Member News ~ August 21, 2025
American Red Cross Community Blood Drive at Berwick YMCA- August 22nd
The American Red Cross is holding a community blood drive in the gym of the Berwick YMCA located at 231 W 3rd St, Berwick, PA 18603, on August 22nd from 12:30 - 5 PM. To schedule an appointment at this blood drive, visit this website.
Ferry Street Growers Market Customer Appreciation Day - August 23rd
The Danville Business Alliance invites the community to celebrate Customer Appreciation Day at the Growers' Market on Saturday, August 23rd, at the market on Ferry Street from 8 AM to 12PM. This event will feature live music and each grower's special offering whether it be free samples or exclusive discounts. Visitors will also have the chance to enter to win a grower's basket full of local goodies. For more information, visit the Danville Growers’ Market on Ferry Street on Facebook.
North Central Sight Services Customer Support Center Ribbon & Open House - September 3rd
North Central Sight Services, Inc. is proud to announce the launch of its Customer Support Center. The Ribbon Cutting & Open House will take place on September 3rd from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at 2121 Reach Road in Williamsport. RSVP by calling 570-599-8678 or emailing JayH@ncsight.org.
Fishtival at Wild for Salmon - September 5th & 6th
Wild for Salmon is hosting the annual Fishtival Celebration to honor its fishing season in Bristol Bay, Alaska and to mark the return of premium wild caught sockeye salmon to the region. The event, which will take place of September 5th from 10 AM to 6 PM and September 6th from 10 AM to 3 PM at its store on Montour Boulevard in Bloomsburg, will feature free samples, special event-day discounts, children's activities, and live music. The event is free and open to the public.
DBA's Danville Heritage Festival - September 5th-7th
The Danville Business Alliance has planned a full weekend of fun in celebration of Danville's heritage. Click here to view the festival brochure.
SBDC's The First Step: Starting a Small Business in Pennsylvania (Webinar) - September 9th
The Wilkes University SBDC is offering a one-hour, no-cost webinar designed to answer the frequently asked questions of aspiring entrepreneurs on September 9th from 6-7 PM. Visit their website to register.
DCDC Fall Give Back Event - September 10th
The Danville Child Development Center will be hosting a Fall Give Back Event on September 4th from 5-7:30 PM. Join them at 420 W 5th Street, Bloomsburg PA for an evening full of great food, ice cream, live entertainment and more. Click here for more information.
Did You Miss Last Week's Member News? Here's News That's Still Timely
Central Susquehanna Opportunities hosting 1 year anniversary ribbon Cutting - September 4th
Join Central Susquehanna Opportunities for an anniversary ribbon cutting on September 4th at 3:00 p.m. The ribbon cutting will be held at the The Hub at Mulberry Mill, 160 West 6th, Bloomsburg.
Fall 2025 Accounting & Financial Services Expo at Commonwealth Bloomsburg
Meet students and potential hires from Commonwealth University Bloomsburg who are interested in careers in the Accounting, Financial Services and Banking industries. Students from all majors and class years are invited to attend, but the primary audience will be those majoring in Accounting, Finance and Economics. To have your business attend reach out to Darwin Kysor at 570-484-2181 or dkysor@commonwealthu.edu.
Bloomsburg Area YMCA hosting Trunk or Treat
The Bloomsburg YMCA is looking for businesses to join them for their October 24th Trunk or Treat as part of Boo!burg. Interested in joining them? Fill out their registration form here.
Bloomsburg’s ArtFest returns on August 23rd
The seventeenth annual ArtFest will take place on Saturday, the 23rd of August, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in its convenient, attractive, and shady location on Market Street in downtown Bloomsburg, from the monument down to past 3rd Street. ArtFest will showcase more than 50 artists’ original work, accompanied by seven hours of live music, local and regional food vendors, and fun and educational activities for people of all ages. Get more details here.
Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg Community Fair August 22nd
The CU Bloomsburg Community Fair provides an opportunity for new incoming students at Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg to meet and begin to build relationships with the leaders and organizations that are part of the local community. Click here to learn more.
Bringing the World to Central PA
On September 17th SEDA-COG will be connecting Central PA businesses to global markets. The Bringing the World to Central PA event will offer local companies a valuable chance to explore international markets and connect directly with more than 40 of Pennsylvania’s authorized trade representatives. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Brass 16823 in Bellefonte Registration for this event is required. Register by September 8th here.
PA Careerlink Awareness Day - September 10th
The event is open to meeting the business solutions team, connecting with job seekers, exploring workforce training, and accessing tools & resources. To learn more, click here.
Bloomsburg Children's Museum Announces August Programs
View their August Calendar Here
Candlewood Suites Grand Re-Opening Save the Date
Candlewood Suites invites you to save the date for their Grand Re-Opening on October 8th at 4:45.
Millville Mutual Insurance Launches Fundraiser
As part of Millville Insurance’s 150th anniversary, they are partnering with Geisinger Health Foundation to provide 500 specially designed Infusion Shirts to patients at Knapper Clinic. To Learn More click here.
Chamber Welcomes Kyra McKinnon, Marketing & Events Coordinator
Bloomsburg, PA – The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the hiring of Kyra McKinnon as its new Marketing & Events Coordinator. In this role, McKinnon will lead the Chamber’s marketing efforts, manage its digital presence, and plan and execute key events designed to connect members, foster community engagement, and strengthen the region’s economic vitality.
As Marketing & Events Coordinator, McKinnon will oversee promotional campaigns for the Chamber and its Foundation, produce engaging content for social media and print publications, and coordinate a wide range of signature events, including Business After Hours, the Holiday Open House, the Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony, Annual Golf Outing, the K-12 Educators’ Summit and more. She will also work closely with committees, volunteers, and community partners to ensure each initiative delivers value to members and aligns with the Chamber’s mission.
A native of Mifflinville, PA, Kyra is a magna cum laude graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville who holds a B.S. in Marketing and who is currently pursuing her MBA in Leadership. Her professional background includes impactful roles with Journey Bank and Katie Humphreys Marketing Boutique, where she developed creative, brand-focused content for a range of clients.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kyra to the Chamber team,” said Chris Berleth, President of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce. “Her creativity, attention to detail, and proven track record in marketing and event coordination will be a tremendous asset to our members and the community. We’re excited about the unique skillset that she brings to the Chamber team, along with her genuine passion for building connections. I’m confident she will help us expand the impact of the Chamber in our region and beyond.”
In June, the Chamber and its Foundation announced a plan that outlined an operational shift designed to improve organizational efficiencies. Ms. McKinnon’s hiring marks the first step in that plan.
Outside of her professional work, McKinnon enjoys musical theatre, photography, graphic design projects, exploring coffee shops, and spending time outdoors.
For more information about the Chamber’s programs and events, visit www.columbiamontourchamber.com.
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The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce represents local employers in support of vibrant, sustainable communities in Columbia and Montour Counties.
Hiring in a Tight Market: Your Local Playbook for Finding and Keeping Great People
Source: Kyle Sexton
- Why it matters: In a tight hiring market, top candidates disappear fast... sometimes within days. Small businesses can win by acting quickly and tapping into local networks.
The advantage: Local employers can decide faster, offer flexibility, and connect with candidates on a personal level.
How to do it: Post jobs where your community gathers, partner with schools, and reward employee referrals.
Don’t stop at hiring: Recognize contributions, offer skill growth, and create a workplace people want to stay in.
The bottom line: Speed + relationships = a strong, loyal team in any labor market
When the job market tightens, the best candidates disappear fast, sometimes in days, or hours. You might see a great résumé come in on Monday and find out by Wednesday they’ve already accepted another offer. In a market like that, slow hiring isn’t just risky — it’s a dealbreaker. The advantage for small, owner-operated businesses? You can move quicker, decide faster, and connect with people in a way big companies often can’t. You’re not just offering a job; you’re offering a place where someone can belong.
