief revenue officer. <p>American Circulation Innovations has named Randall Brant, a Somerset high school graduate, as chief revenue officer.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Brant has been vice president of sales and marketing since joining the company in early 2011. His responsibilities include sales, marketing, public relations, digital/social marketing, events, contract administration and customer experience.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Before joining ACI, he held leadership positions in print, digital and niche publishing with several major U.S. newspapers, including the Dallas Morning News, Detroit News and Free Press, Denver Post, Salt Lake Tribune and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>American Circulation Innovations is based in Long Beach, Calif.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Brant graduated from Somerset Area High School in 1977. His parents are Roger and Nerita Brant of Somerset.</p> 2013-04-23 16:39:18.0 2013-10-22 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-grad-named-chief-revenue-officer-20130423,0,4266398.story da-ot-indian-lake-golf-club-crazy-alices-form-partnership-20130402 Indian Lake Golf Club, Crazy Alice's form partnership April 2, 2013 Indian Lake Golf Club is teaming up with Somerset's Crazy Alice's Cafe to cater all meals and events.  <p>Indian Lake Golf Club is teaming up with Somerset's Crazy Alice's Cafe to cater all meals and events.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Crazy Alice's will open its kitchen at the club in mid-April and will expand its hours in May. Prior to the partnership, the club operated its own limited clubhouse kitchen and beverage service.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Open Tuesday through Sunday to its private members only, Indian Lake Golf Club features Arnold Palmer's first golf course: He designed it and supervised its construction. The 18-hole course is located on Indian Lake's peninsula, with views of the lake and surrounding Laurel Mountains.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The clubhouse hosts various events throughout the summer, including outdoor barbecues, brunches and TGIF dinner parties with live music.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The golf club facilities, including Crazy Alice's kitchen, are open to members and their guests. The club offers golfing memberships, which provide unlimited use of the golf course and access to all facilities and events, and social memberships, which offer limited golf access.</p> <br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /> 2013-04-02 19:15:35.0 2013-10-01 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-indian-lake-golf-club-crazy-alices-form-partnership-20130402,0,5166239.story da-ot-new-lawn-care-service-in-somerset-20130327 New lawn care service in Somerset March 27, 2013 Bob Scherer has announced the opening of Laurel Highlands Lawn LLC, a professional lawn care service in Somerset. http://www.trbimg.com/img-51535094/turbine/da-ot-new-lawn-care-service-in-somerset-20130327/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-51535094/turbine/da-ot-new-lawn-care-service-in-somerset-20130327/400/16x9 <p>Bob Scherer has announced the opening of Laurel Highlands Lawn LLC, a professional lawn care service in Somerset.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Scherer, the owner and operator, has more than 32 years of experience in the industry. After graduating from Penn State University in 1981, he began his career as a lawn specialist for Chemlawn in Erie. He helped open a new facility as an assistant manager in Williamsport in 1983.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In 1984 he introduced the local area to Chemlawn, the nation's largest lawn care service, opening a facility in Hollsopple as the branch manager. During his tenure as manager the company moved to Somerset, was bought out by TruGreen and moved to Johnstown.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Laurel Highlands Lawn will provide lawn care treatments consisting of fertilizer, broadleaf weed control, surface feeding insect control, pre-emergent crabgrass control and preventative grub control. The company will also offer two basic lawn care programs along with free estimates.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /> 2013-03-27 13:05:47.0 2013-09-25 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-new-lawn-care-service-in-somerset-20130327,0,27536.story da-ot-ackerman-named-to-state-board-20130326 Ackerman named to state board March 26, 2013 Sharon Ackerman, Somerset County register of wills, has been appointed to the board of directors of the Pennsylvania eHealth Partnership Authority. <p>Sharon Ackerman, Somerset County register of wills, has been appointed to the board of directors of the Pennsylvania eHealth Partnership Authority.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The authority, established through legislation approved in July, is charged with creating the ability for medical providers to securely exchange medical information electronically.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"As a county row officer and someone who is deeply active in her community, Sharon will bring an important perspective about how health information exchange will impact consumers of health care," Alix Goss, the authority's program director, said in a written release. "I look forward to working with her and the rest of the board to improve health care in Pennsylvania."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Ackerman is one of 15 board members. She was elected register of wills in 2003. She is president of the Registers of Wills and Clerks of Orphans' Courts Association of Pennsylvania. Earlier this year, the Meyersdale Merchants Association named her Individual of the Year for her community service.</p> 2013-03-26 16:32:05.0 2013-04-25 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-ackerman-named-to-state-board-20130326,0,6492619.story da-ot-georgian-place-at-90-percent-occupancy-20130221 Georgian Place at 90 percent occupancy February 21, 2013 With new deals totaling more than 28,000 square feet, the once-distressed Georgian Place outlet center in Somerset is at 90 percent occupancy, according to Tonya Spangler, vice president of leasing and sales. <p>With new deals totaling more than 28,000 square feet, the once-distressed Georgian Place outlet center in Somerset is at 90 percent occupancy, according to Tonya Spangler, vice president of leasing and sales.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>New tenants include Wilson Creek Energy, George & Bob's Computer Service, Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 administrative offices, Community Care Inc., Ophthalmic Associates, Pennsylvania Elks State Association and Polished Professional Nail Spa. The newest condominium owner is the Boys & Girls Club of Somerset County, which purchased more than 11,000 square feet for its new facility. &nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"We have stuck with our initial plan to create a mixed-use center anchored with medical and professional offices and have been diligent in maintaining existing tenants," Spangler said in a press release. "The project has taken creativity and substantial capital and management investments by SugarOak to be this successful."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In 2005 SugarOak Properties of Herndon, Va., converted the 182,000-square-foot facility into a business condominium, providing office, retail, medical and service users with an opportunity to purchase or lease ready-to-use space.</p> 2013-02-26 12:15:00.0 2013-08-27 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-georgian-place-at-90-percent-occupancy-20130221,0,7477687.story da-ot-somerset-trust-opening-new-branch-20130220 Somerset Trust opening new branch February 20, 2013 Somerset Trust Co. will open a new branch in the Connellsville area in early March. The branch will be located inside Walmart along Morrell Avenue. <p>Somerset Trust Co. will open a new branch in the Connellsville area in early March. The branch will be located inside Walmart along Morrell Avenue.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"We are impressed with the Connellsville market and the response we received after talking with business owners and community leaders," bank&nbsp; President G. Henry Cook said in a press release. "We feel there is a strong sense of commitment to the community. Combined with our mission as a local bank, we believe a strong partnership will develop between our bank and the Connellsville area."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The branch will be open seven days a week. It will provide traditional banking services and specialty banking services for businesses and merchants such as credit card processing, direct deposit of payroll and small business lending. The branch will also offer a coin-counting machine and an ATM.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Somerset Trust Co. is based in Somerset at 151 W. Main St. With the addition of the Connellsville bank, the bank has 22 branches in Somerset County, the greater Johnstown area, and portions of Fayette, Westmoreland and Bedford counties.</p> 2013-02-20 16:52:59.0 2013-08-21 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-trust-opening-new-branch-20130220,0,3532002.story da-ot-friedens-farm-named-in-report-20130215 Friedens farm named in report February 15, 2013 ErReR Hill Farms, Friedens, has a registered Angus bull included in the American Angus Association's 2013 Pathfinder Report. <p>ErReR Hill Farms, Friedens, has a registered Angus bull included in the American Angus Association's 2013 Pathfinder Report.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Only 1,992 of the more than 25,000 association members are represented in this year's report, according to Bill Bowman, chief operating officer and director of performance programs of the association, based in St. Joseph, Mo.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Pathfinder Program identifies superior Angus cows based upon recorded performance traits that are economically important to efficient beef production. More than 2 million eligible dams with more than 6.8 million weaning records were examined to determine Pathfinder status.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In addition, bulls that have sired a minimum of five or more Pathfinder cows are recognized as Pathfinder sires.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The 2013 report lists 8,680 individual cows and 234 Pathfinder sires.&nbsp;</p> 2013-02-15 17:28:31.0 2013-08-16 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-friedens-farm-named-in-report-20130215,0,969215.story da-ot-somerset-bridal-shop-marks-30-years-with-ownership-change-20130129 Somerset bridal shop marks 30 years with ownership change January 29, 2013 Thirty years ago Janie Ohler opened Larenas Bridal & Formal Wear in Somerset. By MICHELLE GANASSI http://www.trbimg.com/img-510857ae/turbine/da-ot-somerset-bridal-shop-marks-30-years-with-ownership-change-20130129/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-510857ae/turbine/da-ot-somerset-bridal-shop-marks-30-years-with-ownership-change-20130129/400/16x9 <p>Thirty years ago Janie Ohler opened Larenas Bridal & Formal Wear in Somerset.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>On Friday Ohler will step away as her daughter Marcy McVicker will run the business.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"I'm happy to be able to take over the business that my mom started," she said. "It will continue as a family affair with support from my husband, Bob, and hands-on help from my daughters Jenna and Elle."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Ohler started the business in October 1983. She wanted to own a bridal store even though she had no experience in retail. Her first location was in the Penn Furniture building on the Diamond in Somerset.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Six years later she built onto her husband William Ohler's auto parts store, which is the current location along North Center Avenue.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Ohler said she plans to help out during prom season, but she has plans to travel during her retirement.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>McVicker, who serves as the store manager, has always helped with the store. Two years ago she decided to work there full time in anticipation of taking over this year.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"It is with a little bit of anxiousness and nervousness," she said.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>McVicker said she does not plan to make any big changes. She would like to increase the store's Internet presence.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"It's by the grace of God that we are still here," she said.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Ohler said when the larger chain stores began opening, it affected her business; however, she began to strengthen her focus on tuxedo rentals and prom gowns. She thanks her customers for continuing to support her store over the years.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"We owe everything to our customers," she said.</p> 2013-01-29 16:30:46.0 2013-02-27 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-bridal-shop-marks-30-years-with-ownership-change-20130129,0,3783786.story da-ot-local-banker-joins-somerset-trust-co-20130128 Local banker joins Somerset Trust Co. January 28, 2013 Les Brilhart has joined Somerset Trust Co. as commercial loan officer. He works in the bank's main office in Somerset at 151 W. Main St. http://www.trbimg.com/img-5106c491/turbine/da-ot-local-banker-joins-somerset-trust-co-20130128/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-5106c491/turbine/da-ot-local-banker-joins-somerset-trust-co-20130128/400/16x9 <p>Les Brilhart has joined Somerset Trust Co. as commercial loan officer. He works in the bank's main office in Somerset at 151 W. Main St.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Brilhart comes to Somerset Trust Co. from PNC Bank. His 30 years in banking also include a management position at First United Federal in Indiana, Pa., which was later acquired by PNC Bank. He has experience in business development, retail management and branch operations. He has worked in commercial lending for more than 20 years.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Brilhart earned his master's degree in business administration at Colorado State University and completed undergraduate work with a degree in business and accounting at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Brilhart serves on the Somerset County Economic Development Council as treasurer and director. He is active with the Somerset Rotary Club where he is a past president and director. He is also a past board member of Laurel Arts, the Greater Johnstown Chamber of Commerce and the Southern Alleghenies Planning and Development Commission Loan Committee.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Somerset Trust Co. is an independent community bank serving Somerset County, greater Johnstown, and parts of Bedford, Westmoreland and Fayette counties. The bank has 20 branches, extensive ATM locations and a remote banking and deposit service.</p> 2013-01-28 10:39:18.0 2013-07-29 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-local-banker-joins-somerset-trust-co-20130128,0,7063912.story da-ot-tech-center-offers-gas-industry-cdl-training-20130122 Tech center offers gas industry CDL training January 22, 2013 The Somerset County Technology Center and the Greater Johnstown Career & Technology Center will be offering a ShaleNET-sponsored training program for positions as licensed commercial truck drivers for the gas industry.   <p>The Somerset County Technology Center and the Greater Johnstown Career & Technology Center will be offering a ShaleNET-sponsored training program for positions as licensed commercial truck drivers for the gas industry. &nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The course will include information about natural gas employability skills, spill prevention and reporting, basic first aid and CPR, defensive driving and commercial driving operations. Participants will earn a Class A license with endorsements in double, triples, tankers and hazardous materials. &nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>An orientation meeting will be held at 10 a.m. Feb. 11 at the Somerset County Technology Center, 281 Technology Drive, Somerset. Participants must preregister for this orientation by emailing twojcicki@sctc.net by Feb. 1 or by calling 814-443-3651, ext. 6156. When preregistering leave your name, address and phone number.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The training is scheduled to begin on March 18 and is expected to last 5 1/2 weeks.</p> 2013-01-22 16:23:54.0 2013-01-30 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-tech-center-offers-gas-industry-cdl-training-20130122,0,7239508.story da-ot-darr-elected-president-of-state-association-20130117 Darr elected president of state association January 17, 2013 James Darr of Darr Construction in Berlin has been elected president of the Keystone Contractors Association.  <p>James Darr of Darr Construction in Berlin has been elected president of the Keystone Contractors Association.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Located in Harrisburg, the association provides member contractors with educational seminars and safety programs and represents the interests of the industry in legislative matters.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Darr will serve a two-year term as president. He has also held the positions of secretary, vice president and safety committee chairman.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Keystone Contractors Association entered its 75th year in 2013.</p> 2013-01-17 18:14:21.0 2013-07-18 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-darr-elected-president-of-state-association-20130117,0,3340832.story da-ot-march-takes-over-as-laurel-view-village-ceo-20130110 March takes over as Laurel View Village CEO January 10, 2013 Laurel View Village has a new CEO. http://www.trbimg.com/img-50ef4671/turbine/da-ot-march-takes-over-as-laurel-view-village-ceo-20130110/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-50ef4671/turbine/da-ot-march-takes-over-as-laurel-view-village-ceo-20130110/400/16x9 <p>Laurel View Village has a new CEO.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Dan March took over the reins of the continuing care retirement community on Monday. March brings 12 years of experience in senior living and skilled nursing administration to the Davidsville facility, having spent the last 5 1/2 years as executive director of Heritage House in Atlantic, Iowa. March oversaw daily operations, fiscal management and regulatory compliance of the retirement community.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"In an organization like Laurel View Village, you have to get out of your office and talk to residents, staff, family and community members in order to really know how people feel about service quality, organizational health and whether or not we're delivering on our promises," March said in a prepared statement. "So one of my top priorities at Laurel View is to get to know people, both residents and staff, and members of the surrounding community." &nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>March holds master's degrees in divinity, hotel restaurant management and business administration. The governing board of Laurel View Village, Allegheny Christian Ministries, selected March after an exhaustive search to replace founding CEO Dave Mishler.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In Kansas and Iowa, March led the charge to develop two mobile geriatric dental clinics and recently secured additional funding to cover startup costs for a third program. The American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging recognized March with a 2005 Quality First Award for Cutting Edge Care and Services.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Laurel View Village serves more than 330 residents with skilled nursing and personal care accommodations, dedicated Alzheimer's units and 170 independent living apartments and townhomes. It has a staff of more than 225 people and is the largest employer in Conemaugh Township.</p> 2013-01-10 14:55:54.0 2013-07-11 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-march-takes-over-as-laurel-view-village-ceo-20130110,0,4022549.story da-ot-will-opens-law-office-in-somerset-20121228 Will opens law office in Somerset December 28, 2012 Attorney Megan E. Will recently opened up her law practice in Uptown Somerset. <p>Attorney Megan E. Will recently opened up her law practice in Uptown Somerset.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Will is a 2005 Somerset Area High School graduate and a 2009 graduate of Susquehanna University. Will received her juris doctorate from Duquesne University School of Law in June and returned to the area to assist local residents in a variety of legal needs, including family law, criminal law, juvenile law matters, and wills and estate planning.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Will is the daughter of Greg and Amy Will of Friedens and the granddaughter of Richard and Verna Barron of Somerset.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Law Office of Megan E. Will is located at 202 E. Union St., Somerset.</p> 2012-12-28 18:55:15.0 2013-01-27 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-will-opens-law-office-in-somerset-20121228,0,987576.story da-ot-somerset-trust-named-second-best-workplace-in-the-state-20121211 Somerset Trust named second best workplace in Pennsylvania December 11, 2012 Somerset Trust Co. has been ranked No. 2 among the top 29 large employers in the state, according to the 13th annual Best Places to Work in PA awards program. <p>Somerset Trust Co. has been ranked No. 2 among the top 29 large employers in the state, according to the 13th annual Best Places to Work in PA awards program.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The program evaluates and ranks the best places of employment based on employee satisfaction and engagement, as well as workplace practices and policies. The list includes two groups of companies: 71 small/medium-sized firms with 25 to 249 employees and 29 large-sized companies with 250 employees or more. The top 100 companies were honored in late November during an awards ceremony at the Lancaster County Convention Center.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"We are fortunate to have a professional, energetic and committed staff that brings a wealth of talent and knowledge to the table and every day work positively together as a team," G. Henry Cook, Somerset Trust Company president and CEO, said in a release.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Somerset Trust Co. is headquartered at 151 W. Main St.&nbsp; The bank has 20 branches serving communities in Somerset County, the greater Johnstown area, and portions of Fayette and Westmoreland counties.</p> 2012-12-11 19:39:45.0 2013-06-11 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-trust-named-second-best-workplace-in-the-state-20121211,0,1907495.story da-ot-sukenik-named-windber-medical-center-cfo-20121206 Sukenik named Windber Medical Center CFO December 6, 2012 Windber Medical Center has welcomed Richard M. Sukenik as the new vice president of finance/chief financial officer. http://www.trbimg.com/img-50c15cf6/turbine/da-ot-sukenik-named-windber-medical-center-cfo-20121206/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-50c15cf6/turbine/da-ot-sukenik-named-windber-medical-center-cfo-20121206/400/16x9 <p>Windber Medical Center has welcomed Richard M. Sukenik as the new vice president of finance/chief financial officer.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Sukenik joins the hospital after working as the CFO and controller at Electronic Claims Processing in Ebensburg for four years. Prior to that he was with the Conemaugh Health System for 12 years in various roles, including vice president of finance.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>He received his master's degree in business administration from Saint Francis University and his bachelor's degree in accounting/management from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Healthcare Financial Management Association and serves on the Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Departmental Advisory Committee.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>He lives in Richland Township with his wife, Cathy, and daughter, Jordyn.</p> 2012-12-06 19:07:39.0 2013-06-06 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-sukenik-named-windber-medical-center-cfo-20121206,0,1611619.story da-ot-somerset-trust-authorizes-dividends-20121130 Somerset Trust authorizes dividends November 30, 2012 The Board of Directors of Somerset Trust Holding Co. authorized a special dividend for the fourth quarter of 2012. Somerset Trust Co. is the sole subsidiary of Somerset Trust Holding Co. <p>The Board of Directors of Somerset Trust Holding Co. authorized a special dividend for the fourth quarter of 2012. Somerset Trust Co. is the sole subsidiary of Somerset Trust Holding Co.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The regular fourth quarter dividend of 20 cents per share was declared to shareholders of record as of the close of business on Dec. 10, payable on Dec. 20. In addition to the regular dividend, a special dividend of 5 cents will be paid to shareholders of record as of the close of business Dec. 10.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Total assets of the bank rose to $779,962,139 as of Sept. 30, compared to $693,742,562 in 2011.&nbsp; Deposits reached $671,878,935, compared to the prior year's $602,031,071. Through the first three quarters of 2012, earnings already equal the entire year's income from 2011.