Member News ~ July 23, 2026
Events & Dates:
Glen Brook Shoe Drive - July 29
Danville Business Alliance is Looking for Vendors - July 31
The 48th Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival will be here before you know it! Join them as a vendor! For best space availability, it is recommended to register before July 31!
Register online today: https://visitdanvillepa.org/.../fall-arts-crafts.../
The Exchange Presents Bloomsburg’s 18th Annual ArtFest - Aug 22
Dedicated to bringing the arts to all communities throughout the region, The Exchange presents Columbia County’s biggest one-day-fine-art-and-music event of the year. The 18th annual ArtFest will take place on Saturday August 22nd from 10am-5pm. This event will be located on Market Street in downtown Bloomsburg from the monument down to 3rd Street. ArtFest will showcase over 50 artists original work accompanied by live music, food vendors and fun educational activities for all ages. For more information about The Exchange and ArtFest, visit ExchangeArts.org.
CCDP and DCDC Present Bounce Boogie and Benefit- Sept 12
Journey Bank Photography Competition Registration Deadline Approaching - September 18
Announcements:
Montour County Volunteers Remove Trailer Load of Trash from Susquehanna River
More than 40 volunteers joined forces for a successful cleanup effort along the Susquehanna River near Danville, removing a full trailer load of tires and other debris from the waterway. Participants included local students, community organizations, environmental groups, and recreation partners, all working together to improve the river's health and appearance. Organizers also thanked Steph's Subs for providing lunch and recognized the teamwork and community spirit that made the event a success.
Berwick World War II Weekend Celebrates 10 Years of Living History
The Stuart Tank Memorial Association marked the 10th anniversary of Berwick World War II Weekend at Test Track Park, drawing what organizers say was a record-setting crowd despite challenging weather. Since its humble beginnings in 2016, the event has grown into a premier East Coast living history experience, attracting reenactors and visitors from across the region to the hometown of the Stuart Light Tank. Organizers credited the event’s success to its sponsors, donors, vendors, reenactors, attendees, and dedicated volunteers, whose support continues to keep the free-admission tradition alive.
InnoTek Partners with Sean Black State Farm Insurance to Recycle and Donate Electronics
InnoTek and Sean Black State Farm Insurance’s Wired for Good Initiative is keeping old tech out of landfills and putting usable devices back into the hands of local individuals, families and nonprofits across the region. The Wired for Good Imitative included recycling outdated electronics and donating refurbished usable devices. More than 100 items were either recycled or refurbished and donated back to the community. The effort reflects both organizations shared commitment to environmental responsibility and community stewardship.
Steinbacher, Goodall and Yurchak Congratulates Attorney Julieanne E. Steinbacher
Steinbacher Goodall and Yurchak is proud to congratulate Attorney Julieanne E. Steinbacher on her appointment as the Zone 4 Director on the Board of PABAR-PAC, the political action committee of the Pennsylvania Bar Association. Congratulations Julie!
Downtown Bloomsburg Thanks Teens
The students from the FTC Teen Center Bloomsburg look after the avenue all year long, cleaning up trash, wiping down picnic tables, and emptying the trash cans.
Atlantic Culinary Environments Welcomes Newest Members
Atlantic Culinary Environment welcomes two new members to their team. Congratulations Dakota Jarrett, Project Manger and Lindsey Reinhart, Food & Beverage Designer!
Swift Kennedy Employee Benefits Now a Member of TRUE Network of Advisors
Swift Kennedy Employee Benefits is proud to announce their membership in TRUE Network of Advisors, one of the nations fastest-growing and most respected networks of independent employee benefits consulting firms. More information here.
Did You Miss Last Week's Member News? Here's News That's Still Timely:
BTE Stages Sensory Friendly Performance of Elephant & Piggie's "We Are In A Play"- July 25th
The Elephant & Piggies Performance is altered to accommodate patrons who experience heightened sensory input, anxiety, have
dementia or learning differences, or are on the autistic spectrum. The performance will start at 2pm. Click Here For More Information.
The Women's Center Red Sand Project - July 30
Join The Women's Center from 11am-1pm in Bloomsburg or Danville to spread awareness during World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. Click Here for More Information.
Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver invites you to attend her upcoming grant seminar, “How to Be a Better Applicant,” - August 13
Join them from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at the Bloomsburg Area High School Auditorium, 1200 Railroad St., Bloomsburg, PA 17815. RSVP: Please register by Tuesday, August 11 using this link or by calling their Shamokin Dam office at 570‑743‑1918.
Pine Barn Inn hosts Susquehanna Valley Business Mixer - August 17
Pine Barn Inn in partnership with 7 Mountain Media invites local business owners, professionals, chamber members, and community leaders to join them for the Susquehanna Valley Business Mixer. This free networking event will be held Monday August 17th from 4:00pm-6:00pm at the Pine Barn Inn Ballroom. Attendance is free, and registration is easy, reserve your spot here.
