Member News – February 7, 2024

February 5, 2024

Member News – February 7, 2024

Wondering How to get to the Chamber Now that we have moved?

Service Electric Cablevision Continues Fiber to Home Deployments

Service Electric Cablevision, is excited to announce it has completed deploying Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) to residents in a Columbia County network expansion area in Mount Pleasant Township. Read all the details here.

Nominate Your Favorite! What's the Coolest Thing Made in PA?

It’s back! Last year, the PA Chamber ran its inaugural, wildly fun “Coolest Thing Made in PA” competition. What made-in-PA item do you think is the “Coolest Thing Made in PA?” Nominations are being accepted until February 14. Your submission can be something you love to eat or drink, a product that’s been long-associated with Pennsylvania manufacturing, an item that’s new to the tech start-up field – it just has to be made here, in the Keystone State. Submit your nomination today.

T-Ross Brothers announces new Hire

T-Ross Brothers Construction is thrilled to announce the addition of Steve Chiado to our team as the new Sales Estimator/Project Manager. Steve, a native of Bloomsburg, is a proud alumnus of Bloomsburg High School. His academic journey in Civil Engineering led him to the University of Pittsburgh, marking the beginning of a notable career in the industry. Welcome Steve!

Empower Your Community: Volunteer with Bloomsburg YMCA

Join the Bloomsburg YMCA in making a difference! They are on the lookout for dedicated volunteers to contribute to our vibrant community. Reach out to Collin at cbenfield@bloomsburgy.org to get involved and be a part of positive change.

Focus Central PA hosting Forum

Focus Central PA will be hosting an Industrial Development Forum on March 13, 2024. The forum will be held at Commonwealth University- Bloomsburg. Learn more on their website and check out the flyer.

Susquehanna Valley United Way's Annual Kindness Campaign is Back!

Join SVUW for Kindness Week, Feb. 12-16! This year’s themes are Kind is the New Cool, Be Kind to all Kinds, Random Acts of Kindness, Be Kind to Your Mind, and Celebrate Kindness. Learn more about Kindness Week.

Cheers to a Printing Pioneer: Celebrating Kenny Schakel's

After an impressive 12-year journey with TKO Graphix and a remarkable 45-year career, Kenny bids farewell to the world of printing. Here's to Kenny, wishing him a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement!

BIDA Semi-Annual Wage Survey

BIDA is conducting a job & wage survey. Your input would be appreciated. They will share the final report with everyone who participated. If you would like more information please do not hesitate to contact them at 570-752-3612. Start the survey here.

Weis Center February Performances

Research Study participants needed

Research Participants needed for a study conducted by the Exercise Science Department of Bloomsburg University. It is a wrist worn heart rate study and participants should be between 30 - 60. They will need to attend 1 exercise visit to 113 Centennial Hall. Contact Dr. Joseph Andreacci for more information!

All Abilities Night at the Bloomsburg Children Museum

Join the Bloomsburg Children's Museum for a fantastic All Abilities Night at the Bloomsburg Children's Museum on Friday, March 15th! Experience a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer visitors, ample space, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Community Giving Foundation Annual Meeting

On March 6th join the Community Giving Foundation at their 2024 Annual Meeting as they celebrate 25 years of our Foundation. Register on their website. by February 21st.

Second Annual : Doggie Easter Egg Hunt

Join Apollo Point Apartments second for the second annual Doggie Easter Egg Hunt at Apollo Point Apartments on March 23rd at 10 am! All furry friends, regardless of size, are invited to join in the fun. See you there!

PCT Offering Professional Development Classes

Pennsylvania College of Technology is offering training across a broad spectrum of topics. From the novice learning a new program or skill, to seasoned users aiming to hone the most advanced skills, our vast library of available course topics meets the needs of any business. Check out their upcoming Training opportunities flyer.

Commonwealth University offering CMA Training

Commonwealth University is hosting Clinical Medical Assistant training at the Bloomsburg Campus. Get trained to assist physicians with the administration of medications and with minor procedures, performing an EKG electrocardiogram, obtaining laboratory specimens for testing, educating patients, and other related tasks. To get more information on the program here and to learn about scholarship opportunities here.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors Event & Pursel Award Nominations

Community Giving Foundation Neighbors Helping Neighbors Event will be held Saturday April 20th. As part of that event the Pursel Award for Neighbor of the Year will be honored. Nominations for the 2024 Pursel Award are open until February 16th. Learn more and nominate an individual or organization here.

Teen Center Hosting Pasta Dinner Fundraiser

Teen Center of Berwick is hosting a Pasta Dinner Fundraiser on February 10th with 100% of the donations going towards the Orangeville Manor Veterans home. Click here to get all the details and register.