The Current Local Hiring Landscape
Right now, almost every “Help Wanted” sign in town is competing for the same small group of job seekers. Large employers might have fancier recruitment ads, but they also have layers of approval and corporate processes that slow things down. Local businesses can spot a great fit and make an offer in days instead of weeks. That speed, paired with a personal, community-focused culture, can tip the scales in your favor.
Where to Source Candidates Locally
The best hires aren’t always scrolling national job boards. They might be the student you meet at a Chamber mixer, the barista who remembers your order, or the neighbor whose cousin is looking for work. Go where people already gather: coffee shop bulletin boards, community Facebook groups, Chamber events. Build real relationships with local schools and training programs so you’re top of mind when they have graduates ready to work. And don’t forget your team’s networks: a good employee referral can bring you someone who already shares your values.
Retention Tips That Work for Small Teams
Hiring fast is important, but keeping people takes steady attention. Flexibility is one of the biggest advantages you can offer — whether that’s letting a parent leave early for a school event or working around a student’s class schedule. Small, thoughtful gestures like public thank-yous, a shared lunch, or a local gift card can make people feel seen and appreciated. And when you cross-train employees, you’re not just filling skill gaps — you’re showing them they have a future with you.
A Local Case Study
Consider a local retailer who hired a high school senior for weekend shifts. She could have been just another seasonal hire, but the owner saw potential and trained her in inventory, merchandising, and customer service. Within a year, she was running weekend operations and turning down offers from bigger stores. All because the owner acted quickly and invested early.
Quick-Start Checklist for This Month
- Post your job in at least three local spots.
- Reach out to a school or training program.
- Refresh and promote your referral bonus.
- Plan one new way to recognize your team.
- Tell people you’re hiring at your next Chamber event.
The Bottom Line
When talent is scarce, every day matters. Small businesses that know where to look, move quickly, and create a place people want to stay will come out ahead. It’s not just about filling jobs — it’s about building a team that grows with you and strengthens the community along the way.
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The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC.
Navigating The New Tax Law: What Small Businesses Need To Know
Source: US Chamber
The recently enacted “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” includes substantial tax reforms to support the growth of small businesses. Small business owners can take advantage of these tax breaks starting now for expenses dating back to January 20, 2025.
This guide outlines the most impactful provisions of the law, including permanent deductions, enhanced credits, and expanded eligibility criteria. It provides clear, step-by-step instructions to help business owners navigate the changes and optimize their tax strategies. Download the guide or read below to learn more.
1. Permanently Claim the 20% Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction
Who qualifies:
Sole proprietors, partners, and S corporation shareholders.
What to do:
Calculate your qualified business income (QBI) for the year. Deduct 20% of your QBI on your federal tax return every year—this deduction is now permanent. If your QBI deduction is low, check your eligibility for the new inflation-adjusted minimum deduction (at least $400). If you were previously ineligible for the deduction, determine whether changes to the phase-in of existing limitations make your business eligible.
Action item:
Work with your accountant or tax professional to determine your eligibility and claim the maximum deduction each year.
2. Immediately Deduct Qualifying Research & Experimental (R&E) Expenses
Who qualifies:
Businesses with domestic R&E spending, especially those with average annual gross receipts of $31 million or less.
What to do:
Track your U.S.-based R&E expenses each year. Deduct 100% of your qualifying R&E expenses this year on your 2025 tax return. If your annual gross receipts average $31 million or less, you may apply this benefit retroactively for tax years 2022–2024.
Action item:
Review past returns with your tax professional to seek retroactive refunds if eligible.
3. Leverage Increased Section 179 Expensing
Who qualifies:
Small businesses making new equipment or software purchases.
