Clean mud, catching fish you couldn’t see in the pond, and rescuing a gummy worm with a life jacket were among several children’s activities that Danville Child Development Center’s children do each day and were also experienced by attendees at February’s Business After Hours hosted by DCDC. Members were given a card when they walked into the event and a sticker added after they completed each of the activities. Those that completed each one and got all of their stickers were entered into a drawing for tickets to DCDC’s upcoming Dueling Pianos event. Members also had an opportunity to catch up with and meet others in the local business community, while also learning about the influence early childhood education plays in our future workforce. They also enjoyed some delicious food made specially for the event by the DCDC kitchen staff, as well as coffee from Java Momma.
Business After Hours provide regular opportunities to build business relationships while learning about the services offered by other Chamber members. The next Business After Hours is slated for Wednesday, March 18th at eXp Realty, 106 E Front St, Berwick. The 2020 Business After Hours schedule for the year is available on our website.
- Original Foundation Board Member Establishes Fund in Family Name
The Central Susquehanna Community Foundation is pleased to announce the creation of a new field of interest fund, established by an original Foundation board member. The Bittenbender-Henry Fund will provide grants to support community programs and projects benefiting residents of the Shickshinny and Northwest Area School District service area.
Freddie Bittenbender Henry is no stranger to the Community Foundation. As a member of the Foundation’s founding board of directors, she understood the way generous hearts can make a difference in improving local communities both now and in the future. Together with a small group of hospital board members, Freddie helped negotiate the sale of the Berwick Hospital to a for-profit organization, which created a $28 million endowment to forever benefit the greater Berwick area.
When the opportunity for family to honor her life and work arose, Freddie turned to the Foundation to meet her charitable goals and create the largest community impact. The Shickshinny and Northwest areas are near and dear to Freddie’s heart. Her desire was to support community engagement opportunities, local projects and nonprofits that help these residents. As a field of interest fund, the Bittenbender-Henry Fund will continue to serve this community in perpetuity by annually making grants in her family name.
“Freddie represents the quintessential philanthropist. Her connection with the Foundation began with its inception over 20 years ago. She helped to give our Foundation life and served as a role model and mentor to those of us brought onto the Board in its earlier years,” explains Holly Morrison, D.Ed., CSCF president and CEO. “We are excited to work with Freddie again as she creates a legacy through a fund that means a great deal to her and her family.”
Contributions can be made to this Fund online at csgiving.org (click Donate and search “Bittenbender”), or mail to the Central Susquehanna Community Foundation, Attn: BittenbenderHenry Fund, 725 West Front Street, Berwick, PA 18603.
The Central Susquehanna Community Foundation manages more than 280 charitable funds and makes grant investments throughout the region to improve the quality of life in the Central Susquehanna area. For more information, visit csgiving.org or call the Foundation at 1-866-454-6692 - Ongoing Commitment to Service Earns Agents 2019 Quality Service Pinnacle Award
Madison, NJ (Grassroots Newswire)– Century 21 Real Estate LLC recently recognized the following sales affiliates with the CENTURY 21 Quality Service Pinnacle Producer Award. The annual award is based on results from the CENTURY 21 Quality Service Survey (QSS) which is e-mailed to consumers immediately after the purchase or sale of a home. To earn the CENTURY 21 Quality Service Pinnacle Producer Award, an agent must receive completed customer surveys for at least 50 percent of their transactions surveyed from January 1 – December 31, with an average survey score of at least 95 percent or better for 2 consecutive years.
* Angela Young, of CENTURY 21 Covered Bridges Realty, Inc., of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, will receive a customized glass trophy, in addition to being recognized at the CENTURY 21 Global Conference.
* Dorothy Rhone, of CENTURY 21 Covered Bridges Realty, Inc., of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, will receive a customized glass trophy, in addition to being recognized at the CENTURY 21 Global Conference.
* Karen Roadarmel, of CENTURY 21 Covered Bridges Realty, Inc., of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, will receive a customized glass trophy, in addition to being recognized at the CENTURY 21 Global Conference.
* Renee Sewall, of CENTURY 21 Covered Bridges Realty, Inc., of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, will receive a customized glass trophy, in addition to being recognized at the CENTURY 21 Global Conference.
* Ruth A. Killian, of CENTURY 21 Covered Bridges Realty, Inc., of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, will receive a customized glass trophy, in addition to being recognized at the CENTURY 21 Global Conference.
