The MBA hosted its sold-out 118th Annual Event on October 11 at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie, featuring keynote speaker American hero, Ambassador “Sully” Sullenberger. The event was made possible by the support of major sponsor, Ridg-U-Rak, Inc., and sponsors UPMC Health Plan, Logistics Plus, PNC, Howard Industries, MacDonald Illig, Greenleaf Corporation, Parker LORD Corporation, McInnes Rolled Rings, Bonnell’s Truck & RV, Insurance Management Company and Widget Financial. To view photos, visit mbausa.org.
American hero Ambassador “Sully” Sullenberger gave the keynote address. He is known for his heroic efforts during the “Miracle on the Hudson,” in which he and his crew saved all 155 people aboard US Airways Flight 1549 during an emergency landing in the Hudson River in January 2009.
Ridg-U-Rak Inc. was the major sponsor of the 118th Annual Event. Shown here is Ridg-U-Rak President and CEO John Pellegrino Sr., P.E., with his wife Mary, family and guests.
2023-2024 MBA Chairman Kyle Blakeslee thanked members for their support of the MBA and the exciting initiatives that are ahead.
“National Anthem Girl” Janine Stange sang a heart felt rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” for the audience. Stange, whose appearance was made possible by sponsor Bonnell’s Truck & RV, has performed the National Anthem in all 50 states.
Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception in the Exhibit Hall prior to the Main Event.
The 2023 -2034 MBA Board of Governors were also introduced as hosts for the evening, including (from left) Chairman Kyle Blakeslee, Immediate Past Chairman Jana Goodrich, Treasurer Matt Clark, Vice Chair Bob Frost, and Board members Tom Tredway, Jennifer Nelson, Gary Clark , Jeff Plyler, Jon DeArment, Scott Bonnell and Chad Betts.
Guests enjoyed a complimentary copy of the MBA’s Business Magazine.
Pastor Daryl Myer of Hope Junction Community Church gave the invocation.
Annual Event sponsors included (from left): Widget Financial, UPMC Health Plan, PNC Bank, McInnes Rolled Rings – A Division of The Ellwood Group, MacDonald Illig Attorneys, Parker LORD Corporation, Logistics Plus, Insurance Management Company, Howard Industries, Greenleaf Corporation and Bonnell’s Truck and RV, and major sponsor Ridg-U-Rak, Inc.
A sold – out crowd enjoyed the 118th Annual Event at the Bayfront Convention Center.
The MBA paid tribute to businesses leaders who passed away over the past year, including former MBA President and CEO John Krahe (center), Waldameer owner Paul Nelson (left) and business advocate Debra Steiner (right).