What to know:
The new tax law more than doubles the maximum amount that a small business may immediately deduct (expense) under section 179 to $2.5 million. The expensing limit phases out for purchases that exceed $4 million. Both thresholds are indexed for inflation beginning in 2026
Action item:
Consider accelerating or increasing purchases of machinery, software, or other qualifying property to maximize this deduction.
4. Take Advantage of Enhanced Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) Exclusion
Who qualifies:
Individuals and other non-corporate investors in qualifying C corporations.
What to do:
Invest in the stock of qualifying small C corporations, the definition of which was expanded by the new law. Hold the stock for more than five years to exclude an even greater amount of capital gain realized on its sale or exchange.
Action item:
Consult your tax advisor when planning such equity investments or dispositions.
5. Maximize the Enhanced Employer-Provided Child Care Credit
Who qualifies:
All businesses providing employee child care; expanded benefits for small businesses (gross receipts ≤ $31 million for 2025).
What to do:
Claim a tax credit of up to $500,000 and up to 40% of qualified child care expenses. If your business qualifies as “small,” claim up to $600,000 and 50% for expenses. Pool resources with other businesses or use third-party providers to offer child care.
Action item:
Evaluate options for providing or expanding employee child-care benefits or programs; coordinate with nearby businesses if pooling is an option.
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The Columbia Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike.
How to Implement a Modern Benefits Strategy
Source: My Benefit Advisor
To design a benefits package that truly meets the needs of younger employees, organizations must first gather insights from their workforce. Conducting anonymous employee benefits surveys provides valuable data on what employees value the most. Regular pulse checks every six months ensure that the company stays aligned with evolving expectations.
Once a company understands what its employees want, the next step is to offer a flexible benefits platform. Modern HR technology allows employees to personalize their benefits by choosing from a variety of options that fit their lifestyles. A growing number of organizations are adopting a “choose-your-own-benefits” approach, where employees receive an allowance to allocate toward the benefits that matter most to them.
Communication is key to ensuring employees take full advantage of the benefits available to them. Many companies find success by hosting webinars, sending internal newsletters, and holding HR-led meetings to explain benefit offerings. Creating clear, easy-to-read guides helps employees maximize the value of their benefits.
Employers should also track how well their benefits programs are working by analyzing utilization rates. Using HR analytics, companies can measure employee engagement with different benefits and make necessary adjustments based on real-time data. Regularly updating offerings based on feedback and industry trends ensures that benefits remain competitive and effective in retaining talent.
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The Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3536.
This e-mail is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender by replying to the sender. After notifying the sender of the error, you should immediately delete this e-mail from your system. Please be aware that any unauthorized disclosure, dissemination, distribution, duplication or use of the e-mail contents or any attachments therein is strictly prohibited.
Member News ~ August 14, 2025
Susquehanna Valley Kids Releases Back to School Guide
With the first day of school just around the corner, Susquehanna Valley Kids has made it easy to get ready for the 2025 school year. Explore the guide here.
Lily's House hosting Dog Days of Summer Event
Join Lily's House for a Clear the Shelters event on August 16th from 9:00 - 3:30. There will be food, drinks, and local vendors. Check out their Facebook Page for all the details.
Geisinger Hosting Hernia Screening Event on August 21st
Join Geisinger for a free hernia screening and info session - a no pressure way to find out if you might have one and how to treat it. There will be two sessions to choose from. Click the to learn more and to register.
Central Susquehanna Opportunities hosting 1 year anniversary ribbon Cutting - September 4th
Join Central Susquehanna Opportunities for an anniversary ribbon cutting on September 4th at 3:00 pm. The ribbon cutting will be held at the The Hub at Mulberry Mill, 160 West 6th, Bloomsburg.
McKonly & Asbury Named One of Accounting Today’s 2025 Best Accounting Firms to Work For
McKonly & Asbury, a trusted accounting, consulting, and tax advisory firm serving the Mid-Atlantic business community, is proud to announce that it has once again been named one of Accounting Today’s 2025 Best Accounting Firms to Work For. This marks the firm’s 10th appearance on the prestigious list, which recognizes the top workplaces in the accounting profession nationwide. Learn more.
