Member News – October 19, 2022
Bloomsburg Children's Museum Receives $6,000 Healthy Workplace Grant from Community Giving Foundation of Berwick
The first grant of $1,000 will be used for programs and incentives to improve staff mental health and wellbeing and the second grant of $5,000 will be used for general operating expenses to help cover the rising cost of utilities and program materials.
Director of the BCM, Dr. Ginny Weibel says, "The funds we received from the Community Giving Foundation are invaluable to the health and well being of our staff. Additionally, the operating support allows the museum to continue to enrich the lives of the 26,000 people we serve annually.” Over the years, the BCM has utilized this grant funding to increase job satisfaction, reduce stress and increase comradery among the museum staff.
Community Giving Foundation Continues Nonprofit Leadership Series
You won’t want to miss the next program, called “Don’t Fear Being a Speaker”, Facilitated by Dr. David S. Heineman, Bloomsburg University, the program considers how to overcome speech anxiety, find your voice, and become a better advocate for your organization. Read more.
Susquehanna Valley United Way to Host Be Kind Poster Contest
This winter, the poster contest will span across elementary, middle, and high school age groups in Snyder, Union, Northumberland, Columbia, and Montour counties. The competition will be open from October 12th through November 30th.
Congratulations to the Winners of the First Columbia Bank Photo Competition!
244 local photos were displayed in this year’s contest. Winners included:
Animals and Wildlife category: First place, Michelle Yost of Bloomsburg, "Perching Heron;" second place, Julie Kuznicki of Orangeville, "Hummingbird on Salvia;" third place, Rita Scholl of Selinsgrove, "Seeing Double;" honorable mention, Kiersten Novick of Bloomsburg, "Looking for Prey."
Flowers category: First place, Kiersten Novick of Bloomsburg, "Pink Flower;" second place, Deborah Houser of Bloomsburg, "Peeking Through the Fog;" third place, Michelle Yost of Bloomsburg, "Perfection in Coral;" honorable mention, Kelly Caudle of Winfield, "Rebellious Sunflower."
Close Up/Macro category: First place, Crystal Post of Shickshinny, "Motionless;" second place, Avis Miller of Berwick, "Wings Up;" third place, Michelle Yost of Bloomsburg, "Kalanchoe in Bloom;" honorable mention, Angela Purcell of Berwick, "Frozen Bubbles."
Nature/Landscape category: First place, Angela Purcell of Berwick, "Silence Fell;" second place, Michelle Yost of Bloomsburg, "The Wave;" third place, Jillian Wydra of Wapwallopen, "Morning Sun Peeking Through Tree;" honorable mention, Eugeniu Grigorescu of Hanover Township for, "Slowed Flow."
Black and White category: First place, Jillian Wydra of Wapwallopen, "Moonlit Tree on Snowy Night;" second place, Michelle Yost of Bloomsburg, "Southwestern Barn;" third place, Avis Miller of Berwick, "Down the Railing;" honorable mention was given to Carter Stephens of Duryea for "Boop Dog Nose."
Best in Show was again awarded to Novick for her "Pink Flower."
Rita Scholl of Selinsgrove won the People's Choice award, decided by those who attended Sunday's open house for her "Water-drop Reflections."
AGREEMENT GUARANTEEING ADMISSION, UP TO $28,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS SIGNED BETWEEN LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY
Shown from left, seated: Dr. Bashar Hanna and Mr. Jonathan J. Cleaver. Standing: Dr. Diana Rogers-Adkinson, Mr. Jerome Manley, Mrs. Heaven Reinhard and Mr. Jason Moser.
Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield, together as Commonwealth University and 17 school districts in Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania, have signed an agreement guaranteeing admission, eligibility for merit-based scholarships, and on-campus housing at any of its locations.
The school districts included in the agreements are: Berwick, Benton, Bloomsburg, Central Columbia, Columbia/Montour Vo Tech, Danville, Hazleton, Lewisburg, Millville, Milton Area, Mount Carmel, North Schuylkill, Selinsgrove, Shamokin, Southern Columbia, Warrior Run, and Shikellamy. Read more.
SEDA-COG OFFERS FREE CLEAN & TUNE SERVICE
With colder weather approaching, SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) is continuing to offer the LIHEAP Clean and Tune program for residents. This program is a benefit available to provide homeowners and residents the assistance to maintain their new or repaired heating systems and to avoid interruption. Read more.
BARRY ISETT & ASSOCIATES CELEBRATES FOUR YEARS OF BEST PLACES TO WORK IN PA
Isett has been recognized with 119 other businesses in this statewide list across small-, midsize- and large employer categories. The Best Places to Work in PA ranking is proudly embraced by employers as third-party validation of its credibility to stand out to clients, partners, and most importantly, job seekers.
SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER HIGHLIGHTS UPCOMING WEBINARS
Pennsylvania's Small Business Development Centers are hosting upcoming webinars: Culture is King: Leadership & Communication (October 25, 12pm), Power of Positive Leadership (November 8, 12pm), and Why Are Business Owners Resistant to Virtual Work (November 9, 12pm). For these programs and more, visit here. Hoping to connect with your local SBDC? Columbia County is served by Wilkes University SBDC, and Montour County is served by the Bucknell University SBDC.
SITEEXCHANGE PUBLIC ART PROJECT BRINGS ART TO THE GUMBALL MACHINE
A public art project by Cindi Hron and The Exchange, SITEexchange engaged artists in the central Susquehanna Valley to observe and record, through artistic means, the sites (places) important to them within the region: public places, private places, well-known ones, secret ones -- any places at all worth documenting in paintings, drawings, photographs, or any other artistic medium. Now, that artwork is available across the region in miniature form - through gumball machines throughout the community! All of the original artwork will hang at the Exchange Gallery between October 10th and November 18th, 2022. You've got to check this out.
INVITATION TO BID FOR MARC 2023 LAWN CARE AND MONTOUR PRESERVE SNOW REMOVAL CLOSE OCT. 24
Invitation to bid packets for both contracts are now posted to MARC's website have been posted to the MARC and Montour Preserve Facebook pages, and will be advertised in local newspapers in the coming days. Visit the site for more.
PA CareerLink® Columbia/Montour Counties Moves to New Location to Better Serve Business and Job Seekers
Bloomsburg, PA (October 17, 2022) – Advance Central PA, the workforce development board serving nine counties, announces the PA CareerLink® Columbia/Montour Counties is moving from 415 Central Rd Suite 2, to the building next door at 421 Central Rd., Suite 1 so as to better serve job seekers and businesses utilizing CareerLink services such as recruitment events and consultation regarding workforce talent solutions, one-on-one career coaching, access to computers to apply for jobs, and access to training programs to increase skills. Having a larger site will allow the local staff to provide even more services.”
To accommodate the move, the PA CareerLink® will be closed to the public during the week of October 31st through November 4th. The PA CareerLink® located in Sunbury is an option for job seekers with immediate service needs or access to computers. Additionally, local staff in Bloomsburg are available to set up virtual appointments with job seekers or on-site appointments with businesses.
For updates, helpful job search tips, and news about upcoming events such as workshops, job fairs, recruitments, and seminars, visit the Central PA CareerLink® page at https://centralpacareerlink.org/ and our PA CareerLink® Columbia/Montour/Northumberland/Snyder/Union Counties Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pacareerlinknsu.
MARIA JOSEPH CCC TO HOST TRUNK OR TREAT OCTOBER 26
Staff and residents of Maria Joseph are invited to decorate their trunks and pass out candy! The event will be held in the back parking lot of Maria Joseph Emmanuel Skilled Nursing Center. Car set up begins at 5:30pm and event starts at 6:00pm.
TRUNK OR TREAT AT BLOOMSBURG UNIVERSITY, OCTOBER 27, 2022
Hosted by the Bloomsburg University Police, the Columbia County DA's Office & the Victim/Witness Office, this event takes place at Bloomsburg University's LC East Commuter Lot. Call Sgt. Hirko for more information, at 570-389-2211.
TRUNK OR TREAT AT BLOOMSBURG REHABILITATION AND CARE CENTER, OCTOBER 27, 2022
This Trunk or Treat event kicks off at 6:30pm. Reserve a parking spot by contacting Amber Horton (570) 784-5930 or emailing ahorton@bloomsburghc.com.
Address: Bloomsburg Care and Rehabilitation Center, 211 East 1st St. Bloomsburg, PA 17815
BLOOMSBURG AREA YMCA TO HOST TRUNK OR TREAT OCTOBER 28, 2022
Bloomsburg Area YMCA is asking for participants to decorate their trunks and provide treats to hand out. To sign up, email Serena, Youth Development & Family Engagement Director, at shampton@bloomsburgy.org or call the YMCA’s front desk at (570)784-0188.
...MORE TRICK OR TREATING AND TRUNK OR TREAT EVENTS
While it's not comprehensive, we've compiled a list of trick or treating and "trunk or treat" opportunities in the community. If you know of more, we'd love your help. Shoot an email to Chris Berleth, Chamber Vice President, and we'll be happy to share safe trick or treating opportunities in Columbia and Montour Counties. Please note that each bullet represents information sourced directly from local social media events and sites, and this is all of the information available to us at this time. For more information on these events, we encourage you to visit the host's websites and/or social media.
