I’m celebrating a few anniversaries in September. First, I begin my 10th year with Smart Business this month. It’s hard to believe that I’m approaching the decade mark with this publication and its predecessor magazines. Nonetheless, I find that I enjoy the work today every bit as much as I did when I came on board nine years ago.
I’m also marking my 16th anniversary as a journalist, and while the profession has taken its lumps in recent years, many of them deserved, I continue to consider it a privilege to work in a field I chose as a second career.
I’m beginning my fourth year as a co-host for “Pittsburgh Business & Technology Review,” a program produced and hosted by Neil Fogarty and broadcast on Pittsburgh’s public access channel PCTV. During that time, I’ve interviewed dozens of entrepreneurs and business leaders, and gained an appreciation for the job that my colleagues in the broadcast media do.
One of the most enjoyable relationships I’ve had over the years has been with the St. Barnabas CEO Leadership Conference, an event that Smart Business has chosen to sponsor for the past three years and one that I’ve enjoyed attending for many more. Just one of the rewards has been the privilege of serving on the event’s steering committee with a group of exceptionally bright, resourceful and gracious people.
This year’s event, “Against All Odds,” is scheduled for Sept. 12 and will focus on the success stories that have helped the region grow, often while facing handicaps that might have deterred less bold companies and entrepreneurs.
And speaking of handicaps, the event has added a golf outing this year as the afternoon activity. While the roster filled up fast, you may still be able to round out a foursome at Butler Country Club.
If you are a CEO or a second-in-command, you owe it to yourself to attend the St. Barnabas CEO Leadership Conference. You may still be able to register at http://www.stbarnabashealthsystem.com or by calling (724) 443-0700, ext. 258.
