Comfort Keepers – New Member Highlight

President’s Message: Opportunity Abounds for Member Connections, Advocacy, and Employee Development
Source: Chris Berleth, President
From our recent Golf Outing and our team’s participation in the Community Giving Foundation’s Elevate 2 Conference, to a ribbon cutting with our friends at MPL Law Firm and Chamber Day at the Capitol, it has been a busy stretch for your Chamber… and we’re not about to slow down.
As summer gets underway, there are several great opportunities for members to connect, grow, lead, and stay visible in the community. Here are a few worth putting on your radar.
Announcing the 2026–2027 Membership Directory
Work is now underway on the Chamber’s annual Membership Directory, a publication which lands in welcome packets, offices, hotels, visitor centers, waiting rooms, front counters, and community spaces across the region. It helps residents, visitors, new employees, fellow businesses, and community partners find Chamber members when they are looking for local products, services, and trusted connections.
Let’s be honest: in a world where everything seems to disappear into a scroll-hole, there is still something great about being included in a locally produced publication people can actually hold in their hands.
We are pleased to once again partner with Victor Koons Graphic Design on this year’s directory, and I encourage our members to review the advertising opportunities available. Whether you want to build name recognition, promote your services, or make sure people know where to find you, the Membership Directory is a smart way to stay visible with people who are already looking to support local businesses.
Now Accepting Applications for the 2026–2027 Class of Leadership Central Penn
Leadership Central Penn has been developing local leaders since 1992, and there is a reason this program has stood the test of time.
It gives participants a deeper look at the people, places, organizations, challenges, and opportunities that shape Columbia and Montour Counties. It is more than a class. It is a chance to get out from behind the desk, meet people from across the region, see familiar communities with fresh eyes, and discover new ways to serve and lead.
For employers, nominating someone for Leadership Central Penn is a great way to say, “We see potential in you, and we want to invest in it.”
For participants, it can be the start of a much deeper connection to the region they live and work in. For the rest of us, it means more thoughtful, prepared, connected leaders helping move our communities forward. That is a win.
If you have an emerging leader, a newer employee, a longtime team member ready for a fresh challenge, or someone who would benefit from seeing our region more fully, now is the time to nominate them or encourage them to apply. (see Taryn's Article for LCP impact)
Announcing Dates for the Fall 2026 Management & Leadership Certificate Program
This fall, the Chamber, The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce, and Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg will again offer the Management & Leadership Certificate Program.
This program is for the supervisors, managers, team leads, and rising leaders who are doing real leadership work every day — sometimes with training, sometimes with instinct, and sometimes with a strong cup of coffee and a prayer. They are communicating with teams, handling conflict, motivating employees, managing change, coaching performance, and trying to keep the wheels turning. That is hard, important work that doesn’t happen by accident.
The Fall 2026 course will be held at The Hub at Mulberry Mill in Bloomsburg, with five sessions beginning in September (Don’t worry, we didn’t schedule during Fair week!) and continuing through early November. Participants will receive practical training in communication, motivation, change management, coaching, performance management, multigenerational leadership, workplace diversity, and conflict resolution.
Upon completion, participants receive a certificate from Commonwealth University, and WEDnetPA funding may be available for eligible employers.
For businesses that want to strengthen their internal leadership pipeline, this is a practical, high-value opportunity. Seats are limited, so I encourage interested employers to review the dates and consider who on your team would benefit from this training.
Bonus Opportunity: Happy Birthday, USA!
We are just one month away from America’s 250th Anniversary, and there will be plenty to see and do right here in Columbia and Montour Counties.
I encourage you to visit the Columbia Montour Visitors Bureau’s America 250 PA landing page, which highlights events and activities honoring this historic milestone across our two counties. Be sure to take special note of what Chamber members are doing, too. From the Bloomsburg Fair to Knoebels Amusement Resort, (which also turns 100 years old on July 4, 2026), to the Bloomsburg Public Library, Danville Business Alliance, Montour County Historical Society, Berwick Historical Society, and many others, our region is joining the celebration in a big way.
Don’t miss the fun and the celebration, history isn’t only something we read about, it’s fun to be part of it as well!