Wild for Salmon Fishtival - August 29
Join Wild for Salmon to celebrate wild seafood and welcome back their fishermen on Saturday August 29th from 9am-4pm! Bring the whole family for a day of games, local vendors, face painting, wild seafood tastings, and live grilling demonstrations. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome!
Congratulations to Sergeant Quentin Reinford
The Town of Bloomsburg Council is proud to announce the promotion of Quentin Reinford to the rank of Sergeant effective July 26, 2026 with the Bloomsburg Police Department.
The Pennsylvania Association of Agricultural Educators (PAAE) held its annual conference
Mr. Douglas G. Brown, Agricultural/Environmental Science Instructor and FFA Advisor at Central Columbia High School attended the conference. Mr. Brown was presented with numerous awards: PAAE Years of Service Award-Mr. Brown will be heading into his 36th year of teaching agricultural/environmental science at Central Columbia, PAAE public advocacy award in promoting agriculture across the commonwealth and outside of Pennsylvania boundaries, PAAE Incentive Award, and lastly Mr. Brown was presented with the PAAE Outstanding Service Award.
Understanding America’s Demographic Reality
Source: US Chamber
According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), U.S. population growth has slowed to roughly 0.2 percent per year—less than one-fifth the pace seen from the mid‑1970s through the early 2000s. Even more consequential, the CBO estimates that by 2030, the United States will experience more deaths than births each year for the first time in its history. From that point forward, nearly all population growth will come from net immigration. Without it, both the total population and the working‑age population begin to decline.
These demographic shifts are already producing visible strain across the labor market. Millions of positions remain unfilled despite sustained demand. Construction projects are delayed. Manufacturers face limits on output. Healthcare systems struggle with chronic staffing gaps. Logistics, agriculture, hospitality, and technology employers report similar challenges. These shortages slow production, raise costs, strain supply chains, and reduce the return on domestic investment. In strategic terms, diminished economic capacity during a period of intensifying global competition creates real national risk.
The CBO has been explicit about the consequences. Slower growth in the labor force leads directly to slower GDP growth and reduced fiscal capacity in the decades ahead. Even aggressive efforts to raise participation among U.S.‑born workers cannot offset sufficiently the number of Americans retiring from the labor market over the next ten to twenty years. Demographic limits are real, and that’s why our alliance is urging policymakers to confront them with real reforms.
Confronting these realities requires a clear‑eyed approach to workforce policy; one grounded in data, economic fundamentals, and America’s long-term competitiveness. A modernized structural change is now a necessity for sustaining growth. Policymakers face a choice: modernize our systems to reflect demographic reality, or accept slower growth, reduced capacity, and declining economic leadership. The Chamber’s alliance will continue to advance practical, market‑driven reforms that strengthen the workforce, support employers, and ensure the United States remains positioned to compete and prosper in a changing world.
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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.
Maximizing ROI on Employee Health Benefits: How Strategic Investments Improve Productivity & Retention
Source: My Benefit Advisor
The Business Case for Investing in Health Benefits
In today’s competitive talent landscape, business leaders face increasing
pressure to offer health benefits that not only support employee well-being but also drive measurable business outcomes. Rising healthcare costs, talent shortages, and employee burnout are challenges that cannot be ignored.
Many companies see employee health benefits as simply a necessary cost of doing business. But the most successful businesses treat them as an investment — one that directly affects the bottom line. Companies that invest strategically in health benefits often see real returns, including higher productivity, lower absenteeism, better retention, and a more engaged workforce.
Mid- and large-sized companies also face the challenge of offering benefits that fit a wide range of employees across different locations and job roles. By using data, tailoring benefits, and focusing on proactive care, businesses can maximize the return on their investment (ROI) while building a healthier, more loyal workforce.
This guide explores practical ways to maximize the ROI of employee health benefits by designing data-driven, holistic, and flexible plans that meet employees’ needs while supporting the company’s goals.
Key Strategies to Maximize ROI
Invest in Preventive Care & Wellness Programs
Preventive screenings, immunizations, fitness incentives, and wellness coaching help employees stay healthier, reducing long-term care costs. Employers see ROI through fewer high-cost events and improved productivity.
Align Benefits with Workforce Demographics
Tailor offerings to the specific needs of the employee population. Younger workforces may value student loan repayment or mental health support, while older employees may prioritize chronic condition management and retirement planning. Alignment ensures benefits are relevant and used.
Leverage Data & Analytics
Track performance indicators such as utilization, absenteeism, and claims data. Use analytics to identify trends, measure program effectiveness, and adjust offerings. Data-driven strategies ensure benefits spending leads to real, measurable outcomes.
