The Power of Behind-the-Scenes Videos: Boosting Your Brand and Sales
- Behind-the-scenes videos (BTS) provide authenticity and transparency, boosting brand exposure and emotional connection with the audience.
- Sharing exclusive, behind-the-scenes content can increase social media following and visibility through engaging, shareable videos.
BTS content builds trust with consumers by humanizing the brand and showcasing the passion and effort behind operations, leading to higher customer retention and loyalty. - Leveraging behind-the-scenes videos can significantly contribute to increased sales by enhancing brand differentiation, growing social media presence, and establishing consumer trust.
747 words ~ 4 min. read
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, small business owners are constantly on the lookout for innovative ways to engage their audience, grow their following, and ultimately, increase sales. One trend that has been gaining significant traction is the creation of behind-the-scenes (BTS) videos. These videos offer a glimpse into the inner workings of your business, providing authenticity and transparency that resonate with consumers.
Why Behind-the-Scenes Videos Matter
Brand Exposure
Behind-the-scenes content provides an opportunity to showcase the personality and values that define your brand. By sharing the story behind your products or services, you can create a stronger emotional connection with your audience. This increased exposure helps differentiate your business in a saturated market, making it easier for customers to remember and choose your brand over competitors.
Increased Social Media Following
People love exclusive content. By offering a peek behind the curtain, you create a sense of exclusivity and foster a community of engaged followers. Behind-the-scenes videos are highly shareable, which can lead to increased visibility and organic growth on social media platforms. As more people discover and engage with your content, your follower count will naturally rise.
Builds Trust with Consumers
Transparency is key to building trust. When customers see the effort, passion, and authenticity that goes into your business operations, they are more likely to trust your brand. Behind-the-scenes videos humanize your business, making it more relatable and trustworthy. This trust translates into higher customer retention and loyalty.
More Sales
All of the above benefits contribute to one ultimate goal: increased sales. When your brand exposure rises, your social media following grows, and consumer trust is established, the likelihood of converting followers into paying customers improves significantly. Behind-the-scenes content serves as a powerful tool in your sales funnel, nudging potential customers closer to making a purchase.
Examples of Successful Behind-the-Scenes Content
To understand how impactful behind-the-scenes content can be, let’s look at some examples.
- Local Bakery: From kneading dough to decorating cakes, a bakery's BTS videos can highlight the craftsmanship and love that goes into each product. The result? A substantial increase in followers and sales.
- Handmade Jewelry Brand: An artisan jewelry maker who posts videos showing the intricate process of crafting custom pieces can attract a large following of makers but also build a community of loyal customers who appreciate the transparency and dedication to quality.
- Fitness Studio: A boutique fitness studio who shares behind-the-scenes content of their instructors preparing for classes, setting up equipment, and interacting with members sets itself apart from competitors. This approach builds a strong online community, leading to higher class attendance and local membership sign-ups.
For more inspiring examples and insights, you can check out this article from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
How to Create Engaging Behind-the-Scenes Content
Plan Your Content
Start by identifying the key aspects of your business that would interest your audience. This could be the production process, team activities, event preparations, or even day-to-day operations.
Be Authentic
The goal of behind-the-scenes content is to show the real, unfiltered side of your business. Authenticity is crucial, so avoid overly polished or scripted videos. Let your personality and passion shine through.
Keep It Short and Sweet
Attention spans are short, especially online. Aim for concise videos that convey your message quickly and effectively. Typically, 1-2 minutes is ideal for most social media platforms.
Engage with Your Audience
Encourage your followers to interact with your behind-the-scenes content. Ask questions, respond to comments, and create polls to keep the engagement high. This interaction not only boosts your visibility but also fosters a sense of community.
Leverage Multiple Platforms
Don’t limit yourself to just one social media platform. Share your behind-the-scenes videos across various channels like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube to maximize your reach. Make sure you understand the preferences of each platform to maximize your results.
Track Performance
Use analytics tools to monitor the performance of your behind-the-scenes content. Pay attention to metrics like views, likes, shares, comments, and conversion rates. This data will help you refine your strategy and create even more engaging content in the future.