If You Blink, You’ll Miss It
There’s plenty more coming, too. I’m out of space, or I’d tell you about the view just a few yards further down the road – including several Business After Hours events, like June’s Business After Hours at the Iron Fork, the Municipal Officials’ Appreciation After Hours on July 15, and the Annual Nonprofit Mixer in August. We are also excited for the Fall’s Business Leadership Forum and yes, we’re already gearing up for that big, bold bonanza we call the Holiday Open House.
So, save the dates, mark the calendars, nominate a leader, reserve a seat, review the advertising opportunities, and keep an eye on what is coming next.
Your Chamber is on the move, and we are glad to have you moving with us.
Now Accepting 2027 Business After Hours Hosts
Invest in Leadership. Strengthen Our Community.
Source: Taryn Crayton, Vice President
Just over two weeks ago, the First Community Partnership and the Community Giving Foundation’s Elevate2 conference wrapped up. It
was a jam-packed two days filled with sessions, fellowship, and reflection, exactly what a great conference should be.
Since then, I’ve been thinking a lot about change.
Any time you want to accomplish something meaningful, it requires change. It requires sacrifice. A letting go of what was, to make room for what could be. That idea isn’t just philosophical or reserved for self-improvement. It’s true in every area of business.
But how do you know what to change? What do you let go of? What actions should you take?
Today, you can turn to AI and quickly find step-by-step processes that promise direction. But are those paths the right fit for you? For your business? For your community?
For me, real change starts with awareness. Awareness of where you are now and where you want to go. That awareness isn’t always simple. Even a quick search will give you lists of ways to evaluate your business or build internal alignment. They all begin in the same place: understanding your current reality. Knowing what’s working, what isn’t, and being honest about both. A true reality audit.
This idea came early in my career; right out of college, I started working for the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation. One of my coworkers was going through Leadership Lehigh Valley. After hearing about the experience, I knew I wanted the same opportunity.
After a few years, a few moves, and career changes, I was working at the Press Enterprise. I finally had that chance to go through a community leadership program. It was Leadership Central Penn. That experience became a turning point. It gave me a deeper awareness of the community I call home. It prepared me for my role at the Chamber, not only as Vice President, but also as the program coordinator for LCP. It allowed me to step in with a clearer understanding of how the pieces of our community connect. I knew where the Chamber and I could make an impact.
That’s exactly what Leadership Central Penn provides: a reality audit of our community.
The program starts in August with orientation. From there, the class takes a deep dive into key parts of our region: local government, agriculture, economic development, healthcare, the judicial system, and more. Participants gain self-awareness through leadership training in SMART goals, communication, active listening, conflict management, and leading change.
There’s a quote from Craig Groeschel, Founder and Pastor of Life Church: “When the leader gets better, everyone gets better.” I would add that a community gets better when its business leaders get better.
One of the most meaningful ways business leaders in Columbia and Montour Counties can get better is by sending team members to Leadership Central Penn.
So here we are, four years after my own LCP experience, preparing to welcome a new class into the program. I can say with confidence that the awareness gained through this experience doesn’t just stay in the classroom. It carries into workplaces, organizations, and the community.
If you’re ready to grow your leadership and make a lasting impact on our community, I encourage you to consider joining the Leadership Central Penn Class of 2027.
Member News ~ May 28, 2026

Events & Dates:
Bloomsburg Public Library Summer Learning Kickoff Festival - May 30
Roar into summer adventures at the Summer Learning Kickoff Festival! Join them near the Free Stage on the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds on Saturday, May 30th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM for a morning bursting with prehistoric fun. Conquer our massive bouncy tropical obstacle course, get creative with hands-on crafts, and team up for an epic scavenger hunt. Don't forget to grab a photo with the dinosaur guests!
Sip N' Stuff Dot Art With Miss Emma - May 31
The Exchange Hosts Nighttime Event- June 2
SBDC Offers PA Business Startup Training - June 2
This online training will be led by Wilkes University SBDC from 12pm - 1pm. For more information and to register, click here.
