Member News ~ March 6, 2025

March 6, 2025

Member News ~ March 6, 2025

Attention Central PA Manufacturers!

Your insights are crucial! IMC is surveying Manufacturers to understand how the proposed tariffs will impact your business in Central PA. Take the survey here.

Bloomsburg's First Friday Happening March 7th

Get the latest activities, food and fun happening at First Friday.

RAISE THE REGION happening March 12th - 13th.

Pennsylvania College of Technology has Chamber Foundation Board Member on "Tomorrow Makers" Podcast

Pennsylvania College of Technology hosted Sean Stabler Vice President of Operations and Innovation at SEKISUI KYDEX and Columbia Montour Chamber Foundation Board member, on their "Tomorrow Makers" podcast. Check out the episode here.

Hamilton Dental Care Welcomes Dr. Dany Ajlani

Dr. Dany earned his dental degree from Temple University with Summa Cum Lauda Honors. He continued his post-graduate training by completing a General Practice Residency at St. Luke’s Hospital in Bethlehem, PA where he advanced his training in all aspects of dentistry. Welcome Dr. Dany Ajlani!

Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak Welcomes Attorney Alexandra Garver & Attorney Skylah Cunningham

Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak, an elder law firm with seven locations across northeastern and central Pennsylvania, is pleased to announce the addition Attorney Alexandra Garver and Attorney Skylah Cunningham to the firm as associate attorneys. Learn more.

Community Giving Foundation: Danville will honor two recipients with the 2025 “Neighbor of the Year” award in honor of Robert N. Pursel on Saturday, May 3rd, during the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Event. Learn who the recipients are.

LCBC will be one of several national locations hosting the Global Leadership Summit on August 7 -8. Learn more about speakers and how to register.

PATHS will offer over 50 trainings in March to educate you on ladder safety, poison prevention, and active shooter. Visit their website, Health & Safety Division | Department of Labor and Industry | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, for other safety-related resources and to register for a training!

Together for Health and Wellness Offers Direct Primary Care for Businesses

Together for Health and Wellness is offering Direct Primary Care for businesses. What does that mean for your business? Contact Ashley Yeager at ashley@together4healthwellness.com to find out.

Bloomsburg Children's Museum Announces March Programs

The Bloomsburg Children Museum , 2 West 7th Street, is pleased to announce its programs for March 2025.

Camp Victory Bingo Event

Camp Victory is hosting a Bingo Fundraiser on March 22nd. Click here for more information.

Did You Miss Last Week's Member News? Here's News That's Still Timely

Neighborhood Assistance Program to be held on March 19th

Join John Coates, Owner of Forest and Field, along with representatives from GMS Funding Solutions, Match Nonprofit Consulting, and the Bloomsburg Area YMCA to learn more about the Bloomsburg Area YMCA's exciting expansion and renovation project, and how your support can benefit your business through the Neighborhood Assistance Program on March 19th from 5:30-7:00 PM. Check out the informational flyer. and RSVP here.

Community Giving Foundation- YIP GRANTS OPEN NOW

Read About the Youth in Philanthropy Grant Round Here. and Apply for the Grants Here

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is now accepting appointments!

Our VITA Program is now accepting appointments. Please let your clients know they can get their state, federal, and local taxes done for FREE. You can book appointments from now through April 5th. You can book your appointment online at https://svuw.org/vita or call (570) 416-2704 and leave a voicemail, and a VITA volunteer will return your call as soon as possible.

Ronald McDonald House of Danville hosting Garden Party

Join the Ronald McDonald House of Danville for a captivating evening at the second annual Garden Party at Dark. Learn more here.

LCP Alumni Event

Are you a graduate of Leadership Central Penn? Meet the 2025 and connect with your classmates at an alumni event happening March 20th. Click here to register!

Sign up for Day Of Action 2025

Susquehanna Valley United will be holding its 2025 Day of Action on April 25. Volunteers can sign up through March 6th. Sign up today!