CMSU Hosting Recovery Simulation

February 16 from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm CMSU will be hosting a Recovery Simulation. Join them for an interactive experience to understand the challenges faced by those in early recovery from Substance Use Disorder
Space is limited! For more information and to learn how to register click here by February 12th.

NonProfit Leadership Series Continues in February

Facilitated by the Community Giving Foundation and United Way Partners Addressing Burnout in the Non Profit Sector will be offered on February 22 1:00 - 4:00 at the Old Forge Brewing Company. Register Online for the Session by February 16th. This session is limited to 2 attendees per organization. If you have additional staff that would be interested in attending if capacity allows, you can add them to our waitlist by emailing ameyers-sanonu@csgiving.org.

Charging Ahead: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Partnership Event

SEDA-COG and Penn College are hosting a Charging Ahead: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Partnership Event on February 22. This EV "EVent" to be hosted at Penn College in Williamsport will feature interactive discussions on the challenges and opportunities of EV infrastructure, ways to increase public EV charging station availability, and consideration of funding opportunities for new charging infrastructure across the region. If you have any questions about the event please contact Don Kiel dkiel@seda-cog.org or 814-553-8689. To register click here.

Penn College to host Baja SAE Competition in May

Baja SAE challenges engineering students to design and build an off-road vehicle that will survive the severe punishment of rough terrain and in some competitions, water. Penn College will host a Baja SAE international competition, May 16–19, 2024, at the Schneebeli Earth Science Center’s heavy construction equipment operations training site. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities for the BAJA SAE Williamsport and ways to support the team.

Unlocking Productivity: The Case for a Four-Day Work Week

February 5, 2024

Unlocking Productivity: The Case for a Four-Day Work Week

The four day work week is a trend that supports that productivity and revenue are possible with a shorter work week
Small businesses may experience greater impact because they can integrate changes more swiftly
Staff creativity and innovation flourish under reduced hours, improving talent retention and workplace satisfaction
Experts believe this innovative approach has the power to reshape company culture, prioritizing team well-being and morale over traditional work norms.

577 words ~ 2.5 min read

If you've ever felt trapped at your desk on a Friday, anxiously watching the clock until the weekend arrives, you're not alone. The four-day work week is like a mythical land of increased productivity, reduced burnout, and better work-life balance. But what if this utopia could be a reality, not just a dream?

The movement for a shorter work week is gaining momentum, supported by a real-world experiment conducted by Four Day Week Global and supported by Harvard Business School, the University of Oxford, and the University of Pennsylvania. The results provide solid evidence of the potential benefits. Let's explore how a four-day work week could reshape the traditional work structure, especially for small business owners and leaders.

Benefits of the Four-Day Work Week

Business Insider explored the science and anecdotes behind the six-month study. Here are some of the workplace highlights:

Increased Productivity

The data suggests that when given a compressed work week, employees are not only more focused but also more productive. With an extra day off, workers can recharge their mental batteries, leading to a higher quality of work in fewer hours.

Improved Work-Life Balance

A shorter work week offers employees more time for personal endeavors, family, and leisure. This balance can reduce stress and improve overall well-being, leading to a more content and committed workforce.

Reduced Stress and Burnout

In a culture that often values overwork, a four-day work week provides a built-in stress relief. The reduced hours enable employees to manage their workload without the pressure of late nights and weekends at the office.

Enhanced Employee Satisfaction and Retention

By providing a schedule that allows for more freedom and leisure, employers are able to attract and retain top talent. Satisfied employees are less likely to look for opportunities elsewhere.

Overall, the case for a four-day work week is substantial. It refreshes the workforce culture, refocuses business priorities, and reignites the passion for work-life harmony.

Implications for Small Business Owners

Can small businesses achieve such outcomes with a compressed schedule? According to the study, the answer is a resounding yes. In fact, smaller teams often experience a more significant impact as changes are swiftly integrated.

Small Business Productivity Boost

For small business owners, a four-day work week can represent a substantial boost in team productivity. Employees are more likely to focus on key tasks and deliver better results with the added pressure of time.

Engaging Employees Creatively

Reduced work hours can spur creativity and engagement as employees look for more efficient ways to work. Shorter weeks also mean the start of new projects with the mental clarity of a weekend break.

Implementing Change with Agility

Small businesses can pivot and adapt more quickly than their larger counterparts. Transitioning to a four-day work week can be a strategic move that demonstrates a business's agility and innovation.

Embracing A New Future of Work

Four-day work proponents argue that a shorter work week isn't just about productivity; it's about reshaping work culture to align with human psychology and motivation. For small business owners, the transition may seem daunting, but benefits may outweigh the challenges. Unlocking productivity can be about more than algorithms or task management tools; it can also be about the importance of team wellbeing and morale. A week that starts on Tuesday or ends on Friday might just be the spark your business needs to shape its future work culture and differentiate itself as an employer. To learn more from the employers who participated in the study, and how business who operate on a 24/7 schedule might innovate for a shorter work week, check out Business Insider’s full article called No More Fridays.