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Somerset Trust Company is based in Somerset at 151 W. Main St. The bank has 20 branches serving communities in Somerset County, the greater Johnstown area and portions of Fayette and Westmoreland counties.</p> 2012-11-30 17:45:04.0 2013-05-31 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-trust-authorizes-dividends-20121130,0,2886942.story da-ot-new-shop-opens-in-boswell-20121126 Shop opens in Boswell November 26, 2012 Owner Jackie Martella and manager Sharon Gontis have opened The Corner at Boswell Prescription, a new store featuring unique gifts, jewelry, scarves, candles and vintage collectibles.  <p>Owner Jackie Martella and manager Sharon Gontis have opened The Corner at Boswell Prescription, a new store featuring unique gifts, jewelry, scarves, candles and vintage collectibles.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The store also features holiday gifts and decorations, party foods and chocolate, gourmet popcorn from Johnstown Pops and handmade collectibles by local artisans. The work of Boswell artisan Sharon "Toots" Reckner is currently on display.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The new store is located beside Conemaugh Home Health at 210 Ohio St. in Boswell. It employs four people. Gontis said the store is an extension of the gift shop in the Boswell Prescription Center but with greater selection.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>"We just have a lot of odds and ends," she said.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Gontis said the shop tries to buy items that are made in America, including wind chimes and cups adorned in local athletic teams' colors. The store also sells vintage furniture, kitchen collectibles with a retro feel, and candles.</p> 2012-11-26 16:51:14.0 2013-05-27 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-new-shop-opens-in-boswell-20121126,0,2918092.story da-ot-new-law-practice-opens-in-somerset-20121102 New law practice opens in Somerset November 2, 2012 Marc Thomas Valentine has opened a new law practice at 214 E. Union St., Somerset.  http://www.trbimg.com/img-509471e8/turbine/da-ot-new-law-practice-opens-in-somerset-20121102/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-509471e8/turbine/da-ot-new-law-practice-opens-in-somerset-20121102/400/16x9 <p>Marc Thomas Valentine has opened a new law practice at 214 E. Union St., Somerset.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He is a Somerset County native who graduated from West Virginia University College of Law and has an undergraduate degree in engineering from Penn State. He spent eight years in industry before attending law school.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Valentine still works at West Virginia University as an adjunct professor and helps with the National Energy and Sustainability Moot Court Competition. He is an active member of Meyersdale Grace Brethren Church and runs the Grace Brethren Church teen camp.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Valentine's main area of concentration is tax law. He has experience with: federal and state personal income tax, federal and state corporate, partnership, limited liability company, sole proprietorship, withholding, inheritance, federal estate tax, sales tax, motor fuel taxation and other taxation issues.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He will also be practicing in family law, personal injury, civil litigation, wills, trusts and estates, criminal law, environmental law and elder law.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><span>Valentine is a member of the </span>National Order of&nbsp; Barristers and the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. He won the 2012 Culture of Excellence and Legacy Award at West Virginia University.</p> 2012-11-02 18:24:58.0 2013-05-03 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-new-law-practice-opens-in-somerset-20121102,0,5902767.story da-ot-windber-hospital-receives-award-20121102 Windber hospital receives award November 2, 2012 Windber Medical Center received the 2012 Employer of the Year Award from the Windber Business and Professional Women's Organization. <p>Windber Medical Center received the 2012 Employer of the Year Award from the Windber Business and Professional Women's Organization.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The award is in recognition of the hospital's performance, dedication and high standards of excellence in serving the community.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We are very honored to be recognized by this outstanding organization," Barbara Cliff, president and CEO of Windber Medical Center, said in a press release. "It is especially meaningful given Windber Medical Center's commitment to exceptional woman care services."&nbsp;</p> 2012-11-02 17:37:48.0 2013-05-03 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-windber-hospital-receives-award-20121102,0,825512.story da-ot-rockwood-resident-wins-state-award-20121031 Rockwood resident wins state award October 31, 2012 Patricia Benford of Rockwood, administrator of Mt. Macrina Manor in Uniontown, has been selected as the LeadingAge PA Leader of the Year for 2012.  <p>Patricia Benford of Rockwood, administrator of Mt. Macrina Manor in Uniontown, has been selected as the LeadingAge PA Leader of the Year for 2012.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This award is given on a statewide basis through a competitive system. LeadingAge PA is a professional organization whose mission is to promote the interests of nonprofit facilities &mdash; including nursing homes and retirement communities &mdash; by enhancing their ability to provide services efficiently and effectively.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During her nursing career, Benford obtained a critical care nursing certificate and advanced cardiac life support certification, and was the preceptor of her unit to train and orient new registered nurses. She obtained a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of the State of New York in 1992. In 1991 she entered elder care nursing. She attended LaRoche College in Pittsburgh and became a licensed nursing home administrator in 2003.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to Benford, the main factor driving her commitment to the elderly population has been her relationship with her grandmother. At the age of 8, she helped to care for her grandmother until her death 17 years later in 1990.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Every facility that she managed as a nursing director and nursing home administrator has enjoyed at least one deficiency free survey during her tenure.&nbsp; Mt. Macrina Manor recently earned its second deficiency free status during an inspection by the Department of Health.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Benford is a member of St. Luke's Lutheran Church in Rockwood. She plans to work more closely with LeadingAge PA to promote elder care awareness.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mt. Macrina Manor is a Byzantine Catholic long-term care facility sponsored by the Sisters of St. Basil the Great.</p> 2012-10-31 16:21:56.0 2013-05-01 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-rockwood-resident-wins-state-award-20121031,0,5511863.story da-ot-darr-construction-honored-20121025 Darr Construction honored October 25, 2012 At the annual meeting of the Keystone Contractors Association in State College, Darr Construction of Berlin was recognized for its safety. <p>At the annual meeting of the Keystone Contractors Association in State College, Darr Construction of Berlin was recognized for its safety.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The association recognizes specific categories of contractors who have demonstrated exemplary attention to the safety of their work force.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Darr won the 2012 Contractor Award with the most improved record in the category of 50,000 to 100,000 hours, and also the 2012 Contractor with the best record between 50,000 and 100,000 hours.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The meeting was held at The Penn Stater on Oct. 12.</p> 2012-10-25 17:08:10.0 2013-04-25 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-darr-construction-honored-20121025,0,3935694.story da-ot-somerset-nursing-facility-has-new-administrator-20121009 Somerset nursing facility has new administrator October 9, 2012 The Patriot in Somerset has a new administrator. <p>The Patriot in Somerset has a new administrator.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Barbara Smith of Hollidaysburg took the post at the nursing and rehabilitation facility along West Patriot Street in late August. Smith has been a registered nurse for 35 years and has been certified in long-term care for eight years. She previously served as the nursing director at Valley View in Altoona. She said when the opportunity at The Patriot came available, she decided to take it.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"My expertise is in compliance and resident and staff satisfaction," she said. "I just felt this was a good opportunity for me."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Along with Smith, her dog Molly also comes a couple days a week to visit residents. Smith said her goal is to create a more resident-centered environment and make sure residents are comfortable and happy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I just enjoy long-term care," she said. "We have a lovely personal care division and we are working on upgrading for folks to make that transition from home a bit easier."</p><p>&nbsp;</p> 2012-10-09 18:07:51.0 2013-04-09 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-nursing-facility-has-new-administrator-20121009,0,1970129.story da-ot-somerset-trust-named-best-workplace-20121008 Somerset Trust named best workplace October 8, 2012 Somerset Trust Co. has been named one of the best places to work in Pennsylvania for 2012.  <p>Somerset Trust Co. has been named one of the best places to work in Pennsylvania for 2012.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The bank was one of 29 large employers that received the honor. Its rank will be announced at an awards banquet Nov. 29 at the Lancaster County Convention Center.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nominated companies were evaluated based on&nbsp; workplace policies, practices, philosophies, systems and demographics. The evaluation also involves an employee survey, which accounts for roughly 75 percent of a company's total score.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The awards program, created in 2000, is one of the first statewide programs of its kind in the country. The program is a partnership between Team Pennsylvania Foundation, the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, the Pennsylvania State Council of the Society for Human Resource Management and the Central Penn Business Journal. Somerset Trust Co. competed with other large companies of more than 250 employees.</p> 2012-10-08 19:02:31.0 2013-04-08 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-trust-named-best-workplace-20121008,0,2253373.story da-ot-windber-native-appointed-director-20120914 Windber native appointed director September 14, 2012 Windber Medical Center has appointed registered nurse Chris Spinos as acute care director. <p>Windber Medical Center has appointed registered nurse Chris Spinos as acute care director.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Spinos is a Windber native with more than 36 years of nursing experience. She will oversee the critical care unit and Wing III at the hospital.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Spinos received her bachelor's degree in nursing from Mount Aloysius College. She is a member of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses and the Greater Johnstown Chapter of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses and is also president of the Conemaugh Township Rotary Club.</p> 2012-09-14 16:57:29.0 2013-03-15 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-windber-native-appointed-director-20120914,0,1410741.story da-ot-new-doctor-arriving-in-somerset-20120827 New doctor arriving in Somerset August 27, 2012 Dr. Darius Pierko of Conemaugh Physician Group has joined the Somerset practice of Dr. Ann Smith.  http://www.trbimg.com/img-503c283d/turbine/da-ot-new-doctor-arriving-in-somerset-20120827/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-503c283d/turbine/da-ot-new-doctor-arriving-in-somerset-20120827/400/16x9 <p>Dr. Darius Pierko of Conemaugh Physician Group has joined the Somerset practice of Dr. Ann Smith.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Pierko, who was born in Poland, is a graduate of The University of Maine and the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in Biddeford, Maine. He completed fellowship training in neuromuscular medicine/osteopathic manipulate medicine at Eastern Maine Medical Center, where he also completed a family medicine residency program. Pierko is board certified in family medicine and neuromuscular medicine.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Pierko comes to Somerset after working most recently at Mercer Primary Care in Mercer.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I am looking forward to living in this region," said Pierko, whose wife's family is from Pennsylvania. "We enjoy outdoor activities in both the summer and winter so this area has a lot to offer."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Smith will be moving from the Somerset area in September and Pierko will take over the practice at 339 W. Union St.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Patients of the practice will have an opportunity to meet Pierko at a Farewell Open House for Smith from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday.</p> 2012-08-27 19:11:09.0 2013-02-25 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-new-doctor-arriving-in-somerset-20120827,0,6437487.story da-ot-utility-company-offers-education-grants-20120827 Utility company offers education grants August 27, 2012 <div><p>FirstEnergy Corp. is offering education grants of up to $500 for creative classroom projects planned for the 2012-13 school year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Classroom Grants are awarded for creative, individual classroom projects for prekindergarten through grade 12. The grants are available to educators and youth group leaders in communities served by FirstEnergy's 10 electric operating companies or in communities where the company has generating plants or does business.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Grant applications must be submitted by Sept. 17. The application and more information about grant criteria is available on FirstEnergy's website: www.firstenergycorp.com/community/education/educational_grants.html. Grants will be awarded based on the recommendations of the FirstEnergy Education Advisory Council. Winners will be notified by Oct. 8.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Penelec is a subsidiary of FirstEnergy.</p></div> 2012-08-27 18:47:13.0 2013-02-25 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-utility-company-offers-education-grants-20120827,0,832213.story da-ot-somerset-car-dealership-honored-20120823 Somerset car dealership honored August 23, 2012 The Tri-Star Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram dealership in Somerset has been accepted into the Chrysler Pentastar Club. <p>The Tri-Star Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram dealership in Somerset has been accepted into the Chrysler Pentastar Club.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ashley Bennett, area sales manager of the Chrysler Group LLC, presented the award to the dealership on July 26. Acceptance into the club is based on outstanding sales performance, customer satisfaction and employee training.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Tri-Star principal owner Kevin Sergent said the dealership's service area was noted for its promptness and thoroughness. The dealership also had to meet Chrysler's minimum sales requirement every month from January through October 2011.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We are proud to report that we actually exceeded Chrysler's sales objectives every month during this period," Sergent said in a press release. "In fact, we outperformed the national norm by 48 percent."</p> 2012-08-23 16:11:43.0 2013-02-21 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-car-dealership-honored-20120823,0,5356711.story da-ot-first-national-bank-named-top-workplace-20120821 First National Bank named top workplace August 21, 2012 First National Bank of Pennsylvania, a subsidiary of F.N.B. Corp., has been recognized as one of the nation's top workplaces, an aggregate list compiled from 30 top workplaces publishing partners to identify the best employers in the nation.  <p>First National Bank of Pennsylvania, a subsidiary of F.N.B. Corp., has been recognized as one of the nation's top workplaces, an aggregate list compiled from 30 top workplaces publishing partners to identify the best employers in the nation.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The bank's inclusion is a result of being recognized as one of Pittsburgh's top workplaces in 2011 by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The list is based on the feedback of more than 800 companies with 1,000-plus employees across 30 regional top workplaces programs. Survey responses were received from more than a half-million employees across the nation. The list is published by WorkplaceDynamics, which conducts more than 4,000 company surveys each year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>First National Bank of Pennsylvania has more than 260 locations in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia. The bank announced that it will be closing branches in New Centerville, Boswell and Salisbury on Nov. 9, displacing an undisclosed number of employees.</p><p>&nbsp;</p> 2012-08-21 16:00:30.0 2013-02-19 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-first-national-bank-named-top-workplace-20120821,0,4448130.story da-ot-owens-family-restaurant-vies-for-attention-20120808 Owen's Family Restaurant vies for attention August 8, 2012 Crafting names for menu items such as "Bubba Gump Nachos," "Rings of Gold" and "Flying Rooster" is one of many ways Dan Szymanski, owner of Owen's Family Restaurant, creates a fun, homey atmosphere for his customers to enjoy a variety of American-style dishes with a five-star twist.  By JORDANE FRAZIER http://www.trbimg.com/img-5022bd96/turbine/da-ot-owens-family-restaurant-vies-for-attention-20120808/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-5022bd96/turbine/da-ot-owens-family-restaurant-vies-for-attention-20120808/400/16x9 <p>Crafting names for menu items such as "Bubba Gump Nachos," "Rings of Gold" and "Flying Rooster" is one of many ways Dan Szymanski, owner of Owen's Family Restaurant, creates a fun, homey atmosphere for his customers to enjoy a variety of American-style dishes with a five-star twist.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"All the names on our menu are family oriented," he said. "People actually sit and read the menus when they see these names. It amuses them."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The restaurant, named after Szymanski's oldest son, Owen, opened in February off Berlin Plank Road in Somerset. The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, including crab cakes, roast beef sandwiches and chicken wings, made to order with fresh ingredients in a five-star cuisine presentation that Szymanski said he hopes adds an element of surprise for customers.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"It's your mom and pop kind of food with a culinary flair," he said. "There's all kinds of favorite foods here for the whole family. There's just more creativity."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Owen's also features less traditional items such as breaded calamari, Italian chicken roulade and on occasion, duck and prime rib, a customer favorite.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Szymanski, an Indian Head resident, said he always had a passion for food and family and found opening a restaurant to be the perfect opportunity to combine the two. Szymanski said he decided to start his business in the Somerset area simply because he loved the atmosphere.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Somerset is a very nice community," he said. "It's an up and coming place and the people have always been extremely nice and appreciative."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Szymanski bought the property in August 2011. The restaurant seats 70 people and features a large, wall-to-wall window by the restaurant's entrance that allows customers and those passing by to see how food is handled and prepared in the kitchen.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Szymanski said he loves this feature of the property because it exemplifies the restaurant's high standards of cleanliness.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I love my customers' expressions when they come in," he said. "People always compliment us on how clean the place is. It's a homey little environment."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Szymanski also prides himself on using fresh ingredients. Owen's uses only four canned items for more than 40 different dishes. Szymanski bakes his own breads and his wife, Kimberly, prepares desserts daily as well.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I believe in my heart that once customers come here, it's the food that's going to bring them back," he said. "Nothing is frozen here. Everything is made fresh down to the buns."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In his five months in business, Szymanski said he has really enjoyed his customers.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We have a wide variety of patrons and I like interacting with all of them," he said. "In this business it's all about our customers. Without them we don't exist."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Jack Colletti of Canonsburg stopped by the restaurant after completing a nearby crane inspection.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"This fish soup was delicious," he said, pointing to an empty soup bowl. "The food was absolutely wonderful. The service was great and the place was clean. What more can you ask for? If I lived in the area, I would definitely be a regular."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Szymanski employs 12 people from Somerset County. These employees include veterans and college students.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I think providing more jobs for the area will definitely make it stronger, and I can't say anything negative about my employees," he said. "They're a great bunch of people to have with me."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Eventually Szymanski hopes to be able to incorporate catering and outdoor seating, expand indoor seating and maybe even provide chef seating for customers to sit right in the kitchen and watch chefs prepare their meals. But for now, the new restaurant owner said his biggest challenge has been getting people from in town to notice and recognize his restaurant as it sits slightly outside of the busy city limits near Stepping Stone Road.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The fact is that we're outside the Somerset area," he said. "I don't think the public over here recognizes us yet. I would like people to know that we're here and we're good."</p> 2012-08-08 12:44:06.0 2013-02-06 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-owens-family-restaurant-vies-for-attention-20120808,0,7190272.story da-ot-formal-store-staff-recognized-20120807 Formal store staff recognized August 7, 2012 Janie Ohler, Marcy McVicker and Elle McVicker of Larenas Bridal & Formal Wear recently received certificates of recognition from Sarno & Son Tuxedos for successfully completing a training course. <p>Janie Ohler, Marcy McVicker and Elle McVicker of Larenas Bridal & Formal Wear recently received certificates of recognition from Sarno & Son Tuxedos for successfully completing a training course.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The course covered measuring and fitting tuxedos as well as wedding party registration and style selection.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sarno & Son has been a formal wear supplier for more than 70 years. Larenas is a family owned and run business in Somerset specializing in tuxedo and suit rentals, prom gowns, wedding attire and accessories.</p> 2012-08-07 16:04:45.0 2013-02-05 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-formal-store-staff-recognized-20120807,0,3849407.story da-ot-somerset-company-linked-to-national-award-20120730 Somerset company linked to national award July 30, 2012 <div><p>The 11th annual Palladio Awards competition recognized nine architectural firms for outstanding work in traditional design for commercial, institutional, public and residential projects.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The winner in the residential work Restoration & Renovation category is John Milner Architects, Chadds Ford, for the Jayne House, Philadelphia. Somerset Door & Column Co. manufactured doors for this project.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We are pleased to have supplied the custom exterior doors for the Jayne House," Bob McVicker, general manager of Somerset Door & Column Co., said in a press release. "Our products are a natural fit to historic restorations as we have over 100 years of manufacturing experience to draw upon."