DCDC Dueling Pianos Back April 4th

Danville Child Development Center's Annual Dueling Pianos Event is happening April 4th. Learn more..

Bloomsburg ArtFest Announced, Applications Live

The seventeenth ArtFest will occur on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. ArtFest showcases regional artists' original work, accompanied by local food, live music, and activities. More details here. Read the call for entries.

President’s Message: Empowering Your Community Through PA Tax Credit Programs

March 5, 2025

President’s Message: Empowering Your Community Through PA Tax Credit Programs

At the Chamber, we take pride in helping members find great resources. We love it even more, though, when we can connect members to resources that help them grow their business AND help the community. Today, I'm pleased to remind you about two powerful financial resources available to Pennsylvania businesses: the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) and the Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program. If you're unfamiliar, these programs offer businesses an opportunity to reduce tax liability while contributing to economic development, workforce readiness, and education.

The timing of this message is significant - in the coming weeks, the Bloomsburg Area YMCA and our friend John Coates at Forest and Field will host Paul Macknosky, Regional Director of the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, for an evening seminar about NAP. The event will include a program and light refreshments (learn more here). To be frank, we think the information Mr. Macknosky will provide is so important that we don't want to compete for your time - and we won't be scheduling a Business After Hours for that evening. Better yet, Mr. Macknosky is also the region's top expert on EITC, making his appearance a perfect time for you to consider how your goals may align with these programs.

Let's dive in with a quick overview.

The Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP)

The NAP is designed to encourage businesses to support specific projects to bring about community revitalization and can impact initiatives such as affordable housing, job training, crime prevention, and neighborhood revitalization. By contributing to nonprofit organizations engaged in community development through NAP, businesses can receive tax credits ranging from 55% to 80% of their contribution amount, depending on the project’s scope and impact. These funds must be identified early on in partnership with the applying nonprofit. As such, nonprofits have taken an active role in sharing details about their future projects up front.

The Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program

The EITC program provides tax credits to businesses that contribute to eligible educational organizations (Education Improvement Organizations), scholarship organizations, and pre-Kindergarten programs. Companies can receive tax credits covering up to 90% of their donation when committing to multiple years of contributions. The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce and several other community organizations are approved to offer scholarships and/or programs that support students outside the typical classroom experience and appear on a list of approved organizations.

Examples of meaningful and approved programs include the Chamber Foundation's partnerships for "What's So Cool About Manufacturing?", "Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week". the "S.E.A.L. Challenge (STEM Contest)", and Brighter Financial Futures Financial Literacy programs for meaningful offerings. Tax credits can go a long way. The Chamber Foundation has also been a source for improvements inside the local school districts, working with EITC donors to fund equipment purchases for local school theater programs and departments through the "Tech Theater" program (to the tune of more than $1 million) and in support of CTE learning objectives through programs like the BSA's Learning for Life Career Exploring program.

Through EITC and especially the Chamber Foundation, businesses can directly support workforce development by funding programs that equip students with essential skills for future careers. By strengthening education, businesses help cultivate a highly skilled workforce, ensuring a pipeline of prepared employees for years to come. We've created a quick and easy EITC Fact Sheet and a program guide that might help you get a better idea of the possible impact of the tax credit program.

Why Business Owners Should Take Advantage

These tax credit programs allow businesses to maximize their financial resources, enhance their corporate social responsibility, and contribute to strengthening our local economy. Businesses that participate in community and educational support efforts often see increased goodwill, stronger customer relationships, and a more engaged workforce. The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is here to guide you in navigating these programs and leveraging them for both your benefit and the benefit of our community, and now is the best time to learn more. Contact us today for more guidance about how your business can participate and drive positive change for our region’s future.