The Takeaway
Behind-the-scenes videos offer a unique and powerful way for small business owners to connect with their audience, build trust, and drive sales. By providing a transparent look into your operations, you can enhance your brand’s authenticity and create lasting relationships with your customers.
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The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike.
Member News ~ May 31, 2024
Geisinger Offers Stop the Bleed Training
As part of the national Stop the Bleed campaign Geisinger Medical Center participates in community outreach for the public on how to manage life-threatening bleeding until Emergency Medical Services (EMS) or first responders arrive. To learn more about the program and have a training at your business click here.
Free Summer Learning Kick-Off Event
Bloomsburg Public Library and the Columbia County Traveling Library are teaming up to bring our communities a fun and free event to launch their cooperative summer learning program. Learn more.
Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak Announces Addition of Law Office ; New Real Estate Legal Services
Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak, an elder and special needs law firm with locations in Altoona, State College, Wilkes-Barre, Williamsport, Wyalusing and Wysox, Pa., is pleased to announce that the Law Office of J. Howard Langdon in Muncy, Pa., has joined SGY. Learn More.
Covered Bridge Photo Contest open until May 31st
May 31st is the LAST day to get your photos in! Spring is a great time to see the bridges. Get rules and regulations and enter here.
Bloomsburg Town Pool Opening June 8th
Get the latest information on the Norris E. Rock Memorial pool.
Updated Contact information for PPL
Check out the updated contact information flyer for PPL.
Advanced Central PA Survey Closes May 31st
The survey's goal is gain insights into the current and future needs
of both employers and employees in our region. Take Survey here.
Workshop Series for Nonprofits in Columbia County
As part of the Columbia County Rural Placemaking Innovation Challenge, a series of workshops will be held for nonprofits in May and June. See the flyer for dates and topics, and visit the project website for more descriptions/locations/times. These workshops are free to all Columbia County nonprofit employees, so please share with anyone you think might be interested.
DCDC continues 50th Anniversary Celebrations
Snack N'Shop happening June 22 rain or shine at 1459 Bloom Rd. Danville, PA 9:00 am - 1:00 pm. More information here.
Geisinger Medical Center road relocation project to begin in June
This June, Geisinger Medical Center will begin the first phase of its road relocation project on Medical Center Drive in front of the hospital. The roadwork will happen in multiple phases and is expected to be complete in early 2025. The work is expected to start Monday, June 3, weather permitting. Learn more.
Bloomsburg Children's Museum Celebrates 40th Anniversary
In case you missed it, The Bloomsburg Children's Museum was highlighted on WNEP last week!
Pennsylvania College of Technology offering Workforce Development Courses
Check out PCT's full listing of Workforce Development Courses happening all year long! Courses include Excel Training and Fundamentals of GD & T.
Construction and Maintenance Training Programs offered at CMAVTS
This workforce development opportunity is provided by Columbia County Commissioners in partnership with Community Strategies Group and funded by the COVID19-ARPA, Whole-Home Repairs Program Funds.
This program is tuition free for Residents of Columbia County. Training is provided by Columbia-Montour Area Vocational Technical School. For more information and to register for a course, call 570-784-8040, extension 3320, and check out the course schedule here.
Upcoming Bucknell SBDC Events
Register today for two events happening in June through the Bucknell SBDC. "Using AI Tools like ChatGPT to Help You Launch and Grow Your Business" will be happening June 11 as a webinar and "Establishing Your Online Presence: Your Business is Official, Now What?" will be an in-person event on June 13th.
Chamber Members Partner on Cooking Classes
Chamber members Pure Health By Andrea and Shanty Secrets are partnering with Food for Thought on children's cooking/nutrition classes over the summer. Happening every Wednesday starting June 12th with rotating locations and themes. Reach out to Pure Health by Andrea or Shanty Secrets for more details.
CSIU offering SYNCH Training
Community Health Workers are instrumental in increasing equitable access to healthcare in underserved communities across Pennsylvania. The SYNCH CHW Training Program, administered by the CSIU, still has funding for individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of others and are new to the field of community health. Find out more on the SYNCH Program Website or call (570) 246-5902.