BTE Kicks Off 2026 Summer Theatre Camps- June 8
Mckonly & Asbury Offer Free Webinar- June 25
During this 2:00 PM webinar, their HITRUST team will focus on the differences between the assessment types, including the level of effort required by the client, scope, documentation, and external assessment. Director Josh Bantz and Partner Dave Hammarberg will go over the types of HITRUST assessments with a focus on the e1, i1 and r2 assessments. At the conclusion of the webinar, you will have a full understanding of the differences in not only the assessments but in level of effort to complete the validated assessment with McKonly & Asbury. Register Here
Announcements:
PPL Electric Utilities May Newsletter Out Now
Check out The Power Line newsletter for PPL electric utilities company updates and future decision investments.
SEKISUI KYDEX visits Clean Earth Environmental as part of their ongoing environmental audit efforts
Community Giving Foundation Awards $580,000 in Scholarships
The Community Giving Foundation is proud to announce its 2026 scholarship recipients, awarding more than $580,000 to 214 local high school seniors and undergraduate students.
To celebrate, the Foundation hosted 250 guests—including students, families, and donors—at our third annual scholarship event today at The Barn at Frosty Valley. Click Here for the Full Story.
Bloomsburg Children’s Museum Student Scientists Earn Statewide Honors at PJAS State Science Fair
Six student scientists representing the Bloomsburg Children’s Museum earned statewide recognition at the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) State Science Fair on Monday, May 18, 2026, at Penn State University. Every student who represented the Museum at the state competition received an award. For more information about the Bloomsburg Children’s Museum’s science fair and STEM programs, visit www.the-childrens-museum.org or contact the Museum at 570-389-9206.
SEDA-COG is seeking Economic Development Projects
Their Economic Development team is actively seeking applicants for the ARC Area Development Program. Area Development funds are intended for investments into infrastructure as well as business and workforce development initiatives. Projects should support at least one of the following: Appalachian business development, workforce ecosystems, critical infrastructure, culture and tourism, or local leadership and capacity-building. Have a project in mind or want to learn more? Contact Betsy or Alayna
Camp Victory's 20th Annual Golf Tournament- June 4
Golf for Victory 2026 will be taking place at Frosty Valley with registration starting at 11am. Visit their website to register.
Service 1st Announces Future Site in Berwick, PA
Service 1st Federal Credit Union has announced plans to expand into Berwick, PA. The credit union recently purchased land located at 2295 West Front Street, Berwick, PA. More details will be announced as plans are finalized. Click here to stay updated as plans progress.
Danville Arts Council Announces 2026 Summer Concert Series at Memorial Park
The annual Summer Concert Series will return to Memorial Park this summer, offering a series of free live music for the community to enjoy. Residents and visitors are invited to bring lawn chairs and spend Tuesday evenings listening to a variety of local and regional performers in the heart of Danville. For more information, visit www.VisitDanvillePA.org
Cooper Electric Offers LED High Bay Upgrades for a Limited Time Through May 31
Now through May 31st, Cooper Electric is offering a special LED High Bay upgrade for the outdated HD or fluorescent lights for your business. To find out how you can take advantage of this offer, reach out to Jason Troutman at 570-317-1297 or email him at jason.troutman@cooper-electic.com.
The Berwick Historical Society is Hosting a House Tours of Berwick event for American 250 -June 13 and 14
Penn College Essential Welding Skills Clinic - June 15 through 17
Essential Welding Skills is a 4-module stackable training pathway offered through Penn College's Workforce Development division. Each module builds on the last. Participants who complete the full pathway leave with process-specific AWS qualifications and the skills to compete for welding jobs across Central Pennsylvania's manufacturing and construction sectors. No prior experience is required to begin. Learn More & Apply Today.
The Women's Center Educational Event- June 23
Join the Women's Center from 9am - 3:30 pm at the Hub at Mulberry Mills for an Educational Event focused on understanding the realities and intersections of Elder Abuse and learning how communities can respond and support survivors. Register Here.
Lily's House Offering Pet First Aid & CPR - June 27
The demonstration will be led by Dr. Nancy Dreschel and limited seating is available. The Class will begin promptly at 10:00am. See the flyer for more details.