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Palladio Awards program is co-produced by Traditional Building and Period Homes magazines and is named in honor of&nbsp;Andrea Palladio, the Renaissance architect who created modern architecture for his time while drawing on past models for inspiration.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Somerset Door & Column Co. manufactures architectural wood columns and pilasters, fiberglass columns and pilasters, StaveCast columns and pilasters, decorative capitals, porch posts, custom doors, fine wood entryways and accompanying millwork.</p><p>&nbsp;</p></div> 2012-07-30 18:51:06.0 2013-01-28 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-company-linked-to-national-award-20120730,0,5087341.story da-ot-johnstown-company-wins-state-award-20120718 Johnstown company wins state award July 18, 2012 Laurel Highlands Medical Consultants, a medical billing and transcription company in Johnstown, received the Pennsylvania Business and Professional Women's 2011-12 Employer of the Year Award. http://www.trbimg.com/img-50071b47/turbine/da-ot-johnstown-company-wins-state-award-20120718/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-50071b47/turbine/da-ot-johnstown-company-wins-state-award-20120718/400/16x9 <p>Laurel Highlands Medical Consultants, a medical billing and transcription company in Johnstown, received the Pennsylvania Business and Professional Women's 2011-12 Employer of the Year Award.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The citation is awarded to an employer who has contributed the most &mdash; in the opinion of the judges &mdash; to the employment, advancement and recognition of women. Organization President Bobbi Dobler presented the award to Debra Iachini-Lux, the company's CEO, at an awards ceremony June 16 in Connellsville.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"She felt it was a place where women didn't have to choose between family and a career," Iachini-Lux said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We allow a lot of flexibility because you're never going to be able to get those (family) moments back," she added.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The business was honored for hiring female employees, paying for continuing education and providing child care options on site, among other things. Laurel Highlands has 11 female employees and has hired five women in the past seven months. Iachini-Lux's husband, Robert Lux, is the vice president of operations.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The company, which will mark its 26th year next month, serves more than two dozen physicians and allied health professionals in the Laurel Highlands.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Iachini-Lux has been a member of the Johnstown chapter of Business and Professional Women since the early 1980s. She credits the organization's networking opportunities and other resources with helping her to improve her business.</p> 2012-07-18 13:25:38.0 2013-01-16 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-johnstown-company-wins-state-award-20120718,0,4229909.story da-ot-snyder-of-berlin-honors-ohio-distributor-20120716 Snyder of Berlin honors Ohio distributor July 16, 2012 Snyder of Berlin has named Lou Delbert & Sons Distributing as its "Distributor of the Year." The award is based on outstanding sales and customer service. <p>Snyder of Berlin has named Lou Delbert & Sons Distributing as its "Distributor of the Year." The award is based on outstanding sales and customer service.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Lou Delbert Distributing in Bellaire, Ohio, has been a Snyder of Berlin distributor since 1972 and is operated by Lew Delbert and Dennis Delbert, sons of founder Louis Delbert Sr. The company was founded the same year as Snyder of Berlin, in 1947. The company serves eastern Ohio and northwestern West Virginia. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Snyder of Berlin, which produces chips, cheese snacks, popcorn and more, is celebrating its 65th anniversary.</p><br /> 2012-07-16 18:33:55.0 2013-01-14 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-snyder-of-berlin-honors-ohio-distributor-20120716,0,2679845.story da-ot-somerset-trust-elects-officers-reports-income-20120628 Somerset Trust elects officers, reports income June 28, 2012 The annual meeting of Somerset Trust Holding Co. was held at the Somerset Trust Co. Historic Building along North Center Avenue in Somerset. Somerset Trust Co. is the sole subsidiary of Somerset Trust Holding Co. <p>The annual meeting of Somerset Trust Holding Co. was held at the Somerset Trust Co. Historic Building along North Center Avenue in Somerset. Somerset Trust Co. is the sole subsidiary of Somerset Trust Holding Co.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Corporate shareholders elected G. Henry Cook, Jay Scott Roberts and Richard C. Yeager to three-year terms on the board of directors. Other board members are Andrew F. Cook, Thomas J. Cook, Vickie L. Beer, Jon C. Clapper, Barbara Wheeler Davies, Sean C. Isgan, James Knepper Jr. and John M. Kriak.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The bank's board of directors voted to set the number of directors to serve for the next year at 11.&nbsp; G. Henry Cook was elected president, chief executive officer and chairman of the board. Thomas J. Cook was elected board vice chairman. All officers of Somerset Trust Co. were re-elected.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In other business, a second quarter dividend of 19 cents per share was declared to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 8.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Total assets of the bank rose to $737,452,328 as of March 31, compared to $645,605,551 in 2011.&nbsp; Net income for the first quarter was $2,631,145, compared to $2,075,012 in 2011.</p> 2012-06-28 16:35:46.0 2012-12-27 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-trust-elects-officers-reports-income-20120628,0,6771574.story da-ot-prudential-opens-two-offices-in-region-20120619 Prudential opens two offices in region June 19, 2012 Prudential Preferred Realty has opened two new offices in the Laurel Highlands to serve the local community and those looking for resort properties. <p>Prudential Preferred Realty has opened two new offices in the Laurel Highlands to serve the local community and those looking for resort properties.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The new offices in downtown Ligonier and at Hidden Valley Resort are the company's 18th and 19th offices, respectively. The company has tapped Prudential Preferred Realty managers Bill Hammill and Janice Smarto to lead the new offices.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Expanding our footprint in the Laurel Highlands makes perfect sense for our company, and we're thrilled to have two veteran managers leading the new offices," Ron Croushore, owner and CEO of Prudential Preferred Realty, said in a release.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Hidden Valley office is located on-site at the resort, 66 Craighead Drive, and will be managed by&nbsp; Hammill, current manager of the Laurel Highlands office. He will maintain responsibilities for both offices. Prudential will mark the office opening with a "wine & cheese" grand-opening event at 4 p.m. July 6 at the Hidden Valley office.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Hidden Valley Resort is proud to partner with Prudential Preferred Realty as our exclusive on-site real estate company," Scott Bender, resort vice president of operations, said in a release. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Ligonier office is located at 115 S. Market St. and will be managed by Smarto, a Realtor with 30 years' experience. Smarto also&nbsp; manages the Prudential Preferred Realty Greensburg office and will maintain responsibilities for both offices. A grand opening celebration will be held in conjunction with the Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commerce at the office on July 25.</p> 2012-06-19 18:55:05.0 2012-12-18 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-prudential-opens-two-offices-in-region-20120619,0,2436085.story da-ot-three-appointed-to-somerset-hospital-board-20120611 Three appointed to Somerset Hospital board June 11, 2012 Mark Bower, Krista Mathias and Ron Aldom have been appointed to the Somerset Hospital Board of Directors.  <p>Mark Bower, Krista Mathias and Ron Aldom have been appointed to the Somerset Hospital Board of Directors.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Board Chairman Bruce Shipley welcomed the new members at the May 21 meeting.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We are so pleased to welcome Ron, Mark and Krista as contributors at the board level," he said in a written statement. "All have unique talents and like Somerset Hospital, are deeply rooted in our local community."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Bower has served as superintendent and high school principal of the Rockwood Area School District for the past five years. Prior to his work at Rockwood, he was employed as a physics and chemistry teacher within the Somerset and Lampeter school districts. Bower is a member of the Allegany College of Maryland Advisory Committee, Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 General Operating Budget Committee, Rockwood Area Merchants Association and executive committee of Bedford/Somerset County Schools Healthcare Consortium. Bower will represent southern Somerset County, where he has resided nearly all of his life. He is also a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church Council.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mathias has worked for more than 20 years at the Somerset Area School District, where she is superintendent. Prior to this role, she served the district as an educator in the English department, director of curriculum and assistant superintendent. Mathias earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh and holds a master's degree in education from California University of Pennsylvania, where she is completing doctoral level work. Mathias is a member of the Somerset Rotary Club and board of directors for the Somerset County Boys & Girls Club. She and husband Bob are lifelong residents of the county.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Aldom has been the executive director of the Somerset County Chamber of Commerce for seven years. Prior to working in Somerset, he held a similar position with the Laurel Highlands Chamber of Commerce and the Mount Pleasant Business District Authority. He spent nearly 20 years in the hospitality field in food management at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. He also was a paramedic for more than 25 years, primarily serving as a volunteer. Aldom serves on multiple boards, including: Allegany College of Maryland Foundation-Somerset Campus,&nbsp;The Salvation Army, Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau, Continental One Transportation Board, Chambers of Commerce Service Corporation, Power of 32 Steering Committee, Pennsylvania Highlands College-Somerset and Southern Alleghenies Workforce Investment Board. He is also a past president of the Somerset Rotary Club.</p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 10.0px Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></p> 2012-06-11 20:46:35.0 2012-12-10 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-three-appointed-to-somerset-hospital-board-20120611,0,2311826.story da-ot-somerset-trust-co-earns-two-national-rankings-20120607 Somerset Trust Co. earns two national rankings June 7, 2012 Somerset Trust Co. achieved two national community bank recognitions based on performance in 2011. <p>Somerset Trust Co. achieved two national community bank recognitions based on performance in 2011.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In the May 2012 issue of American Banker, a national banking publication, Somerset Trust Co. was recognized for the third consecutive year as one of the Top 200 Community Banks in the country. Looking at approximately 5,000 banks nationwide, SNL Financial compiled data for the publication, which looked at the top performing financial institutions. Somerset Trust is ranked 36th on the list. The rankings are based on a three-year average of return on equity. Somerset Trust posted 12.50 percent. Last year the bank was ranked 63rd at 11.13 percent. In 2010 the bank was ranked 105th at 10.48 percent.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In MarchSomerset Trust Holding Co.was ranked first among the top community banks in the nation for posting the highest one-year return to shareholders, 59.77 percent. Somerset Trust Co. is the sole operating asset ofSomerset Trust Holding Co.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As of March 31 the bank had total assets of $738 million, compared to $645 million in 2011.&nbsp; Deposits reached $638 million compared to the prior year's $572 million.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Based in Somerset, the bank serves Somerset and Cambria counties in addition to parts of Westmoreland and Fayette counties. The bank has 19 branches.</p> 2012-06-07 16:39:01.0 2012-12-06 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-trust-co-earns-two-national-rankings-20120607,0,6784198.story da-ot-somerset-businessman-wins-award-20120529 Somerset businessman wins award May 29, 2012 The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center will honor the winners of its 2012 Small Business Awards at an awards luncheon at noon June 13 in the JFK Center on  campus. The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center will honor the winners of its 2012 Small Business Awards at an awards luncheon at noon June 13 in the JFK Center on&nbsp; campus.<br /><br />The awards recognize the achievements of the region's most successful entrepreneurs and small business advocates. The winners include Guy Berkebile of Guy Chemical, Somerset, who was named small business exporter of the year. Founded in 1995, Guy Chemical Co. specializes in filling viscous materials into metal and plastic squeeze tubes and cartridges. Since 1995 more than 70 percent of its products have been shipped outside the United States. In 1995 Guy Chemical had $32,000 in sales and no employees. Today the company has 60 employees and more than $20 million in sales, according to the center.<br /><br />Glenn L. Wilson of AmeriServ Financial in Johnstown was named financial services advocate of the year. U.S. Rep. Mark Critz, D-Johnstown, will receive the Richard Crawford Award for his work on behalf of small businesses. 2012-05-29 15:40:33.0 2012-11-27 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-businessman-wins-award-20120529,0,7118156.story da-ot-boyer-financial-adds-barron-20120515 Boyer Financial adds Barron May 15, 2012 Boyer Financial Planning, Somerset, has announced the addition of Josh Barron as an administrative associate. http://www.trbimg.com/img-4fb2e91a/turbine/da-ot-boyer-financial-adds-barron-20120515/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-4fb2e91a/turbine/da-ot-boyer-financial-adds-barron-20120515/400/16x9 Boyer Financial Planning, Somerset, has announced the addition of Josh Barron as an administrative associate. <br /><br />Barron will be primarily responsible for detailed research, performance reporting and increasing efficiencies. He graduated from Washington & Jefferson College in 2010 with a bachelor's degree in business administration and is Series 7 certified. <br /><br />In his spare time he enjoys golfing, traveling, attending Pittsburgh sporting events and spending time at the Youghiogheny Lake. 2012-05-15 16:41:06.0 2012-06-14 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-boyer-financial-adds-barron-20120515,0,5445236.story da-ot-foxs-opening-fullservice-deli-20120426 Fox's opening full-service deli April 26, 2012 Fox's Pizza Den, 212 E. Main St., Somerset, which reopened in October 2009, has added a full-service deli to its location. Fox's Pizza Den, 212 E. Main St., Somerset, which reopened in October 2009, has added a full-service deli to its location. <br /><br />The deli will be open daily and will feature meats, cheeses, homemade salads, dairy items and ice cream. The deli will also feature made-to-order deli sandwiches, party trays and deli trays. The 40-year-old franchise also offers handcrafted pizzas, hoagies, wings, salads and wedgies. <br /><br />Fox's will celebrate the opening of its new deli with a customer appreciation day May 5. There will be free samples and drawings throughout the day. 2012-04-26 15:59:07.0 2012-10-25 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-foxs-opening-fullservice-deli-20120426,0,3760869.story da-ot-daily-american-writers-honored-20120425 Daily American writers honored April 25, 2012 The Daily American earned three first place awards Tuesday in the Pennsylvania Associated Press Managing Editors News Excellence contest. The Daily American earned three first place awards Tuesday in the Pennsylvania Associated Press Managing Editors News Excellence contest.<br /><br />Rick Kazmer, city editor, and Bruce Siwy, staff writer earned a first place Sports/Outdoors Column award with their weekly debate entitled, "Should Sunday hunting be avoided in Pennsylvania?"<br /><br />Michelle Ganassi, assistant city editor, received&nbsp; first place in Business Writing for her story "Fleetwood is closed"&nbsp; about the closing of FTCA, formerly Fleetwood Folding Trailers, in Somerset.<br /><br />Roger Vogel, staff photographer, received the first place column award for&nbsp; "The genesis of a rumor."<br /><br />Vogel also won two other awards recently for his column writing. He received an honorable mention in the Pennsylvania Newspaper Association Keystone Contest and a first place commentary award in the Schurz Communications News Excellence Contest. Schurz is the parent company of the Daily American and owns newspapers and television stations across the United States.<br /><br />"The Daily American is blessed with talented writers, copy editors, page designers and proofreaders who work together on a daily basis trying to deliver the best possible information about Somerset County. They really care about the work they do every day. It's nice to see their efforts being recognized in a statewide competition," Brian Whipkey, editor of the Daily American, said.<br /><br />The Daily American competes in the state category for newspapers with less than 15,000 circulation. The APME&nbsp; awards will be presented at the Associated Press's banquet on June 1 in Gettysburg.<br /><br /><br id="tinymce" class="mceContentBody " /> 2012-04-25 16:13:31.0 2012-10-24 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-daily-american-writers-honored-20120425,0,3867796.story da-ot-harbaugh-rejoins-4-guys-fire-trucks-20120423 Harbaugh rejoins 4 Guys Fire Trucks April 23, 2012 4 Guys Fire Trucks in Meyersdale has hired Rockwood native Brad Harbaugh as its new production manager. http://www.trbimg.com/img-4f95f232/turbine/da-ot-harbaugh-rejoins-4-guys-fire-trucks-20120423/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-4f95f232/turbine/da-ot-harbaugh-rejoins-4-guys-fire-trucks-20120423/400/16x9 4 Guys Fire Trucks in Meyersdale has hired Rockwood native Brad Harbaugh as its new production manager.<br /><br />Harbaugh started working at 4 Guys as an electrician trainee the day after his high school graduation in 1987. After five years Harbaugh left the company to take a position as the electrical supervisor at New Lexington Fire Equipment in Rockwood. Harbaugh later became a customer service and warranty administrator at E-One, a fire truck manufacturer in Ocala, Fla.<br /><br />"When I left E-One, I started my own business," Harbaugh said, "but when you are in business by yourself, it's hard. So I became a paid firefighter."&nbsp; <br /><br />Harbaugh worked for six years as a paid firefighter in Huntersville, N.C., before getting back into the fire apparatus business &mdash; this time with Crimson Fire Aerials in Lancaster County. <br /><br />4 Guys general manager Mark Albright said Harbaugh's broad base of experience makes him uniquely qualified for the position he now holds.<br /><br />"Brad has been around the industry over the years, and has done a lot of different jobs," Albright said. "He has experience in many facets of the business, and he brings a fresh perspective to our operation."<br /><br />The production manager position became available in March when Dick Seibert decided to retire. Seibert has been with the company since its beginning. Seibert has begun working part time in preparation for a June retirement.<br /><br /> 2012-04-23 17:24:55.0 2012-10-22 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-harbaugh-rejoins-4-guys-fire-trucks-20120423,0,5700274.story da-ot-polacek-named-to-list-of-top-business-people-20120406 Polacek named to list of top business people April 6, 2012 Bill Polacek, CEO of JWF Industries in Johnstown, has been named to Pennsylvania Business Central's list of Top 100 business people. His company was also recognized by the publication as a Top 100 organization. Honorees are selected by the publication's editorial board. http://www.trbimg.com/img-4f7f7482/turbine/da-ot-polacek-named-to-list-of-top-business-pe-002/187/16x9 http://www.trbimg.com/img-4f7f7482/turbine/da-ot-polacek-named-to-list-of-top-business-pe-002/400/16x9 Bill Polacek, CEO of JWF Industries in Johnstown, has been named to Pennsylvania Business Central's list of Top 100 business people. His company was also recognized by the publication as a Top 100 organization. Honorees are selected by the publication's editorial board.<br /><br />JWF was started by Polacek in 1987 with one employee and has grown to more than 450 employees. The company manufactures fabricated metal products for commercial and defense industry customers at seven locations, six of which are in Johnstown.<br /><br />In 2011 JWF added sister-company Environmental Tank & Container to coincide with the growth of Marcellus Shale activity in Pennsylvania.<br /><br />Pennsylvania Business Central is a biweekly periodical based in State College. The publication covers business news within a 16-county area of central Pennsylvania. 2012-04-06 16:22:23.0 2012-10-05 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-polacek-named-to-list-of-top-business-people-20120406,0,539870.story da-ot-seven-springs-hosting-job-fair-20120406 Seven Springs hosting job fair April 6, 2012 Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Somerset County's largest private employer, is hiring for full- and part-time positions for the summer. Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Somerset County's largest private employer, is hiring for full- and part-time positions for the summer.<br /><br />The resort will host its first summer job fair from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. April 14 in Festival Hall. Interested applicants should be prepared to complete an application. Resumes will also be accepted.<br /><br />"Currently, we have more than 300 positions available throughout the resort such as guides for our new canopy tours, Kids' Adventure Day Camp counselors, Segway tour guides and sporting clays trappers," human resources director Joe Cummins said in a release.<br /><br />The resort offers benefits with some positions and added incentives, including discounts on resort activities. A list of open positions can be found online at www.7springs.com/careers. 2012-04-06 16:09:43.0 2012-04-13 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-seven-springs-hosting-job-fair-20120406,0,5361283.story da-ot-ctc-named-most-ethical-company-20120319 CTC named most ethical company March 19, 2012 Concurrent Technologies Corp. has been named one of the world's most ethical companies by Ethisphere Institute, an international think-tank. The sixth annual list highlights organizations that demonstrate leadership in promoting ethical business standards and practices. Concurrent Technologies Corp. has been named one of the world's most ethical companies by Ethisphere Institute, an international think-tank. The sixth annual list highlights organizations that demonstrate leadership in promoting ethical business standards and practices.<br /><br />Ethisphere reviewed nominations from companies in more than 100 countries and 36 industries. The methodology behind the list includes reviewing codes of ethics, litigation and regulatory infraction histories; evaluating the investment in innovation and sustainable business practices; looking at activities designed to improve corporate citizenship; and studying nominations from senior executives, industry peers, suppliers and customers. <br /><br />The 2012 winning organizations were recognized at the World's Most Ethical Companies Honoree Dinner Thursday in New York City. Former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright was the dinner's keynote speaker.<br /><br />CTC has locations in 22 U.S. cities, including Johnstown. 2012-03-19 15:16:32.0 2012-04-18 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-ctc-named-most-ethical-company-20120319,0,6843320.story da-ot-market-roundup-3612-20120306 Market Roundup 3/6/12 March 6, 2012 Grantsville Stockyards <strong>Grantsville Stockyards</strong><br /><strong>Grantsville, Md.</strong><br /><strong>March 3</strong><br />Stock steers and bulls &ndash; (200 to 500 lbs.) 100 to 175<br />Stock heifers &ndash; (200 to 500 lbs.) 100 to 160<br />Slaughter steers &ndash; Good to choice, up to 118; medium to good, 55 to 102<br />Holstein steers &ndash; Good, 75 to 84; light up to 107<br />Slaughter heifers &ndash; Good to choice 105; medium to good 55 to 93.5<br />Bulls &ndash; Heavy &ndash; 60 to 96.5;&nbsp; light &ndash; 65 to 70<br />Cows &ndash; Utility (Holsteins) &ndash; 70 to 89.5; canners &ndash; 52 to 66; culls &ndash; 50 and down<br />Bob calves &ndash;&nbsp; 30 and down<br />Holstein bull calves &ndash; Return to farm (90 to 120 lbs.) &ndash; up to 107.5<br />Holstein heifer calves &ndash; Return to farm, up to 180<br />Beef cross calves &ndash; Return to farm, up to 200<br />Hogs &ndash; Top quality &ndash; up to 76; heavy &ndash; up to 76; light &ndash; 50 to 70; feeder pigs, by head, up to 75<br />Sows &ndash; Up to 69.5<br />Male hogs &ndash; 15 to 30<br />Lambs &ndash; (70 to 85 lbs.) up to 237.5; (85 to 125 lbs.) up to 206; (30 to 60 lbs.) up to 200<br />Sheep &ndash; Up to 127.5<br />Goats &ndash; Large, by head, 100 to 155; medium, by head, 50 to 90; small, by head, 10 to 40; kid, by head, 5 to 20<br />Hay &mdash; first cutting grass $2.60 to $2.75/bale; second crop $3.50 to $3.75/bale<br /><br /><strong>Friend&rsquo;s Stockyard Inc.