PPL Electric Utilities customers to see lower supply charge heading into summer cooling
PPL Electric Utilities customers who don’t shop for electricity supply will see a drop in their supply price starting June 1, 2024. The supply charge is included in the Price to Compare (PTC) and passed along to customers without markup. Learn more.
Servpro of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties offering CE classes
5 CE classes will be offered by Servpro of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties. Get the full schedule.
Compassus hosting Health & Wellness Expo at Apollo Point June 12th
Door prizes, Giveaways, and tours will all be apart of a Health & Wellness Expo Compassus is hosting at Apollo Point Apartments. Get more information here.
BOOM Camps happening
Better Orientation Onboarding & Mentoring (BOOM) Camps will be hosted free and online April - July. Get dates, session topics and to register by clicking here.
Celebrate Elizabeth Dowd in her Final Mainstage Performance at BTE
Annapurna will run from May 23rd- June 9th, 2024 at the Alvina Krause Theatre, 226 Center Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815. This production will honor the illustrious 45 year career of Elizabeth Dowd in her final mainstage performance as full-time company member of the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble. Tickets are now available for purchase online at www.bte.org or by calling the Box Office at 570-784-8181
3rd Annual Recovery Picnic Happening June 13
Bringing the community together to uplift and support those in recovery and celebrate the dedication of service providers and community members who make recovery in all its forms possible. Learn more and RSVP here.
MCFCU Hosting Golf Tournament
On Friday, June 21st, 2024, MC Federal Credit Union is hosting its 4th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at Knoebels Three Ponds Golf Course. Learn more about the event.
Covered Bridge & Arts Festival Call for Vendor Applications
The 2024 Application is NOW AVAILABLE for all returning vendors and prospective new vendors. The application is the same whether you are a returning or new vendor. RETURNING VENDORS: please submit as soon as possible to receive priority consideration. The application window for prospective NEW vendors will remain open until JULY 15. Get more details here.
Save the Date for Agapepalooza
Save the Date for Agapepalooza July 20th, 2024. This is a day of free fun for the whole family with activities, local vendors, and food. Learn more.
Stay Connected to the Women's Giving Circle
"On the Bright Side" Sessions will continue on August 15th and November 14th and their Annual Meeting & Grant Presentations will happen July 17th. Learn more about these events and what the Women's Giving Circle is all about!
LCBC hosting annual Global Leadership Summit
For over 30 years, the Global Leadership Summit has been empowering leaders worldwide. LCBC will be hosting this virtual summit at their Columbia - Montour Campus on August 8-9. Learn more.
Congratulations to the LCP Class of 2024
The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the Leadership Central Penn (LCP) Class of 2024 graduation, which took place on May 16, 2024 at Ponduce Farms in Elysburg. During a formal ceremony, Josh Nespoli, Deputy Director of Community Strategies Group offered a keynote address. Sarah Slusark, of
Geisinger (LCP Class of 2024), reflected on the year-long program and the lessons learned therein.
Following these remarks, class members presented their community impact projects. LCP members split into three groups to maximize their community impact and partnered with three nonprofits serving our communities. One project helped run STEM exhibits as part of the Bloomsburg Children Museum’s annual Hak4kids Day. A second group worked with the Ronald McDonald House organizing storage spaces, cleaning up outdoor areas, and volunteering at a fundraising event at a Bucknell women’s basketball game. The final group worked with Camp Victory. They served a community Turkey Dinner, volunteered at Night of Nature, an annual fundraising event, and assisted with cleaning up cabins for summer camps. All these projects were demanding but fulfilling to the LCP class, their nonprofit partners, and community members impacted by these organizations.