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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.

Candidates Nominated for Chamber Board for 2024-2025

February 1, 2024

Candidates Nominated for Chamber Board for 2024-2025

February 1, 2024

The Chamber’s Nominating Committee, comprised of Denise Stone, Chair, Chris Stamatedes, Jeff Whitenight, and Chris Hill, recommend the below slate of candidates to serve on the Board of Directors beginning April 1, 2024. Members will vote on nominations at the Annual Meeting, sponsored by PPL Electric Utilities, scheduled for Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at the Barn at Frosty Valley. The nominees are:

Nominated to a 3-year term on the Board:
Mike Morgan, Geisinger
Josh Nespoli, Community Strategies Group
Aaron Stagliano, McKonly & Asbury
Deb Shade, Elmdale Inn

Nominated to a 1-year term on the Board:
Todd Shawver, Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg
Jason Huff, Autoneum
Jon Littlewood, First Keystone Community Bank

The Nominating Committee recommends the following individuals for a one-year appointment by the Board Chair:

Jessica McNamara, Great Dane
Noah Naparsteck, Esq., Luschas, Naparsteck, & Crane
David Utt, Journey Bank

Article V Section 1 of the Chamber’s bylaws notes that the officers of the Corporation shall be the Chairman of the Board, Vice Chairs, Treasurer, and President (who shall act as Secretary), and other such officers as the board shall deem necessary.

The Nominating Committee recommends the following individuals serve as officers:

Nominated to serve as officers:

Bob Stoudt, Montour Area Recreation Commission - Chair
Renee Gerringer, Ronald McDonald House of Danville - Vice Chair
Aaron Stagliano, McKonly & Asbury - Vice Chair
Chris Stamatedes, PPL Electric Utilities - Immediate Past Chair
Holly Morrison, Honorary Member, Retired - Chair
Chris Berleth, Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce - President & Secretary

The nominating committee thanks Travis Petty, Law Offices of Grieco & Petty, and Jeff Whitenight, Journey Bank, for their years of service to the Chamber. Both gentlemen have completed their terms of service with the Chamber Board, having served with distinction.

Per the By-Laws, any 15 members may nominate an alternate ticket, or tickets, by posting the same, over their signatures, at the Chamber office not later than five days before the Annual Meeting.

New Member Highlight – Pure Health by Andrea

January 31, 2024

New Member Highlight – Pure Health by Andrea

Pure Health by Andrea Established March 2022 and Winner of the “Best of the Best” Holistic Wellness Center 2023. They are a Certified Holistic Wellness Center dedicated to Root-cause naturopathic medicine for holistic healing. They offer Naturopathic Consultations, Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition and Weight Loss, IV Vitamin Therapy, Infrared Sauna, Massage Therapy, Reiki and Emotional healing, Sound Healing, Tai Chi and expanding our services for the New Year! Visit their website for a full list of services and conditions they treat!

HITRUST Assessments and the Common Security Framework

January 31, 2024

HITRUST Assessments and the Common Security Framework

by Christopher Fieger, McKonly & Asbury

HITRUST, also known as the Healthcare Information Trust Alliance, was founded for the primary use of healthcare organizations. Since its founding, HITRUST has expanded into various public and private industries. HITRUST provides a baseline framework for companies, including the opportunity to add additional IT frameworks, and provides certification following a validated assessment. In this article, we will cover the three main types of assessments a company can obtain through HITRUST.

This HITRUST framework, called the HITRUST CSF (Common Security Framework), consists of nineteen domains covering various IT related topics. This framework includes different maturity levels composed of 1) policy, 2) process, 3) implemented, 4) measured, and 5) managed. Depending on the HITRUST certification, one or all of these could be present or required. Additionally, an external assessor requirement could also apply depending on the type of assessment.

Essential Validated Assessment (e1)

The first certification type is the essential validated assessment, also known as the “e1” certification. This certification is good for one year, is the least comprehensive certification covering only basic cybersecurity hygiene and requires the use of an external assessor. Control requirements in this certification can be less than 50 requirements.

Implemented Validated Assessment (i1)

The second certification type is the implemented validated assessment, also known as the “i1” certification. This certification is good for one year and a rapid recertification is available in the second year. This certification is more rigorous than the e1 and requires the use of an external assessor. Control requirements in this certification can range from 170 to 190 requirements and include all the e1 requirements.

Risk-based Validated Assessment (r2)

The third certification type is the risk-based validated assessment, also known as the “r2” certification. This certification is good for two years and is primarily risk driven. Control requirements include all the requirements included in the e1 and i1 and additional requirements depending on the assessed risk. This is the most intensive validated assessment from HITRUST and requires an external assessor to complete this certification.