</strong><br /><strong>Accident, Md.</strong><br /><strong>March 5</strong><br />Stock steers and bulls &ndash; (200 to 500 lbs.) 100 to 171<br />Stock steers and bulls &ndash; (500 to 850 lbs.) 75 to 140<br />Stock heifers &ndash; 70 to 132<br />Slaughter steers &ndash; Good to choice, 115 to 134.1; medium to good, 95 to 114; heavy choice -&nbsp; over 1,450 lbs., 115 to 125<br />Holstein steers &ndash; Good to choice, up to 103; light, up to 90<br />Slaughter heifers &ndash; Good to choice, 110 to 132; medium to good, 85 to 109<br />Bulls &ndash; Heavy - 71 to 98; light - 65 to 90<br />Cows &ndash; Utility - 75 to 91.25; commercial to good - 60 to 86; culls - 50 and down<br />Veals &ndash; Good to choice - 75 to 125; medium to good - 45 to 74; bob calves - 30 and down<br />Holstein bull calves &ndash; Return to farm (85 to 120 lbs.) - up to 184.5<br />Holstein heifer calves &ndash; Return to farm (85 to 120 lbs.) - up to 160<br />Beef cross calves &ndash; Return to farm - up to 305<br />Hogs &ndash; none available<br />Sows &ndash; none available<br />Lambs &ndash; none available<br />Goats &ndash; ( by head) none available<br />Beef hides &mdash; Large up to 25<br />Livestock prices are all given per hundred weight.<br /><br /> 2012-03-06 12:03:55.0 2012-09-04 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-market-roundup-3612-20120306,0,6886972.story da-ot-hairstyling-staff-attends-class-in-new-york-20120223 Hairstyling staff attends class February 23, 2012 Angelitto Passaniti and his staff, Lorry Bittner, Rochelle Keefer and Brenda Snyder, of Angelitto's Hair Co., recently attended a class demonstrating the latest European haircutting and styling techniques. Angelitto Passaniti and his staff, Lorry Bittner, Rochelle Keefer and Brenda Snyder, of Angelitto's Hair Co., recently attended a class demonstrating the latest European haircutting and styling techniques. <br /><br />The forum was a joint effort by three Intercoiffure beauty salons and was held in York. Julien Bonnin, stylist at Frederic Fekkai Salon in New York City, was the educator/presenter. 2012-02-23 16:50:44.0 2012-08-23 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-hairstyling-staff-attends-class-in-new-york-20120223,0,5911551.story da-ot-somerset-woman-named-office-manager-20120217 Somerset woman named office manager February 17, 2012 Lorrie Wahl has been named office manager at First Commonwealth Bank's Somerset Branch, 2040 N. Center Ave. Lorrie Wahl has been named office manager at First Commonwealth Bank's Somerset Branch, 2040 N. Center Ave.<br /><br />Wahl has 22 years of experience in the financial services industry. Her previous banking experience includes PNC Bank, where she held the position of assistant branch manager.<br /><br />In her role as office manager, Wahl will lead the branch's efforts to build new client relationships and expand current relationships to support customer needs in banking, wealth, insurance and trust services.<br /><br />Wahl attended the Central Atlantic Advanced School of Banking at Bucknell University in Lewisburg.&nbsp; She completed the three-year course of study in 2001.<br /><br />Wahl is a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ and its chancel choir. She is also active in the community as a member of the Somerset County Chamber of Commerce and is a local ambassador for the chamber. Her volunteer work includes The Salvation Army and Laurel Arts. <br /><br />A 35-year resident of Somerset, Wahl enjoys spending time with her three children: Callie, 19; Balee, 17; and Rosie, 7.<br /><br />First Commonwealth Financial Corp. is a $5.8 billion financial holding company headquartered in Indiana, Pa. It operates 112 retail branch offices in 15 counties in western and central Pennsylvania through First Commonwealth Bank. 2012-02-17 17:09:05.0 2012-08-17 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-woman-named-office-manager-20120217,0,5009286.story da-ot-nominees-sought-for-small-business-awards-20120213 Nominees sought for small business awards February 13, 2012 The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center in Loretto is seeking nominations for its annual small business awards. The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center in Loretto is seeking nominations for its annual small business awards.<br /><br />Nominations are being accepted from Blair, Bedford, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties until March 23 for Small Business Person(s) of the Year, Exporter of the Year, Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Financial Services Advocate of the Year and Women in Business Advocate of the Year.<br /><br />Winners and nominees will be recognized at a luncheon at noon June 13 in the JFK Center on the Saint Francis University campus. For more information or to receive a nomination packet, contact the center at 814-472-3200, e-mail sbdc@francis.edu, or visit www.francis.edu/sbdc online. 2012-02-13 17:08:18.0 2012-08-13 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-nominees-sought-for-small-business-awards-20120213,0,1482887.story da-ot-beauty-shop-opens-in-boswell-20120127 Beauty shop opens in Boswell January 27, 2012 BOSWELL &mdash; A new beauty shop and tanning bed called Polly's Cuts-n-Stuff has opened at 316 Rear Main St. in Boswell. http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2012-01/67687868-27160822.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2012-01/67687868-27160823.jpg BOSWELL &mdash; A new beauty shop and tanning bed called Polly's Cuts-n-Stuff has opened at 316 Rear Main St. in Boswell.<br /><br />Owned and operated by Paulette Shaffer, the shop offers cuts, color and hairstyling for women, men and children by appointment or walk-ins.<br /><br />Shaffer is a graduate of the Pennsylvania Academy of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences, Johnstown. With 14 years of experience, she was previously employed at Holiday Hair and Smart Style in Somerset.<br /><br />The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday. 2012-01-27 16:34:11.0 2012-07-27 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-beauty-shop-opens-in-boswell-20120127,0,3671176.story da-ot-rmg-sports-wins-award-for-gametape-20120120 RMG Sports wins award for 'GAMETAPE' January 20, 2012 RMG Sports' high school football television program, "GAMETAPE," earned a national award for television production excellence. RMG Sports' high school football television program, "GAMETAPE," earned a national award for television production excellence.<br /><br />The program earned the Gold Trophy in the 2011 AVA Awards Competition in the Television News/Sports Program category. This is the fourth consecutive year RMG has been recognized by the AVA Awards and marks the company's 33rd award in its 11 years in business.<br /><br />The AVA Awards is an international competition that recognizes outstanding work by creative professionals involved in digital communication. The AVA Awards is administered and judged by the Association of Marketing Communications Professionals.<br /><br />"GAMETAPE" covers football in the Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference and is seen in more than 2 million homes in 11 media markets on the regional sports cable network ROOT Sports. The program will return to the network this fall.<br /><br />Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Somerset, Romesburg Media Group is a television production and distribution company. 2012-01-20 18:18:57.0 2012-07-20 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-rmg-sports-wins-award-for-gametape-20120120,0,5135865.story da-ot-our-town-to-host-sixth-annual-womens-expo-20120118 Our Town to host sixth annual Women's Expo January 19, 2012 A cooking demonstration, the always entertaining Hat Ladies and hair and makeup tips are among the highlights of Our Town's sixth-annual Women's Expo Saturday in Johnstown. Kirk Swauger http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2012-01/282953760-18110035.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2012-01/282953760-18110036.jpg A cooking demonstration, the always entertaining Hat Ladies and hair and makeup tips are among the highlights of Our Town's sixth-annual Women's Expo Saturday in Johnstown.<br /><br />The expo will take place from noon to 4 p.m. at the Frank J. Pasquerille Conference Center.<br /><br />"The Women's Expo is always a great opportunity both for the community and vendors to show off what we have in the area," Our Town general manager Craig Springer said.<br /><br />Back Door Cafe chef Tom Chulik will show how to create a meal from scratch to scrumptious on the main stage from 1 to 2 p.m. <br /><br />Chulik will be followed by The Hat Ladies from 2:15 to 3 p.m.&nbsp; Marsha P. McDowell and Pat Holifield, a.k.a. The Hat Ladies, will link the rich heritage of Johnstown to the fashion and flare of hats of historical value.<br /><br />Cuts-n-Stuff, a West End salon, will provide attendees a glimpse into the latest in trendy hairstyles and other amenities throughout the afternoon.<br /><br />About two dozen vendors will be on hand to showcase their wares and services to the expected crowd of between 300 and 400.<br /><br />"We do this to benefit the community," Springer said. "The exhibitors have a chance to do a one-on-one presentation or consultation with the attendees."<br /><br />The event is free and parking is available in the IPG Renaissance Garage beside Ideal Market, using the Vine Street entrance.<br /><br />The day will conclude with the awarding of a grand prize,&nbsp; The winner must be present to claim the prize.<br /><br />These vendors and more are expected to participate:&nbsp; Bathfitters, Bayada Nurses, Brouse Family Chiropractic, Cuts N Stuff, Epilepsy Foundation, Froehlich Chiropractic, Frontier Virtual Charter School, Geneva College, Home Nursing Agency, Laurel Highlands Veins, McKolosky Chiropractic, Med Express Urgent Care, NuHart Hair, Salon Vizions, Senioir Life, Synergy Chiropractic, Somerset OB/GYN, 31 Gifts, Vantage Physical Therapy, Wigs N More, and Zimmerman's Bernina. 2012-01-23 10:58:16.0 2012-02-17 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-our-town-to-host-sixth-annual-womens-expo-20120118,0,2469369.story da-ot-ctc-named-best-for-vets-20120111 CTC named "Best for Vets" January 11, 2012 For the second year, Concurrent Technologies Corp. has been recognized as a "Best for Vets" employer by Military Times EDGE magazine. Fifty organizations across the United States were named to the list, and CTC ranked in the Silver category. For the second year, Concurrent Technologies Corp. has been recognized as a "Best for Vets" employer by Military Times EDGE magazine. Fifty organizations across the United States were named to the list, and CTC ranked in the Silver category.<br /><br />"CTC implements policies and procedures that enable us to recruit and retain active duty and veteran military employees," Edward Sheehan Jr., CTC's president and chief executive officer, said in a news release. "Because of their experiences, veterans are often aware of technical trends and are uniquely qualified to help our clients resolve mission-critical challenges."<br /><br />To develop 2011's rankings, the magazine surveyed Fortune 1,000 companies and top government contractors and rated their vet-friendliness in three areas: recruiting, corporate culture and reserve policies. &nbsp;<br />About 16 to 20 percent of Concurrent Technologies Corp.'s 1,352 employees are veterans, according to the magazine. Many of those employees work in Johnstown. 2012-01-11 14:30:08.0 2012-07-11 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-ctc-named-best-for-vets-20120111,0,3064155.story da-ot-georgian-place-signs-new-leases-20120111 Georgian Place signs new leases January 11, 2012 Georgian Place Shopping & Office Village in Somerset has announced a variety of new deals for 2012. Georgian Place Shopping & Office Village in Somerset has announced a variety of new deals for 2012.<br /><br />"The fourth quarter had strong activity, involving over 30,000 square feet of space, which so far generated over 15,000 square feet of leases and purchase agreements," Tonya Spangler, vice president of leasing and sales for the center, said in a release. "We are pleased to be working on details to solidify the remaining deals."<br /><br />The new leases are a mix of office and specialty retail, which follows the strategic direction set forth by the owners of Georgian Place. <br /><br />Among the signed deals are: Fastenal, opening in February in Suite 403; Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Somerset Center, opening this month in Suite 315; Insurance Services, now open in Suite 405; The Sewing Box Quilt Shop, now open in Suite 311; and So Let's Sew, opening later this month in Suite 307. &nbsp;<br /><br />The Sewing Box Quilt Shop carries cotton fabric for quilting, craft and sewing projects, among other accessories and gifts. So Let's Sew will be a Viking sewing machine dealer. Both stores will conduct a variety of classes. <br /><br />Insurance Services, under the management of Mary Seng, will offer Somerset additional insurance choices. Fastenal will move its retail store in February, expanding the inventory in the process. Penn Highlands is moving from a location along West Main Street.<br /><br />"This move is precipitated by our growth in Somerset County," college President Dr. Walter Asonevich said in the release. "This move will increase our number of classrooms from two to three and will also provide improved parking for our students." <br /><br />Penn Highlands will seek additional location approval from Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which will allow the college to offer degree completion at its Somerset site. &nbsp;<br /><br />Two existing retailers expanded at the center. Pages & Light Used Books expanded to Suite 314 to provide room for greeting cards, jewelry and gifts. It's New To You quality consignments moved to Suite 415 and will expand the business to include more items, including women's clothing and accessories. <br /><br />In addition, a purchase contract was executed for the sale of an additional business condominium space to Michael Boyer, Boyer Financial Planning, for expansion and another condo purchase agreement for a 5,000-square-feet unit is planned to close in the first quarter. Also, formal letters of intent have been issued to lease an additional 10,000 square feet, according to Spangler. This new activity will bring the facility to more than 85 percent occupied. <br /> 2012-01-11 14:22:40.0 2012-07-11 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-georgian-place-signs-new-leases-20120111,0,7592926.story da-ot-somerset-interim-healthcare-honored-20111215 Somerset Interim Healthcare honored December 15, 2011 Somerset Interim Healthcare has been named to the 2011 HomeCare Elite, a compilation of the top-performing home health agencies in the United States. Somerset Interim Healthcare has been named to the 2011 HomeCare Elite, a compilation of the top-performing home health agencies in the United States. <br /><br />Now in its sixth year, the HomeCare Elite identifies the top 25 percent of agencies and further highlights the top 100 and top 500 agencies overall. Winners are ranked by an analysis of performance measures in quality outcomes, process measure implementation and financial performance. <br /><br />"The 2011 HomeCare Elite winners demonstrate a commitment to providing patients with the best possible care while managing their business efficiently and effectively," Amanda Twiss, CEO of OCS HomeCare and My InnerView, said in a release. OCS HomeCare and DecisionHealth compiled the list.<br /><br />Somerset Interim Healthcare Vice President Terry Groff credited the staff for the company's ranking. The Somerset office opened in 2004 and provides nursing, personal and aide care, and therapy services to patients in homes, hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. It also provides supplemental staffing for schools, health care facilities and other agencies.<br /><br />The data used for this analysis were compiled from publicly available information. The entire list can be viewed at www.ocshomecare.com. <br /><br /> 2011-12-15 19:25:13.0 2012-06-14 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-interim-healthcare-honored-20111215,0,6504024.story da-ot-positive-survey-for-newspapers-20111208 Positive survey for newspapers December 8, 2011 A readership and consumer shopping survey by Pulse Research indicates that newspapers are still faring well in an age of online advertising and new media. The 2011 Pulse of America survey gathered more than 5,000 samples from all 50 states. A readership and consumer shopping survey by Pulse Research indicates that newspapers are still faring well in an age of online advertising and new media. The 2011 Pulse of America survey gathered more than 5,000 samples from all 50 states.<br /><br />The survey found that local newspapers remain credible with 88 percent of respondents, stating they believe what they read in their local newspaper.<br /><br />Craigslist has not eroded the ability of local newspapers to deliver classified ad results, the survey said. Of respondents who ran a classified ad in a local newspaper, 79 percent stated they got results, with 40 percent selling what they advertised and 39 percent stating they received many calls.<br /><br />Local newspapers were the primary source of automotive purchasing information for 44 percent of respondents, compared with 22 percent who used the Internet. Nearly 60 percent of respondents said they prefer legal notices in their local newspaper, compared with 36 percent who prefer legal notices on a government website. 2011-12-08 15:19:11.0 2012-01-07 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-positive-survey-for-newspapers-20111208,0,7169938.story da-ot-rice-attends-conference-20111208 Rice attends conference December 8, 2011 Bill Rice, registered financial consultant of Laurel Highlands Financial Services in Somerset, attended a national educational conference for independent financial advisers. Bill Rice, registered financial consultant of Laurel Highlands Financial Services in Somerset, attended a national educational conference for independent financial advisers. <br /><br />More than 850 advisers gathered in Orlando, Fla., Nov. 3&ndash;6 to learn from industry experts, network with peers and examine the current market climate. The four-day event was hosted by Commonwealth Financial Network, the nation's largest privately held independent broker/dealer.<br /><br />The keynote speaker was David McCullough, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author and historian. An economic update was presented by C. Bruce Johnstone, a 45-year veteran at Fidelity Investments. The conference included educational sessions on legal issues, business management, investment strategies and technology.<br /><br />Laurel Highlands Financial Services is located at 109 W. Main St. 2011-12-08 14:58:13.0 2012-06-07 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-rice-attends-conference-20111208,0,97854.story da-ot-somerset-trust-announces-dividend-20111202 Somerset Trust announces dividend December 2, 2011 The board of directors of Somerset Trust Holding Co. has voted to authorize a special one-time dividend payable during the fourth quarter of 2011. The board of directors of Somerset Trust Holding Co. has voted to authorize a special one-time dividend payable during the fourth quarter of 2011. <br /><br />In addition to the regular fourth quarter dividend of 17 cents per share, a special one-time dividend of 5 cents will also be paid to shareholders of record as of the close of business Dec. 9 and payable on Dec. 20. Total dividends for 2011 will be 71 cents per share, an increase of 15 percent over the prior year's dividend.<br /><br />Total assets of the bank were $694 million on Sept. 30, an increase of $90 million since the end of the third quarter of 2010. Total bank deposits grew $80 million, ending the quarter at $602 million. Through the first three quarters of 2011, earnings of $5.7 million have already exceeded the yearend 2010 total.<br /><br />Somerset Trust Co. is the sole subsidiary of Somerset Trust Holding Co. and is headquartered at 151 W. Main St. in Somerset. The bank has 17 branches serving communities in Somerset County and portions of Cambria and Westmoreland counties, along with an extensive network of ATMs. 2011-12-02 17:17:00.0 2012-06-01 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-trust-announces-dividend-20111202,0,7230805.story da-ot-somerset-company-wins-award-for-tv-production-20111116 Somerset company wins award for TV production November 16, 2011 The MarCom Awards 2011 Competition awarded RMG Sports its Gold Trophy in the Sports Television Program category for its coverage of Powerboat Superleague racing at the 2011 EQT Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta. The MarCom Awards 2011 Competition awarded RMG Sports its Gold Trophy in the Sports Television Program category for its coverage of Powerboat Superleague racing at the 2011 EQT Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta.<br /><br />The hour-long program was the first high-definition program produced by RMG Sports and used nearly two dozen cameras from along the shores of the Allegheny River as well as inside and on the boats.<br /><br />This is the second consecutive year RMG Sports has earned a Gold Trophy from the MarCom Awards for its coverage of Powerboat Superleague racing. In total, RMG Sports has earned nearly two dozen awards for its sports television and video productions.<br /><br />Based in Somerset, Romesburg Media Group LLC is a television production and distribution company. Jarred Romesburg is the company's president. 2011-11-16 12:59:22.0 2011-12-15 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-company-wins-award-for-tv-production-20111116,0,4747981.story da-ot-two-home-health-care-agencies-honored-20111116 Two home health care agencies honored November 16, 2011 Two local home health care agencies have been named to the 2011 HomeCare Elite, a compilation of the top-performing home health agencies in the United States. Two local home health care agencies have been named to the 2011 HomeCare Elite, a compilation of the top-performing home health agencies in the United States. <br /><br />Conemaugh Home Health is one of 338 home health agencies out of more than 11,000 nationwide to have earned HomeCare Elite status six years in a row.<br /><br />Windber Home Health Agency has also been named to the list, which identifies the top 25 percent of agencies in quality of care, process measure implementation and financial performance.<br /><br />The analysis is provided by OCS HomeCare and DecisionHealth, publisher of the independent newsletter "Home Health Line." The data used for this analysis were compiled from publicly available information. 2011-11-16 12:50:53.0 2012-05-16 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-two-home-health-care-agencies-honored-20111116,0,3715763.story da-ot-rockwood-native-joins-virgin-galactic-20111018 Rockwood native joins Virgin Galactic October 18, 2011 Virgin Galactic has appointed former NASA executive and Rockwood native Michael P. Moses as vice president of operations.   http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-10/65494491-18111402.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-10/65494491-18111401.jpg Virgin Galactic has appointed former NASA executive and Rockwood native Michael P. Moses as vice president of operations. &nbsp;<br /><br />Virgin has named Moses to oversee the planning and execution of all operations of the company&rsquo;s commercial suborbital spaceflight program at its New Mexico site.<br /><br />Moses was the launch integration manager at NASA&rsquo;s Kennedy Space Center in Florida from 2008 until the landing of the final shuttle mission in July. He was responsible for supervising all space shuttle processing activities from landing through launch, and for reviewing major milestones, including final readiness for flight.<br /><br />Moses also served as chair of the Mission Management Team providing ultimate launch decision authority for the final 12 missions of the space shuttle program, directly overseeing the safe and successful flights of 75 astronauts.<br /><br />Moses will develop and lead the team responsible for Virgin Galactic spaceship operations and logistics, flight crew operations, customer training and spaceport ground operations.<br /><br />Prior to his most recent NASA role, Moses served as a flight director at the NASA Johnson Space Center where he led teams of flight controllers in the planning, training and execution of space shuttle missions. Moses has a bachelor&rsquo;s degree in physics from Purdue University, a master&rsquo;s degree in space sciences from Florida Institute of Technology and a master&rsquo;s degree in aerospace engineering from Purdue University. He is a two-time recipient of the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal.<br /><br />Virgin Galactic, owned by Sir Richard Branson&rsquo;s Virgin Group and Aabar Investments PJS, is planning to be the world&rsquo;s first commercial spaceline. <br /> 2011-10-18 11:14:01.0 2012-04-17 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-rockwood-native-joins-virgin-galactic-20111018,0,5525516.story da-ot-somerset-trust-co-adds-employee-in-johnstown-20111013 Somerset Trust Co. adds employee in Johnstown October 13, 2011 Jennifer Mowery of Johnstown has joined Somerset Trust Co. as a commercial loan officer. Jennifer Mowery of Johnstown has joined Somerset Trust Co. as a commercial loan officer.