* Theresa Krasucki, of CENTURY 21 Covered Bridges Realty, Inc., of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, will receive a customized glass trophy, in addition to being recognized at the CENTURY 21 Global Conference.
“The Quality Service Pinnacle Producer Award is an integral part of our brand’s commitment to excellence and recognizes their dedication to making each and every client interaction a positive one,” said Mike Miedler, chief executive officer of Century 21 Real Estate LLC. “They provide their clients with knowledge and advice related to their real estate transaction and offers them confidence during what may be the most significant purchase of a lifetime.”
About Century 21 Real Estate LLC
Century 21 Real Estate LLC is comprised of approximately 11,500 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices in 84 countries and territories worldwide with more than 131,000 independent sales professionals. Century 21 Real Estate has numerous websites to help answer specific consumer needs. They are century21.com, century21Global.com, commercial.century21.com, century21.com/finehomes, and century21espanol.com. Bloomsburg Children’s Museum Announces March 2020 Kids Programs
The Children’s Museum, 2 West Seventh Street, Bloomsburg is pleased to announce its programs for March 2020.Paint Me A Story: Hoo Hoo Who?
Tuesday, March 3; 1-2 p.m.
This Tuesday afternoon story time art-studio-mashup is a whole lot of fun for your little ones ages 2-6. Hands-on activities while exploring rotating themes are available on a walk-in basis, while supplies last. Free with Museum admission.Little Sprouts: March Madness
March Session: March 5, 12, 19, and 26, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Ages 2-6 and their caregivers will tumble and move, experiencing whole body motion through fun themes each week. Taught by Katie Rude of MomBoss Fitness. Four class session is $28 per family (same household); registration required.Girls Who Code
Thursday, March 5 and 19
4:30-5:30 p.m.
Girls Who Code is a FREE after-school program for 3rd-5th grade girls. Learn the concepts of loops, variables, conditionals and functions that form the basis for all programming languages. All while having fun and making friends!4th Annual High School Art Show Open House
Friday, March 6, opens at 5 p.m.
Talented young adult artists from area high schools will be showcased in this exclusive juried art exhibition. Photography, drawing, painting and collage are all part of the fun. Prizes awarded to top-scoring artists.First Lego League Expo
Friday, March 6, 5-6 p.m.
This year’s challenge is Boomtown Build. Kids will showcase their team projects they have been working on. We will also have LEGO activities and other area LEGO clubs. Discounted admission is $5.First Friday: Rock Painting
Friday, March 6, 5-6 p.m.
The first Friday of every month the Museum will be open until 7 p.m. Check out our First Friday Workshops from 5-6 p.m. Workshops are $2.00/per person plus Museum admission. Registration required.Music Together ® Family Classes
Demo Class Friday, March 6, 9:15-10 a.m.
This internationally recognized early childhood music and movement program is led by certified music teacher, Kerry Kenny. Music Together ® stimulates a love for music, movement, and learning in children ages new-born to kindergarten and the adults who love them. Music CD and songbook included. Registration required. Register at www.MusicTogetherofbloomsburg.com or email musictogetherofbloom@gmail.com.Preschool Discovery Days; Monthly on the first Saturday
March 7: Under the Sea, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
This monthly Saturday morning program is a whole lot of fun for your little ones ages 2-6. Hands-on activities exploring rotating themes are available on a walk-in basis, while supplies last. Free with Museum admission.Art Lab: Painted Rainbows and Shamrocks
Saturday, March 7, 11 a.m.-12 noon
A one-hour class exploring and introducing fine art techniques. Recommended for ages 6 and up. $6 per student plus Museum admission. Space is limited, register online today.Homeschool Hangouts
Wednesday, March 11 and 25, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Parent/child activities designed to complement concepts taught in homeschool curriculum, grades K-12. Topics include: Kitchen Chemistry, Lego Engineering, Healthy Hearts, Financial Fitness. Discounted admission for homeschool families.Panera Bakers in Training
Wednesday, March 11, 4:30 p.m.
During this fun-filled culinary experience, your child will try their hand at bread making by stretching and scoring a mini French baguette. They will also sample from Panera’s Clean Kids Menu, and decorate their own cookie with pro tips from Panera’s artisan bakers. Register online at the Bloomsburg Children’s Museum. Class is held at the Panera Bakery, 60 Plaza Drive, Bloomsburg. $25/child, includes chef’s hat, apron, tastings, and baking activity.Grossology Lab: Squid Dissection
Saturday, March 14
Session A: 10-11 a.m. and Session B: 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Ewww gross! Get hands-on with Bloomsburg University’s Biology Club for a one-hour dissection activity using real scientists’ equipment. Students will dissect a squid in this lab. Free with admission, registration required.National Pi Day
Saturday, March 14, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Join the Bloomsburg Children’s Museum for a celebration of Pi. Pi Day is an annual opportunity for math enthusiasts to recite the infinite digits of Pi, talk to their friends about math, and eat pie! Free with Museum admission.Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast
March 14, 8-10 a.m.