Here's what we've got so far:
Montour County
- 10/22/2022 8am – 12pm - Downtown Danville’s Healthy Halloween
- Wear your costume to the Ferry Street Growers’ Market, and be entered to win a prize. Games and fun activities, first 100 children receive a free treat. Scavenger Hunt also available, 10/22 – 10/29.
- 10/26/22 Trunk or Treat -6pm – 8pm
- Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community, 11 School House Rd. Danville, PA
- 10/26/22 – 5pm Danville Community Trunk or Treat
- 931 Ironment Lane, Danville, PA
- 10/27/22 - Danville Halloween Parade
- Parade forms at 5:00pm at Wall Street, to the Danville Soccer Park, moves at 7:00pm sharp.
- 10/29/22 – Trick or Treat Night in Riverside Borough - 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- 10/29/22 6pm Trunk or Treat - Montour Delong Community Fair
- 5848 Broadway Rd. Danville, PA
Columbia County
- 10/22/22 12pm – 3pm, Fran’s Dairy Bar, Millville, PA
- 10/24/22 6-8pm -3rdAnnual BYFL Trunk or Treat
- Test Track Park, S Eaton St. Berwick, PA
- 10/26/22 5:30pm – 7:30pm 5thAnnual Trunk or Treat – Briar Creek Twp. Police & Summerhill Fire Co.
- Summerhill Fire Co. 422 Summerhill Rd. Berwick, PA
- 10/27/22 – Montour Township Trunk or Treat – Sponsored by the Montour Township Supervisors
- 4 Perry Avenue, Bloomsburg, PA
- 10/27/22 - Bloomsburg Care and Rehabilitation Center
- 211 East 1st St. Bloomsburg, PA. Call 570-784-5930 to reserve a parking spot.
- 10/28/22 – Booburg Trunk or Treat at Bloomsburg Area YMCA
- 10/30/22 Trunk or Treat, Beaver Township Volunteer Fire Company
- 5:45pm, Trunk or Treat 6pm – 8pm
- 102 Mountain Shadow Ln, Bloomsburg, PA
- 10/30/22 & 10/31/22 – Trick or Treating in the Borough of Berwick, 6pm – 8pm.
- 10/31/22, 6:00-8:00pm - Trick or Treating - Catawissa Borough, hosted by Catawissa Police Dept.
- 10/31/22 – 6pm – 9:00pm - Town of Bloomsburg Trick or Treat Night
Columbia Montour Chamber and Foundation to Share Website
Following the successful launch of its new website in July 2022, the Columbia Montour Chamber is pleased to announce new changes to further assist the community in accessing critical resources.
As a 501(c)3 charitable organization and a subsidiary of the Chamber, the Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber is intimately tied to the priorities of the Chamber and its members, while remaining laser-focused on developing programs which strengthen and inspire the 21st century workforce. As a membership organization, the Columbia Montour Chamber is committed to providing a high return on investments to its members. Together, these organizations form a dynamic partnership which function collaboratively to address workforce needs.
To streamline the community’s access to both organizations, the Chamber and its Foundation are pleased to announce that effective immediately, both organizations’ websites may be accessed via one web address, www.columbiamontourchamber.com.
Visitors to the Chamber’s site may easily access Foundation resources via a drop-down menu at the far right of the website’s screen. There, visitors may gain access to Foundation-specific programming, and connect with opportunities to get involved in programs such as “What’s So Cool About Manufacturing?”, the student-focused “Future Careers Expo”, the annual STEM Contest, Leadership Central Penn, COLT, and more.
Visitors may also continue to use www.cmccfoundation.com to access Foundation resources directly.
PA Chamber Joins Coalition to Lower Energy Costs, Decrease Emissions
The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry announced last week that it has joined a broad coalition of energy companies, climate advocates, and labor groups to launch the Partnership to Address Global Emissions (PAGE).
The coalition is dedicated to promoting U.S. policies to reduce global emissions by developing the infrastructure needed to increase production and support the exportation of natural gas. The goal is to provide cleaner, cheaper, and more secure energy to the world all while launching a jobs boom here in the U.S.
EQT Corporation, TC Energy and Williams are founding members of PAGE, and an advisory council of supportive individuals and organizations – from think tanks, trade unions and academia – will provide outside guidance and expertise to the coalition and its members.