Columbia Montour Chamber Supports Permanent Extension of 2017 Tax Cuts

March 5, 2025

Columbia Montour Chamber Supports Permanent Extension of 2017 Tax Cuts

The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is joining business organizations across the country in advocating for the permanent extension of key provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). The Chamber, aligning with nearly 500 business groups led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the PA Chamber, is urging Congress to act before these tax cuts expire this year through a sign on letter sent on February 26th.

These tax provisions have played a crucial role in fostering economic growth, increasing wages, and creating jobs for businesses and workers alike. The coalition recently sent a letter to lawmakers, emphasizing the need to adopt a current-policy baseline during budget reconciliation talks. This approach would ensure businesses have the certainty needed to make long-term investments, which are essential for continued economic expansion.

Failure to extend the TCJA provisions could result in a $4 trillion tax increase for American businesses and families. The letter to Congress highlights that maintaining these tax cuts would not increase the deficit relative to current policy and would provide meaningful relief to employers and workers.

In related developments, the U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a budget resolution that includes a framework for $4.5 trillion in net tax cuts, alongside $2 trillion in additional spending cuts. However, concerns remain among Senate Republicans regarding the permanence of these tax measures in the House bill.

The PA Chamber has been actively engaging with lawmakers, including participating in a small business roundtable in Gettysburg with Congressman John Joyce (PA-13). During this event, Pennsylvania business owners voiced their support for extending the TCJA tax cuts and shared firsthand accounts of how the provisions have benefited their businesses.

The Columbia Montour Chamber will continue working alongside the PA Chamber and U.S. Chamber to advocate for policies that support local businesses and economic prosperity.

For more updates on this critical issue, stay connected with the Chamber’s advocacy efforts by reaching out to Chris Berleth, Chamber President and CEO. And to learn more about the State of American Business in 2025 from the U.S. Chamber.

How Small Businesses Can Lead Innovation

March 5, 2025

How Small Businesses Can Lead Innovation

Small businesses are driving innovation—embracing trends that fuel growth and resilience.
Sustainability is a competitive edge, as eco-conscious consumers demand greener products and practices.
E-commerce continues to grow, with social commerce and omnichannel strategies reshaping the landscape.
AI adoption is accelerating, streamlining operations, improving customer engagement, and enhancing decision-making.
Community-focused strategies build trust—hyperlocal marketing and partnerships strengthen customer loyalty.

635 words ~ 3 min. read

Small businesses have always been the heart of innovation, adapting quickly to change and shaping industries in unexpected ways. Now, a new wave of transformation is taking place—one driven by sustainability, evolving e-commerce strategies, artificial intelligence, and deeper community engagement. The businesses that embrace these trends won’t just survive; they’ll thrive.

Sustainability: More Than a Trend, a Competitive Edge

For years, large corporations have led the sustainability conversation, but today, small businesses are proving they can drive change just as effectively. Consumers increasingly seek out brands that align with their values, and sustainability is at the top of their priorities. According to a NielsenIQ study, 78% of consumers say a sustainable lifestyle is important to them.

For small businesses, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Those that commit to sustainable practices—whether by adopting eco-friendly packaging, reducing waste, or sourcing from ethical suppliers—are building long-term trust with their customers. More importantly, sustainability is no longer just a feel-good initiative; it’s a business advantage. Customers are willing to pay more for products they believe are making a difference, and small businesses that embrace this movement will attract and retain loyal buyers.

E-Commerce’s Continued Evolution

Online shopping has been growing for years, but in 2025, the landscape is shifting once again. It’s no longer just about having a website; it’s about being where the customers are—on social platforms, mobile devices, and in seamless digital experiences that connect online and offline shopping.

Social commerce, in particular, is becoming a dominant force. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest aren’t just for marketing anymore—they’re full-fledged shopping destinations. Consumers are making purchasing decisions in real-time, influenced by creators, peer reviews, and interactive content. According to Statista, global e-commerce sales are expected to reach $7.4 trillion in 2025, and small businesses that invest in social selling, mobile-friendly platforms, and omnichannel experiences will be the ones who capture that growth.

