Our Mission:
The West Jefferson Hills Chamber
of Commerce promotes local
business development and
community collaboration and
endorses expanding local
business in West Elizabeth,
Jefferson Hills, and Pleasant Hills.
Recent Events
PICNIC ON THE PORCH- THURSDAY, AUGUST 29, 2019
5:30-7:30 PM
The Picnic on the Porch was held Thursday,
August 29, 2019 at Elrama Tavern.
Members were able to network while
enjoying delicious food and cool refreshing
drinks. Donations were graciously given
by members for the start of the school to
students in the West Jefferson Hills School
District. Thank you members for those who
made donations and to Elrama Tavern.
STEEL CENTER FOR CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION-
OCTOBER 30, 2019
On Wednesday, October 30, 2019, Steel Center hosted a breakfast
roundtable. Members enjoyed a wonderful array of breakfast foods from
bacon to flaky pastries and everything in-between made by the culinary
students, dressed in chef uniforms, at Steel Center.
The focus of this year’s roundtable was: The Future of the WJH Chamber,
2020 and Beyond. Two knowledgeable guests were invited. Connie Ruhl, the
president, of the Bethel Park Chamber and Diane Ford who provides services
to local business. Her business is called, VIP Administrative Services, her
website is [email protected] , and lastly her phone number
is 412.523.8019. Both of them provided ideas about what works in the Bethel
Park Chamber. Members gave suggestions some of which were already in
place i.e. consistent meeting times for the board, involving the local mayors/
council members from Pleasant Hills, Jefferson Hills, and West Elizabeth,
combining activities with other organizations. Some suggestions for
workshops were: businesses and taxes, human resources initiatives, and how
to use social media to benefit the business. The small businesses may benefit
the most because often there is limited resources and staff. One suggestion
to promote business was a “Sip and Shop” which has been beneficial in other
communities. Please do not hesitate to contact the chamber with ideas,
thank you.
Mary Phan-Gruber, from the Jefferson Foundation, provided a
pamphlet about the organization and what it has been doing for the local
communities. The amount of money distributed has been in the millions of
dollars. Please use this resource to develop your business/coummunity. She
also reminded everyone of the importance to participate in the census. Each
person missed being counted is a loss of approximately $5,000 dollars to our
community. In about April of 2020, residents will be mailed post cards asking
them to participate on line for the census. Please do participate. If you do not
have a computer, the local libraries can help with the process.
VETERANS DAY PROGRAM-MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2019
The West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the West
Jefferson Hills School District honored all veterans at a ceremony starting at
9:00 at the new Thomas Jefferson High School. The ceremony began outside
with the dedication the memorial with a welcome from the Superintendent
of Schools, Dr. Ghilani. Students laid a wreath at the memorial. Mr. Murphy,
the principal of Thomas Jefferson dedicated the memorial. The memorial
honors those TJ graduates who gave the ultimate sacrifice by dying in the
field of battle to protect and keep all of Americans free. It is placed by the
main entrance to the building to remind students every day of the sacrifices
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made to benefit all of Americans. Lastly, taps were played and the ceremony
was moved to the theatre inside the building.
The presentation of the flag was conducted by the students followed by the
Pledge of Allegiance. The marching band then played the National Anthem. Mr.
Murphy welcomed everyone followed by Louise Biddle giving the invocation.
Kate Biddle, president of the senior class, spoke the about, “Why we celebrate
Veterans Day.” Elementary students created cards for the Veterans in attendance
to take with them and share with others. The keynote speakers were soldiers
who gave insightful and motivational speeches. Judge Mike Thatcher
introduced Steve Mitrisin, who reminded students that whatever reason a
person joins the military the ultimate goal is to protect this great nation. Next,
Patrick Donahue, a Thomas Jefferson graduate, spoke about how the military
is a microcosm of our country of different colors, ages, and political views but
that we are all Americans. He encourages us to focus on the strengths of each
person. Teamwork and working form each individual’s strengths makes the
entire team stronger. Taylor Gaito, a senior at TJ, paid tribute to the 10 TJHS
Alumni who lost their lives serving our country. The high school band and
chorus added to the patriotic atmosphere of the event. A combined tribute
to each branch of the military was played and those who served were asked
to stand to be recognized as it was performed: Heave Ho, My Lads, Heave Ho
followed by Armed Forces Medley. Thank you to everyone who made you
proud to be an American!
If you would like to view the ceremony, the link is below:
https://livestream.com/accounts/14682220/events/4486191/videos/198816390
To all veterans thank you for your service.
BEAUTIFICATION AWARD
Thomas Jefferson High School was awarded the “Beautification Award.” Every
year this award is given to a business or organization which has improved our
community. If you have not yet had the opportunity to see the new high school,
please take time to see the ultra-modern school which enhances the learning
experience. Pictured below is Mr. Murphy holding the plaque.
Upcoming Events
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY-WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18,
2019
The annual Christmas Dinner will be held at the Georgetown Centre on
Wednesday, December 18, 2019. Please look for the invitation in the mail and
mark the calendar. The event also includes a Chinese Auction to collect money
for the Angel Tree which benefits students in the West Jefferson Hills School
District during the holiday season. Please enjoy this networking opportunity
while getting into the holiday spirit!
Please let the West Jefferson Hills Chamber of Commerce know of any new
businesses in our community!
Membership:
Just a reminder dues paid before December 31, 2019 are discounted. Anyone
wishing to join the chamber can find additional information by emailing
[email protected] or calling 412.855.8276 or 412.543.8403.
By Sue Mackulin