On Friday, March 14, the CEO Association hosted an economic development luncheon at Southpointe Golf Club featuring comments by Washington County Commissioners John Bevec,
J. Bracken Burns and Diana Irey. All three commissioners stated that, despite uncertain economic times, Washington County will continue to position itself as a center for economic growth. “We are in a position now to move forward in the new century,” said Bevec. The commissioners outlined a number of their plans to pursue opportunities for economic growth, including the Western Center land. Washington County is positioned to purchase the more than 250 acres of Western Center property from the state, which should happen by June 30. The plan for the property includes a mix
of office, residential and commercial space to complement Southpointe. Because of the economic downturn, Irey said, modifications may need to be made to the plan. “This is a tremendous plan
and it should be executed as closely as possible,” said Irey.

On Thursday, April 17, the Association hosted a breakfast featuring Dr. Angelo Armenti, President
of California University of PA, and Kent “Teke” Tekulve, Director of Baseball Operations for the Washington Wild Things. Dr. Armenti, a former physics professor, authored The Physics of Sports. To coincide with the upcoming baseball season, he explained the physics of the curve ball. He demonstrated the Bernoulli Principle, which accounts for why spinning baseballs dip, curve, rise,
etc. Teke Tekulve, perhaps the most famous Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher of all time, said he appreciated the explanation after all these years. Teke also “pitched” the upcoming Wild Things season. He pointed out that the Wild Things averaged 3,500 attendees per game and attributed
their inaugural season’s success to the enthusiasm of the team and the affordability of tickets. He stressed that the support received from Washington County business sponsors and fans helps
keep ticket prices affordable. The Wild Things are proud to call Washington County home.