All you can eat pancake breakfast at Applebee’s in Bloomsburg benefiting the Bloomsburg Children’s Museum. $4.50 Child Ticket, $7.00 Adult TicketAmerican Girl Club
Monthly on the second Saturday, Saturday, March 14, 1-2:30 p.m.
Explore the world of American Girl characters at this monthly club with make-and-take crafts and games inspired by a character’s time in history. Bring a doll or stuffed animal to join the fun. $12/class or $40 for Spring Session.Explorer Club
Monthly on the 3rd Tuesday; March 17, 4:30 p.m.
Exploring Club is for boys and girls ages 10 –17 who are interested in learn-ing about exciting career choices through activities, guest speakers and field trips to take an in-depth look at a wide variety of careers. Exploring Club is run through the Boy Scouts of America’s Learning for Life. $140/student for the entire year. (No meetings in July and August)Two Dollar Tuesday
Tuesday, March 17, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Third Tuesday of the month, $2 admission all day. The Exchange will host hands-on Art Cart projects 10 a.m.-2 p.m.Peking Acrobats
Friday, March 20, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Join the Bloomsburg Children’s Museum at the Weis Center in Lewisburg for FREE pre-show activities. Peking Acrobats perform daring maneuvers atop a precarious pagoda of chairs and display their technical prowess at such arts as trick-cycling, precision tumbling, juggling, somersaulting, and gymnastics. For ticket information contact the Weis Center for the Performing Arts at Bucknell University.Scout Badge Program: Soldering
Saturday, March 21
Session A: 1-2 p.m. and Session B: 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Scouts will solder together a light sensing micro bot. Soldering procedure, safety, fixing mistakes, robot sensors, transistors, and resistors will be covered in the class. Registration includes a fun patch and materials for class.Kid Power Self Defense
Saturday, March 21
Session A: 10-11:00 a.m. and Session B: 11:15-12:15 p.m.
Students will get empowered by learning to use key phrases and “get away” moves based on martial arts. Taught by teen instructor, Erik Weibel, black belt in taekwondo and Karate with ten years of martial arts experience. Adults must stay at program with children under 12. $2 fee plus regular admission.Teddy Bear Clinic
Saturday, March 21, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
At The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum students will walk in the shoes of health professionals by guiding their teddy bear “patient” through a hospital/clinic experience. Students will become familiar with medical equipment, resolve common misconceptions about the healthcare environment and lay the groundwork for healthy choices. Free with Museum admission.Nerf Modifications
Fourth Saturday of the Month; March 28, 1-3 p.m.
Join the Museum for this NEW club! Modifying your Nerf blaster is a fun and interesting way to expand on your new hobby. When done safely, modding can be a fun lesson in physics and mechanics. $25.00 for the year, ages 8 and up. March meeting held at Bloomsburg Fairgrounds.HAK-4-KIDZ
Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Doors open at 9:30 a.m. Bloomsburg University is hosting their fifth annual BloomCON cyber security conference. To get kids in on the fun, The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum organized the Hak4Kidz event to coincide with the adult conference. Kids ages 7-17 are invited to attend kid-friendly presentations and activities on info security, electronics, programming and all kinds of hacks. An adult must attend with their child. Free t-shirt to the first 100 kids in attendance. Check https://bloomconhak4kidz.wordpress.com/ for updates.The Children’s Museum is a non-profit organization with a mission to enrich the lives of people in the 10-county region by fostering a lifelong love of learning through interactive programs and exhibits that bring out the imagination in every child and the child in every visitor. Museum hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.the-childrens-museum.org or call 570-389-9206 for more information.
With content provided by the PA Chamber of Business & Industry
A daily focus at the PA Chamber and Columbia Montour Chamber was a major theme in Governor Tom Wolf’s sixth state budget address in early February: workforce development.
In 2016, the PA Chamber’s statewide Workforce Development Survey confirmed what local employers have been saying for quite some time, that Pennsylvania’s jobs skills gap was holding the state’s employers and workers back from realizing their full economic potential. The PA Chamber and Columbia Montour Chamber have since been committed to improving the lines of communication among students, educators and business leaders and arming them with information about the skills and training needed to pursue in-demand jobs in the 21st century.