Educate & Engage Employees
ROI only happens if employees understand and use their benefits. Clear communication, decision-support tools, and year-round education campaigns drive higher engagement and smarter health care choices.
Integrate Technology Solutions
Digital health platforms, telemedicine, and mobile apps improve access and reduce unnecessary ER or urgent care visits. Technology also enables employees to manage benefits more effectively, increasing satisfaction and efficiency.
Focus on Total Well-Being
Go beyond medical coverage to address mental health, financial wellness, work-life balance, and family benefits. A holistic approach reduces stress, boosts engagement, and supports long-term retention, key drivers of ROI.
Health Benefits Impacting Retention Rates
Comprehensive health benefits play a pivotal role in retaining top talent by fostering a sense of security, loyalty, and long-term commitment among employees. When companies offer strong medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with mental health resources, wellness programs, and family-friendly benefits, employees feel supported and valued. This sense of security builds trust and reduces turnover, especially during times of personal or financial stress.
In today’s market, employees pay close attention to the benefits a company offers. Workers who feel their employer supports both their physical and mental health are far less likely to look for other jobs. By investing in benefits that support the whole person — including health, peace of mind, and family needs — companies build a workplace where people want to stay. This stability leads to stronger retention and better performance across the organization.
Measuring Success: Key Metrics to Track
Measuring key metrics is essential for employers to truly understand the ROI on their employee health benefit program. By tracking outcomes such as healthcare utilization, absenteeism, employee productivity, and retention rates, employers can move beyond seeing benefits as a cost and begin viewing them as a strategic investment. Data-driven insights allow organizations to identify which programs drive the greatest value, whether it’s preventive care programs, wellness initiatives, or chronic condition management. Demonstrating clear correlations between benefit strategies and reduced claims costs, improved employee engagement, or stronger workforce performance provides employers with the evidence needed to justify investments and fine-tune future offerings.
In an increasingly competitive labor market, this tracking not only validates the financial impact but also reinforces the organization’s commitment to employee well-being, strengthening both recruitment and retention.
To demonstrate ROI and continuously improve health benefits programs, companies should track several key metrics.
- Health Care Claims Trends
- Absenteeism Rates
- Productivity Metrics Tied to Workforce Health Initiatives
- Employee Engagement & Satisfaction Scores
- Retention Rates & Exit Survey Data
Benchmarks should be reviewed quarterly and annually, and adjustments should be made based on the findings.
Anticipating Challenges
Building a strategic investment approach for employee benefits requires foresight, discipline, and an understanding of both market dynamics and workforce behavior. Without careful alignment between benefit objectives and broader organizational goals, strategies risk becoming disorganized or reactive. Overcoming these challenges demands consistent evaluation, good communication between departments, and a willingness to adapt as both workforce needs and economic conditions evolve.
Even with strategic planning, there are challenges companies may need to overcome when designing these strategies.
Health Care Issues
Employers must navigate fluctuating health care costs, evolving regulatory requirements, and an increasingly diverse workforce with varying priorities.
Data Collection & Privacy
Data collection and analysis can be difficult, as organizations often struggle to merge information from multiple carriers, vendors, and wellness platforms into a cohesive picture, while maintaining compliance with HIPAA and other data-protection regulations.
Engagement Barriers
Some employees may not immediately participate in wellness programs. Ongoing education and incentives can help.
Cost Management
Balancing cost containment with the need to remain competitive and attractive to current and prospective employees can be difficult. Additionally, benefit investments may take time to yield measurable results, making it challenging to demonstrate short-term ROI to leadership or finance teams.
Vendor Alignment
Work with a benefit advisor or provider who acts as a proactive, data-driven partner, not just a transactional vendor.
From Cost to Competitive Advantage
Maximizing ROI on employee health benefits does not come from one-size-fits-all plans. It takes thoughtful planning, the right mix of benefits, and ongoing evaluation to make sure your investment is delivering value. Companies that support employee well-being see improvements in productivity, engagement, retention, and overall performance. As health care costs rise and competition for talent increases, employers need clear guidance and a trusted partner who can help them make informed decisions that support their business goals.
My Benefit Advisor (MBA) provides the expertise, data insights, and support employers need to design, refine, and measure benefit strategies that make a real difference. Whether you want to strengthen retention, improve workforce health, reduce claims, or make better use of your benefits budget, MBA can guide you every step of the way.
To learn how your organization can start maximizing ROI on employee health benefits, contact MBA today.
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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 their website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3539.
President’s Message: Thanks for the Ride…and for All the Rides
Chris Berleth Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce CEO/President
“Chris, we really need to do a camporee at Knoebels again. The kids always loved it.”
“What’s Knoebels?” I asked. The room got quiet.