Fall 2025 Accounting & Financial Services Expo at Commonwealth Bloomsburg
Meet students and potential hires from Commonwealth University Bloomsburg who are interested in careers in the Accounting, Financial Services and Banking industries. Students from all majors and class years are invited to attend, but the primary audience will be those majoring in Accounting, Finance and Economics. To have your business attend reach out to Darwin Kysor at 570-484-2181 or dkysor@commonwealthu.edu.
Service 1st Federal Credit Union Assists in Hosting Financial Reality Fairs for Pennsylvania Students
Throughout July, Service 1st Federal Credit Union partnered with the Foundation for Free Enterprise Education and PALCO Federal Credit Union to host five financial reality fairs at Lycoming College and Penn College for Pennsylvania students. Learn more.
Local Mom Receives Unexpected Gift Through United Way’s Give & WIN Sweepstakes
Each year, the Give & WIN Sweepstakes encourages donors to support United Way’s Annual Campaign by entering them into a drawing for a two-minute shopping spree. Read full press release here.
Focus Central PA has released Q2 2025 Industrial Market Report
Lee & Associates of Eastern Pennsylvania and Focus Central PA have partnered to provide greater clarity on North Central Pennsylvania’s industrial market. Get full press release here.
Bloomsburg Area YMCA hosting Trunk or Treat
The Bloomsburg YMCA is looking for businesses to join them for their October 24th Trunk or Treat as part of Boo!burg. Interested in joining them? Fill out their registration form here.
Did You Miss Last Week's Member News? Here's News That's Still Timely
Bloomsburg’s ArtFest returns on August 23rd
The seventeenth annual ArtFest will take place on Saturday, the 23rd of August, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in its convenient, attractive, and shady location on Market Street in downtown Bloomsburg, from the monument down to past 3rd Street. ArtFest will showcase more than 50 artists’ original work, accompanied by seven hours of live music, local and regional food vendors, and fun and educational activities for people of all ages. Get more details here.
Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg Community Fair August 22nd
The CU Bloomsburg Community Fair provides an opportunity for new incoming students at Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg to meet and begin to build relationships with the leaders and organizations that are part of the local community. Click here to learn more.
Bringing the World to Central PA
On September 17th SEDA-COG will be connecting Central PA businesses to global markets. The Bringing the World to Central PA event will offer local companies a valuable chance to explore international markets and connect directly with more than 40 of Pennsylvania’s authorized trade representatives. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Brass 16823 in Bellefonte Registration for this event is required. Register by September 8th here.
PA Careerlink Awareness Day - September 10th
The event is open to meeting the business solutions team, connecting with job seekers, exploring workforce training, and accessing tools & resources. To learn more, click here.
GREENWOOD FRIENDS SCHOOL TO OFFER FREE SUMMER
READING PROGRAM
Greenwood Friends School is thrilled to announce they will be offering a free Summer Reading Program on Tuesday mornings at 11am to children and family members in the community. The dates for the program are July 1, 8, 22 & 29 and August 12 & 19. Story time to begin at 11am in the school’s library. After the story, participants are invited to enjoy a leisurely lunch with friends on the playground. Please bring a packed lunch. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax, connect with others, and make new friends while enjoying the sunshine.
Bloomsburg Children's Museum Announces August Programs
View their August Calendar Here
Candlewood Suites Grand Re-Opening Save the Date
Candlewood Suites invites you to save the date for their Grand Re-Opening on October 8th at 4:45.
Millville Mutual Insurance Launches Fundraiser
As part of Millville Insurance’s 150th anniversary, they are partnering with Geisinger Health Foundation to provide 500 specially designed Infusion Shirts to patients at Knapper Clinic. To Learn More click here.
Singing and Scorecards: How We Track What Matters
by Taryn Crayton, Director of Member Engagement
We sing at the Chamber office.