The PA Chamber is partnering directly with Gov. Wolf and a bipartisan contingent of lawmakers and stakeholders to tackle Pennsylvania’s workforce needs head-on – including the enactment of a first-of-its-kind ‘Clean Slate’ law that’s giving former low-level offenders a second chance to secure employment. Last fall, the governor signed a PA Chamber-backed measure — Act 76 of 2019 – with a number of workforce development reforms that expand information available to students and help them better prepare for their post-secondary education and training. And right now, the PA Chamber is advocating in favor of H.B. 1477, which would help to facilitate employment for people with prior criminal records by making it easier for them to obtain an occupational license and reenter and maintain employment.
With PA Chamber President Gene Barr serving as a co-chair on Gov. Wolf’s Economic Development and Workforce Command Center, there are a number of other solid workforce development solutions being discussed that will help build a workforce that’s not only equipped to compete in the global economy, but will encourage skilled workers to stay in PA. The Command Center’s recent report (link to: https://www.governor.pa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/20200127-Workforce-Command-Center-Annual-Report.pdf)– which was unveiled at a news conference at the state Capitol – has identified and is addressing five major barriers to employment in Pennsylvania: access to affordable childcare; job training or transportation; occupational licensing requirements; and challenges for those re-entering the workforce from the criminal justice system.
The Columbia Montour Chamber and its Foundation have a strong working relationship with the PA Chamber and communicate regularly on legislative and policy issues. In 2019, Foundation Director Jeff Emanuel met with other chambers from across Pennsylvania to share ideas on workforce challenges and strategies with PA Chamber staff. This spring, Fred Gaffney, Columbia Montour Chamber President, will be chairing the annual Chamber Day at the Capitol, which brings chambers from across the Commonwealth to Harrisburg to meet with Legislative and Administration officials to discuss issues of importance to business. Workforce will again be among the topics discussed.
Middle and high school students (with their parents), can spend an evening exploring career options at the 2020 Future Careers Expo and Parent Pathways Awareness Night. The Chamber’s Foundation is partnering with PA CareerLink and Central Pennsylvania Workforce Development Corporation to host this wonderful opportunity to introduce parents and middle and high school students to the variety of career pathways that exist for success in a future career. Employers can meet with students (and parents) and share information about the types of work that is done, and the jobs that are available. This is not intended to be a “job fair”, but an opportunity to inspire students to explore a career path.
The event will be held Tuesday, March 3rd from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Columbia Montour Area Vocational Technical School. Refreshments will be available.
Middle and high school students and their parents from at least eight area districts (Benton, Berwick, Bloomsburg, Central Columbia, Columbia Montour Vo-Tech, Danville, Millville, Southern Columbia) are invited to attend. The goal of this event is to educate students about the many great career opportunities in our area, including the types of industries available here, the skills and education needed for specific careers, and future job openings. Representatives will be present from healthcare, manufacturing, law enforcement, military, hospitality and more.
Register for the event at https://tinyurl.com/futurepathexpo no later than Wednesday, February 26. For questions or additional information, contact Jeff Emanuel at the Foundation at foundation@columbiamontourchamber.com or 570-784-2522.
Close to 430 businesses and organizations belong to the Chamber to receive benefits and support efforts to strengthen their businesses and the region. Increased membership allows the Chamber to offer additional programs and benefits, have a stronger voice in advocacy and be involved in more activities and initiatives. The Chamber welcomes The Good Insurance Group to help us fulfill our mission.
The Good Insurance Group is independently owned and locally operated to handle your insurance needs. They focus on the Bloomsburg and Berwick areas and offer a variety of insurance choices across Pennsylvania. To learn more, visit their website.
The Chamber wishes to sincerely thank all of the valuable contributors that helped make the 2020 Chamber Annual Meeting a successful and enjoyable event for its members and guests. It is the continued support of these businesses, organizations and individuals that helps the Chamber fulfill its mission of offering programs, benefits and events to its members, giving them a stronger voice and advocacy and being involved in more activities and initiatives in our communities.
Thanks to all of the sponsors of this year’s Annual Meeting.