It was February of 2013. I was new to the area, having just landed in Columbia County one year prior, tha
nks to wedding nuptials and a relocation from State College. I’d grown up in New England, and the area was still really new to me. I’d never heard of this place.
“We can’t describe it to you, Chris. Knoebels is something you need to experience first-hand. Go see it…trust us.”
That’s what the Activities Committee ordered, so that’s what I
was supposed to do. My mission was simple: go to Knoebels, meet with the leadership, and ask, plead, or beg to bring a robotics-themed camporee to the park. The committee gave me a few suggestions: “Tell them we’ll camp in the parking lot. Stay out of the way. Tell them we’ll buy the ticket books and feed the kids in the park. Get us there, and you’ll be a hero.”
I was nervous. The more I heard about this place and the more I imagined I would have to really sell this idea to the leadership team, the more nervous I got. I worked up a whole pitch, practiced it all morning. I gave myself time to navigate the park and showed up super early so I could find my way around without looking like a lost puppy. I walked through a very quiet park, through the pavilions, and past a few rides which were much larger than I expected. I’d been to plenty of amusement parks as a kid, so I wasn’t overly excited right away. (Please forgive an aside – kindly remember that it was February, and the season hadn’t yet begun.)
I’m sure I still looked like a lost puppy when I reached the office.
“Mr. Knoebel is out in the park and will be back shortly,” I was told. True to form, he walked in right on time, smirking a little when he saw me in my Scout uniform. I’m sure he could see how green I was, and he knew what to expect. No doubt, he’d encountered plenty of district executives in his time. A quick, firm handshake, and then he said, “Come with me, young man.”
There was no meeting, no pitch. At a glance, he’d clearly deduced that it was my first time in the park. I obeyed without a
Photo courtesy of Larry Deklinski
word and, at his bidding, jumped into the passenger side of his golf cart.
That’s when the whole thing went crazy.
What followed was the most insane and thrilling ride I’d ever been on in my life, as Dick Knoebel took me on a personal tour of his beloved Amusement Park, at what seemed like 100 mph, in 20-degree weather, with a light vest on.
Imagine getting an invitation to join Santa on his sleigh for a personal tour of the North Pole. In retrospect, that’s what this was.
Instead of “On Dasher, On Dancer”, he shouted “That’s the Paratrooper! The Log Flume. Cosmotron! Merry Mixer! Twister! Whipper!” calling out the names of the rides and their history, flying around corners as fast as the cart would go. This was no tame golf cart. This thing had no regulator. It squealed and shook to his will, as if he were still in the Marines driving a Jeep between battle stations.
I almost fell out twice and caught him grinning as he hit the corner around the carousel. It was right out of a silly Christmas movie. He was a gruff old elf, laughing while I jiggled like a bowl full of jelly - and not the other way around. I didn’t say a word. I knew from the first tire peel that it was a test of fortitude. I just held on for dear life.
He knew every employee’s name, waved, and said hello. The cart screeched to a halt as he popped out to help someone near the high-water mark, while telling me about flooding. Then we were off again, just as fast, but it suddenly felt like something was wrong.
Instead of returning to the office, he took me straight to the parking lot. I’d had time to tell him I was from Rhode Island, that I’d been in Scouts with my dad, that we’d love to bring the Scouts back for a camporee.
As we arrived at my car, with a sort of door-to-door delivery service, he said, “Well, we always have Scout Day at Knoebels. The Scouts never left.”
Then, like St. Nick turning back to the sky with a word of farewell, I watched in horror as he whipped the cart around and wished me goodbye. I was stunned. I had no idea what had happened or how I’d screwed this up. The meeting was over, the golf cart ride was it, and it had lasted all of 10 minutes.
For two days, I agonized over this encounter, trying to think up ways to re-engage this man and try again. While I was stewing, a letter arrived to the council office addressed to me.
Inside were a few scribbled lines on Knoebel's letterhead, and two patches. “See? We’ve always loved the Scouts. Bring the kids to Scout Day and camp in the lot. Sincerely, Dick Knoebel.” In the envelope was the patch he’d been given when the council last held a camporee there…and along with it was a Knoebels Scout Day patch that they’d made up for the years when there wasn’t a formal Scouting event. The message was clear. “Scouts are always welcome at Knoebels, whether it’s an official event or not.”
That letter made me a hero. I reported back to the Activities Committee that we were good to go, and the kids had an amazing time. It was a great event because of the kindness and magic of Dick Knoebel, and the hard work of a lot of volunteers who always made me look better at my job than I actually was.
A few years after leaving the Scouting profession to go into Chamber work, I found myself at an event in Shamokin with Mr. Knoebel. His health had started to decline, but I wanted to thank him for that kindness, and told the story back to him and to the people within earshot. Our encounter
had been so brief and seemingly so insignificant in the grand scheme of what I’m sure he dealt with every day, that I didn’t expect him to remember it at all. He very politely smiled and let me share the tale, showing kindness yet again.