Advisory council representatives include:
- Paul Bledsoe – Strategic Advisor: Climate, Energy, Economics, Progressive Policy Institute
- Naomi Boness, Ph.D. – Managing Director, Stanford Natural Gas Initiative and Stanford Hydrogen Initiative, Stanford University
- James T. Callahan – General President, International Union of Operating Engineers
- Alex Herrgott – President and CEO, The Permitting Institute
- Sasha Mackler – Executive Director of the Energy Program, Bipartisan Policy Center
- Mark McManus – General President, United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA)
- Richard Morningstar – Founding Chairman, Global Energy Center, Atlantic Council and former U.S. Ambassador to the European Union
On joining PAGE, Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Luke Bernstein said:
“Pennsylvania natural gas can lead the next energy chapter for America, our allies overseas, and the world. The PAGE data shows that Pennsylvanians overwhelmingly support moving our natural gas to market in order to lower emissions, lower energy costs, and bolster our economy. This is a win-win for Pennsylvania’s economy, businesses, environment, and all residents across the Commonwealth. We have the resources and talent; we need the collective will and leadership to move our gas to market and unleash Pennsylvania’s potential.”
You can learn more at pagecoalition.com.
Federal Reserve Hosts 2022 Small Business Credit Survey
Small Business Owners: Make your voice heard!
The Pennsylvania SBDC is partnering with the Federal Reserve on the 2022 Small Business Credit Survey.
This survey reaches thousands of small businesses like yours and provides vital information to policymakers who are weighing decisions that affect small businesses. This year’s questionnaire asks about business conditions and financing needs. The survey is open to businesses currently in operation, those recently closed, and those about to launch. All responses are confidential. The survey takes about 10 minutes to complete.
This voluntary survey is sponsored solely by the Federal Reserve Banks. The questions are best answered by an owner or key financial decision maker of your business and will take about 10 minutes.
Medical Insurance Market Changes & Updates
The local experts at My Benefit Advisor can guide you through the latest market updates, products, and services to help you understand your renewal options for health insurance and/or employee benefits plans.
These webinars will provide general information and answer your questions as open enrollment is right around the corner for most employers.
This is the perfect opportunity to explore plan options and learn more about the latest laws, carrier news, and how the MBA program can benefit you. Register for one of our upcoming sessions.
Agenda
- Overview of Insurance Marketplace
- Projected Renewal Increases
- Carrier Updates
- Cost Saving Strategies
- Employer Resources
Wednesday, October 26 – 10:00 am | Register
Monday, October 31 – 2:00 pm | Register
KEEPING EMPLOYEE BENEFITS SIMPLE
SOURCE: MYBENEFIT ADVISOR
It’s possible to overcomplicate employee benefits.
Depending on the size, demographics and level of benefit knowledge among the people who comprise your workforce, there may be value to keeping your benefit program simple and understandable. Most employees already juggle a variety of responsibilities between home life and work life and piling on additional complications from a poorly planned or communicated benefit program without sufficient supporting resources doesn’t help.
Companies can start by showing their employees they care by developing a well-thought out, consistent benefit strategy that evolves over time rather than undergoing drastic shifts from year to year. By communicating the cohesive strategy and its associated details on a regular basis through an organized, user-friendly multi-media campaign, employees can better understand their benefit options and make more confident, informed decisions. And by providing employees with ample and targeted resources to facilitate a smooth decision making and enrollment selection process, employers also win, since their benefit dollar expenditures will yield maximum returns and help improve employee morale and productivity.
The Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Stephen Lylo at (800) 377-3539.
Member News – October 12, 2022
SEDA-COG Offers Free Clean & Tune Service
With colder weather approaching, SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) is continuing to offer the LIHEAP Clean and Tune program for residents. This program is a benefit available to provide homeowners and residents the assistance to maintain their new or repaired heating systems and to avoid interruption. Read more.
Small Business Development Center Highlights Upcoming Webinars
Pennsylvania's Small Business Development Centers are hosting upcoming webinars: Culture is King: Leadership & Communication (October 25, 12pm), Power of Positive Leadership (November 8, 12pm), and Why Are Business Owners Resistant to Virtual Work (November 9, 12pm). For these programs and more, visit here. Hoping to connect with your local SBDC? Columbia County is served by Wilkes University SBDC, and Montour County is served by the Bucknell University SBDC.
SITEexchange Public Art Project Brings Art to the Gumball Machine
A public art project by Cindi Hron and The Exchange, SITEexchange engaged artists in the central Susquehanna Valley to observe and record, through artistic means, the sites (places) important to them within the region: public places, private places, well-known ones, secret ones -- any places at all worth documenting in paintings, drawings, photographs, or any other artistic medium. Now, that artwork is available across the region in miniature form - through gumball machines throughout the community! All of the original artwork will hang at the Exchange Gallery between October 10th and November 18th, 2022. You've got to check this out.