Event Sponsor
PPL Electric Utilties
Small Business of the Year Award Sponsor
First Columbia Bank & Trust
Large Business of the Year Award Sponsor
DRIVE
Community Progress Award Sponsor
Atlantic Broadband
Outstanding Citizen Award Sponsor
Berwick Industrial Development Association
Dinner Sponsor
Commonwealth Health – Berwick Hospital Center
Hospitality Sponsors
Corporate Tables
Atlantic Broadband
Bloomsburg University
DRIVE
First Columbia Bank & Trust
Geisinger
M&T Bank
Marr Development
PPL Electric Utilities
SEKISUI
Service 1st Federal Credit Union
United Way of Columbia & Montour Counties
- Steinbacher,Goodall & Yurchak
Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak, an elder law firm with locations in Williamsport and State College, will offer a pair of upcoming free educational seminars at its Elder & Special Needs Resource Center, located at 401 Washington Blvd., Williamsport. Both are open to the public. On Tuesday, Feb. 25, from 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., will be “The Secret Strategy: Planning Tips for your Second Half of Life.” Attendees will learn about how to be best prepared for whatever changes your second half of life brings. Topics to be discussed include foundation documents that everyone needs, typical and atypical planning options, various stages of planning for asset protection, planning choices that could potentially save you thousands of dollars, and more.On Wednesday, March 11, from 1-2:30 p.m., will be “What’s in Your Pot o’ Gold? Trusts & Estate Planning 101.” In this seminar, attendees will learn the facts about trusts, including different types and how they are funded, the difference between revocable and irrevocable trusts, how a trust can affect taxes and probate, long-term planning for a person with a disability with a special needs trust, protecting inherited IRAs through trusts, and more. Both seminars will be presented by Brittany Smith, Esq., and Tammy Zilske, Long-Term Care Planner, Certified Medicaid Planner™, and Certified Dementia Practitioner®. To register for either seminar, call 570-322-2077, email, or visit online.
- Susquehanna Steam Electric Station Reports Record-Setting Generation for 2019
Station’s units generated record amounts of carbon-free energy while maintaining high levels of safety performance
Salem Township, Pa.– Susquehanna Nuclear, LLC reported that for the year 2019, Units 1 and 2 at Susquehanna Steam Electric Station (SSES) generated the highest amount of zero-carbon electricity in the history of the Station. Together, they produced a combined total of 20,919,285 net megawatt hours (MWhrs), breaking the 2017 generation record of 20,753,519 MWhrs – enough to power over two million homes.During this time, SSES also maintained its high levels of safety performance. “While boosting unit generation and run time, I’m extremely proud to report that Team Susquehanna did so with over a year of consecutive days of safe operation,” said Senior Vice President and Chief Nuclear Officer, Brad Berryman. “We will continue to strive to be ‘the best’ in all we do – from safety to performance and career development to community partnerships.”
In addition to the combined generation record, each unit at SSES set its own record. Unit 1 posted 11,080 MWhrs – the highest net production for either unit in the history of the Station – while Unit 2 achieved its highest net production of electricity for an outage year at 9,838 MWhrs. This is in addition to Unit 2’s record-setting breaker-to-breaker run of 712 continuous days, which concluded at the start of its biennial scheduled maintenance outage in March 2019.
About Susquehanna Steam Electric Station
Susquehanna Station, located about seven miles north of Berwick, Pennsylvania, is owned jointly by Susquehanna Nuclear LLC and Allegheny Electric Cooperative Inc. and is operated by Susquehanna Nuclear. Its two units generate approximately 2,500 megawatts of carbon-free electricity, enough to power two million homes. For information, visit www.susquehannanuclear.comSusquehanna Nuclear LLC is one of Talen Energy’s generating affiliates.
About Talen Energy
Talen Energy Corp. is one of the largest competitive power generation infrastructure companies in North America. The Company owns or controls approximately 15,000 megawatts of generating capacity in well-developed, structured wholesale power markets, principally in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Southwest regions of the United States. For more information, visit talenenergy.com. - Bloomsburg Children’s Museum- Volunteer Recruitment Fair
There will be a Volunteer Recruitment Fair on February 29 from 4-8 p.m. for people to come and learn about the many volunteer opportunities available at the museum.
The Museum hosts a number of large events, including: Bloomsburg Maker Faire, May the Force Be With You Day, Touch-A-Truck, Mini Petting Zoo, Butterflies Live, BloomCON Hak4Kidz, Dino Days, Superhero Saturday, Gingerbread Competition and Display, Middle/High School Science Fair and Turkey Day.
The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum serves 20,000 visitors annually, many of whom are served at reduced admission or for free. Each year, it provides more than 500 hours of educational programming. It is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Visit www.the-childrens-museum.org or call 570-389-9206 for more information.