Energy procurement in a volatile market: How Leaders Can Stay Ahead of Capacity-driven Risk
Source: World Kinect
Introduction
A regional manufacturing COO walked into budgeting season feeling confident. Her team had locked in supply, her finance partners expected manageable cost curves, and her operations plan was stable. But within weeks, everything changed. Capacity prices in her region spiked more than 40%, driven by grid constraints, new data center load announcements, and rising global LNG prices. Her carefully forecast energy procurement strategy was suddenly obsolete.
Across the U.S. and beyond, capacity–the hidden driver of energy volatility–is rapidly reshaping how procurement teams, CFOs, and operations leaders manage risk. And for many leaders, the once-stable assumptions about availability, pricing, and long-term market behavior no longer hold. Energy procurement today isn’t just about timing the market or negotiating contracts. It requires understanding the structural shifts reshaping the grid: AI-driven electricity demand, retiring fossil assets, overloaded transmission lines, renewable intermittency, and geopolitical tensions affecting global fuel flows. These forces collide to create a perfect storm where volatility is no longer an exception–it’s the baseline.
This blog breaks down the market pressures behind the capacity crunch, how they influence energy volatility, and what procurement and finance leaders can do right now to build resilience. You’ll walk away with actionable steps, strategic insights, and a clearer path forward in an increasingly complex market.
Understanding capacity in modern energy procurement
Capacity represents the guaranteed ability of the grid to deliver power during peak demand events. It isn’t about real-time electricity–it’s about insurance. When capacity tightens, prices spike, and procurement teams feel the shock.
The five market pressures driving the capacity crunch
1. Rising capacity obligations in markets like PJM
The region faces surging demand and accelerated fossil retirements. More load with fewer firm resources means higher costs.
2. Aging infrastructure
Much of the grid was built decades ago and wasn’t designed for today’s high-density, high-volatility energy landscape.
3. AI and hyperscale data center growth
Data centers require massive, 24/7 power. New projects regularly exceed 100 MW each–equivalent to powering small cities.
4. Renewable intermittency and slow storage deployment
The shift toward clean energy is essential, but intermittent generation strains the grid without corresponding storage buildouts.
5. Geopolitical influences
Global conflict, LNG market competition, cyber threats, and supply disruptions continue to drive volatility in both fuel and capacity markets.
Combined, these pressures reshape the risk landscape for every energy-dependent organization.
Capacity constraints drive costs, volatility, and operational risk
Capacity constraints impact organizations on multiple fronts:
- Higher capacity prices that flow directly into delivered energy costs
- Volatile forward curves, complicating long-term procurement
- Increased supply risk, especially during peak events
- Budget unpredictability for CFOs operating within tight margins
- Contracting complexity, as suppliers hedge against capacity exposures
How do I manage energy volatility?
To manage energy volatility caused by capacity constraints, organizations should adopt a diversified procurement strategy, align contracting terms with forecast grid conditions, invest in onsite generation and storage, participate in demand response, and use predictive analytics to monitor emerging grid pressures.
Modern energy procurement approaches that reduce capacity risk
Procurement and operations leaders aren’t powerless. The most successful organizations adopt forward-looking, flexible strategies tied directly to capacity indicators.
Strategies that work:
- Long-term procurement aligned with capacity forecasts
Locking in terms early can mitigate multi-year price swings. A managed approach to hedging in smaller tranches can spread risk out over time. - Demand response participation
Earning revenue while easing grid stress reduces capacity-related charges. Procurement and Facility managers should understand that the way the building is operated has a significant impact on capacity costs for the year and can drive down the Peak Load Contribution. - Behind-the-meter optimization
Load shifting, automation, and AI-driven energy management enhance flexibility. - Onsite generation & energy storage
Solar, combined heat and power (CHP), and battery systems reduce peak load exposure. - Predictive analytics & real-time monitoring
Provides early warnings on grid constraints and market shifts before they hit budgets.
Why these strategies work
These approaches reduce risk by lowering peak consumption, increasing resilience, and insulating budgets from market shocks. They also improve sustainability performance–a priority for boards and investors.