<br /><br />Mowery has 10 years&rsquo; experience in commercial and consumer lending and credit analysis. She previously held lending positions with two local financial institutions where she was responsible for business development, portfolio management and financial analysis.<br /><br />A graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Mowery has a bachelor&rsquo;s degree in finance and economics.<br /><br />Mowery is a member of the board of directors of the Johnstown YMCA. She serves as a volunteer for the Pink Ribbon Ball Committee and has been active for eight years with the popular event benefiting breast cancer research. She is also a member of the Young Professionals association and volunteers for local charity events.<br /><br />Mowery will work from the bank&rsquo;s Market Street branch in downtown Johnstown.<br /><br />Somerset Trust Co. has 17 branches in the region, an extensive ATM network and a remote banking service. The bank&rsquo;s assets as of Sept. 30 were $694 million. 2011-10-13 16:16:18.0 2012-04-12 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-trust-co-adds-employee-in-johnstown-20111013,0,7054421.story da-ot-meyersdale-native-joins-vcs-group-20111013 Meyersdale native joins VCS Group October 13, 2011 The VCS Group in Somerset has announced the addition of Sara Hoover as an account executive. http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-10/229740940-13155627.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-10/229740940-13155627.jpg The VCS Group in Somerset has announced the addition of Sara Hoover as an account executive.<br /><br />In this role, she will specialize in property and casualty insurance. She will also be working in the individual health insurance area.<br /><br />Hoover is a native of Meyersdale. &nbsp;<br /><br />&ldquo;It&rsquo;s great to be back in the area,&rdquo; she said in a press release.&nbsp; &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve been trying to get back this way for a while. I&rsquo;m looking forward to getting involved in the community.&rdquo;<br /><br />Hoover was previously employed by an independent insurance agency in Baltimore. She holds a producer license for property and casualty insurance in both Pennsylvania and Maryland, as well as a bachelor of science degree from Clarion University.<br /><br /> 2011-10-13 15:56:31.0 2012-04-12 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-meyersdale-native-joins-vcs-group-20111013,0,1017492.story da-ot-aarons-rentacenter-make-deal-in-somerset-20111007 Aaron's, Rent-A-Center make deal in Somerset October 7, 2011 Aaron&rsquo;s in Somerset closed more than a month ago after four years at its North Center Avenue location. By the DAILY AMERICAN Aaron&rsquo;s in Somerset closed more than a month ago after four years at its North Center Avenue location. <br /><br />The store&rsquo;s accounts were sold to Rent-A-Center in Somerset. Aaron&rsquo;s seven employees transferred to Rent-A-Center as well, according to Rent-A-Center officials.<br /><br />About 40 Aaron&rsquo;s retail stores have closed across the country this year, said Bill Mowry, general manager of Aaron&rsquo;s in Richland Township.<br /><br />&ldquo;(Aaron&rsquo;s) is the largest sales and leasing company in the U.S.,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I was shocked that (the Somerset store) was sold. We&rsquo;re not in danger, however, of closing at all.&rdquo;<br /><br />Mowry said Aaron&rsquo;s in Richland Township has been open for eight years. He said the store will continue to offer its services to customers from Somerset County.<br /><br /> 2011-10-07 14:53:55.0 2012-04-06 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-aarons-rentacenter-make-deal-in-somerset-20111007,0,1527719.story da-ot-ctc-awarded-patent-20111005 CTC awarded patent October 5, 2011 Concurrent Technologies Corp., Johnstown, has been awarded a patent for the &ldquo;Device for Retaining Splitting Forces of a Cable Stop.&rdquo; Concurrent Technologies Corp., Johnstown, has been awarded a patent for the &ldquo;Device for Retaining Splitting Forces of a Cable Stop.&rdquo;<br /><br />This device, also known as a cable ferrule, is currently in use on the Navy&rsquo;s MH-60S mine hunting helicopter. The device provides an improved structural interface between the electro-optic tow cable and CTC&rsquo;s Carriage Stream Tow and Recovery System, according to the corporation.<br /><br />Park O. Cover Jr., Thomas C. Kiesling, John Ryan and Ed Peretin invented the cable ferrule. 2011-10-05 16:33:02.0 2012-04-04 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-ctc-awarded-patent-20111005,0,7061871.story da-ot-free-business-seminars-offered-20111005 Free business seminars offered October 5, 2011 The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center has scheduled pre-business planning seminars for October. The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center has scheduled pre-business planning seminars for October. <br /><br />The free seminars are for anyone interested in opening and operating their own business.<br /><br />Seminars will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesday at F&M Trust, 100 Lincoln Way, McConnellsburg, and from 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 27 at the center, 117 Evergreen Drive, Loretto.<br /><br />Topics to be discussed are feasibility issues, marketing, record-keeping, business plans, legal issues, regulations/taxes and financing.<br /><br />Preregistration is required 48 hours in advance. For more information call the center at 814-472-3200.<br /><br /> 2011-10-05 16:09:28.0 2011-11-04 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-free-business-seminars-offered-20111005,0,6681230.story da-ot-new-cafe-opens-in-confluence-20110927 New cafe opens in Confluence September 27, 2011 Two entrepreneurs have opened a second business in Confluence. By KATIE WALKER http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-09/402870520-27162246.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-09/402870520-27162245.jpg Two entrepreneurs have opened a second business in Confluence.<br /><br />Jeff and Jessica Culp are the owners of Sweeties Bakery & Cafe, an eatery featuring old-fashioned baked goods, coffee, ice cream and catering services. The cafe officially opened at 7 a.m. Sunday.<br /><br />Jeff, who works in commercial construction, used his skills to renovate the building into a cafe with an old-fashioned atmosphere.<br /><br />The building where Sweeties is located had been vacant for two years before the Culps bought it and turned it into a cafe.<br /><br />&ldquo;People can come in and get coffee, a piece of pie, fresh doughnuts &mdash; everything you could think of as far as baked goods go,&rdquo; he said. <br /><br />The two plan to offer a lunch menu.<br /><br />Sweeties currently employs seven people but may expand to include more people in the future.<br /><br />The cafe is open from 5 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.<br /><br />&ldquo;Sundays we will be open until either 1 p.m. or 2 p.m.,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We haven&rsquo;t decided yet.&rdquo;<br /><br />The Culps also own Riverside Pizza, which adjoins the new cafe.<br /><br />Jessica said she thinks the new business is off to a good start.<br /><br />&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve been pretty busy since we opened yesterday (Sunday),&rdquo; she said.<br /><br />Sweeties is located at 841 Oden St. 2011-09-29 14:50:44.0 2012-03-26 22:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-new-cafe-opens-in-confluence-20110927,0,6965200.story da-ot-conemaugh-receives-favorable-financial-rating-20110926 Conemaugh receives favorable financial rating September 26, 2011 Standard & Poor&rsquo;s has revised its rating outlook to positive from stable and affirmed its &ldquo;BBB&rdquo; long-term rating for bonds issued for the Conemaugh Health System. Standard & Poor&rsquo;s has revised its rating outlook to positive from stable and affirmed its &ldquo;BBB&rdquo; long-term rating for bonds issued for the Conemaugh Health System.<br /><br />In a recent report, Standards & Poor&rsquo;s says the outlook revision reflects Conemaugh&rsquo;s increasing operating profitability and growth in key balance sheet metrics.<br /><br />&ldquo;We are pleased with the rating revision,&rdquo; Edward DePasquale, chief financial officer of the Conemaugh Health System, said in a press release. &ldquo;Factors that support the rating include Conemaugh&rsquo;s increasing market share in fiscal 2010, as well as substantial growth in operating profitability.&rdquo;<br /><br />The Conemaugh Health System has seen an increase in admissions in fiscal 2010, the result of additional physician recruitment in clinical subspecialties and primary care and expansion of clinical outreach programs.<br /><br />The BBB rating denotes an adequate capacity to meet financial commitments. 2011-09-26 14:16:31.0 2012-03-26 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-conemaugh-receives-favorable-financial-rating-20110926,0,6619771.story da-ot-somerset-business-offering-rentals-20110913 Somerset business offering rentals September 13, 2011 Craig Rosman, owner of Route 31 Bike, Board & Ski, 3731 Glades Pike, Somerset, has added U-Haul truck and trailer rentals to the bike, board and ski rentals business. Craig Rosman, owner of Route 31 Bike, Board & Ski, 3731 Glades Pike, Somerset, has added U-Haul truck and trailer rentals to the bike, board and ski rentals business.<br /><br />The business can now offer customers a variety of moving equipment and supplies designed specifically for moving household furnishings, including moving vans, open trailers, closed trailers, furniture pads, appliance dollies, furniture dollies, tow dollies and auto transports. Route 31 Bike, Board & Ski also will offer sales items to protect customers&rsquo; belongings and make moving easier, such as heavy-duty boxes.<br /><br /> 2011-09-13 16:10:10.0 2012-03-13 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-business-offering-rentals-20110913,0,7080095.story da-ot-free-business-seminars-offered-20110902 Free business seminars offered September 2, 2011 The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center has scheduled pre-business planning seminars for September. The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center has scheduled pre-business planning seminars for September. <br /><br />The free seminars are for people who are interested in opening and operating their own business. <br /><br />Seminars will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Allegany College of Maryland Somerset County Campus, 6022 Glades Pike, Somerset, and from 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 20 at ABCD Corp., Devorris Center for Business Development, 3900 Industrial Park Drive, Altoona.<br /><br />Topics to be discussed are feasibility issues, marketing, record-keeping, business plans, legal issues, regulations/taxes and financing.<br /><br />Preregistration is required 48 hours in advance. For more information contact the center 814-472-3200 or by email at sbdc@francis.edu. 2011-09-02 16:06:45.0 2011-10-01 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-free-business-seminars-offered-20110902,0,7991955.story da-ot-investment-executive-honored-nationally-20110817 Investment executive honored nationally August 17, 2011 Somerset Trust Co. recognized investment executive John Centi for outstanding performance.   http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-08/274686300-17161653.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-08/274686300-17161652.jpg Somerset Trust Co. recognized investment executive John Centi for outstanding performance. &nbsp;<br /><br />In April and June he was named No. 1 in Pennsylvania for sales recognition by Infinex Investments, as well as ranking nationally in the top 15 percent and top 6 percent, respectively.<br /><br />Centi represents Infinex Financial Group at STC Investment Services. In 2008 he earned the professional designation of life underwriter training council fellow. He has been active in the profession for 16 years.<br /><br />Centi is an active member of the Somerset Rotary Club, serving as a past president, executive board member and Paul Harris fellow. He is also a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Somerset, the Somerset County Conservancy, Somerset Sportsmen&rsquo;s Rifle and Pistol Association, Ducks Unlimited, National Skeet Shooting Association and the National Rifle Association.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br /><br />Centi works out of the bank&rsquo;s main branch at 151 W. Main St. 2011-08-17 16:16:59.0 2012-02-15 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-investment-executive-honored-nationally-20110817,0,828797.story da-ot-new-equipment-business-comes-to-meyersdale-20110812 New equipment business comes to Meyersdale August 12, 2011 A Pittsburgh-based municipal and environmental equipment company has opened a branch office in Meyersdale. By KATIE WALKER http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-08/63942844-12173842.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-08/63942844-12173841.jpg A Pittsburgh-based municipal and environmental equipment company has opened a branch office in Meyersdale.<br /><br />A&H Equipment, a municipal equipment supplier with offices in Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, opened an office July 25 at 187 Maple Valley Road in Meyersdale.<br /><br />The company will specialize in building truck chassis and doing fabrication and body work for municipal supply trucks.<br /><br />Carl Housel and Butch Dunmeyer will head the Meyersdale branch.<br /><br />Dunmeyer said the process of setting up the new office is still in the works.<br /><br />&ldquo;We had to get electricity in there and get the shop set up,&rdquo; he said.<br /><br />Both employees have plenty of experience in fabrication and body work. Housel has worked at Thiele Manufacturing and J&J Truck Bodies & Trailers, while Dunmeyer&rsquo;s previous work experience includes ITI, Benson and J&J.<br /><br />&ldquo;Altogether we have over 40 years&rsquo; experience,&rdquo; Dunmeyer said.<br /><br />Equipment company B&T Fabrication has its office on the first floor of the building, while A&H is on the lower level.<br /><br />&ldquo;B&T is helping supply us with parts, and we are trying to buy off local businesses when needed,&rdquo; Dunmeyer said.<br /><br />Though the business currently includes just Housel and Dunmeyer, he said more employees may be added in the future.<br /><br />Dunmeyer said he thinks the business will support economic growth in Meyersdale.<br /><br />&ldquo;It will bring more customers in as far as municipal supplies go,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We are also trying to buy off local merchants whenever possible.&rdquo; 2011-08-12 17:38:41.0 2012-02-10 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-new-equipment-business-comes-to-meyersdale-20110812,0,1174733.story da-ot-nurse-practitioner-joins-office-20110809 Nurse practitioner joins office August 9, 2011 The Western Maryland Health System has welcomed Karen Menser of Somerset to the obstetrics and gynecology office. http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-08/63859695-09160228.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-08/63859695-09160227.jpg The Western Maryland Health System has welcomed Karen Menser of Somerset to the obstetrics and gynecology office. <br /><br />She joins Dr. Dale Wolford and Dr. Asit Bhatt in the practice, which is located in the Western Maryland Medical Arts Center along Willowbrook Road in Cumberland, Md.<br /><br />Menser is a certified registered nurse practitioner. She is a graduate of the Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Carlow University in Pittsburgh, where she also received her nursing degree. She began her nursing studies at Allegany College of Maryland&rsquo;s Somerset campus and also earned a BSG in gerontology from California University of Pennsylvania.<br /><br />Her clinical experience includes training rotations at the Women&rsquo;s Health Center at Conemaugh Health System, Somerset Pediatrics, Lifestages Gynecology and Highlands Family Medicine at Somerset Hospital.&nbsp; A native of Somerset, she is also a licensed practical nursing instructor at the Somerset County Technology Center. 2011-08-09 16:02:26.0 2012-02-07 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-nurse-practitioner-joins-office-20110809,0,6293768.story da-ot-windber-lab-receives-accreditation-20110803 Windber lab receives accreditation August 3, 2011 The Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists has awarded accreditation to the Windber Medical Center main laboratory based on the results of a recent on-site inspection. The Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists has awarded accreditation to the Windber Medical Center main laboratory based on the results of a recent on-site inspection.<br /><br />Windber Medical Center is one of more than 7,000 CAP-accredited laboratories worldwide.<br /><br />During the accreditation process, inspectors examine the laboratory&rsquo;s records and quality control of procedures for the preceding two years. Inspectors also examine laboratory staff qualifications, as well as the laboratory&rsquo;s equipment, facilities, safety program and record. 2011-08-03 17:49:55.0 2012-02-01 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-windber-lab-receives-accreditation-20110803,0,6320157.story da-ot-helman-joins-jennerstown-practice-20110725 Helman joins Jennerstown practice July 25, 2011 Dr. Tiffany Helman, a family medicine physician, is joining the practice of Dr. Alexander Paterson in Jennerstown as part of the Conemaugh Physician Group. http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-07/63505428-25175248.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-07/63505428-25175248.jpg Dr. Tiffany Helman, a family medicine physician, is joining the practice of Dr. Alexander Paterson in Jennerstown as part of the Conemaugh Physician Group.<br /><br />Helman is a graduate of the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Va., and Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine in Richmond, Va., where she received a certificate in physiology and her doctor of medicine. She completed her residency in Excela Health&rsquo;s Latrobe Family Medicine Residency Program.<br /><br />Helman chose to specialize in family medicine because she likes the variety and the ability to work with patients of all ages. <br /><br />&ldquo;I like being able to provide general, overall care to everyone from babies to the elderly,&rdquo; she said in a press release. &ldquo;You get to see a lot of different issues and perform a variety of procedures. I particularly love the patient education aspect of family practice, the ability to help people understand medical issues and improve their health and wellness.&rdquo; <br /><br />Helman met her husband at the University of Virginia. He is a Greensburg native and that is where the couple and their children will reside. <br /> 2011-07-25 17:52:47.0 2012-01-23 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-helman-joins-jennerstown-practice-20110725,0,3175625.story da-ot-contractor-wins-award-20110719 Contractor wins award July 19, 2011 Global/SFC Valve Corp., Somerset, was honored by DLA Land and Maritime as one of the government&rsquo;s best suppliers at an awards ceremony held during the 2011 Industry Conference and Exhibition June 27-30 in Columbus, Ohio. Global/SFC Valve Corp., Somerset, was honored by DLA Land and Maritime as one of the government&rsquo;s best suppliers at an awards ceremony held during the 2011 Industry Conference and Exhibition June 27-30 in Columbus, Ohio. <br /><br />Bob Kirst, president, accepted the award from the staff of Army Brig. Gen. Darrell Williams, the DLA Land and Maritime commanding general. <br /><br />This recognition means the firm has supplied a product the government can be confident in using. Firms that qualify as Automated Best Value System award winners have met stringent quality and delivery requirements established by the Defense Logistics Agency.<br /><br />Global/SFC Valve Corp. supplies Navy nuclear propulsion valves and underway replenishment equipment for the Department of Defense and other agencies. To be eligible, vendors must have shipped 50 or more contract line items during a 12-month period. <br /><br /> 2011-07-19 16:52:33.0 2011-08-18 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-contractor-wins-award-20110719,0,3578180.story da-ot-ctc-named-top-contractor-20110719 CTC named top contractor July 19, 2011 Concurrent Technologies Corp. has been recognized for the fourth time by Washington Technology magazine as a Top 100 government contractor.   Concurrent Technologies Corp. has been recognized for the fourth time by Washington Technology magazine as a Top 100 government contractor. &nbsp;<br /><br />The Johnstown company is ranked No. 83 on the 2011 list, with $211 million in contracts. It was ranked No. 97 in 2010. Lockheed Martin Corp. was No. 1 with $10.8 billion in contracts.<br /><br />The list is based on an analysis of data from the Federal Procurement Data System&ndash;Next Generation. The magazine analyzed the data according to a set of 702 product service codes that government agencies assign their expenditures of more than $3,000.<br /><br />Companies were evaluated on how they solve customers&rsquo; problems, support critical missions, decrease costs, and provide technology-rich products and services to the federal government. 2011-07-19 16:51:26.0 2011-08-18 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-ctc-named-top-contractor-20110719,0,7118259.story da-ot-somerset-trust-honored-20110719 Somerset Trust honored July 19, 2011 In the June issue of U.S. Banker, Somerset Trust Co. was recognized as one of the Top 200 Community Banks in the country for the second year in a row. In the June issue of U.S. Banker, Somerset Trust Co. was recognized as one of the Top 200 Community Banks in the country for the second year in a row.<br /><br />Looking at approximately 5,000 banks nationwide, SNL Financial compiled data for the publication that looked at the top performing financial institutions. Somerset Trust Co. is ranked No. 63 on the list.<br /><br />The rankings are based on a three-year average of return on equity, which is a bank&rsquo;s net income divided by shareholder equity, also known as equity capital or retained earnings. Somerset Trust Co. posted 11.13 percent. Last year the bank was ranked 105th and the three-year return on equity was 10.48 percent. <br /><br />&ldquo;It means our bank is safe and solvent and doing well in an environment that is economically challenging for all businesses,&rdquo; said Roberta Lohr, the bank&rsquo;s vice president of marketing. &ldquo;This is a sign of our bank&rsquo;s health, and it is good.&rdquo;<br /><br />As of March 31 the bank&rsquo;s total assets were $645,605,551 compared to $567,125,675 in 2010. Deposits reached $572,557,069 compared to the prior year&rsquo;s $497,056,737.<br /><br />In July U.S. Banker published its first issue rebranded and redesigned as American Banker Magazine. 2011-07-19 16:50:26.0 2011-08-18 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-trust-honored-20110719,0,3976032.story da-ot-somerset-contractor-wins-award-20110713 Somerset contractor wins award July 13, 2011 Global/SFC Valve Corp., Somerset, was honored by DLA Land and Maritime as one of the government&rsquo;s best suppliers at an awards ceremony held during the 2011 Industry Conference and Exhibition June 27-30 in Columbus, Ohio. Global/SFC Valve Corp., Somerset, was honored by DLA Land and Maritime as one of the government&rsquo;s best suppliers at an awards ceremony held during the 2011 Industry Conference and Exhibition June 27-30 in Columbus, Ohio. <br /><br />Bob Kirst, president, accepted the award from the staff of Army Brig. Gen. Darrell Williams, the DLA Land and Maritime commanding general. <br /><br />This recognition means the firm has supplied a product the government can be confident in using. Firms that qualify as Automated Best Value System award winners have met stringent quality and delivery requirements established by the Defense Logistics Agency.<br /><br />Global/SFC Valve Corp. supplies Navy nuclear propulsion valves and underway replenishment equipment for the Department of Defense and other agencies. To be eligible, vendors must have shipped 50 or more contract line items during a 12-month period. <br /> 2011-07-13 15:35:59.0 2012-01-11 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-contractor-wins-award-20110713,0,3911495.story da-ot-rmg-sports-to-televise-powerboat-racing-20110708 RMG Sports to televise powerboat racing July 8, 2011 RMG Sports announced that Powerboat Superleague&rsquo;s running of the 2011 Formula 2 and Formula 3 North American Championships at the 2011 EQT Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta will be televised. RMG Sports announced that Powerboat Superleague&rsquo;s running of the 2011 Formula 2 and Formula 3 North American Championships at the 2011 EQT Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta will be televised.<br /><br />The hour-long, high definition program will be seen in August on ROOT Sports and will be delivered to more than 2.7 million households in 11 media markets throughout the region.<br /><br />This is the fourth season RMG has teamed up with Powerboat Superleague, the Regatta and ROOT Sports to televise powerboat racing in Pittsburgh. RMG Sports will use seven land-based cameras and more than a dozen on-board cameras to produce the high definition program.<br /><br />Based in Somerset, Romesburg Media Group LLC is an award-winning television production and distribution company.