Dramatic Reading of “Hercules” to take place at Weis Center
Theater of War Productions will present a dramatic reading of scenes from Madness of Hercules by Euripides on Thursday, February 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center. The reading will be followed by community panelist remarks, culminating in a guided audience discussion. The text was translated by Bryan Doerries. This is a free engagement and tickets are not required.
Hercules is an innovative project that presents dramatic readings by acclaimed actors of scenes from Euripides’ Madness of Hercules — an ancient Greek tragedy about an unthinkable act of violence committed by an angry man with an invincible weapon—as a catalyst for powerful conversations about the impact of violence upon individuals, families, and communities.
The project engages diverse audiences of concerned citizens, activists, students and survivors and perpetrators of gun violence, in powerful dialogue, with the goal of fostering compassion, understanding, awareness and positive action.The event is sponsored, in part, by the Dalal Fund for Creativity and Innovation, Bucknell University Department of Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies and Bucknell Humanities Center.
The readings will be directly followed by panelist remarks by the following community members:
- Benae Beamon: Visiting Assistant Professor of Women’s and Gender Studies at Bucknell University and an Artist
- Steve Barilar: Chief of Public Safety at Bucknell University
- Shari Jacobson: Associate Professor of Anthropology at Susquehanna University and local gun violence prevention advocate
- Student peers from Bucknell Speak UP
The community panelist remarks will be followed by a guided audience discussion, facilitated by Theater of War Productions’ Artistic Director, Bryan Doerries.
ABOUT THE READERS
Readers will include: Glenn Davis of The Unit, 24 and Jericho, David Patrick Kelly of Twin Peaks, The Warriors and O.G., Marjolaine Goldsmith of Compromise, If and After Words, and Bryan Doerries the Artistic Director of Theater of War.David Patrick Kelly is well known for crafting memorable roles in the films of Walter Hill, David Lynch, Wim Wenders, Spike Lee and Clint Eastwood, among others. He has performed some of the greatest roles in the classical canon on Broadway and at leading theatres throughout the United States. He was awarded a special OBIE for sustained excellence for his work in classical, avant-garde and new plays.
Marjolaine Goldsmith is a graduate of Oberlin College, with a degree in Classical Civilization. She is currently training at the Wynn Handman Studio in New York City and has recently been seen in The Three Musketeers and Henry IV, Part 1 at The Vineyard Playhouse, and in films such as If, Compromise, My First Boyfriend, Dress, and After Words. She is honored to serve as both an actor and company manager at Theater of War Productions.
Glenn Davis’ credits are extensive. On Broadway: Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo (Richard Rogers Theatre). Off-Broadway: Wig Out! (Vineyard Theatre). Regional: Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo (the Kirk Douglas Theatre and the Mark Taper Forum), The Brother/Sister Plays : The Brothers Size, In the Red and Brown Water, Marcus; Or the Secret of Sweet ; A Lesson Before Dying; The Bluest Eye (Steppenwolf Theatre); Caligula, Polaroid Stories, Vassa Zheleznova (Williamstown Theatre Festival); Wig Out! (Sundance Institute/Theatre Lab; Goodman Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare, Congo Square Theatre). International: Edward II, The Winter’s Tale, As You Like It (Stratford Shakespeare Festival). Television: “24”(FOX); “The Unit”(CBS); “Jericho”(CBS).
Bryan Doerries is a Brooklyn-based writer, director, and translator, who currently serves as Artistic Director of Theater of War Productions. A self-described evangelist for ancient stories and their relevance to our lives today, Doerries uses age-old approaches to help individuals and communities heal from trauma and loss. During his tenure at Theater of War Productions, the company has presented diverse projects across the United States and internationally. The company uses dramatic readings of seminal plays and community conversations to confront topics such as combat-related psychological injury, end-of-life care, police and community relations, prison reform, gun violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, the refugee crisis, and addiction. Doerries’ books include The Theater of War: What Ancient Greek Tragedies Can Teach Us Today, The Odyssey of Sergeant Jack Brennan, and a collection of his translations of ancient Greek Tragedies entitled All That You’ve Seen Here is God. Among his awards, he has received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Kenyon College, and in March 2017, he was named Public Artist in Residence (PAIR) for the City of New York, a joint appointment with the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services and Department of Cultural Affairs.