Columbia County Traveling Library Hosts Hayrides, Stories, and S'Mores
The Columbia County Traveling Library will host Fall Family Fun on Saturday, October 15 at Rohrbach's Pumpkin Patch. The event will include a free hayride and a pumpkin, Storytime Adventures and Stories and S'Mores.
Girton Manufacturing Co. Recognized
Congratulations to Girton Manufacturing, Co, Inc., who last week received additional National Sanitation Foundation certifications for food service equipment and had a perfect audit!
Welcome (Back) Dr. Portia Brandt
Please join the Chamber in welcoming back Dr. Portia Brandt, who has come out of retirement to serve as Interim Head of School at Greenwood Friends School. Her past experience includes serving as Superintendent of the Muncy School District for 6.5 years, Principal of the Muncy elementary school for 7 years, Principal of 3 elementary schools in the Shikellamy school district for 2 years, among other educational roles. Portia has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Delaware, a Master's of Education degree from Bloomsburg University of PA, and a Doctorate in Education Administration from Widener University. Portia's two sons attended Greenwood Friends School in the 1980s. She also taught at Greenwood and for many years served as a Board Trustee.
Design Group Welcomes Senior Planner
Congratulations to Design Group America, who recently welcomed Christa, Senior Planner, to the Berwick, PA Main Plant!
PPL Electric Utilities Suggests Cost-Saving Measures
Suggestions include ways to make your business, nonprofit, or your residence more energy-efficient. Read more.
Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community Hits Goal
Congratulations to Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community, who recently held their 20th Annual Golf Tournament and raised over $30,000 towards the purchase of a new campus wheelchair van for their residents. Way to go!
Invitation to Bid for MARC 2023 Lawn Care and Montour Preserve Snow Removal Close Oct. 24
Invitation to bid packets for both contracts are now posted to MARC's website have been posted to the MARC and Montour Preserve Facebook pages, and will be advertised in local newspapers in the coming days. Visit the site for more.
Maria Joseph CCC To Host Trunk or Treat October 26
Staff and residents of Maria Joseph are invited to decorate their trunks and pass out candy! The event will be held in the back parking lot of Maria Joseph Emmanuel Skilled Nursing Center. Car set up begins at 5:30pm and event starts at 6:00pm.
Trunk or Treat at Bloomsburg University, October 27, 2022
Hosted by the Bloomsburg University Police, the Columbia County DA's Office & the Victim/Witness Office, this event takes place at Bloomsburg University's LC East Commuter Lot. Call Sgt. Hirko for more information, at 570-389-2211.
Trunk or Treat at Bloomsburg Rehabilitation and Care Center, October 27, 2022
This Trunk or Treat event kicks off at 6:30pm. Reserve a parking spot by contacting Amber Horton (570) 784-5930 or emailing ahorton@bloomsburghc.com.
Address: Bloomsburg Care and Rehabilitation Center, 211 East 1st St. Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Bloomsburg Area YMCA to Host Trunk or Treat October 28, 2022
Bloomsburg Area YMCA is asking for participants to decorate their trunks and provide treats to hand out. To sign up, email Serena, Youth Development & Family Engagement Director, at shampton@bloomsburgy.org or call the YMCA’s front desk at (570)784-0188.
...More Trick or Treating and Trunk or Treat Events
While it's not comprehensive, we've compiled a list of trick or treating and "trunk or treat" opportunities in the community. If you know of more, we'd love your help. Shoot an email to Chris Berleth, Chamber Vice President, and we'll be happy to share safe trick or treating opportunities in Columbia and Montour Counties. Please note that each bullet represents information sourced directly from local social media events and sites, and this is all of the information available to us at this time. For more information on these events, we encourage you to visit the host's websites and/or social media.
Here's what we've got so far:
Montour County
- 10/22/2022 8am – 12pm - Downtown Danville’s Healthy Halloween
- Wear your costume to the Ferry Street Growers’ Market, and be entered to win a prize. Games and fun activities, first 100 children receive a free treat. Scavenger Hunt also available, 10/22 – 10/29.
- 10/26/22 Trunk or Treat -6pm – 8pm
- Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community, 11 School House Rd. Danville, PA
- 10/26/22 – 5pm Danville Community Trunk or Treat
- 931 Ironment Lane, Danville, PA
- 10/27/22 - Danville Halloween Parade
- Parade forms at 5:00pm at Wall Street, to the Danville Soccer Park, moves at 7:00pm sharp.