For small business owners, this means rethinking their approach. A well-optimized website is still essential, but so is an active presence on social media, easy checkout experiences, and strategies that connect digital and physical storefronts. The businesses that get this right will stay ahead of the curve.

AI for Any Business

For many small business owners, artificial intelligence once seemed like a tool reserved for tech giants. But now, AI is more accessible than ever, offering cost-effective solutions to streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and make smarter business decisions.

AI-powered chatbots are handling customer inquiries 24/7. Automated marketing tools are crafting personalized email campaigns with just a few clicks. Even customer service and inventory management are being optimized with AI-driven insights. The businesses that embrace these tools aren’t just saving time; they’re improving customer experiences and freeing up resources to focus on growth.

Platforms like Shopify Magic, ChatGPT, and HubSpot’s AI-powered CRM are making it easier for small businesses to integrate AI without needing a dedicated IT team. The key is to start small—automating one or two repetitive tasks—and gradually expanding AI’s role in the business. Those who do will be more agile, more efficient, and better equipped for long-term success.

Community Engagement: The Power of Local Connections

In a digital world, small businesses have a powerful advantage that big corporations often struggle with: the ability to build deep, meaningful relationships within their communities. More than ever, consumers want to support businesses that align with their values and contribute to something bigger than just profits.

Small businesses that invest in their local communities—by supporting local causes, partnering with nearby businesses, and engaging in hyperlocal marketing—are earning lasting customer loyalty. A Harvard Business Review study found that 64% of consumers prefer to buy from brands that share their values. When a business is seen as a key part of the community, customers become advocates, spreading word-of-mouth recommendations that no marketing budget can buy.

The Future Belongs to Those Who Innovate

The small businesses that will thrive in 2025 are the ones that recognize these shifts and take action. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a business advantage. E-commerce is no longer just a website—it’s a dynamic, social, and omnichannel experience. AI isn’t out of reach—it’s an essential tool for efficiency. And community engagement isn’t just goodwill—it’s a strategic move for brand loyalty.

The question isn’t whether these changes are happening—the question is whether small business owners are ready to embrace them. The future of business is here, and it belongs to those willing to innovate.

New Member Highlight-MAE DAE

March 4, 2025

New Member Highlight-MAE DAE

In the fast-paced world of business, having the right guidance can make all the difference. That’s where Michelle Mae Mentoring comes in. With a mission to empower, Michelle provides expert coaching that helps business owners gain clarity, confidence, and momentum. She provides a holistic approach to business development using Quantum Biofeedback as a tool to develop actionable steps to move forward. To learn more about Michelle Mae Mentoring click here.

Organizations and Individuals Recognized at Annual Awards Ceremony

February 27, 2025

Organizations and Individuals Recognized at Annual Awards Ceremony

Member businesses and individuals of The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce were recognized during the organization’s Annual Awards Ceremony, sponsored by PPL Electric Utilities, on Wednesday, February 27, 2025, at the Frosty Valley Resort in Danville.

Approximately 250 guests attended the evening event, which celebrated outstanding member achievements, elected members to the Board of Directors, highlighted Chamber activities of the past year, and previewed the year ahead.

The Chamber’s five annual awards were presented to organizations and individuals for their extraordinary contributions to the community. The following awards were presented:

Small Business of the Year - Sponsored by Journey Bank
Awardee: Troop 47 Trading Company

Large Business of the Year - Sponsored by Post Consumer Brands
Awardee: First Keystone Community Bank

Nonprofit of the Year - Sponsored by PNC
Awardee: The Good Samaritan Mission

Community Progress Award- Sponsored by Press Enterprise Commercial Printing
Awardee: Outta Boundz

Outstanding Citizen - Sponsored by Berwick Industrial Development Association
Awardee: Rich Kisner

The Small Business of the Year award is presented to a member business of thirty employees or fewer that has: demonstrated business or community leadership evidenced by diversification and creativity in the development of new products, services, and/or markets; demonstrated staying power and positive response to adversity; and/or demonstrated community involvement.