Case study: Reducing capacity risk
Consider a logistics operator with 40 distribution centers in the PJM region. In 2025, they experienced unprecedented capacity spikes that disrupted financial planning workflows. Working with an energy advisor, they deployed a multifaceted strategy:
- Installed onsite solar and a 4 MWh battery at three major hubs
- Enrolled 12 sites in a demand response program
- Realigned procurement timing with market conditions
- Leveraged forecasting tools to monitor regional capacity constraints
The Results:
- Reduction in capacity exposure
- More predictable annual budgets
- Higher operational resilience during peak event
What procurement & finance leaders should do next
Here are practical steps teams can implement immediately:
- Audit capacity exposure across all markets
Start with PJM, MISO, or ERCOT, where constraints are most acute.
- Develop a 3–5-year procurement roadmap
Align purchasing strategy with capacity trends and infrastructure forecasts.
- Evaluate onsite generation & load flexibility projects
Peak load reduction delivers significant capacity savings.
- Strengthen partnerships with energy experts
Real-time market intelligence is now essential.
- Stress-test internal budgets
Prepare for volatility scenarios tied to capacity, not just commodity pricing
Conclusion
The energy landscape is undergoing a structural transformation unlike anything seen in decades. Aging infrastructure, explosive AI-driven demand, geopolitical tensions, and the complex transition to renewables are pushing capacity markets into unfamiliar territory. Volatility is here to stay–and leaders who treat it as temporary will fall behind.
But those who understand these shifts can turn uncertainty into advantage. By embracing flexible procurement strategies, demand response, and leveraging forecasting tools, organizations build resilience that pays dividends for years. Capacity constraints aren’t just a challenge–they’re a signal to evolve how we buy, manage, and think about energy.
Energy procurement, once considered a back-office function, is now a strategic differentiator. The choices we make today shape future operational stability and financial performance.
Understanding energy procurement and capacity exposure is not as easy as it once was. Contact World Kinect's experienced team of experts for a custom assessment.
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The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a proud member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and an active part of the U.S. Chamber Federation of small and regional chambers, which routinely provides content like the article above. The content above does not constitute legal, accounting, tax, or other professional advice but is for general informational purposes. For accurate, complete advice, readers are encouraged to consult with qualified legal, accounting, or other professional advisors before making any decisions based on the information provided. If you need help finding qualified help, please contact the Chamber for a list of our members.
The Benefits of Joining Your Local Chamber of Commerce
Source: US Chamber of Commerce by Jamie Johnson
If you’re looking for new business opportunities, have you considered joining your local chamber of commerce? Let’s look at how joining a chamber of commerce can benefit your business and how to maximize your membership investment.
The benefits of joining your local chamber of commerce
New business contacts
When you join a local chamber, you open your business to a network of potential partnerships. Business contacts from your local chamber could become the supportive community you turn to one day for assistance or vice versa. These contacts could serve as your sounding board for new ideas and even partner with you on a new endeavor.
Increased credibility
Joining your local chamber of commerce could give you more credibility with potential customers. One study found that 64% of adults familiar with their local chamber of commerce were more likely to purchase from a chamber member. A positive perception of your business could lead to higher profits.
Increased visibility
As your local chamber grows, so will your visibility in the community. Most chambers of commerce hold monthly networking opportunities, allowing you to meet other professionals in your area. Your local chamber may offer additional opportunities to market your small business by highlighting your company in its newsletter, website, or social media platforms.
Business resources
Many chambers of commerce offer financial resources. For example, your chamber may be able to provide financial aid if your business is going through a crisis, or they may inform you about low-cost loans or free grant programs you may qualify for.
Your membership may include additional perks, like discounts on certain products or services. Some chambers of commerce even provide access to affordable healthcare or business insurance.
Professional development
In addition to networking events, chambers often hold events and training sessions focusing on professional development. These are affordable ways to improve your skills and increase your knowledge.
How to calculate chamber ROI: Leads, referrals, visibility, and cost per opportunity
Joining a chamber of commerce is an investment, so you want to understand what you’re getting in return. Start by tracking how many leads you receive from chamber events, introductions, or member directories. Over time, you can estimate how many of those leads turn into paying customers and how much revenue they generate.
