Break the Ice, Break the Stress: Making Remote Meetings Fun
- Workers love remote work flexibility, but not virtual meetings
- Making virtual meetings more enjoyable and engaging increases team connection
- Better meetings come with embracing fun and humorous ice breakers
- Bosses who use humor are more likable
- Know your audience and time icebreakers with discretion -- the goal is to build closeness not embarrass anyone
567 words ~ 3 minute read
You know the drill. Click "join meeting," watch the webcam flicker on, and hope the faces you’re staring at feel more enthusiastic than you. How is it that 87% of workers report wanting work-from-home flexibility yet most of us dread virtual meetings?
And what’s the cost of boring meetings? Employee disengagement, lost productivity, and poor workplace satisfaction. In other words, there's reason to want a better virtual meeting experience. The good news is that you can trade your underwhelming Zoom calls for something more fun and engaging. The catch? It might feel a little awkward at first. Read on to learn more about using humor to lighten the mood and how to make the most of your virtual meetings.
Tackling Virtual Meeting Awkwardness Head-On
It's fascinating how we can transmit faces wirelessly across the globe in real-time, yet we still face challenges in effectively managing conversations during Zoom calls. Additionally, there are moments of profound silence during virtual meetings when the boss requests feedback, and the only response is the echoing void of cyberspace.
But here's the kicker: It’s not your fault, or even your Wi-Fi's. Experts tell us that we’re missing out on the super subtle body language and energy vibes that normally happen in person.
The Secret Sauce: Humor and Icebreakers
So, what’s the secret sauce to shaking the stiffness and building a virtual campfire of team camaraderie? According to one professional meeting facilitator, it’s asking attendees an honest question: “What are you wearing on your feet?”
This probably sounds a little crazy, but it’s been shown to work. Why? Because everyone can laugh about the reality of at-home meetings. Some may be dressed from head to toe, others may be barefoot or wearing slippers. And there’s always someone in oddball socks or unexplainable foot wear. As it turns out, laughter is more than fun. It’s been scientifically shown to increase team performance.
The Science of Sensible Silliness
Our brains are naturally inclined to relax and foster creativity in the presence of humor. Laughing can be likened to a form of mental exercise for the prefrontal cortex. A calm mind resembles that of a jazz musician—improvising, riffing, and conjuring creative wonders. And let's face it, who wouldn't prefer a meeting that exudes the ambiance of a jazz club rather than a dental waiting room?
Supporting this notion, scientific findings suggest that leaders who sprinkle humor into their interactions possess remarkable qualities—motivating, engaging, and even transforming mundane tasks like the quarterly budget review into a more enjoyable experience.
Real Talk: Know Your Audience
A note on cracking jokes: Jackie Colburn, the creator of the footwear ice breaker, reminds us to always consider timing and audience. The idea is to build rapport, so ensuring your icebreaker is appropriate and doesn't create unnecessary discomfort is crucial. If the group has a relaxed atmosphere and everyone is comfortable with one another, feel free to initiate a conversation and observe how your team responds.
Wrap it Up, Ringmaster!
Next time you're preparing for another remote meeting, why not start with a touch of inquisitiveness about their choice of shoes (or no shoes)? It could be the lighthearted push your team needs to foster connections, encourage creativity, and energize collaboration.
Until then, keep your meetings engaging, and remember: work is important, but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy ourselves along the way.
---
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.
State Chamber Release Legislative Agenda, Statement on Governor’s Budget Address
Harrisburg
- Last week, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business & Industry released its 2024 Legislative Agenda, highlighting policy recommendations to improve the Commonwealth's competitiveness and economic strength. The PA Chamber has taken positions on responsible state spending, taxes, healthcare, energy and the environment, civil justice, transportation and infrastructure, labor, education, general business issues, and workforce.
To read the PA Chamber of Business & Industry's Legislative Agenda, click here.
Yesterday, Governor Shapiro gave his 2024 Budget Address, sharing the administration's priorities for the 2024 budget. In a release accompanying the address, Governor Shapiro said, "This budget proposal continues to get stuff done for Pennsylvanians by investing in economic development and higher education, funding k-12 education and Pre-K, building healthier, safer communities, and creating opportunity across our Commonwealth." The release also says that the budget proposal "maintains a balanced budget, does not raise taxes, and if every initiative is funded, projects an $11 billion surplus by the end of FY 2024-2025." Highlights of the Governor's address include education funding, workforce, higher education reforms and investments, a new state economic development strategy, support for public transportation, agriculture and the legalization of cannabis, child care, housing, health insurance and the reduction of medical debt, mental health, state police funding, further expansion of Clean Slate and criminal justice reforms, and more.
To review the Governor's Budget Address and to learn about Governor Shapiro's priorities, click here.
To see the Governor's Economic Development Strategy click here.
To read the PA Chamber's statement on the Governor's Budget Address, click here.
Together with chamber leaders from across the Commonwealth, the Columbia Montour Chamber is working diligently to understand the implications of both the state chamber's priorities and the Governor's, so we may advocate for you, our members. Your feedback is a critical component in this process, and we welcome your comments on the issues that impact your business.
To provide feedback to the Columbia Montour Chamber and its Governmental Affairs Committee so that our advocacy efforts may be best informed by your concerns and priorities, send us an email, here.
2024 Annual Award Nominees
The Columbia Montour Chamber is proud to announce the nominations for its 2024 Annual Awards, to be presented at the Annual Meeting and Awards dinner on February 28th at Frosty Valley Resort. Nominations are in five categories, Non Profit Of the Year, Small and Large Business of the Year, Community Progress Award, and Outstanding Citizen.
The nominees are:
Nominations were carefully reviewed by an esteemed selection committee, comprised of seven individuals from the Chamber community representing a diverse group of employers.