<br /><br /> 2011-07-08 17:59:10.0 2011-08-07 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-rmg-sports-to-televise-powerboat-racing-20110708,0,7000624.story da-ot-windber-medical-center-honored-for-patient-experience-20110630 Windber Medical Center honored for patient experience June 30, 2011 Windber Medical Center was one of only eight hospitals in Pennsylvania to receive the HealthGrades Outstanding Patient Experience Award for 2011. By SANDY WOJCIK http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-06/62913520-30152507.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-06/62913520-30152507.jpg Windber Medical Center was one of only eight hospitals in Pennsylvania to receive the HealthGrades Outstanding Patient Experience Award for 2011.<br /><br />The award places Windber Medical Center within the top 10 percent of hospitals nationwide for exemplary service to patients.<br /><br />&ldquo;We are being recognized by our patients for excellence and care,&rdquo; hospital President Barbara Cliff said. &ldquo;The award is given through the thoughts and eyes of the patients we serve. The award is not given from our perspective, but from our patients&rsquo; perspective, which means more to us because it validates our commitment to our patients.&rdquo;<br /><br />Windber Medical Center is the only hospital in western Pennsylvania to receive the award for 2011. Cliff addressed members of the hospital staff about the award Thursday.<br /><br />&ldquo;Exemplary care is a hallmark within our Planetree patient-centered care hospital,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;I am very proud of the staff and physicians at Windber Medical Center for making this affirmation of excellence in patient-care possible.&rdquo;<br /><br />Planetree is a patient-centered, holistic approach to health care that promotes mental, emotional, spiritual, social and physical healing. Windber Medical Center is the only Planetree-designated facility in Pennsylvania.<br /><br />David Bromall, the HealthGrades representative who presented the award, said the hospital was rated in a number of different areas, from how quiet it is at night to its ability to make discharge instructions understandable.<br /><br />Windber Medical Center&rsquo;s scores were consistently higher than other hospitals in its geographic region, higher than the Pennsylvania average and higher than the national average, according to HealthGrades, an independent health care ratings organization.<br /><br />&ldquo;I am very proud of the hospital and the staff for the care that is delivered to our patients,&rdquo; said John (Ted) Hollern, hospital board chairman, who was at the presentation along with Dr. Gongliang Shue, president of the medical staff. &ldquo;The . . . survey process allows us another opportunity to tell everyone what makes us special and unique and how much our patients mean to us and our excellent ability to care for them.&rdquo;<br /><br />John Lushko, representing state Rep. Frank Burns, D-East Taylor Township, was also at the presentation.&nbsp; He read a citation commending Windber Medical Center for its excellence in health care. 2011-06-30 15:25:44.0 2011-12-29 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-windber-medical-center-honored-for-patient-experience-20110630,0,6289371.story da-ot-shaw-returns-to-bishop-mccort-20110629 Shaw returns to Bishop McCort June 29, 2011 Renee M. Shaw has been named executive director of development at Bishop McCort Catholic High School. http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-06/62882984-29160409.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-06/62882984-29160408.jpg Renee M. Shaw has been named executive director of development at Bishop McCort Catholic High School. <br /><br />Shaw will identify, develop and cultivate relationships with individual and corporate donors to support the school&rsquo;s annual, capital and endowment campaigns.<br /><br />Shaw has coordinated and designed multilingual communications programs for the Chinese government, produced television commercials for the Japanese, and taught courses focused on marketing, advertising, public speaking, public/media relations and communications theory to Europeans in Hungary, the Czech Republic and Croatia.<br /><br />Born in Michigan, she has a bachelor&rsquo;s degree in communications from the University of Pittsburgh and a master&rsquo;s degree in education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.<br /><br />Shaw is the recipient of the 1995 Pennsylvania Meritorious Service Medal presented by former Gov. Tom Ridge. The medal is awarded to those who exhibit exceptionally noteworthy service to the community, while setting a standard for professional communicators.<br /><br />Shaw is a graduate of Bishop McCort Catholic High School. 2011-06-29 16:07:28.0 2011-12-28 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-shaw-returns-to-bishop-mccort-20110629,0,3460784.story da-ot-maple-syrup-production-up-in-2011-20110623 Maple syrup production up in 2011 June 23, 2011 Pennsylvania produced an estimated 128,000 gallons of maple syrup in 2011, up 137 percent from last year&rsquo;s production of 54,000 gallons, according to the state Department of Agriculture. Pennsylvania produced an estimated 128,000 gallons of maple syrup in 2011, up 137 percent from last year&rsquo;s production of 54,000 gallons, according to the state Department of Agriculture.<br /><br />The number of taps in Pennsylvania totaled 503,000 in 2011, compared with 465,000 taps the year before. Producers averaged 0.254 gallons per tap, up from 0.116 gallons in 2010.<br /><br />The 2011 season lasted an average of 32 days, compared with 23 days in 2010. 2011-06-23 13:54:35.0 2011-12-22 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-maple-syrup-production-up-in-2011-20110623,0,2770659.story da-ot-rockwood-native-to-direct-us-steel-operations-in-serbia-20110621 Rockwood native to direct U.S. Steel operations in Serbia June 21, 2011 PITTSBURGH -- United States Steel Corp. announced that Michael S. Rhoads has been appointed vice president and general director of U.S. Steel Serbia effective July 1. PITTSBURGH -- United States Steel Corp. announced that Michael S. Rhoads has been appointed vice president and general director of U.S. Steel Serbia effective July 1.<br /><br />Rhoads, who currently serves as executive director &mdash; operations in Serbia, will succeed Matthew B. Perkins, who will be returning to the United States to serve as general manager of Gary Works in Gary, Ind.<br /><br />In his new role, Rhoads will be responsible for overseeing all activities at U.S. Steel&rsquo;s operations in the Republic of Serbia, which include integrated steelmaking facilities in Smederevo, a tin products finishing operation in Sabac and limestone processing facilities in Kucevo.<br /><br />Rhoads, 37, began his career at U.S. Steel in 1994 as a student co-op at Mon Valley Works&rsquo; Clairton Plant, the company&rsquo;s coke making facility near Pittsburgh. Upon completion of his undergraduate degree, he was hired as a staff associate at Clairton and progressed through a series of increasingly responsible positions at the facility. &nbsp;<br /><br />A native of Rockwood, he graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1995 with a bachelor&rsquo;s degree in chemical engineering. In 2002 he obtained his master's degree in business administration from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. He and his wife, Heather, and their children will remain in the Republic of Serbia. 2011-06-21 17:00:26.0 2011-12-20 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-rockwood-native-to-direct-us-steel-operations-in-serbia-20110621,0,5567189.story da-ot-berlin-dairy-farmer-visits-capitol-hill-20110616 Berlin dairy farmer visits Capitol Hill June 16, 2011 Tom Croner, a dairy farmer from Berlin, was among more than 65 Dairy Farmers of America board members and young cooperators who visited Capitol Hill in late May to discuss issues affecting the dairy industry. Tom Croner, a dairy farmer from Berlin, was among more than 65 Dairy Farmers of America board members and young cooperators who visited Capitol Hill in late May to discuss issues affecting the dairy industry. <br /><br />Members and staff conducted more than 175 visits with legislators. Croner met with the staffs of Sens. Bob Casey and Pat Toomey and Rep. Bill Shuster.<br /><br />&nbsp;A key piece of discussion during legislative visits this year was the need for dairy policy reform to help minimize volatility in the industry. Members encouraged Congress to pass dairy policy reform in 2011, ahead of the next Farm Bill, and voiced support for Foundation for the Future, a package of policy proposals that has been developed by National Milk Producers Federation and its farmer cooperative members, as well as other dairy groups.<br /><br />Croner farms 700 acres and milks 180 cows with his son, T. Richard. He has been in the dairy business and a member of a cooperative since 1964. Croner is secretary/treasurer of DFA&rsquo;s Board of Directors and chairman for the Mideast Area Council. 2011-06-16 16:56:19.0 2011-12-15 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-berlin-dairy-farmer-visits-capitol-hill-20110616,0,2538400.story da-ot-free-shred-event-in-johnstown-20110610 Free shred event in Johnstown June 10, 2011 Carpenter Financial Services and Business Records Management will host a free Community Shred Event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 18. Carpenter Financial Services and Business Records Management will host a free Community Shred Event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 18.<br /><br />People can bring up to two boxes or bags filled with their sensitive materials to Business Records Management along Eisenhower Boulevard in Johnstown for free shredding. The event will also feature a live-action broadcast by Cool 101.7.<br /><br />Shredding is cited by the Federal Trade Commission as the best way to deter identity thieves.<br /><br />&ldquo;The destruction of your most private financial information that includes account numbers and Social Security numbers is a critical part of protecting your financial security,&rdquo; Samuel G. Carpenter, of Carpenter Financial Services, said in a written release.<br /><br />All paper shredded at Business Records Management is recycled. 2011-06-10 16:15:37.0 2011-07-09 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-free-shred-event-in-johnstown-20110610,0,2537520.story da-ot-somerset-sears-has-new-owner-20110608 Somerset Sears has new owner June 8, 2011 D.J. Scheffer is the new owner of Sears at 1534 N. Center Ave., Somerset. http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-06/62225378-08153431.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-06/62225378-08153430.jpg D.J. Scheffer is the new owner of Sears at 1534 N. Center Ave., Somerset.<br /><br />Scheffer was manager of the Sears Hometown Store in Bradford for eight years prior to coming to Somerset. Prior to that, he worked as a deliveryman for the company.<br /><br />&ldquo;There isn&rsquo;t a job here that I haven&rsquo;t done,&rdquo; he said.<br /><br />The Sears Hometown Store offers a selection of appliance brands such as Kenmore, Maytag, KitchenAid, Whirlpool, Bosch, Frigidaire and GE, plus an assortment of lawn and garden equipment, Craftsman tools, home electronics, fitness equipment and mattresses. The store offers free shipping for orders placed online.<br /><br />&ldquo;I look forward to being actively involved with other businesses and organizations that support the community&rdquo; Scheffer said. &ldquo;The customers in our community have been very welcoming. I&rsquo;m excited about the opportunity to provide them with our great products and services.&rdquo; <br /><br />Sears Hometown Stores, part of the retail operation of Sears Holdings Corp., includes more than 950 stores which are independently owned and predominantly located in smaller communities nationwide.&nbsp; <br /> 2011-06-08 16:15:15.0 2011-12-07 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-sears-has-new-owner-20110608,0,6658238.story da-ot-free-business-seminar-in-bedford-20110603 Free business seminar in Bedford June 3, 2011 The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center will hold a pre-business planning seminar June 23 at the Bedford County Chamber of Commerce, 137 E. Pitt St., Bedford. The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center will hold a pre-business planning seminar June 23 at the Bedford County Chamber of Commerce, 137 E. Pitt St., Bedford.<br /><br />The free seminar is scheduled to take place from 9 a.m. to noon.<br /><br />The seminar is for people who are interested in opening and operating their own business. Topics to be discussed include feasibility issues, marketing, record-keeping, business plans, legal issues, regulations/taxes and financing.<br /><br />Pre-registration is required 48 hours in advance. For more information call the center at 814-472-3200.<br /> 2011-06-03 17:34:43.0 2011-12-02 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-free-business-seminar-in-bedford-20110603,0,5416437.story da-ot-mckelvey-honored-by-miracleear-20110531 McKelvey honored by Miracle-Ear May 31, 2011 Somerset entrepreneur Julie McKelvey, owner of Miracle-Ear Center located at Laurel View Plaza, Plank Road, Somerset, earned the 2010 Platinum Club award from the Miracle-Ear franchise organization. Somerset entrepreneur Julie McKelvey, owner of Miracle-Ear Center located at Laurel View Plaza, Plank Road, Somerset, earned the 2010 Platinum Club award from the Miracle-Ear franchise organization. <br /><br />Miracle-Ear presents the award to the top franchisees in its network for achievements in adhering to compliance standards and excelling in four weighted sales performance categories.<br /><br />The Platinum Club contest is the company&rsquo;s longest running contest among franchisees. This year&rsquo;s winners earned a trip for two to the Hyatt Regency Curacao in the Netherlands Antilles from May 10-15. 2011-05-31 18:55:09.0 2011-11-29 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-mckelvey-honored-by-miracleear-20110531,0,7004300.story da-ot-small-business-award-winners-20110525 Small business award winners May 25, 2011 The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center will honor the winners of its 2011 Small Business Awards at an awards luncheon at noon June 17 in the JFK Student Center on campus. The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center will honor the winners of its 2011 Small Business Awards at an awards luncheon at noon June 17 in the JFK Student Center on campus.<br /><br />The awards recognize the achievements of the region&rsquo;s most successful entrepreneurs and small business advocates. The winners are:<br /><br />&bull; Small Business Person of the Year James Smithmyer of Smithmyer&rsquo;s Superette in Loretto<br /><br />&bull; Small Business Exporter of the Year Richard Somiari of ITSI-Biosciences in Johnstown<br /><br />&bull; Financial Services Advocate of the Year John Horell of KIZ Resources in Altoona<br /><br />&bull; Accountant Advocate of the Year Mike Lamb of Wessel & Co. in Johnstown<br /><br />&bull; Women in Business Advocate of the Year Linzi Biesinger of the Altoona Beauty School<br /><br />&bull; Young Entrepreneur of the Year Renee Staines of the Altoona Dance Theatre<br /><br />&bull; State Rep. Mike Fleck, winner of the Richard Crawford Award, which honors an area legislator who has made significant contributions to both the small business community and the economic development of the region<br /><br />Reservations for the luncheon are being accepted through June 10 at (814) 472-3200.<br /><br /> 2011-05-25 20:09:35.0 2011-11-23 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-small-business-award-winners-20110525,0,2712317.story da-ot-mathias-earns-designation-20110523 Mathias earns designation May 23, 2011 Woodmen of the World field representative Kevin T. Mathias has earned his Million Dollar Round Table designation. http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-05/176962940-23152135.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-05/176962940-23152134.jpg Woodmen of the World field representative Kevin T. Mathias has earned his Million Dollar Round Table designation. <br /><br />MDRT is an international, independent association of more than 31,500 life insurance and financial services professionals from 464 companies in 80 nations and territories. MDRT members demonstrate professional knowledge, ethical conduct and outstanding client service.<br /><br />Mathias has been a field representative with Woodmen of the World for 19 years and also holds the following designations: fraternal insurance counselor fellow (FICF) and life underwriter training council fellow (LUTCF).<br /><br />Woodmen of the World was founded in 1890 as a fraternal benefit organization. The organization offers insurance, annuities, mutual funds and 529 college savings plans. 2011-05-23 15:21:39.0 2011-06-22 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-mathias-earns-designation-20110523,0,5161307.story da-ot-jj-truck-bodies-represented-at-russian-trade-show-20110517 J&J Truck Bodies represented at Russian trade show May 17, 2011 Saint Francis University&rsquo;s Center for Global Competitiveness represented nine companies, including J&J Truck Bodies & Trailers of Somerset, at the Mining World Russia trade show held in Moscow April 13-15. The companies, all from western and central Pennsylvania, sell a variety of products to the mining industry. Saint Francis University&rsquo;s Center for Global Competitiveness represented nine companies, including J&J Truck Bodies & Trailers of Somerset, at the Mining World Russia trade show held in Moscow April 13-15. The companies, all from western and central Pennsylvania, sell a variety of products to the mining industry.<br /><br />Ed Huttenhower, center director and associate dean of community and economic development for the school of business, and Russian native Alina Otis, a marketing analyst, attended the show along with two university students.<br /><br />Mining World Russia was held in part of the Crocus Expo Center in Moscow, which has more than 475,000 square meters of exhibit space. The show itself had 220 exhibitors and about 6,000 visitors.<br /><br />The nine companies generated 226 sales leads from the show. 2011-05-17 15:44:44.0 2011-11-15 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-jj-truck-bodies-represented-at-russian-trade-show-20110517,0,2221794.story da-ot-machine-gun-preachers-new-motorcycle-shop-supports-his-mission-20110512 New motorcycle shop supports Machine Gun Preacher's mission May 12, 2011 A new store with a unique product is opening its doors on Saturday. By SANDY WOJCIK http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-05/61569648-12190732.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-05/61569648-12190732.jpg A new store with a unique product is opening its doors on Saturday.<br /><br />Sam Childers, better known as the Machine Gun Preacher, will open a cycle shop, which will also be the hub of much of his mission work.<br /><br />Located along Route 30 near Reels Corner, just a few miles from the church where Childers preaches, Shekinah Fellowship Church, the new shop will house offices for the Angels of East Africa along with all things motorcycle, including motorcycles known as rat bikes.<br /><br />Childers purchased the former motorcycle store and shop about eight months ago.<br /><br />&ldquo;We needed to get another building for the offices,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We have three full-time people, so our office work has expanded so much that we needed to get another building. At the same time all this was happening we started to build what we call rat bikes, which has our brand on it, MGP (Machine Gun Preacher).&rdquo;<br /><br />Childers said it just happened to fall into place.<br /><br />&ldquo;It is a building big enough for the showroom for the bikes, a place for our leather and big enough for bike building as well as office space for the Angels of East Africa,&rdquo; he said.<br /><br />The building comes with between four and five acres, which could be used to expand.<br /><br />&ldquo;We will always have bikes on display and sell leathers, helmets, anything to do with biking,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Our bike shop will do oil changes, inspections and repairs.&rdquo;<br /><br />Two of the motorcycles on display are slated to appear in a movie about Childers&rsquo; life called &ldquo;Machine Gun Preacher.&rdquo; The movie stars Gerard Butler of &ldquo;300&rdquo; fame and will be released either in September or October.<br /><br />&ldquo;The one bike Gerard Butler rode is sitting right over there,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;That is the one that will be shown on all the trailers of the movie and on the billboards. It will be on display here for the next six to eight months.&rdquo;<br /><br />Childers said he started to build the rat bikes as a hobby, but because of the MGP brand, they have become more popular.<br /><br />&ldquo;Most of the bikes we sold have been to people on the West Coast, but we also have orders in this area too,&rdquo; he said.<br /><br />Another work in progress for Childers is a new reality television series that will be shot at the new office/bike shop.<br /><br />&ldquo;It is a reality TV show that has been sold to a network, but I can&rsquo;t mention their names because a contract has not been signed as of yet,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We have already shot three pieces, which you can see on YouTube.&rdquo;<br /><br />He said the show would revolve around his touring the United States and his work at bike building.<br /><br />&ldquo;The big thing is, every bike we sell, we will drill a (water) well in Africa, between Sudan and Darfur,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Our goal is right now to buy a well drilling rig. There are over 6,000 children dying per month from starvation, disease and war crimes. Children are dying from no water or bad water. I&rsquo;m hoping by the first of the year to have our own rig and drill wells.&rdquo;<br /><br />He said he realizes it is a big task, but added, &ldquo;God does big work.&rdquo;<br /><br />&ldquo;For me to do it or any kind of person to do it, it is kind of hard, unless you let God lead the way,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;He makes it easy.&rdquo;<br /><br />Childers started his own mission work after visiting Africa 14 years ago on a mission trip.<br /><br />&ldquo;I saw the body of a child who stepped on a land mine and it just changed everything in my life,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;That is when I started rescuing children in Sudan.&rdquo;<br /><br />His work has expanded in Africa.<br /><br />&ldquo;I have one of the largest working orphanages in Sudan and two bases in Uganda, homes where we have children,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We have 15 to 20 children at each home. We started a feeding program for the children in Darfur. In South Sudan we have our own primary school and nursery school and library on the compound. We serve over 6,000 meals a day. Our goal is to be able to feed 10,000 meals a day.&rdquo;<br /><br />Doing all this takes money, which Childers raises by &ldquo;going around preaching.&rdquo; He recently returned from trips to Texas and Florida and will be leaving again on Monday.<br /><br />&ldquo;I also speak all across America to high schools and colleges. I do not charge to speak in high schools and I do not preach. I only talk about the dangers of drugs and alcohol,&rdquo; he said.<br /><br />&ldquo;When all this started I started with nothing and God is the one who led the brand. As the brand keeps getting bigger, the nonprofit can keep feeding off the brand, MGP. It is something that may only last two or three years or it may last 10 years. I&rsquo;m not sure, but I&rsquo;m here to ride the thing out.&rdquo;<br /><br />The motorcycle shop&rsquo;s grand opening celebration will include lunch from noon to 4 p.m. The public is invited to attend. 2011-05-12 19:40:05.0 2011-11-10 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-machine-gun-preachers-new-motorcycle-shop-supports-his-mission-20110512,0,289410.story da-ot-two-earn-drying-specialist-certification-20110512 Two earn drying specialist certification May 12, 2011 Rick Sferro and Andy Barth of Servpro of Somerset County & Westmont successfully completed a five-day training class that focused on the drying and restoration of large commercial structures such as hospitals, universities, gyms, office buildings and hotels. Rick Sferro and Andy Barth of Servpro of Somerset County & Westmont successfully completed a five-day training class that focused on the drying and restoration of large commercial structures such as hospitals, universities, gyms, office buildings and hotels.<br /><br />The company said there is a need in the region for specialists who can oversee the drying and restoration of large structures, as the science of drying a large building offers complications that are not typically seen in residential drying.<br /><br />They each earned the certification of commercial drying specialist from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. 2011-05-12 15:12:28.0 2011-11-10 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-two-earn-drying-specialist-certification-20110512,0,6986822.story da-ot-somerset-eatn-park-remodeled-20110505 Somerset restaurant remodeled May 5, 2011 The Somerset Eat&rsquo;n Park has been renovated to integrate the restaurant chain&rsquo;s newest design elements, including changes to the lobby and dining room. By the DAILY AMERICAN The Somerset Eat&rsquo;n Park has been renovated to integrate the restaurant chain&rsquo;s newest design elements, including changes to the lobby and dining room. <br /><br />These renovations include new restrooms, new booths, tables and upholstery, wallpaper, carpet and window coverings. The new pick-up window, like the restaurant, is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Guests can call the restaurant to order takeout.