It’s also important to consider the indirect benefits, like increased visibility and brand recognition. For example, being featured in a chamber newsletter or speaking at an event may not lead to immediate sales, but it can build trust and awareness of your business in your community.
Finally, compare the total value you receive from a chamber membership compared to the cost. If you spend $500 to join and generate $5,000 in new business, your return on the investment (ROI) justifies the cost. Evaluating the cost per opportunity can also help you decide whether your membership is worth it long term.
Unlocking a membership’s full value: Committees, sponsorships, ribbon cuttings, and member directories
Your chamber of commerce membership is only valuable if you take advantage of all the benefits it has to offer. Here are ways to maximize your membership:
- Join a committee or attend events. Getting involved in a committee or regularly showing up to networking events helps you build familiarity with other members. The more visible you are, the more likely people are to refer business your way.
- Take advantage of sponsorships and ribbon cuttings. Sponsoring an event or hosting a ribbon cutting can quickly put your business in front of a larger audience. These opportunities often come with added promotional opportunities.
- Optimize your member directory listing. Many chambers include an online member directory that can act as a referral tool. Make sure your profile is complete and clearly explains what your business offers.
- Know why you joined. Whether your goal is generating leads, building partnerships, or increasing brand awareness, be intentional about the events and opportunities you prioritize.
- Include your team when possible. If your membership allows, encourage employees to attend events or join committees. This expands your reach and helps your business stay visible even when you’re not present.
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The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a proud member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and an active part of the U.S. Chamber Federation of small and regional chambers, which routinely provides content like the article above. The content above does not constitute legal, accounting, tax, or other professional advice but is for general informational purposes. For accurate, complete advice, readers are encouraged to consult with qualified legal, accounting, or other professional advisors before making any decisions based on the information provided. If you need help finding qualified help, please contact the Chamber for a list of our members.
ABC Supply – New Member Highlight
ABC Supply Co. Inc. in Montoursv
ille, Pennsylvania, is a trusted supplier serving contractors, builders, and homeowners throughout the region with a wide range of roofing, siding, windows, gutters, decking, and other exterior building products. As part of the nation’s largest wholesale distributor of roofing and building materials, the Montoursville branch combines the resources of a nationally recognized company with the personalized service of a local team committed to helping customers complete projects efficiently and successfully. Known for dependable delivery services, knowledgeable staff, and strong relationships with industry professionals, ABC Supply continues to support the local construction community by providing quality materials, convenient jobsite solutions, and customer-focused service that has helped make the company a respected name in the building supply industry.
The True Cost of Healthcare: It’s More Than Premiums
Source: My Benefit Advisor
When employers evaluate their health benefits, the conversation almost always starts, and ends, with premiums. While those costs are highly visible, they represent only a portion of the true financial impact. The bigger, less obvious costs often go unmanaged.
Healthcare doesn’t just affect your balance sheet; it directly influences how your workforce performs every day.
Absenteeism is the most recognizable factor. Employees dealing with unmanaged health conditions, delayed care, or financial barriers to treatment are more likely to miss work. But even more costly is presenteeism—when employees are physically present but not fully productive due to health issues, stress, or fatigue. This silent drain on performance often exceeds the cost of absenteeism yet rarely shows up in traditional reporting.
There’s also the impact on retention. Benefits that feel expensive, confusing, or difficult to access can lead employees to seek opportunities elsewhere. In a competitive labor market, healthcare isn’t just a cost, it’s a key component of your value proposition as an employer.
And then there are downstream financial effects. Poorly managed plans can lead to higher utilization of emergency services, increased specialty drug spend, and delayed diagnoses that result in more complex and costly treatments over time.
The takeaway is simple: focusing solely on premiums provides an incomplete picture. A high-performing benefits strategy looks at total impact—cost, utilization, employee experience, and long-term outcomes.
Employers who take this broader view are better positioned to make informed decisions. By improving access to care, supporting employee engagement, and monitoring trends throughout the year, they don’t just manage costs, they improve performance. Because in the end, the true cost of healthcare isn’t just what you pay, it’s what it prevents, what it enables, and how it shapes the health and productivity of your organization.
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 Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3539.
Keystone Care A.B.A – New Member Highlight


he Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is excited to begin planning its