I moved here six years ago- cannot believe it! I was skeptical moving from NYC but I immediately fell in love with it here.  During a recent lunch with one of my mentors whom I met six years ago, who resides locally, I was reminded of how long I've been here and much I've grown professionally and personally. My virtual, healthcare PR firm was opened immediately after I moved here (www.pascalecommunications.com) and I met the above mentioned mentor via a PR project that I was hired to do and we instantly clicked. She has since become a confidante because she has lots of kids like me, runs a rocking business and really has a great attitude about life in general. Being a female small business owner (or a male small business owner for that matter) always creates a challenge and a specific network has made me feel supported and understood in so many ways here in the ‘Burgh. I feel secure because one of my first friends understood me, welcomed me, and made time for me. The cultural, social and professional climate here made me want to excel even more at what I was doing. I constantly get renewed energy from the local organizations I work with because my philanthropic life is such an important part of my life. My business has thrived to a place where I was not so sure that it would in the beginning. I tell this mentor story because it is easier to connect with people here than it is in other cities that I've lived in, which is great. Take advantage of this awesome region- I might not wear black and gold EVERY day but I've become a fan of the region, the business climate and the networking possibilities....more to follow shortly about some recent new business wins...and how we won them...