ABOUT THEATER OF WAR
Theater of War Productions presents community-specific, theater-based projects that address pressing public health and social issues. Theater of War Productions works with leading film, theater, and television actors to present dramatic readings of seminal plays—from classical Greek tragedies to modern and contemporary works—followed by town hall-style discussions designed to confront social issues by drawing out raw and personal reactions to themes highlighted in the plays. The guided discussions underscore how the plays resonate with contemporary audiences and invite audience members to share their perspectives and experiences, and, helping to break down stigmas, foster empathy, compassion, and a deeper understanding of complex issues.Theater of War Productions was co-founded in 2009 by Bryan Doerries and Phyllis Kaufman, who served as producing director from 2009 to 2016. Doerries currently serves as the company’s artistic director. Since its founding in 2009, Theater of War Productions has facilitated events for more than 100,000 people, presenting over 20 tailored programs targeted to diverse communities across the globe.
For more information about this free performance contact Lisa Leighton, marketing and outreach director, at 570-577-3727 or by e-mail at lisa.leighton@bucknell.edu.
For more information about the Weis Center for the Performing Arts, go towww.bucknell.edu/WeisCenter or search for the Weis Center on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.
Member businesses and individuals of The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce were recognized during the organization’s Annual Meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2020, at the Barn at Frosty Valley in Danville, and sponsored by PPL Electric Utilities.
More than 240 people attended the dinner meeting which celebrated outstanding member achievements, elected members to the Board of Directors, highlighted Chamber activities of the past year, and previewed the year ahead.
The Chamber’s five annual awards were presented to businesses and individuals for their significant contributions to the community. The following awards were presented to the following recipients:
Small Business of the Year
(Sponsored by First Columbia Bank & Trust)
Marr Development
Large Business of the Year
(Sponsored by DRIVE)
Atlantic Broadband
Nonprofit of the Year
(Sponsored by PNC Bank)
AGAPE
Community Progress Award
(Sponsored by Atlantic Broadband)
Frosty Valley Resort
Outstanding Citizen
(Sponsored by Berwick Industrial Development Association)
Lisa Makara, Geisinger Bloomsburg
The Small Business of the Year award is presented to a member business or organization of 30 employees or fewer than has done one or more of the following: demonstrated business or community leadership evidenced by diversification and creativity in the development of new products, services and/or markets; demonstrated staying power and positive response to adversity; or demonstrated community involvement.
Marr Development started by owning and operating rental properties just over 30 years ago. The company has grown and expanded its residential portfolio and added commercial development diversity including clinics to care-for-our-Veterans. Look for additional Marr projects at the Columbia County Business Park at the Lightstreet interchange.
They also offer a variety of professional services that include HVAC, general contracting, cleaning services, and property management.
Philanthropy is also an important part of the company’s activities. Marr Development gives to a variety of causes that include education, the arts, and children. The company continues to grow, diversify and expand, benefiting our area.
The Large Business of the Year Award, is presented to a business with 31 or more employees, and the criteria is the same as for the Small Business of the Year.
While Atlantic Broadband is known for its service in the region, with local offices, local customer service and local technical support, representing almost 90 local positions of employment, it also has been a leader in cutting-edge technology that has helped improve daily life for residences and businesses. These innovations include Enhanced WiFi, which utilizes advanced technology to deliver the best possible internet coverage and speeds. One gigabit per second internet powers the most data-intensive applications so that home and business users can surf, stream, download and work online on multiple devices simultaneously.
For businesses in the region, Atlantic Broadband has introduced Hosted Voice, a cloud-based phone system which provides enterprise-class phone features. The result is a communications service with the flexibility and capability to support businesses with five to 500 employees.
Atlantic Broadband expanded its Eastern Pennsylvania service region in 2019 into Union, Snyder, Mifflin, Huntingdon, Fulton and Bedford Counties, and into areas of Centre County in 2020.
Every year, the employees of Atlantic Broadband join together and volunteer their time to host the Giving Back 5K. The event, now in its 8th year, benefited local Veterans at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, through programs such as the Center’s Suicide Prevention Program, the Transition and Care Management Program and the Women Veterans Program. Proceeds from the 5K also supported the Summerhill Fire Company, Geisinger Health Foundation and Briar Creek Township Police Department.
The Community Progress Award goes to a member business or organization that showed improvement in the internal or external appearance of a commercial property through either new construction, renovation, restoration or remodeling, and completed that construction within the last three calendar years or by December 2018.
Following the purchase of Frosty Valley Country Club by The Liberty Group in August, 2017, the clubhouse was completely renovated and rebranded as The Iron Fork restaurant. The Iron Fork offers a causal dining experience with American-styled food, and features a full bar which highlights Pennsylvania craft breweries and distilleries.