- 10/29/22 – Trick or Treat Night in Riverside Borough - 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- 10/29/22 6pm Trunk or Treat - Montour Delong Community Fair
- 5848 Broadway Rd. Danville, PA
Columbia County
- 10/22/22 12pm – 3pm, Fran’s Dairy Bar, Millville, PA
- 10/24/22 6-8pm -3rd Annual BYFL Trunk or Treat
- Test Track Park, S Eaton St. Berwick, PA
- 10/26/22 5:30pm – 7:30pm 5th Annual Trunk or Treat – Briar Creek Twp. Police & Summerhill Fire Co.
- Summerhill Fire Co. 422 Summerhill Rd. Berwick, PA
- 10/27/22 – Montour Township Trunk or Treat – Sponsored by the Montour Township Supervisors
- 4 Perry Avenue, Bloomsburg, PA
- 10/27/22 - Bloomsburg Care and Rehabilitation Center
- 211 East 1st St. Bloomsburg, PA. Call 570-784-5930 to reserve a parking spot.
- 10/28/22 – Booburg Trunk or Treat at Bloomsburg Area YMCA
- 10/30/22 Trunk or Treat, Beaver Township Volunteer Fire Company
- 5:45pm, Trunk or Treat 6pm – 8pm
- 102 Mountain Shadow Ln, Bloomsburg, PA
- 10/31/22, 6:00-8:00pm - Trick or Treating - Catawissa Borough, hosted by Catawissa Police Dept.
- 10/31/22 – 6pm – 9:00pm - Town of Bloomsburg Trick or Treat Night
Bloomsburg Fair Directors Present Check to Ronald McDonald House
Bloomsburg Fair Directors presented a check to the Ronald McDonald House of Danville in the amount of $13,527.00 today. The amount represents $1 of general admission tickets sold from Tuesday’s fair. Shown from left are: Deborah Coleman, Secretary; Brian Campbell, Supt. of Agriculture; Jeff Ralston, Supt. of Poultry, Rabbits and School Exhibits; Randy Karschner, President; Scott Edwards, Supt. of Horticulture; Jeff Turner, Vice President; John Brokenshire, Supt. of Horse Racing and Free Stage Entertainment; Cheri Bissinger, Treasurer; Tim Chamberlain, Supt. of Police & Parking; Renee Gerringer, Director of Donor Relations for Ronald McDonald House of Danville; Tony Frazier, Supt. of Concessions and Michael Turlis, Executive Director of the Ronald McDonald House of Danville. Absent was fair Supt. of Arts & Crafts David Millard, Supt. of Grandstand, Brian Wawroski and Jeff Giger, Supt. of Livestock.
SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority Executive Director Honored
Congratulations to Jeff Stover, Executive Director of the SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority. Jeff received the Frank D. O'Reilly Award for community service from the Clinton County Economic Partnership.
It's Fire Prevention Week...and Many Members Want You To Know
Did you know that house fires burn eight times faster and produce 200 times more smoke than a residential fire would have 50 years ago? Members from across the Chamber's footprint are reminding you that this is Fire Prevention Week, and that you should have a plan for your business, your home, and the places in which you volunteer. Don't forget to check your fire extinguishers, your sprinkler systems, and your smoke alarms! Read more.
Sean Black, State Farm, suggests the following safety tips to prevent home fire.
Looking for more resources about fire prevention for youth and adults? Visit here!
Zartman Congratulates "Nailed It!" Winners
Congratulations to Zartman Construction, Inc.'s third quarter "Nailed It" winners, who recently completed catwalks at Bucknell University. Congratulations to Aaron VanDruff, Jerry Long, Mike Sawko, Anthony Shaffer, James Wiest and Gregory Rachau.
Barry Isett & Associates, Inc. Adds to Staff
Barry Isett & Associates, Inc. (Isett), a multidiscipline engineering firm welcomes eight new associates to three departments, including Project Management & Construction Services, Code Inspection & Plan Review and Transportation. These employees are: Kristen Wolfe, NCIDQ, M.A., IIDA, CHID, Jim Jones, BCO, Charles "Chip" Stalega, Ronald Kimes, BCO, Brian Focht, Vincent Miller, Truman Heberlig, and Jerrid Dinnen, PE, PTOE.
Students Paint the Town
Way to go, Columbia County Christian School students! These high school students participated in the Bloomsburg downtown window painting hosted by The Exchange.
Business Groups Call on the Biden Administration to Strengthen U.S. Energy Production
Source: U.S. Chamber of Commerce
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A coalition including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, state and local Chambers from across the nation and trade associations called on the Biden Administration to remove impediments to greater domestic energy production—including abandoning an Administration proposal to ban new offshore lease sales.
204 Chambers representing 47 states and 14 national associations told President Biden that businesses of all sizes are facing burdens from increased costs for goods, services and transportation which are threatening the economy. They said that mixed signals from the Biden Administration regarding domestic energy production are complicating necessary investments in refining capacity, exploration and production.