Scott and Annie McCarty accept the Small Business of the Year Award from Journey Bank Danville Branch Manager Kara Aurand on Thursday February 27th.

Troop 47 Trading Company- Trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, cheerful, and kind. If these values sound familiar to you it’s likely that you heard them from the mouths of local Scouts. So did Annie McCarty, who, along with her husband Scott, named the Danville-based shop in honor of her father’s connections, values, and legacy in Scouting and the Danville community. Nominated for a second consecutive year, Troop 47 Trading Co., is a rally point for events in Downtown Danville, as shown by her recent Galentine’s Day event, which collected shampoo for fellow award nominee The Good Samaritan Mission. It’s a rally point for good reason - Annie knows and loves her community as much as she knows her store and her customers, having hand-picked or handcrafted every item on the shelf.

The Large Business of the Year award: This award recognizes companies with more than 31 employees that exemplify strong leadership, resilience, community involvement, and long-term success

Employees of First Keystone Community Bank accepting the Large Business of the year award at the 2025 Annual Awards Ceremony.

First Keystone Community Bank For more than 160 years, First Keystone Community Bank (FKCB) has been a pillar of strength and financial expertise in Pennsylvania with a network of branches spanning Columbia, Luzerne, Montour, and Schuylkill counties. More than just a bank, First Keystone is a true advocate for the communities it serves. Through sponsorships, charitable contributions, and active employee volunteerism, they continually support local non-profits, schools, and businesses. First Keystone Community Bank exemplifies what it means to be a true community partner—empowering individuals, strengthening businesses, and uplifting the communities it calls home.

The Nonprofit of the Year award is presented to a 501(c)(3) organization with one hundred or fewer employees that has provided diversified and creative aid to the Columbia-Montour region utilizing business, personal, and community resources.

Terry Brown, board member, Nicky Outt board chair, Carin Warton, Executive Director and Lisa McCarty, office assistant from Good Samaritan Mission accept the Nonprofit of the Year award at the Annual Awards Ceremony.

The Good Samaritan Mission For nearly three decades, The Good Samaritan Mission has been a beacon of hope for individuals and families facing hardship in Danville, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. They have a strong support system—including 75 dedicated volunteers, two staff members, and the Young Samaritans middle and high school volunteer club—the organization delivers critical services to the community. The Good Samaritan Mission provides crisis financial assistance, hygiene products, clothing, and adult education workshops that address poverty. Additionally, the mission supports students in the Danville Area School District by packing 150 food bags each week for students who face food insecurity on weekends and extended breaks from school as well as providing new beds for children without adequate sleeping arrangements. In addition, the mission also supports students in the Danville Area School District and Columbia Montour Vo-Tech with tuition/educational assistance. Through these efforts and a committed network of community partners, The Good Samaritan Mission continues to make a lasting impact in Central Pennsylvania.

The Community Progress Award goes to a member business or organization that showed improvement in the internal or external appearance of a commercial property through either new construction, renovation, restoration, or remodeling, and completed that construction within the last three calendar years or by December 2023.

Outta Boundz for their facility Renovation- Outta Boundz has redefined family entertainment with its thrilling mix of upscale, gamified activities, state-of-the-art facilities, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a night of bowling, arcade excitement, laser tag, or hatchet throwing, Outta Boundz offers a one-stop destination for unforgettable experiences. Dhalas Robbins and his family transformed the former Skatetown Hysteria space into a modern entertainment hub, bringing upscale, gamified bowling, two-story laser tag, hatchet throwing, duckpin bowling, a full bar, and an expanded arcade to the Bloomsburg area. They also enhanced their party and event hosting services and improved the exterior appearance of their 20-year-old roller rink, making it a fresh and exciting destination for guests of all ages.