"We are excited to announce the nominees for this year's Annual Awards. Each nominee represents the epitome of excellence, and we are honored to recognize their outstanding achievements," said Chris Berleth, President of the Columbia Montour Chamber.
The Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner is open to the public with limited seating and is scheduled for February 28th at Frosty Valley Resort beginning at 5:00 pm.
This event promises to be a night of celebration, bringing together industry professionals, influencers, and supporters to acknowledge and applaud the remarkable accomplishments of the nominees and winners.
We want to extend an invitation to all Chamber members to attend this annual affair. Register today at
columbiamontourchamber.com or contact Brenda Flanagan at 570-784-2522.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Presenting Sponsor: PPL
Strategic Sponsor: My Benefit Advisors and World Kinect
Program Sponsor: First Keystone Community Bank
Award Sponsors: BIDA, Journey Bank, Post Consumer Brands, PNC Bank, and Press Enterprise Commercial Printing
Corporate Table Sponsors: Columbia County Farm Bureau, Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg, For the Cause, and Villager Realty
Reception Sponsors: Frosty Valley Resort, Outta Boundz, Roto Rooter/Sorg, Inc., and Service Electric Cablevision
Social Sponsor: Apollo Point, Jlink, Inc., and Tulpehocken Mountainside Water
Sponsors as of February 7th at 11:00 am.
Chamber Foundation Seeks Director
The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce has begun the search for its newest Director. A full job description may be found below. To apply, please visit our Indeed job posting or submit your cover letter and resume:
Attention: President
Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce
160 W. 6th St., Suite 103
Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Director of the Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce
Job Overview: The Director is the Chief Executive and Administrative Officer of the Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce (the “Foundation”). The Director is responsible to the President of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce and the Foundation Board of Directors for a full range of activities that support the Foundation’s mission including coordination of the program of work; organization, structure and procedure, income and expenditures, hiring, training and leadership of staff, interpretation and implementation of Board policy, long-range planning, and such other duties as may be determined by the Board. Since its founding in 1992, the Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce has developed programs that focus on workplace wellness, leadership and skills development, and career exploration. The Foundation functions as a subsidiary of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce and is intimately tied to the priorities of the Chamber and its members while remaining focused on programming that inspires the workforce and strengthens the bridge between business, industry, and education.
Responsibilities:
- Manage, coordinate, and report progress and outcomes to the Board of Directors for all adult education and development programs of the Foundation. The current list of programs (which may be adjusted in the future) is listed in the appendix.
- Manage, coordinate, and report progress and outcomes to the Board of Directors for all youth education and development programs of the Foundation. The current list of programs (which may be adjusted in the future) is listed in the appendix.
- Consistent with the funding available through 2024 (future TBD), manage the Foundation’s Talent Pipeline Management efforts in implementing employer-driven career pathways and set strategy in consultation with the workforce and education systems in Columbia County.
- Develop constructive relationships with key stakeholders of the Foundation’s mission including school districts, university, and other learning organization leadership personnel, business leaders, and philanthropic organization leaders.
- Schedule and facilitate monthly Board of Director meetings.
- Hold a strategic planning meeting with the Board of Directors at least once per year.
- Manage EITC funding priorities to ensure timely and appropriate distribution of funds. The Foundation is an Education Improvement Organization (EIO) of the PA Dept. of Community & Economic Development (DCED) with the ability to submit programs under the EITC program for approval. Once approved, the Director will solicit tax credit funds from local businesses.
- Prepare grant proposals on behalf of the Foundation or clients of the Foundation.
- Manage the budget, income, expenses, and assets and maintain the overall positive financial health of the Foundation.
- Serve on appropriate committees and other boards as deemed appropriate to fulfill the Foundation’s mission.
- With the assistance of the staff of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce, manage the administrative needs of the Foundation. This includes coordinating and deploying all formal communications from the Chamber, website updates, and other marketing materials.
- Complete other duties as assigned by the Foundation Board of Directors or the Chamber President.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree and 3 -5 years work experience. A longer period of commensurate work experience is required in the absence of a bachelor’s degree.
- Previous project management experience or demonstrated potential to manage and lead complex projects
- Experience communicating (both written and orally) with diverse stakeholders
- Commitment to data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Must have a valid PA Driver’s License and vehicle for work travel (mileage will be reimbursed)
- Must have current PA Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse History Clearance completed (both free)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience persuading diverse stakeholders to take joint action
- Experience with data visualization
- Experience using collaboration tools
Supervisory Responsibilities
None
Education and/or Experience
Should possess a Bachelor's degree (B.A./B.S.) from an accredited four-year college or university in human resources, communications, business, marketing, or related field; at least three to five years of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Proficiency in Microsoft Office
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Employees must have a valid driver's license.
Other Skills and Abilities
Individuals must have excellent written and verbal communication skills plus a demonstrated ability to distill large amounts of information and research into relevant content for the TPM audience. Individual must be a self-starter and able to work efficiently with little supervision, i.e. take initiative/ownership of projects
Travel
This position requires travel locally and regionally with an occasional trip outside the state (i.e. to Washington D.C.) as necessary.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Conform to all office policies.
Classification
Full-time, salaried position (~40 hours per week)
Salary and Benefits
- Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Company provided IRA
- (Healthcare Reimbursement Account (HRA) Stipend
- Mileage Reimbursement for work-related travel
Click on the picture to apply today via Indeed!
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
- Roots, rock, rhythm and blues, and folk singer Kyshona on Thursday, Feb. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center.
- Blues artists Jontavious Willis and Jayy Hop on Wednesday, Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center.
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
- 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.
---
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
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
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
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
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.