A lot.
Not in an “official choir” kind of way—more like spontaneous bursts of Broadway, pop, and whatever else gets stuck in our heads (not to mention we all have our very own theme song, but more on that another day).
Someone mentions the Chamber map? Boom—instant Dear Evan Hansen moment: “Does Anybody Have a Map?” We walk back in from a meeting? Cue Hamilton: “What’d I Miss?” And when we’re crunching information for the monthly Chamber dashboard… well, Janet Jackson’s “What Have You Done for Me Lately?” basically becomes our theme song.
It’s silly, sure, but those little musical moments keep our energy up, bring smiles on even the busiest days, and help us stay connected as a team. Singing isn’t just noise—it’s morale magic.
Now back to Janet Jackson...you might be thinking, Okay, but what’s this dashboard thing you keep singing about?
Glad you asked!
Our Chamber dashboard is a monthly scorecard that shows exactly where we’ve been spending our time in our five main focus areas. Every month, we huddle up, review what we’ve done, and make sure our efforts match what our members actually need. It’s our way of staying organized, staying on track, and staying accountable—to you.
And because we believe in transparency (and maybe because we’re a little proud of what we accomplish), we share the dashboard with you too.
This month, I’m inviting you to check out the July Dashboard. You can always find it on our website, and starting now, we’ll drop the link in the Wednesday EBiz once it’s updated. Take a peek, see what we’ve been up to, and if you’ve got questions—or a song suggestion for our next office jam session—reach out and let us know.
Budget Talks Remain Stalled as Key Issues Still Unresolved
Source: PA Chamber of Business and Industry
More than two months after the June 30 budget deadline, state lawmakers have yet to finalize a spending plan. Major policy and funding disagreements continue to delay progress, with both sides holding firm to their respective priorities while negotiations continue behind closed doors.
Talks remain stuck on several key issues, including overall spending, long-term fiscal sustainability, new transportation funding, and competing education proposals. Without a budget in place, Pennsylvania’s school districts, higher education institutions, and public transit agencies all remain in fiscal limbo heading into the fall.
In the most recent development, the House advanced legislation to boost state aid for mass transit and road and bridge projects, though this legislation is reportedly not a product of compromise, and therefore its prospects are unclear.
The House Transportation Committee voted 16-10 last Wednesday to advance House Bill 1788, with Reps. Shelby Labs (R-Bucks) and K.C. Tomlinson (R-Bucks) joining Democrats in support. On Sunday night, the House Appropriations Committee voted 22-15 along party lines to send the proposal to the full chamber. Earlier that evening, the House Rules Committee voted 19-14 to advance the bill, with Rep. Martina White (R-Philadelphia) joining Democrats in support. The House passed the bill today by a 108-95 vote.
The bill would increase the share of state sales tax revenue allocated to the Public Transportation Trust Fund and authorize bonding for road and bridge projects. SEPTA and Pittsburgh Regional Transit would be subject to performance benchmarks, with the potential loss of funding if targets aren’t met.
The PA Chamber has long stressed that a modern, multimodal transportation network — including reliable public transit — is essential for workforce mobility, customer access, and overall regional connectivity. Access to transit helps businesses attract and retain employees, connect with customers, and strengthen economic competitiveness across Pennsylvania.
Still, the bill’s path forward is uncertain. Senate Republican leaders have criticized the proposal’s use of sales tax revenue, warning it could crowd out other priorities like hospitals and education.
Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward dismissed the bill as a political maneuver, while Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman expressed continued optimism that a consensus budget deal can be reached — though he declined to comment on the House bill directly.
Broader negotiations remain complicated by split control of the legislature: Democrats hold a narrow majority in the House, while Republicans control the Senate. Each chamber has advanced different budget frameworks. Gov. Shapiro has urged lawmakers to return to session more frequently to bridge the divide.