The Chambers' specifically called for ending the ban on new oil and natural gas exploration on federal lands and waters, restoring cancelled lease sales, and adopting a 5-Year Plan for offshore oil and gas development that allows the U.S. to fully leverage its offshore energy potential.
"With analysts predicting a return to high oil and natural gas prices this fall and winter, businesses are bracing for even more pressure," said Marty Durbin, President of the U.S. Chamber’s Global Energy Institute. "While we recognize that policies supporting increased production won’t solve our challenges overnight, it will send important market signals that could help unlock investment, helping avoid long term supply shortages and elevated prices."
"New Jersey companies need access to oil and natural gas in order to maintain our diverse economy," said Thomas Bracken, President and CEO of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce. "Oil and natural gas play an important role in everything from chemicals to pharmaceuticals to manufacturing, all of which are important industries in our state. Limiting domestic production of these resources at this critical time is not what is needed."
The letter from the Chambers comes as the Administration missed the deadline to finalize a new Five Year Plan for offshore oil and gas development—the first time in history that a lapse has occurred. The Department of Interior’s proposed plan includes an option for zero lease sales, effectively banning all new offshore energy production. The Department has also failed to maintain the onshore leasing schedule that federal law requires.
"The world needs safe, affordable energy and thankfully America has plenty of it. It’s time to get America back in the game and the perfect place to start is the Gulf of Mexico," said Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President and CEO Stephen Waguespack. "We know that producers along the Gulf Coast supply nearly 15 percent of our nation’s oil production, over 2 percent of our nation’s natural gas production and are capable of doing so much more. We need the Administration and Congress to stop tying the hands of our domestic energy producers at a time in which energy prices are rising and inflation remains at historic levels. America has the tools and resources, particularly right here in Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast, to maintain our position as a global energy leader. It’s time to flip the switch on American energy and allow our energy creators to do what they do best."
"Energy security and competitive prices have continued to set the U.S. apart as an economic superpower," said Sandy K. Baruah, President and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber. "As a center for manufacturing and emerging technology, it is especially important to our region that the Administration act to ensure energy access, affordability and reliability to keep our competitive advantage."
The letter also notes that U.S. oil and gas could help reduce global dependence on Russian energy, which will help curb funding for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and provide environmental benefits because Russia’s oil and gas production is among the dirtiest in the world, while America’s is among the cleanest.
The full letter is available here.
Member News – October 4, 2022
40th Annual Covered Bridge Festival Starts Tomorrow!
Festivities begin at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds Thursday October 6 and run through October 9. The festival is one of the largest craft festivals on the east coast. Read more.
11th Annual Berwick Riverfest Set for October 7-9
Held at the Test Track Park, the event has free admission, parking concerns, and celebrates the Borough of Berwick. Read more.
Barry Isett & Associates Appoints New Positions to Support Company Growth
Congratulations to Brandon Trate, PG, Chris Kotch, PG, and Erin Burke, who have been appointed to the positions of Vice President of the Lehigh Region, Vice President of the Field Division, and Vice President of the Southeast Pennsylvania Region, respectively. Since its founding in 1977, the company has expanded to nine offices and more than 250 associates. Read the full release here.
Encina to Host Point Township Circular Manufacturing Facility Update Meeting
Join Dave Roesser, CEO, and Michael Marr, Director of Government Relations and Compliance for a project update meeting on October 11, at 2pm at the DRIVE Professional Building, 418 Railroad St. Suite 101, Danville. Click here for background on the project. RSVP to the meeting here.
Columbia Montour Quarterly Hits Digital Shelves
Check out the latest edition of the Visitor’s Bureau’s quarterly digital magazine. Check it out.
SITEexchange Has Hit the Streets
Exchange has delivered 27 vending machines to venues across the region, containing capsule-copies of 49 artsworks. Be on the lookout for the machines, and originals are on display through October 10. Read more.
Community Strategies Group to Host Art Show at Bill’s House, October 6
Celebrate local muralist Diane Derr’s return to art at The Sanctuary Art Gallery at Bill’s House in Bloomsburg. Light refreshments available, event from 6pm – 8pm.
McKonly & Asbury Named One of Best Places to Work in PA for 18th Time
The regional accounting and business advisory services firm has announced that they have been chosen as one of the Best Places to Work in PA for 2022. This marks the 18th time in 20 years that McKonly & Asbury has been recognized for this honor. Read the full release.
CareerLink Job Fair Tomorrow, October 6
Local employeers will be on site at the Bloomsburg YMCA from 1pm – 4pm.