<br /><br />Eat&rsquo;n Park has been open in Somerset since 1986 and employs more than 90 people. The restaurant is located at 926 N. Center Ave. 2011-05-05 19:17:07.0 2011-11-03 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-somerset-eatn-park-remodeled-20110505,0,7964364.story da-ot-plumbing-company-to-hire-more-veterans-20110503 Plumbing company to hire more veterans May 3, 2011 Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has entered into a strategic partnership with Hire Heroes USA, giving franchisees the chance to make job openings available to the organization&rsquo;s database of service veterans.     By the DAILY AMERICAN Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has entered into a strategic partnership with Hire Heroes USA, giving franchisees the chance to make job openings available to the organization&rsquo;s database of service veterans.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;<br /><br />In a release, the company said it is proud to be able to assist the nonprofit in its mission of reducing the number of unemployed veterans of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, which stands at 1.39 million.<br /><br />Hire Heroes USA&rsquo;s mission is to offer transition assistance, job search assistance and job placement services to those who have honorably served in the U.S. military.<br /><br />Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is located at 374 W. Main St. in Somerset. 2011-05-03 17:10:48.0 2011-11-01 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-plumbing-company-to-hire-more-veterans-20110503,0,3905484.story da-ot-free-business-seminars-offered-20110428 Free business seminars offered April 28, 2011 The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center has scheduled pre-business planning seminars for May. By the DAILY AMERICAN The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center has scheduled pre-business planning seminars for May.<br /><br />The seminars are for people who are interested in opening and operating their own business. The seminars are free.<br /><br />Seminars will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. May 12 at F&M Trust, 100 Lincoln Way, McConnellsburg, and from 5 to 8 p.m. May 26 at the center, 117 Evergreen Drive, Loretto.<br /><br />Topics to be discussed are feasibility issues, marketing, record-keeping, business plans, legal issues, regulations/taxes and financing.<br /><br />Preregistration is required 48 hours prior to the scheduled date. For more information contact the center at (814) 472-3200 or by email at sbdc@francis.edu. 2011-04-28 16:01:49.0 2011-10-27 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-free-business-seminars-offered-20110428,0,7664278.story da-ot-remax-premier-ranked-no-1-20110427 RE/MAX Premier ranked No. 1 April 27, 2011 RE/MAX Premier, Realtors, Somerset, ranked No. 1 overall in the RE/MAX Delaware Pennsylvania region for total transaction sides per agent closed in 2010. By the DAILY AMERICAN http://media.trb.com/media/thumbnails/story/2011-04/179186980-27190421.jpg http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-04/179186980-27190421.jpg RE/MAX Premier, Realtors, Somerset, ranked No. 1 overall in the RE/MAX Delaware Pennsylvania region for total transaction sides per agent closed in 2010. <br /><br />Scott Boyer, broker/owner, has been working in the real estate industry for more than 38 years and has experience in residential and commercial sales, leasing and appraisals.<br /><br />Boyer was also ranked No. 1 in total sales units and dollar volume within Somerset County, according to statistics from the Cambria Somerset Multiple Listing Service. 2011-04-27 19:04:25.0 2011-10-26 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-remax-premier-ranked-no-1-20110427,0,7978069.story da-ot-berlin-dairy-farmers-attend-conference-20110415 Berlin dairy farmers attend conference April 15, 2011 Jeremy and Tanya Hay, dairy farmers from Berlin, recently attended the Dairy Farmers of America Mideast Area Young Cooperator Conference in Newark, Ohio. The Hays were among more than 100 DFA members who attended the conference. By the DAILY AMERICAN <br />Jeremy and Tanya Hay, dairy farmers from Berlin, recently attended the Dairy Farmers of America Mideast Area Young Cooperator Conference in Newark, Ohio. The Hays were among more than 100 DFA members who attended the conference.<br /><br />The Hays milk 80 Jersey cows. They are third-generation dairy farmers.<br /><br />&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a great chance to meet other young farmers and discuss topics to improve your situation,&rdquo; Jeremy Hay said in a written release. &ldquo;We look forward to it every year.&rdquo;<br /><br />The Hays attended a variety of presentations at the conference. Topics included fostering positive family relationships on the farm, milk pricing and updates on the cooperative&rsquo;s businesses. The Hays also had the opportunity to tour The Kroger Co.&rsquo;s Tamarack plant in Newark to view the process milk undergoes after leaving the dairy.<br /><br />The Young Cooperator program fosters interaction among dairy farmers ages 18 to 40 who are involved as owners, partners or hold distinct management responsibilities on a DFA-member dairy operation. 2011-04-15 16:26:10.0 2011-10-14 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-berlin-dairy-farmers-attend-conference-20110415,0,3610002.story da-ot-johnstown-company-awarded-contract-20110414 Johnstown company awarded contract April 14, 2011 United Metal Fabricators on Thursday announced that it has been awarded a three-year contract with Novation, a group purchasing organization. By the DAILY AMERICAN United Metal Fabricators on Thursday announced that it has been awarded a three-year contract with Novation, a group purchasing organization. <br /><br />Novation is a supply contracting company for the health care industry. It offers services to nearly 25,000 members of the VHA, University Health System Consortium, two national health care alliances, and 5,500 members of Provista LLC, representing 28,000 sites.<br /><br />&ldquo;This is a win-win award,&rdquo; Eileen Melvin, president and CEO of the Johnstown manufacturer, said in a written statement. &ldquo;The members served by Novation will be thrilled with the UMF value, and the contract provides a great opportunity for UMF to grow market share.&rdquo;<br /><br />UMF manufactures exam tables, power procedure chairs, instrument and supply carts, and an extensive line of metal equipment for use in hospitals, clinics and physicians offices. The company is a certified Women&rsquo;s Business Enterprise. The company has 60 employees at its Richland Township plant.<br /><br />The health care markets served by Novation include acute care hospitals and systems, academic medical centers, ambulatory care and physician clinics, home health and long-term care facilities.<br /><br />The members served by Novation, based in Irving, Texas, used Novation contracts to purchase nearly $40 billion in products and services in 2010. <br /><br />The contract begins May 1. Terms of the contract were not disclosed. 2011-04-14 15:47:56.0 2011-10-13 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-johnstown-company-awarded-contract-20110414,0,4356396.story da-ot-free-business-seminar-20110413 Free business seminar April 13, 2011 The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center has scheduled a pre-business planning seminar for April 28. By the DAILY AMERICAN The Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center has scheduled a pre-business planning seminar for April 28.<br /><br />The seminar will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at Somerset Trust Co., 131 N. Center Ave., Somerset. The free event is for people who are interested in opening and operating their own business. <br /><br />Topics to be discussed are feasibility issues, marketing, record-keeping, business plans, legal issues, regulations/taxes and financing.<br /><br />Preregistration is required 48 hours in advance. For more information contact the center at 814-472-3200 or email sbdc@francis.edu. 2011-04-13 15:17:53.0 2011-10-12 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-free-business-seminar-20110413,0,927985.story da-ot-cambriarowe-celebrates-anniversary-20110411 Cambria-Rowe celebrates anniversary April 11, 2011 Cambria-Rowe Business College will celebrate its 120th birthday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 7 at the Frank J. Pasquerilla Conference Center in Johnstown. By the DAILY AMERICAN Cambria-Rowe Business College will celebrate its 120th birthday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 7 at the Frank J. Pasquerilla Conference Center in Johnstown.<br /><br />The event is open to the public.<br /><br />Dr. D.I. Rowe opened Rowe College, a women&rsquo;s college, in 1891 on the third floor of a building along Main Street in downtown Johnstown. In 1906, a rival school, Cambria Business College, opened at the corner of Franklin and Lincoln streets. In 1926 the colleges&rsquo; presidents decided that the competition for students was too much and decided to consolidate the two schools. <br /><br />The school became Cambria-Rowe Business College in 1927. 2011-04-11 14:20:10.0 2011-10-10 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-cambriarowe-celebrates-anniversary-20110411,0,1828115.story da-ot-jcpenney-renovating-galleria-store-20110411 JCPenney renovating Galleria store April 11, 2011 JCPenney is renovating its store in Johnstown as part of the company&rsquo;s continued investment in its existing stores. By the DAILY AMERICAN JCPenney is renovating its store in Johnstown as part of the company&rsquo;s continued investment in its existing stores.<br /><br />Upon completion in July, The Galleria mall store will have the look and feel of a new JCPenney store, highlighting the company&rsquo;s new brands and concepts.<br /><br />The more than $3 million renovation of the Johnstown store is among a range of store improvement projects included in the company&rsquo;s $650 million capital expenditures plan for 2011. In addition to two new stores opening this spring and one store opening this fall, the enhancements include 69 major store renovations and the addition of 77 Sephora inside JCPenney boutiques.<br /><br />The Galleria store will introduce a full-service Sephora inside JCPenney. The 2,000-square-foot beauty boutique will feature popular brands in makeup, skincare, hair care, fragrance and accessory products, and will be staffed by a team of specially trained beauty consultants.<br /><br />The complete remodel of the 75,000-square-foot store will also include modern fixtures, improved lighting and new signage and graphics to make it easier to navigate the store, the company said in a release. Other improvements include an updated fine jewelry department, a modernized shoe department, new carpet and tile, and improvements to fitting rooms and restrooms.<br /><br />The Galleria mall store opened in 1992. 2011-04-11 11:00:11.0 2011-10-10 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-jcpenney-renovating-galleria-store-20110411,0,7660783.story da-ot-stables-relocate-for-expansion-20110311 Stables relocate for expansion March 11, 2011 Reflecting Heaven Stables is relocating to the junction of Chestnut Ridge Road and New Germany Road, a few miles off Interstate 68 in Grantsville, Md. By the DAILY AMERICAN <br />Reflecting Heaven Stables is relocating to the junction of Chestnut Ridge Road and New Germany Road, a few miles off Interstate 68 in Grantsville, Md.<br /><br />Brothers Joseph Fischetti and Jonathon Fischetti are co-owners of the establishment. Gary Bowers of Bowers Excavating broke ground and has started excavating the site of the new hunter/jumper riding facility. &nbsp;<br /><br />Reflecting Heaven Stables will offer equine boarding, training, riding lessons and showing. The new 18-acre facility will consist of a 14-stall barn, an indoor 60-by-140-foot riding arena and 10-plus acres of pasture with easy access to miles of New Germany State Park trails. The barn and arena are projected to be completed by mid-April with a grand opening to happen this spring. 2011-03-11 17:39:51.0 2011-09-09 17:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-stables-relocate-for-expansion-20110311,0,6934185.story da-ot-severstal-sells-steel-plants-20110302 Severstal sells steel plants March 2, 2011 Severstal North America, a subsidiary of OAO Severstal, the parent company of PBS Coals, on Wednesday announced that The Renco Group has signed an agreement to purchase three of Severstal&rsquo;s five U.S.-based steel plants. By the DAILY AMERICAN Severstal North America, a subsidiary of OAO Severstal, the parent company of PBS Coals, on Wednesday announced that The Renco Group has signed an agreement to purchase three of Severstal&rsquo;s five U.S.-based steel plants. <br /><br />The plants are in Warren, Ohio, Wheeling, W.Va., and Sparrows Point, Md. The transaction is expected to close in March and is subject to customary closing conditions.<br /><br />Severstal will receive $125 million in cash, a $100 million secured note and the repayment of $317 million of third-party debt at closing. Renco will also assume various Severstal financial liabilities, including employee-related and environmental liabilities totaling $650 million.<br /><br />Sergei Kuznetsov, CEO of Severstal International, said the sale of these assets will enable Severstal North America to evolve into a stronger and more focused organization. Based in Dearborn, Mich., Severstal North America is a major steelmaker that specializes in light flat-rolled products. <br /><br />The Renco Group is a family owned private holding company that makes long-term investments in companies across a range of industries, including mining, mineral recovery, metals production/fabrication, defense and automotive supplies. 2011-03-02 18:23:51.0 2011-08-31 17:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-severstal-sells-steel-plants-20110302,0,1561407.story da-ot-black-daily-american-to-introduce-snowsports-network-20110302 Black, Daily American to introduce snowsports network March 2, 2011 Longtime nationally known ski columnist S.R. &ldquo;Sandy&rdquo; Black and the Daily American newspaper in Somerset are forming a snow-sports news network for six media markets for the 2011/12 season. By the DAILY AMERICAN Longtime nationally known ski columnist S.R. &ldquo;Sandy&rdquo; Black and the Daily American newspaper in Somerset are forming a snow-sports news network for six media markets for the 2011/12 season.<br /><br />Black, who has been published in more than 50 media outlets in the United States and England, joined forces with the Daily American to base a snow-sports news network at the Daily American, dailyamerican.com and its sister newspaper website heraldmail.com of Hagerstown, Md. They also will be on websites in the greater Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Johnstown markets, and will introduce their new website, dailyamericansnowsports.com, with the rest of the network this November.<br /><br />The veteran ski columnist has covered the snow-sports industry for 30 years.<br /><br />&ldquo;I feel this new network will serve America greatly,&rdquo; Black said. &ldquo;It took a lot of work by (advertising director) Tom Koppenhofer, (Publisher) Andy Bruns and myself to put all this together. This network will benefit the entire snow-sports industry, skiers, riders, and all the communities it serves.&rdquo;<br /><br />Besides the websites, the network will also include a print product in the Daily American and Our Town, a sister publication based in Richland Township.<br /><br />&ldquo;I would like to thank Somerset County Commissioner James Marker and state Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar for their encouragement in helping make this network happen when the early planning process was taking place,&rdquo; Black said. 2011-03-02 17:24:03.0 2011-08-31 17:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-ot-black-daily-american-to-introduce-snowsports-network-20110302,0,853453.story da-precision-fitness-hires-kevin-beitzel Precision Fitness Hires Kevin Beitzel As A Personal Trainer September 15, 2010 McCosar Minerals Inc. to EG Energy, Boswell Interests, O.P. Leonard Jr. Investment Co., LAH III Family Specific Interests, Birmingham Corp., Eldona S. Wright and Thomas M. Zeiders and Elizabeth G. Zeiders, Somerset Township, $46,200 McCosar Minerals Inc. to EG Energy, Boswell Interests, O.P. Leonard Jr. Investment Co., LAH III Family Specific Interests, Birmingham Corp., Eldona S. Wright and Thomas M. Zeiders and Elizabeth G. Zeiders, Somerset Township, $46,200<br /><br />Helen M. Huber to Tracy Y. Price, Conemaugh Township, $86,000<br /><br />Shirley A. McClintock, surviving trustee of The Richard A. McClintock and Shirley A. McClintock Revocable Living Trust, to Robert A. Lager, Addison Borough, $115,500<br /><br />Claude J. and Lyette C. Rouleau to Dennis J. and Patricia M. Manganelli, Somerset Borough, $180,000<br /><br />John and Mona Knox to CCD Enterprises, Meyersdale Borough, $14,000<br /><br />Gary W. Bieniasz Jr., executor of the estate of Gary W. Bieniasz Sr., to Jeffrey S. and Kristine D. Nicholson, Lincoln Township, $154,900<br /><br />Timothy Alan and Amy M. Lambert to Families of Flight 93, Stonycreek Township, $600,000 2010-09-15 16:30:21.0 2010-12-15 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-precision-fitness-hires-kevin-beitzel,0,815659.story da-property-tranfers-for-september-11-2010 Property Transfers for September 11, 2010 September 15, 2010 McCosar Minerals Inc. to EG Energy, Boswell Interests, O.P. Leonard Jr. Investment Co., LAH III Family Specific Interests, Birmingham Corp., Eldona S. Wright and Thomas M. Zeiders and Elizabeth G. Zeiders, Somerset Township, $46,200 McCosar Minerals Inc. to EG Energy, Boswell Interests, O.P. Leonard Jr. Investment Co., LAH III Family Specific Interests, Birmingham Corp., Eldona S. Wright and Thomas M. Zeiders and Elizabeth G. Zeiders, Somerset Township, $46,200<br /><br />Helen M. Huber to Tracy Y. Price, Conemaugh Township, $86,000<br /><br />Shirley A. McClintock, surviving trustee of The Richard A. McClintock and Shirley A. McClintock Revocable Living Trust, to Robert A. Lager, Addison Borough, $115,500<br /><br />Claude J. and Lyette C. Rouleau to Dennis J. and Patricia M. Manganelli, Somerset Borough, $180,000<br /><br />John and Mona Knox to CCD Enterprises, Meyersdale Borough, $14,000<br /><br />Gary W. Bieniasz Jr., executor of the estate of Gary W. Bieniasz Sr., to Jeffrey S. and Kristine D. Nicholson, Lincoln Township, $154,900<br /><br />Timothy Alan and Amy M. Lambert to Families of Flight 93, Stonycreek Township, $600,000 2010-09-15 16:27:59.0 2010-12-15 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-property-tranfers-for-september-11-2010,0,5650007.story da-brooke-koontz-honored Brooke Koontz Honored By Lia Sophia July 27, 2010 Brooke Koontz of Somerset has been honored by the jewelry company lia sophia for meeting certain sales levels in her first 15 weeks as an adviser. Brooke Koontz of Somerset has been honored by the jewelry company lia sophia for meeting certain sales levels in her first 15 weeks as an adviser.<br /><br />New advisers have the opportunity to increase their earnings and earn free jewelry as part of the company&rsquo;s Excellent Beginnings Program. The plan celebrates the success of advisers who stay on track in the first four months in business. 2010-07-27 09:34:08.0 2010-10-25 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-brooke-koontz-honored,0,2124114.story da-market-square-shop-opens-meyersdale Market Square Shop Opens In Meyersdale July 27, 2010 Tom Savage and Mindy Yoder have opened the Market Square Shop at 681 Market Square in Meyersdale. <p>Tom Savage and Mindy Yoder have opened the Market Square Shop at 681 Market Square in Meyersdale.</p> <p>The store offers clothing for children and adults, including brand names such as Carter's and Little Me. The shop also has new and used kids toys, educational games, blocks, books, antiques, electronics, jewelry, home decor and outdoor items</p> <p>The owners said they opened the store to provide a local shopping option for local residents. The store is located right above Sheetz.</p> 2010-07-27 09:27:05.0 2010-10-24 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-market-square-shop-opens-meyersdale,0,3958031.story da-rick-shinholt-joins-howard-hanna Rick Shinholt Joins Howard Hanna July 27, 2010 Howard Hanna Geary Real Estate in Somerset has added Rick Shinholt to its sales team. <p>Howard Hanna Geary Real Estate in Somerset has added Rick Shinholt to its sales team.</p> <p>Shinholt earned his real estate license though the Polley school of real estate in Newtown Square. He is a member of National Association of Realtors, Pennsylvania Association of Realtors and Cambria Somerset Association of Realtors</p> <p>He is also a member of the Calvary United Methodist Church, Somerset Masonic Lodge, Valley of Altoona Scottish Rite, Jaffa Shrine, Meyersdale Elks Lodge, Sons of the American Legion Somerset Post, Jenner Rod and Gun Club, New Centerville & Rural Volunteer Fire Co. and National Rifle Association.</p> <p>He graduated from Rockwood Area High School. He attended Mount Aloysius Collage and Indiana University of Pennsylvania, graduating with a degree in criminology. After graduation he became a police officer for the City of Baltimore and then later the City of Delray Beach, Fla., where he retired due to injuries incurred in the line of duty.</p> <p>He is the son of Sylvia and the late Dr. James R. Shinholt.</p> 2010-07-27 09:28:48.0 2010-10-24 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-rick-shinholt-joins-howard-hanna,0,6684047.story da-power-company-merger-proceeds First Energy And Allegheny Energy Merger Proceeds July 27, 2010 FirstEnergy Corp. and Allegheny Energy announced that FirstEnergy&rsquo;s Form S-4 registration statement regarding the companies&rsquo; proposed merger has been declared effective by the Securities and Exchange  Commission. FirstEnergy Corp. and Allegheny Energy announced that FirstEnergy&rsquo;s Form S-4 registration statement regarding the companies&rsquo; proposed merger has been declared effective by the Securities and Exchange&nbsp; Commission.<br /><br />Each company will hold a special meeting on Sept. 14 to give shareholders the opportunity to vote on the transaction.<br /><br />&ldquo;We are pleased to have completed this important step in our merger and look forward to meeting with shareholders,&rdquo; FirstEnergy President Anthony J. Alexander said in a release. &ldquo;We continue to believe that the combination of FirstEnergy and Allegheny Energy will provide significant benefits to our shareholders and we encourage their support.&rdquo;<br /><br />The companies claim the merger will provide them with a better platform for growth than either company would be able to achieve individually. The combination would create a regional energy provider with utility operations serving more than 6 million customers in seven states, including Pennsylvania, approximately $16 billion in annual revenues and $1.4 billion in annual net income.<br /><br />Allegheny Energy shareholders would receive 0.667 shares of FirstEnergy common stock in exchange for each share of Allegheny Energy they own. Following the completion of the merger, it is anticipated that FirstEnergy shareholders will own approximately 73 percent and Allegheny Energy shareholders will own approximately 27 percent of the combined company.<br /><br />FirstEnergy is the parent company of Penelec. 2010-07-27 09:19:54.0 2010-10-24 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-power-company-merger-proceeds,0,6055155.story da-paros-receives-designation John Paros Awarded The Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow July 27, 2010 John F. Paros of Greater Pittsburgh MetLife was awarded one of the life insurance industry&rsquo;s premier professional credentials, the Life Underwriters Training Council Fellow designation from the American College. John F. Paros of Greater Pittsburgh MetLife was awarded one of the life insurance industry&rsquo;s premier professional credentials, the Life Underwriters Training Council Fellow designation from the American College.<br /><br />The program gives insurance representatives in-depth knowledge and skills to assist clients with their insurance and financial needs. To earn the LUTCF designation, Paros passed the required courses for the program, met the specified experience level and ethical standards, and agreed to comply with the American College Code of Ethics and Procedures.<br /><br />Paros is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. He is an agency sales director for Johnstown, DuBois and Delmont MetLife agencies and is a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. He has worked in the financial services industry for 28 years. 2010-07-27 08:57:29.0 2010-10-25 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-paros-receives-designation,0,4770865.story da-luther-becomes-cpa Mark R. Luther becomes CPA July 27, 2010 The Catanese Group announced that Mark R. Luther has passed the exam to become a certified public accountant. The Catanese Group announced that Mark R. Luther has passed the exam to become a certified public accountant.<br /><br />Luther is a staff accountant with the Catanese Group. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown with a bachelor&rsquo;s degree in business.<br /><br />The Catanese Group is a privately held accounting firm with offices in Johnstown and Pittsburgh. The company has seven partners and approximately 24 employees in both offices. 2010-07-27 08:54:52.0 2010-10-25 21:00:00.0 http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/business/da-luther-becomes-cpa,0,817853.story Phoenix Racing news, photos and video - wdbj7.com
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A collection of news and information related to Phoenix Racing published by this site and its partners.