Last week, Ward again raised the possibility of a six-month or stopgap budget to keep funds flowing while talks continue. But until an agreement is reached, state agencies like the Department of Education face delayed payments, and public transit systems are preparing contingency plans. SEPTA and Pittsburgh Regional Transit have both warned of significant service cuts if additional state funding is not approved soon.
As negotiations stretch into August with no clear resolution in sight, the PA Chamber will continue engaging with lawmakers and the administration to encourage a responsible, growth-oriented budget agreement that supports economic competitiveness and long-term stability.
Founded in 1916, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state's largest broad-based business association, with its membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of BusinessTM.
Regional Sourcing Turns Local Partnerships into Lasting Advantages
- Local sourcing brings speed, quality, and deeper connections.
- Being nearby means more control and faster problem-solving.
- Investing locally builds community goodwill and brand trust.
- Start small today—test one item with a local partner.
579 words ~ 3 min. read
Sometimes the best way to grow your business isn’t about going bigger—it’s about going closer.
More companies are finding that partnerships with local suppliers aren’t just about where products come from—they shape how quickly a business can move, how closely it can control quality, and how much value it can create for customers and community.
Speed You Can See
When your suppliers are nearby, orders arrive while the ink on your sales order is still drying. Questions get answered before lunch. Product tweaks happen in days, not months. That kind of responsiveness means you can serve customers better and seize opportunities while they’re still fresh.
A Front-Row Seat to Quality
Working locally lets you see the process up close. You can step onto the production floor, smell the freshly cut materials, and shake hands with the people bringing your products to life. This connection makes it easier to uphold high standards, solve issues before they snowball, and create offerings you’re proud to stand behind.
Partnerships That Feel Personal
Local sourcing often turns into more than a transaction—it becomes a relationship. When your vendor is a short drive away, you’re not just an invoice; you’re a partner. That trust leads to creative solutions, extra care during busy seasons, and a shared investment in each other’s success.
An Investment in Your Community
Dollars spent locally ripple outward—supporting jobs, other small businesses, and local services. Customers notice when you make that choice, and it often strengthens loyalty. People like to buy from businesses that invest where they live, and they remember it.
A Story Worth Sharing
More customers want to know where their purchases come from. Being able to say, “We work with suppliers right here in our region,” isn’t just a point of pride—it’s a story people tell each other, and it builds trust faster than any marketing campaign.
Your First Step
Making the shift doesn’t have to mean rewriting your whole supply chain. This week, pull up your purchase list and choose one product or service to source locally. Make a call, ask a few questions, and see how quickly a handshake can turn into a partnership. Once you’ve tested the waters, you can decide where else local sourcing fits.
The Bottom Line
Local sourcing is about more than cutting costs—it’s about speed, quality, trust, and connection. It helps you deliver faster, control outcomes better, and strengthen your brand’s story.
Global trade can move mountains, but local sourcing moves at the speed of trust—and that’s the kind of supply chain that lasts.
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The Columbia Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike.
Member News ~ August 7, 2025
Service 1st’s 2025 Charity Duck Derby Winners Announced
Service 1st Federal Credit Union held their Annual Charity Duck Derby Saturday, August 2, raising $20,000 to benefit two local organizations! Check out winners here.
Local Christian Baker Insurance Agent Recognized
John D. Yoder, Commercial Insurance Adviser and Christian Baker Co. of Central PA was recently awarded the designation of Certified Professional Insurance Agent (CPIA), a professional designation conferred by the CPIA Program Office. See full press release here.
Women's Giving Circle Awards 2025 Grants
On July 29th, the Women's Giving Circle held their annual meeting and awarded 4 grants. $10,000 grant recipient: The Gate House—The Bridge for Her, $10,000 grant recipient: Winterspring Sanctuary—Equine-Assisted Mental Health for Women and Girls at The Women's Center Inc, $500 grant recipient: AGAPE—The W.I.N. Project (Women in Need), and $500 grant recipient: Bloomsburg Children's Museum—Hope Beyond the Basics: A Safe Haven for Healing, Learning, and Leading. Learn more about the Women's Giving Circle.