Two days later, I was surprised to receive at the Chamber a second note - this time, wishing me luck in my new career and reminding me that I, too, would always be welcome at Knoebels. Of course, that note was also accompanied by another patch, which seemed to emphasize his point.
As a father of two young boys, and now considerably more immersed in the community, I have been bewitched by the Knoebels Amusement Park in the same way everyone who goes there is. Considering his passing, I can’t help but recall how generous Dick Knoebel was to me personally and consider the gigantic legacy he leaves behind.
It still feels like I met Santa Claus, who had told me I was welcome to return to the North Pole anytime I wished, and as I mull over this comparison, I’m bewitched again by the magic again.
Thanks, Mr. Knoebel, for the notes, these precious mementos which I will treasure. And, thanks for the ride…thanks for ALL the rides.
Criterium-Peters Engineers, Inc. – New Member Highlight
Proudly Serving The Community Since 2001, Criterium-Peters Engineers, Inc. has been a trusted engineering consulting firm providing comprehensive building evaluation and engineering services throughout Pennsylvania. Their licensed Professional Engineers specialize in structural evaluations, forensic investigations, property condition assessments, construction quality assurance, building envelope consulting, and due diligence services for commercial, industrial, municipal, and residential clients. Known for their integrity, technical capabilities, and practical solutions, they help clients make informed decisions while protecting the value, safety, and performance of their properties.The Forge Pub & Eatery – New Member Highlight
Member News ~ July 16, 2026
Events & Dates:
Summer Movies in Danville - July 16
The Danville Business Alliance (DBA) and Danville Borough invite families and community members to grab their lawn chairs and head to Canal Park for the second installment of Downtown Danville's Summer Movie Series, featuring Disney's beloved classic, Lilo & Stitch, on Thursday, July 16, 2026. Food and festivities begin at 6:00 PM, and the movie starts at 6:30 PM at Canal Park, located at 463 Mill Street, Danville. The event will be held rain or shine (in the event of inclement weather, the movie will be shown inside the Danville Borough Ballroom).
Groundbreaking ceremony for the new home of the Bloomsburg Children's Museum - July 21
Service 1st in Coordination with (PFEW) are Hosting Financial Reality Fairs this Summer for High School Students - July 22
Service 1st Federal Credit Union in coordination with Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week (PFEW) has been invited to lead programming for financial reality fairs being held throughout the month of July. They are inviting you to join them to experience this unique financial education experience on July 22, 2026 at Lycoming College in Williamsport.
BTE Stages Sensory Friendly Performance of Elephant & Piggie's "We Are In A Play"- July 25th
The Elephant & Piggies Performance is altered to accommodate patrons who experience heightened sensory input, anxiety, have
dementia or learning differences, or are on the autistic spectrum. The performance will start at 2pm. Click Here For More Information.
The Women's Center Red Sand Project - July 30
Join The Women's Center from 11am-1pm in Bloomsburg or Danville to spread awareness during World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. Click Here for More Information.
Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver invites you to attend her upcoming grant seminar, “How to Be a Better Applicant,” - August 13
Join them from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at the Bloomsburg Area High School Auditorium, 1200 Railroad St., Bloomsburg, PA 17815. RSVP: Please register by Tuesday, August 11 using this link or by calling their Shamokin Dam office at 570‑743‑1918.
Pine Barn Inn hosts Susquehanna Valley Business Mixer - August 17
Pine Barn Inn in partnership with 7 Mountain Media invites local business owners, professionals, chamber members, and community leaders to join them for the Susquehanna Valley Business Mixer. This free networking event will be held Monday August 17th from 4:00pm-6:00pm at the Pine Barn Inn Ballroom. Attendance is free, and registration is easy, reserve your spot here.
Wild for Salmon Fishtival - August 29
Join Wild for Salmon to celebrate wild seafood and welcome back their fishermen on Saturday August 29th from 9am-4pm! Bring the whole family for a day of games, local vendors, face painting, wild seafood tastings, and live grilling demonstrations. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome!
Announcements:
Congratulations to Sergeant Quentin Reinford
The Town of Bloomsburg Council is proud to announce the promotion of Quentin Reinford to the rank of Sergeant effective July 26, 2026 with the Bloomsburg Police Department.
The Pennsylvania Association of Agricultural Educators (PAAE) held its annual conference
Mr. Douglas G. Brown, Agricultural/Environmental Science Instructor and FFA Advisor at Central Columbia High School attended the conference. Mr. Brown was presented with numerous awards: PAAE Years of Service Award-Mr. Brown will be heading into his 36th year of teaching agricultural/environmental science at Central Columbia, PAAE public advocacy award in promoting agriculture across the commonwealth and outside of Pennsylvania boundaries, PAAE Incentive Award, and lastly Mr. Brown was presented with the PAAE Outstanding Service Award.