October is Spina Bifida Awareness Month
Camp Victory is celebrating the campers and families of Camp Spifida and the Camp Spifida Retreat this month.
Bloomsburg Area YMCA to Host Trunk or Treat October 28th
Bloomsburg Area YMCA is asking for participants to decorate their trunks and provide treats to hand out. To sign up, email Serena, Youth Development & Family Engagement Director, at shampton@bloomsburgy.org or call the YMCA’s front desk at (570)784-0188.
Geisinger Promotes ZING, a Free Wellness Resource
Learn more about the program that’s helping community members get advice and reminders for healthy living.
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble’s ‘A Christmas Carol’ to Feature Students
Eleven special school matinees for ‘A Christmas Carol’ are scheduled for November 29, 30, December 1, 6, 7, 8,13, 14, 15, 20, and 21.
Invitation to Bid Packages Available for MARC 2023 Lawn Care and Montour Preserve Snow Removal
Invitation to bid packets for both contracts are now posted to MARC's website have been posted to the MARC website and Montour Preserve Facebook pages, and will be advertised in local newspapers in the coming days. Read more.
PA Celebrates Manufacturing Week
Source: DCED
The Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) is excited to celebrate Pennsylvania Manufacturing Week on October 7-14, 2022.
Governor Tom Wolf has proclaimed the week as Manufacturing Week in Pennsylvania to honor our manufacturing industry, our makers, and encourage the next generation of talent to take a closer look at manufacturing careers in the commonwealth.
Today’s industry demands experienced problem-solvers and strategists, digital operators, engineers, and others who can blend management and STEM skills. And we’re proud that our state is preparing the next generation of talent for careers in manufacturing. We know these careers offer challenging, fulfilling, and stable work — presenting us with the opportunity to bring Pennsylvania’s innovation, imagination, and legendary can-do spirit to the industry at the heart of our economy and communities.
Manufacturing is at the heart of Pennsylvania’s economy.
(bea.gov Employment by State 2020; Pennsylvania Manufacturing Advisory Council, PA’s Manufacturing Competitiveness Playbook 2022)
- 6th largest manufacturing industry in the United States by employment
- $113.2 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) in 2021
- 562,700+ employees (accounting for ~9.5% of all privatesector jobs in PA)
- 14,000+ manufacturing establishments
Manufacturing offers well-paying, family-sustaining jobs.
(Pennsylvania Manufacturing Advisory Council, PA’s Manufacturing Competitiveness Playbook 2022)
- Manufacturing workers earn 33% more compared to the average for other nonfarm businesses in the state
- $86,129 avg. compensation in manufacturing in PA, including benefits
U.S. manufacturing jobs have great employee benefits.
(Pennsylvania Manufacturing Advisory Council, PA’s Manufacturing Competitiveness Playbook 2022; U.S. Chamber of Commerce)
- Many manufacturers offer on-the-job training that helps employees expand their skillsets and adapt to new industry needs
- 90% of U.S. manufacturing employees have access to medical benefits through their employer
- 78% of U.S. manufacturing employees have access to retirement benefits from their employer
- U.S. manufacturing workers have the highest job security in the private sector.
Manufacturers and makers come from diverse backgrounds and have a variety of skills and education levels.
(bls.gov, Manufacturing Career Outlook, From Prototype to Production: Careers that Bring Ideas into Being, 2018)
- Entry-level positions have different educational requirements ranging from a high-school diploma (or equivalent), to a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Many manufacturing positions include apprenticeship opportunities and on-the-job training – offering an opportunity to earn income while learning new skills
- Career opportunities abound for those looking for work in the manufacturing industry including:
- Industrial designers
- Mechanical and electrical engineers
- Graphic designers
- Systems software developers
- Team assemblers
- Electricians
- Computer-controlled machine tool operators (metal and plastic)
- Industrial machinery mechanics
2022 Partner Toolkit
Help us spread the word about modern manufacturing, its positive impact on our economy and communities, and how it benefits existing employees and students who are exploring career options. DCED's digital toolkit will help you get started with suggested social media posts, newsletter content, and digital graphics. Get involved and be sure to share your own manufacturing resources and stories. Chamber members, if you use the toolkit, be sure to tag the Columbia Montour Chamber in social media so that we can share your posts all week. Download the toolkit here.
Local Resources
To connect with local manufacturing resources, consider contacting your Chamber to learn more about the Manufacturer's Council, as well as Chamber members Northeastern PA Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) (Columbia County), and Innovative Manufacturers Center (IMC) (Montour County). You can also check out information about the Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation 's programs such as "What's So Cool About Manufacturing." For a list of local manufacturers, check out our directory!