PPL Electric Utilities Business Energy Efficiency Program
Invests in Mission to Attract Economic Growth in Central PA
PPL Electric Utilities’ Business Energy Efficiency Program is contributing an additional $1,000 in 2025 to support Focus Central Pennsylvania’s mission. Learn more here.
Ronald McDonald House of Danville Seeking Volunteers
The Ronald McDonald House of Danville is recruiting groups of volunteers to assist with concessions at the Little League World Series, August 13-24. Volunteers must complete a background check. Uniform shirts and badges will be provided, and volunteers are encouraged to come early or stay late to catch a game! Please reach out to Molly Shaw for details: mshaw@rmhdanville.com
Atlantic Culinary of Danville works on West Coast Project
Hollenbeck Palms, the first senior living community established in Los Angeles, worked with Atlantic Culinary Environments to reimagine their dining experience and elevate the sense of hospitality at the facility. The revitalized spaces now serve as a social hub, where residents gather not just to dine, but to connect and feel at home. To see a tour of the completed space, click here.
Bloomsburg’s ArtFest returns on August 23rd
The seventeenth annual ArtFest will take place on Saturday, the 23rd of August, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in its convenient, attractive, and shady location on Market Street in downtown Bloomsburg, from the monument down to past 3rd Street. ArtFest will showcase more than 50 artists’ original work, accompanied by seven hours of live music, local and regional food vendors, and fun and educational activities for people of all ages. Get more details here.
Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg Community Fair August 22nd
The CU Bloomsburg Community Fair provides an opportunity for new incoming students at Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg to meet and begin to build relationships with the leaders and organizations that are part of the local community. Click here to learn more.
Did You Miss Last Week's Member News? Here's News That's Still Timely
Bucknell SBDC Grow With Google Bootcamp
StartUp Lewisburg, 416 Market St, Lewisburg
Tuesday, August 13 at 12:00 PM
Learn how to use AI-powered Google tools to grow your business and improve your online visibility. https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/32580
Bringing the World to Central PA
On September 17th SEDA-COG will be connecting Central PA businesses to global markets. The Bringing the World to Central PA event will offer local companies a valuable chance to explore international markets and connect directly with more than 40 of Pennsylvania’s authorized trade representatives. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Brass 16823 in Bellefonte Registration for this event is required. Register by September 8th here.
PA Careerlink Awareness Day
The event is open to meeting the business solutions team, connecting with job seekers, exploring workforce training, and accessing tools & resources. To learn more, click here.
GREENWOOD FRIENDS SCHOOL TO OFFER FREE SUMMER
READING PROGRAM
Greenwood Friends School is thrilled to announce they will be offering a free Summer Reading Program on Tuesday mornings at 11am to children and family members in the community. The dates for the program are July 1, 8, 22 & 29 and August 12 & 19. Story time to begin at 11am in the school’s library. After the story, participants are invited to enjoy a leisurely lunch with friends on the playground. Please bring a packed lunch. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax, connect with others, and make new friends while enjoying the sunshine.
Bloomsburg Children's Museum Announces August Programs
View their August Calendar Here
Candlewood Suites Grand Re-Opening Save the Date
Candlewood Suites invites you to save the date for their Grand Re-Opening on October 8th at 4:45.
CISPA Ribbon Cutting at Bloomsburg Middle School
You're Invited! Join us as we celebrate the launch of Communities In Schools of Pennsylvania programming at Bloomsburg Middle School and Memorial Elementary School! The Ribbon Cutting will take place on August 8th at 11AM.
Millville Mutual Insurance Launches Fundraiser
As part of Millville Insurance’s 150th anniversary, they are partnering with Geisinger Health Foundation to provide 500 specially designed Infusion Shirts to patients at Knapper Clinic. To Learn More click here.