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    Jun 11, 2013 |Column| Orlando Sentinel
  1. Dale Earnhardt Jr. looking for more Michigan mojo

    Dale Earnhardt Jr. has been a bit of an accidental tourist during the 2013 Sprint Cup season.
    Dale Earnhardt Jr. has been a bit of an accidental tourist during the 2013 Sprint Cup season. I mean that in good way. Earnhardt is a solid fourth in points and has four Top 5s, but this sport — just like chess, cricket and curling — is...

    Tags: Auto Racing, A.J. Allmendinger, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Jimmie Johnson, ESPN (tv network)

  2. Jan 8, 2013 |Column| Orlando Sentinel
  3. New, faster cars set for testing at Daytona

    The envelope please: NASCAR is about to unveil its "Gen 6" car.
    The envelope please: NASCAR is about to unveil its "Gen 6" car. We've been down the road before with new models and styles, but this is a critical makeover for a sport trying to woo back fans who have become disengaged for a number of reasons. The new...

    Tags: Car Guides and Reviews, Auto Racing, Human Interest, Clint Bowyer, Brad Keselowski

  4. Oct 23, 2012 |Column| Orlando Sentinel
  5. Brad Keselowski can't shake Jimmie Johnson as Chase winds down

    Jimmie Johnson is lurking.
    Jimmie Johnson is lurking. It's kinda creepy, too. Everywhere Brad Keselowski goes, there is Johnson, just a few steps behind him. Keselowski remains the favorite to win the NASCAR Chase for the Championship. Everyone else is playing follow the leader....

    Tags: Auto Racing, Adderall (drug), Regan Smith, Martinsville (Martinsville, Virginia), Brad Keselowski

  6. Jun 8, 2013 |Story| Reuters
  7. PRESS BOX: Bucks make offer to Ellis, Allmendinger may get more NASCAR starts

    Reuters
    The Sports Xchange PRESS BOX: Bucks make offer to Ellis, Allmendinger may get more NASCAR starts NBA The Milwaukee Bucks made a three-year, $36 million contract offer to guard Monta Ellis but no agreement has been reached, according to the Milwaukee...

    Tags: Auto Racing, Mike Richards, Monta Ellis, Los Angeles Kings, National Basketball Association

  8. Jun 8, 2013 |Story| Reuters
  9. Allmendinger to replace Labonte to some races

    AJ Allmendinger will take over as driver of the No. 47 Toyota for up to five future races, replacing Bobby Labonte.
    Reuters
    AJ Allmendinger will take over as driver of the No. 47 Toyota for up to five future races, replacing Bobby Labonte. The change will start next weekend at Michigan International Speedway and continue at Watkins Glen on Aug. 11. Three other races may...

    Tags: Auto Racing, A.J. Allmendinger, International Speedway Corp., ESPN (tv network), Bobby Labonte

  10. Jun 1, 2013 |Story| Reuters
  11. Hamlin: New pavement has changed game at Pocono

    Reuters
    The Sports Xchange Hamlin: New pavement has changed game at Pocono By Reid Spencer NASCAR Wire Service Distributed by The Sports Xchange DOVER, Del. -- Denny Hamlin's quest to make the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup -- despite missing four races...

    Tags: Auto Racing, Tornadoes, Autism Speaks, Indianapolis 500, A.J. Allmendinger

  12. Jun 1, 2013 |Story| Reuters
  13. Press Box: Rutgers postpones meetings with embattled AD

    Reuters
    The Sports Xchange Press Box: Rutgers postpones meetings with embattled AD Rutgers officials postponed their on-campus meetings with new athletic director Julie Hermann that were scheduled for next week, the Newark-Star Ledger reported. It is not clear...

    Tags: Auto Racing, Colleges and Universities, A.J. Allmendinger, Indianapolis 500, Rutgers University

  14. Feb 28, 2013 |Story| KWCH
  15. Allmendinger gets back in a Cup car at Phoenix

    AP Auto Racing Writer
    A.J. Allmendinger will make his NASCAR season debut this Sunday at Phoenix International Raceway. Allmendinger, who didn't have a ride for the season-opening Daytona 500, will drive for Phoenix Racing in the No. 51 Guy Roofing Chevrolet. It will be...

    Tags: A.J. Allmendinger, Stock Car Racing, NASCAR

  16. Dec 10, 2012 |Story| KWCH
  17. Top performances of 2012: Bowyer is NASCAR comeback driver of the year

    <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; line-height: 14px; font-size: 10pt;">No one saw this coming. No one.</span>
    No one saw this coming. No one.   Brad Keselowski won his first race in 2009 at Talladega Superspeedway, running a part-time schedule with single-car team Phoenix Racing. It was a nice story in a long season, one that ended with Jimmie Johnson winning the...

    Tags: Auto Racing, Regan Smith, Jimmie Johnson, Greg Biffle, Tony Stewart

  18. Oct 16, 2012 |Story| KWCH
  19. Allmendinger to drive for Phoenix again at Kansas

    AJ Allmendinger will get another start with Phoenix Racing this weekend at Kansas Speedway.
    AP Auto Racing Writer
    AJ Allmendinger will get another start with Phoenix Racing this weekend at Kansas Speedway.     Phoenix general manager Steve Barkdoll said Monday the team was pleased with Allmendinger's performance at Charlotte Motor Speedway. He finished 24th in...

    Tags: Auto Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Regan Smith, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., A.J. Allmendinger

  20. Oct 11, 2012 |Story| KWCH
  21. Allmendinger gets 1st start after drug suspension

    AJ Allmendinger will race this weekend for the first time since his July drug suspension.
    AP Auto Racing Writer
    AJ Allmendinger will race this weekend for the first time since his July drug suspension.     Phoenix Racing called Allmendinger on Thursday and asked him to report immediately to Charlotte Motor Speedway to drive the No. 51 Chevrolet.     Regan Smith...

    Tags: Auto Racing, Prescription Drugs, Adderall (drug), Regan Smith, Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

  22. Sep 28, 2012 |Story| KWCH
  23. Busch set to drive No. 78 in Charlotte

    Kurt Busch will make his first start in the No. 78 car for Furniture Row Racing at the Oct. 13 race at Charlotte.
    Kurt Busch will make his first start in the No. 78 car for Furniture Row Racing at the Oct. 13 race at Charlotte. Busch signed this week to drive for the Colorado-based team in 2013. He'll get an early jump and drive the final six races of this season...

    Tags: Kyle Busch Motorsports, Regan Smith, Kurt Busch, Furniture Row Racing

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