Did You Miss Last Week's Member News? Here's News That's Still Timely:
Bloomsburg Area YMCA hosts 4th Annual Run Forest Run - July 18
The Bloomsburg Area YMCA is hosting its 4th Annual Run Forest Run on Saturday, July 18th, along the Roaring Creek Tract of Weiser State Forest. Participants can choose from a 5K, 10K, or, new this year, a Half-Marathon, making the event a great fit for runners of all experience levels. The course follows an out-and-back route on mostly flat gravel and dirt roads. Proceeds support YMCA programs and projects that help make our facility more accessible to everyone in our community. Join us for a great morning on the course while supporting your local YMCA!"
Third Annual Veterans Benefit Voyage Train Rides Move to Berwick for WWII Weekend - July 18
The North Shore Railroad Company & Affiliates (“NSHR”) will be running their third annual Veterans Benefit Voyage. This year’s fundraiser train rides will be boarding at Berwick’s World War II Weekend out of Test Track Park located at S. Eaton St., Berwick, PA. Rides will depart at 10am and 1pm. These hour-long train rides (10am & 1pm) will travel south towards Bloomsburg (for 30 minutes) and return. The locomotives featured for these trips will be LVRR 9052 (Veterans Unit) and LVRR 9050 (Memorial Unit). Learn More at: www.northshorewarehouse.com/usa
McKonly & Asbury Free WEBINAR - July 30
This free, one-hour webinar will take place on Thursday, July 30 at 2:00 p.m. EDT. One “Specialized Knowledge” CPE credit is available for this webinar. The level for this webinar is intermediate, and working knowledge of the LIHTC program is required. This program is a live webinar which offers the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the presenters. Registration Link: WEBINAR: Year 15 for LIHTC Partnerships | Mid Atlantic CPA
Community Giving Foundation Announces New $300,000 Grant - Due July 31
Community Giving Foundation, in collaboration with Amazon and the Luzerne Foundation, proudly announces the launch of the Amazon Northeastern Pennsylvania Community Fund, a bold $300,000 aimed at empowering nonprofits serving Columbia and Luzerne Counties. The application process will open July 1, 2026, with a deadline of July 31, 2026. Learn More at Foundation Grants - Community Giving Foundation
Benton’s 41st Annual Frontier Days Rodeo - July 14 through 19
The Benton Rodeo is proud to be recognized as one of the very best among more than 65 rodeos east of the Mississippi River. Tickets are available online. Grounds open at 4pm, Vendors and food stands open between 4:30 and 5pm. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 7:30pm Championship Rodeo | Sunday Bull-A-Rama 7:30 pm
Berwick World War II Weekend Reenactment - July 17 through 19
The 2026 Berwick World War II Weekend Reenactment will take place at Riverfront Park (aka "The Test Track") at the end of South Eaton Street in Berwick, PA Friday July 17th through Sunday July 19th. Click here for more information
Rabbittransit introducing rabbitPAY - July 21
Rabbittransit is excited to announce a major upgrade, the launch of rabbitPAY, going live July 21, 2026. rabbitPAY introduces a smart card and mobile based payment system, making boarding faster, more convenient and more flexible than ever before. Riders can simply tap and go when boarding the bus. rabbitPAY will offer multiple smart card reloading options thru the app, online, at a machine or in person. In preparation for the launch, rabbittransit will offer community events to help riders sign up and answer questions. For more information visit www.rabbittransit.org.
KMA Hope on the Fairway- July 31
The KMA Hope on the Fairway Golf Tournament is an annual fundraiser providing critical early momentum for the 2026 Walk goals. Open to golfers of all skill levels, it’s a great day on the greens for a meaningful cause. Click here to sign up your team!
Service 1st’s Annual Charity Duck Derby - August 1
The Service 1st Federal Credit Union rubber duckies are getting ready for their Annual Charity Duck Derby scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 12:00 noon on the Danville/Riverside Bridge in Danville. Don’t miss your chance to sponsor a duckie, or a flock of rubber duckies, in the big race! Tickets are on sale now through July 31, 2026
Bloomsburg Rotary Hosting 37th Annual Golf Tournament - August 12
President’s Message: Our Comprehensive Take on the New State Budge
Chris Berleth Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce CEO/President
By now, you’ve heard: Pennsylvania has a new state budget.
On July 12, the General Assembly completed work on the Commonwealth’s $50.8 billion spending plan for the 2026–27 fiscal year. While the budget was adopted after the July 1 start of the fiscal year, we are pleased that legislative leaders and the Governor reached an agreement and avoided a prolonged impasse.