The large barn near the clubhouse was previously used for maintenance and storage. The renovation into The Barn at Frosty Valley provides another much-needed venue for large events throughout the year. The Barn features an outdoor deck and a ground level patio. To facilitate large functions, a large, paved parking lot was added.
Plans are also moving forward to build a number of small cottages on the property, to accommodate guests for weddings and other special events.
The Outstanding Citizen Award is presented to an individual that is an employee or volunteer of a member organization who is involved in civic activities beneficial to the Columbia Montour region and who projects a positive community image.
Lisa Makara is employed by Geisinger and is involved in many activities that are very beneficial to the Columbia and Montour County area. When you say her name almost everyone in the region knows of her.
She has served with many non-profits through her role at Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, as well as volunteered her personal time.
A few of the many groups and committees she has served on include: the Coalition for Social Equity, Renaissance Jamboree, Head Start, the Dyslexia Center, Community Board for Emergency Preparedness, Past President of the Bloomsburg Kiwanis Club, North Mountain Art League, United Way fundraising committee and cabinet, Columbia County Alzheimers, Bloomsburg Area YMCA, Board of Danville State Hospital, Bloomsburg University Arts Council, March of Dimes, she works with Geisinger’s veterans program, and has served as a Chamber Ambassador for many years.
Lisa not only represents Geisinger’s motto of caring very well within the community, but has given of herself to help make our area a better place to live and work.
The Nonprofit of the Year Award is presented to a nonprofit organization with 100 or fewer employees that has provided diversified and creative aid to the Columbia Montour region utilizing business, personal, and community resources.
AGAPE has grown from a starting budget of zero in 2009 to a 2019 budget of $2.9 million- with three quarters of that number being food and household inventory items. In 2011, AGAPE was awarded the Humanitarian Award from the Alcoa Foundation. In 2017, it provided over two point three million dollars in total assistance.
And AGAPE’s mission isn’t just to help people get by, but to improve their situations. They offer counseling with budgeting and financial savings programs. Getting Ahead is a sixteen-week course designed to help clients better understand their situation and provide them with the tools and resources to become self-sufficient.
AGAPE’s reach has expanded within the region, offering a variety of events throughout the year. AGAPE Palooza is their annual anniversary celebration held in August, which brings together community organizations and citizens to learn about and support programs.
Through the dedication of employees, board members and volunteers, AGAPE is a transformational force in helping families with essential needs while encouraging them to build sustainable lives.
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that represents nearly 430 businesses and organizations from the Columbia and Montour region.
The 2020 – 2021 Board of Directors of The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce was announced at the organization’s Annual Meeting held on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at the Barn at Frosty Valley in Danville, and sponsored by PPL Electric Utilities.
The following individuals were elected to the Board of Directors:
Nominated to serve a 3-year term on the Chamber Board:
Renee Gerringer, Ronald McDonald House of Danville
Travis Petty, Lutz & Petty
Elaine Woodland, First Keystone Community Bank
Nominated to serve a 1-year term on the Chamber Board:
Lissa Bryan-Smith, Geisinger
Jim Micklow, Press Enterprise
Diana Verbeck, Danville Child Development Center
Nominated to serve as Chamber Officers:
Chair (2-year term) Dan Knorr, II, Bloomsburg University
Vice Chair Chris Stamatedes, PPL Electric Utilities
Treasurer Denise Stone, eXp Realty
Immediate Past Chair Karen Wood, Service 1st Federal Credit Union
President Fred Gaffney
Appointed by Board Chair for 1-year appointments:
Donna Coombs, Gordner Coombs Insurance
Tim Miller, USG
Josh Nespoli, Community Strategies Group
Members Leaving the Board:
Mark Gardner, M&T Bank
Sam Haulman, Service Electric Cablevision
George J. Hayden Inc. (Hayden Electric) is an award-winning electrical contracting company and service provider. In 2016, George F. Hayden, owner of George J. Hayden, Inc., along with his business partner, Usbaldo Trevino, acquired the Howard Organization, an electrical contractor and service provider located in Bloomsburg. Both companies have been in operation for more than 45 years.
Following the acquisition, the Howard Organization was renamed the Howard Company. For the past three years, the two companies have operated independently of each other, sharing resources to provide quality service to their valued customers. Hayden said that combining two entities will increase the strength of the operation and expand the company’s service area.
To learn more about Hayden Power Group, visit the company’s website.