The Outstanding Citizen award is presented to an individual that is an employee or volunteer of a member organization who is involved in civic activities beneficial to the Columbia-Montour region and who projects a positive community image.

Rick Kisner - Executive Director of Community Strategies Group (CSG) in Bloomsburg, PA, is a driving force behind innovative community development and housing initiatives in the region. With a passion for creating sustainable, inclusive communities, Rich has dedicated his career to addressing critical housing, economic development, and social equity challenges. Under his leadership, CSG has expanded its reach and impact, helping individuals and families access affordable housing and resources that foster long-term stability. His work ensures that Bloomsburg remains a place where families and individuals can thrive. Rich also serves on many boards and community organizations that contribute to the overall health and wellness of our community.

The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that represents more than 400 businesses and organizations from the Columbia-Montour region.

###

Member News ~ February 27, 2025

February 27, 2025

Member News ~ February 27, 2025

Berwick Area YMCA Hosts Community Stakeholder Event

Join the Berwick Area YMCA at a Community Stakeholder event TONIGHT at the Berwick Golf Club from 5:30 - 8:30. Light refreshments and appetizers will be served.

Neighborhood Assistance Program to be held on March 19th

Join John Coates, Owner of Forest and Field, along with representatives from GMS Funding Solutions, Match Nonprofit Consulting, and the Bloomsburg Area YMCA to learn more about the Bloomsburg Area YMCA's exciting expansion and renovation project, and how your support can benefit your business through the Neighborhood Assistance Program on March 19th from 5:30-7:00 PM. Check out the informational flyer. and RSVP here.

Community Giving Foundation- YIP GRANTS OPEN NOW

Read About the Youth in Philanthropy Grant Round Here. and Apply for the Grants Here

Focus Central PA Receives New Investment

Danville, PA – Wohlsen Construction contributed a $1,000 gold level mission investment to Focus Central Pennsylvania for 2025. Their contribution supports regional economic growth by promoting the Central Pennsylvania region to attract quality investment projects that cultivate economic growth.

Higher Information Group Earns 2025 Toshiba ProMasters Elite Certification

Higher Information Group (HIG) has once again been recognized as a 2025 Toshiba ProMasters Elite Certified Dealer! This prestigious certification is awarded to select Toshiba resellers who demonstrate exceptional service, advanced training, and outstanding customer support—three critical pillars in delivering a top-tier client experience.

The Women's Center Announces Annual Report

As The Women's Center, Inc. reflects on its 50-year legacy, it remains steadfast in its commitment to serving and advocating for victims to achieve autonomy, safety, and security for themselves and their families. More details here

Learning to Love Beyond Ministry- Featured on WNEP

Check Out the Story Here

Did You Miss Last Week's Member News? Here's News That's Still Timely

Free Computer Classes for Seniors Offered at Area Libraries through Degenstein Grant

The regional Atlas Digital Navigator program based out of the Bloomsburg Public Library is offering a free series of technology classes aimed at empowering older adults and others with the skills needed to thrive in today’s digital world. Get more details here.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is now accepting appointments!

Our VITA Program is now accepting appointments. Please let your clients know they can get their state, federal, and local taxes done for FREE. You can book appointments from now through April 5th. You can book your appointment online at https://svuw.org/vita or call (570) 416-2704 and leave a voicemail, and a VITA volunteer will return your call as soon as possible.

Villager Realty, Inc. Celebrates 2024 Achievements

Villager Realty, Inc. recently gathered to commemorate another successful year in real estate, recognizing the outstanding achievements of its agents in 2024. Learn more.

SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority (JRA) Invests in Regional Promotion to Attract Investment in Central PA

SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority (JRA), owner of six short line railroads in Central Pennsylvania is investing $3,750 for 2025 to support the mission of Focus Central Pennsylvania to attract investment that cultivates economic growth in Central Pennsylvania. Learn more.