The budget process is rarely straightforward. Competing political priorities, last-minute amendments, and pressure from organized interests can quickly reshape legislation—sometimes in ways that create serious unintended consequences for employers, nonprofits, and communities. The final agreement reflects the negotiation required to complete the budget, but it also demonstrates why close attention and rapid advocacy are often necessary until the final votes are cast.
The PA Chamber of Business and Industry led much of the statewide effort, while the Columbia Montour Chamber was actively engaged on issues with direct local consequences. Our legislators took seriously the concerns we brought before them.
Our most urgent concern involved proposed changes to Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit program.
Legislation passed by the House would have ended the existing EITC and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit programs and replaced them with a substantially different structure. The proposal would have reduced the value of the tax benefit, restricted which students could benefit from scholarships, and imposed new limitations on how EITC funds could be used.
The Chamber mobilized quickly because the effects would have extended far beyond the political debate over school choice.
Educational Improvement Organizations use EITC contributions to support career exploration, workforce development, financial literacy, educational equipment, student experiences, and other programs delivered in partnership with local school districts.
Over the past decade, the Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber has translated more than $1 million in tax credits into programs, scholarships, equipment, and educational opportunities for local public-school students. Other nonprofits throughout our region also rely on EITC to provide services that schools and families value, which are innovative and supplement the curriculum at local public schools.
The proposed changes could have interrupted funding and placed significant new burdens on organizations already operating with limited staff and resources. We worked to ensure that lawmakers understood those local consequences, and they responded to our concerns.
Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver, chair of the Senate Education Committee, also told our Government Affairs Committee that she understood the strain the proposed legislation would have placed on community organizations.
We are grateful that the changes were excluded from the final budget and the existing EITC structure was preserved. We support reasonable transparency and accountability, but reforms should strengthen successful partnerships—not unintentionally dismantle them.
The Chamber was also engaged on childcare.
Employers across Columbia and Montour counties continue to identify the lack of accessible, affordable childcare as a direct workforce barrier. That is why the Columbia Montour Chamber joined a coalition of 81 local Chambers advocating for additional state investment in childcare.
The final budget includes a $5 million increase for the Child Care Worker Retention and Recruitment Program, which supports bonuses intended to help providers attract and retain employees.
Additional funding is welcome, but money alone will not solve the problem. We have also been working with Representatives Leadbeter and Stender and getting critical feedback from childcare directors about common sense reforms that would address regulatory burdens and duplicative requirements that increase costs for providers. We are watching a package of 14 House bills, expected to address some of those issues.
For employers, the budget also produced several encouraging tax-policy outcomes.
Pennsylvania’s previously enacted Corporate Net Income Tax reductions remain on schedule. The rate is expected to decline to 6.99 percent in January and continue phasing down toward 4.99 percent. Maintaining that commitment improves Pennsylvania’s competitiveness and sends an important signal to businesses deciding where to invest, expand, and create jobs.
We are equally pleased that mandatory combined reporting and a new tax on digital advertising were not included in the final agreement.
In the days leading up to budget passage, the PA Chamber and its local partners had to mobilize quickly as these provisions were added to legislation moving through the House. The proposed digital advertising tax alone was estimated to impose approximately $500 million in additional costs, with small businesses likely absorbing much of that burden through higher advertising prices.
For many local businesses, digital advertising is one of the most affordable ways to reach customers. Excluding both proposals avoided new costs and uncertainty for Pennsylvania employers.
The budget also includes investments in education, workforce development, and infrastructure.
Funding for career and technical education increased by approximately $10 million following a year without additional funding. Resources were also directed toward employer-led training through WEDnetPA, veteran employment initiatives, and scholarships designed to encourage graduates to live and work in Pennsylvania.
These investments reflect a principle that guides much of the Chamber’s work: workforce development does not begin when an employer posts a job opening.
The budget also authorizes the release of $500 million from the Motor License Fund during the current fiscal year and another $275 million the following year to accelerate shovel-ready road and bridge projects.
No broader solution for public transit funding was included, so transportation will remain part of the Chamber’s advocacy agenda. Locally, services such as StopHopper demonstrate how reliable transportation can connect residents with employment, healthcare, education, and essential services.
Significant fiscal questions also remain.
Pennsylvania continues to face an estimated structural deficit of approximately $4.5 billion. The current budget relies partly on delayed Medicaid payments, transfers from other state funds, and other one-time financial measures.
While those decisions allowed lawmakers to reach an agreement without increasing broad-based taxes or drawing from the Commonwealth’s nearly $8 billion Rainy Day Fund, the choice to delay Medicaid payments for an historic two months into the next budget means that we’ll be dealing with the consequences of this year’s bills long after the next fiscal year is over. If there’s any encouragement, it is that state revenues exceeded projections by approximately $1 billion during the previous fiscal year, reinforcing the value of policies that promote economic growth.