Before going down the path of HITRUST certification, HITRUST offers a readiness assessment. This assessment allows for any gaps to be identified and addressed before the company begins the actual validated assessment period.

McKonly & Asbury is a HITRUST-approved organization that can perform HITRUST readiness assessments and external validated assessments. For more information on these services and more, be sure to visit our HITRUST and SOC services pages on our website and please contact Dave Hammarberg, CPA, CISSP, CFE, MCSE, CISA with any questions.

Three Ways to Combat Retail Crime in 2024

January 31, 2024

Three Ways to Combat Retail Crime in 2024

Source: Tom Wickham, Senior Vice President, State and Local Policy, US Chamber Chamber of Commerce

Communities and businesses large and small across the United States are struggling to stay afloat amid an historic wave of retail crime. Retail crime incidents are increasingly turning violent, with innocent customers, employees, and business owners bearing the financial and societal costs: Retail crime creates higher prices for consumers, results in stores having to close their doors, and communities left without vital goods and services.

Last September, we spoke to the owner of a small-batch coffee roaster in San Francisco whose coffee shop has survived a half-century—but may not survive this current crime wave. Across the country, stories just like that abound. No business should ever have to close because of crime.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has focused intensely on addressing retail crime since defining it as a national crisis in a letter to Congress in March 2022. In the Chamber’s Crime Risk to Business report, we provide an overview of current federal, state, and local laws aiming to tackle retail crime. And we provide an analysis of innovative solutions businesses are pursuing to secure their stores, employees and customers.

The Chamber recommends three key steps communities should take to combat retail crime:

Coordinate resources among business and law enforcement

One of the greatest challenges in fighting retail crime is uniting the broad range of businesses and the multiple layers of government that make up our communities. Sophisticated criminal organizations have a single goal of hitting the weakest link in a community repeatedly to avoid detection and maximize profits. Vital information on criminal activity and resources to combat it are often siloed and not disseminated between businesses, law enforcement, and policymakers.

To effectively fight rampant crime, local businesses must coordinate and share information on criminal strikes to discern trends and effective responses. This coordination can occur under the umbrella of a local chamber of commerce like the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce’s Organized Retail Crime Association or the Ohio Chamber’s Crime Task Force. Gathering local businesses, law enforcement, and policymakers in one setting dedicated to confronting crime fosters shared solutions that can increase community detection and quicken response efforts.

Aggregate offenses to punish repeat offenders

The criminal gangs targeting our businesses are shrewd, exploiting the laws of a given jurisdiction to maximize their thefts and minimize their chances for arrest and prosecution. Thieves accomplish this by repeatedly stealing just below the felony threshold during each theft, with multiple thefts often committed across jurisdictional lines and often against the same stores again and again. Prosecutors like San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan have advised that state laws be changed to create a separate offense for the repeated stealing of certain amounts within specific time periods. By allowing for the aggregation of offenses against criminals, we can reduce the repeated store-by-store thefts plaguing our communities and driving businesses to close their doors.

Prosecute aggressively to combat lawlessness

Crucial to any anti-crime response is the local prosecutor. District Attorneys and County Attorneys are the gatekeepers of the criminal justice system, deciding whether arrested parties will be prosecuted. Lax prosecution of crimes against businesses sends the wrong message to business owners and communities, and only emboldens criminals. The business community should support legislation reducing the case backlog for state and local courts, thereby freeing up prosecutors’ ability to address current crimes.

Crimes spanning multiple jurisdictions pose a logistical and manpower problem for prosecutors, but progress is underway. State legislatures should follow the lead of Pennsylvania, where a new law supported by the Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce creates a new office of Deputy Attorney General for Organized Retail Crime Theft. States should also empower attorney generals and special prosecutors to assist in complex, multijurisdictional cases to send a strong statewide message against retail crime.

Sophisticated criminal gangs look for legal loopholes to exploit to continue repeated thefts in our communities. Policy leaders and business groups must act to coordinate resources, update laws, and demand increased prosecution of crimes against businesses.

By taking these three key steps to combat retail crime, communities can stem the tide of rising crime in 2024 and better protect their businesses.

About the authors
Tom Wickham, former Parliamentarian of the U.S. House of Representatives, serves as senior vice president of State & Local Policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Wickham leads the Chamber’s new division that monitors state and local policy developments and coordinates state and local policy advocacy strategies within the existing Chamber framework.

Member News – January 31, 2024

January 31, 2024

Member News – January 31, 2024

Non-Profits Serving Columbia County Invited to Open House

The Partners and Tenants of The Hub at Mulberry are inviting non-profits serving Columbia County to an open house on February 1st from 4:30 - 6:30. The evening will include light hors d'oeuvres, tours, and the opportunity to learn how to utilize the facility. See invite.