Summary
This budget includes several outcomes the Columbia Montour Chamber actively supported: preservation of EITC, additional childcare investment, the continued phase-down of the Corporate Net Income Tax, and the exclusion of combined reporting and the digital advertising tax. Those outcomes reflect coordinated advocacy among local Chambers, statewide partners, employers, nonprofits, educators, and public officials.
The Columbia Montour Chamber will continue to be part of that work—not simply reporting what happens in Harrisburg, but representing the interests of employers and communities in Columbia and Montour counties before the final decisions are made.
The Foundations in Industry Training (FIT) Program
Source: Dan Dorgan- McKonly & AsburyIn May, Governor Shapiro announced approximately $2.85 million in grants through Pennsylvania’s Foundations in Industry Training Program. The Foundations in Industry Training (FIT) Program is a statewide initiative administered by Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development to help employers and other apprenticeship sponsors expand access to registered apprenticeship programs. FIT funding is intended to offset the educational and technical instruction costs associated with apprenticeships. Eligible sponsors are able to receive up to $3,000 per apprentice per year for as many as three years.
The Skilled Labor Gap
As mentioned in previous articles, the country is experiencing a challenge recruiting, training, and retaining skilled employees. This issue is not industry specific, and its impact is being felt both nationally and regionally here in Pennsylvania. The National Manufacturer’s Association (NAM) reported that the United States could face a shortfall of 1.9 million manufacturing workers by 2033.
The skilled labor gap has caused employers to look internally to train and educate their current employee base to fill the growing skills gap in the labor market. In a recent survey from NAM, approximately $32 billion is being spent on annually on training programs. An increase of nearly $5 billion compared to 2019.
The construction industry has taken a closer look at this issue as well. According to the 2025 workforce survey published by the Associated General Contractors of America and the National Center for Construction Education Research, 92% of construction firms that are hiring report difficulty finding qualified workers, while 45% say labor shortages are causing project delays. The survey also found that 57% of firms report that available candidates lack the necessary skills, credentials, or licenses for the work.
Apprenticeship Costs and Returns
This skills gap is what makes the investment in the FIT program so important. Apprenticeship offers these businesses an avenue to recruit, train, and retain the necessary talent to meet their operational goals. The challenge with an apprenticeship approach is the cost associated with the program. In The Return on Investment (ROI) to Employers from Registered Apprenticeships, a 2024 U.S. Department of Labor review found that the most employer return on investment in a Registered Apprenticeship generally range from $1.40 to $1.90 returned for every $1.00 invested.
This return is significant, given the growing costs of starting or maintaining an apprenticeship program. Registered Apprenticeship programs come with a wide array of expenses, including wages, mentorship time, lost productivity, training materials, technical instruction costs, as well as other significant administrative costs to the program. The FIT program is well positioned to help not only alleviate these costs but allow employers to observe better return on investment.
An Important Investment
FIT funding is positioned to help alleviate the costs incurred by employers in an effort to address the skilled labor gap observed here in the state. In practice, these funds can assist employers by adding apprentices, sustain related technical instruction costs, or continue a program that otherwise would be scaled back because of cost.
Please reach out to a member of the Manufacturing & Distribution team for more information on the topic outlined above. For more information regarding their Manufacturing & Distribution experience, visit Manufacturing & Distribution industry page.
The Hidden Cost of Caregiver Stress
Source: My Benefit Advisor
Many employees are balancing their careers with the responsibility of caring for aging parents, spouses, children with special needs, or other family members. While these responsibilities occur outside the workplace, their impact is often felt throughout the organization.
Caregivers frequently face competing demands on their time, unexpected emergencies, and ongoing emotional stress. As a result, employers may experience increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, higher healthcare utilization, and greater turnover risk.
Because caregiving challenges are often personal and rarely discussed openly, many organizations underestimate how many employees are affected. Yet as the population ages, caregiver responsibilities are becoming increasingly common across all workforce demographics.
Forward-thinking employers are beginning to view caregiver support as a workforce strategy rather than simply an employee benefit. Flexible work arrangements, employee assistance programs, mental health resources, and caregiver support services can help employees better manage their responsibilities while remaining engaged and productive.
Organizations that recognize and address caregiver stress may be better positioned to improve retention, support employee well-being, and strengthen overall workforce performance. The hidden cost of caregiver stress extends beyond the individual. For employers, it represents a growing workforce challenge that deserves greater awareness and a proactive response.
The hidden cost of caregiver stress extends beyond the individual. For employers, it represents a growing workforce challenge that deserves greater awareness and a proactive response.
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 their website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Rob Higginbotham at (800) 377-3539.