The ceremony concluded with the awarding of graduation certificates. Congratulations to the following graduates:
Asondra Acor-CCDP
Brian M Brutosky- PPL
Todd Cole- Aloysius, Butler & Clark
Drue Fisher- PPL
Christopher Gevenich- Great Dane
Rebecca S Graham- Geisinger
Lisa M Hart- Fulton Bank
Heather Haynos- CSIU
Jason E Hons- Girton Manufacturing
Anna Lupini- Geisinger
Bonnie L Nevel- First Keystone Community Bank
Patty Perez- Sekisui/Kydex
Felipe Quezada- Great Dane
Danielle Spade- DCDC
Sarah Slusark- Geisinger
Laurie Swank- Agape
Keith Sweeney- Kawneer
Monisha Veerapaneni- Geisinger
Ginny Weibel- Bloomsburg Children’s Museum
Colette Wintersteen- Benco Dental
Leadership Central Penn (LCP) is now accepting nominations for the class of 2024-2025. LCP is a nine-month program designed to educate, involve, and motivate a select group of area residents for positions of leadership. The goals are to seek a diverse group of individuals with an interest in assuming effective leadership roles in their communities. Participants are chosen based on their commitment and their demonstrated leadership potential. Click Here to learn more and apply.
New Member Highlight-Christian-Baker Company
Founded in 1938, Christian-Baker Company exists to provide commercial and personal insurance to their clients while setting a standard of excellence. By providing exceptional service and competitive product offerings, partnering with their clients to ensure their interests are comprehensively protected. Every day the team strives to hold themselves to the highest ethical standards while serving their clients, carriers, and community! Christian Baker is thrilled to bring their service and expertise to the Montour and Columbia county area.
The Final DOL Fiduciary Rule is Here!
Source: McKonly & Asbury
On April 23, 2024, the US Department of Labor (DOL) issued a final rule (the Final Rule) expanding the definition of an “investment advice fiduciary” with respect to employee benefit plans and IRAs for purposes of determining who is a “fiduciary” under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (ERISA). The Final Rule will apply to trusted financial services providers who give compensated investment advice to retirement plan participants, individual retirement account owners, and plan officials responsible for administering plans and managing their assets by ensuring that such advisors adhere to stringent conduct standards and mitigate conflicts of interest.
Prior to the Final Rule, a five-part test, which was enacted in 1975, was used to define the circumstances under which a person who rendered “investment advice” to an employee benefit plan was a fiduciary under ERISA. Under the five-part test, a person who provided investment advice to a plan for a fee was a fiduciary only if the person (1) rendered advice as to the value of securities or other property, or made recommendations as to the advisability of investing in, purchasing, or selling securities or other property (2) on a regular basis, (3) pursuant to a mutual understanding with the plan or a plan fiduciary in which (4) the advice served as a primary basis for the plan’s investment decisions, and (5) the advice was individualized based on the particular needs of the plan.
The Final Rule
The Final Rule replaces the current five-part test and significantly broadens the individual(s) who may be a fiduciary under ERISA. Under the Final Rule, a person is an “investment advice fiduciary” if they make an investment recommendation of any securities transaction or other investment transaction or any investment strategy involving securities or other investment property to a “retirement investor” (i.e., a plan, plan participant or beneficiary, IRA, IRA owner or beneficiary or IRA fiduciary) for a fee or other compensation, direct or indirect, in one of the following contexts:
- The person either directly or indirectly (through or together with any affiliate) makes professional investment recommendations to investors on a regular basis as part of their business, and the recommendation is made under circumstances that would indicate to a reasonable investor in like circumstances that the recommendation:
- is based on review of the retirement investor’s particular needs or individual circumstances;
- reflects the application of professional or expert judgment to the retirement investor’s particular needs or individual circumstances; and
- may be relied upon by the retirement investor as intended to advance the retirement investor’s best interest; or
- The person represents or acknowledges that they are acting as a fiduciary under Title I of ERISA, Title II of ERISA or both with respect to the recommendation.
In addition, the Final Rule closes the previous loophole for “one-time advice,” such that a person will be a fiduciary with respect to a recommendation to roll over assets from a workplace retirement plan to an IRA if the elements of the “investment advice fiduciary” standards described above are satisfied.
The Final Rule is expected to become effective on September 23, 2024, along with changes to related prohibited transaction exemptions (PTEs), except for PTE 2020-02 and PTE 84-24, for which there will be an additional one-year transition period where exemptive relief will require a written acknowledgement of fiduciary status and compliance with impartial conduct standards. Until the effective date, financial institutions and professionals are advised to begin reviewing their current processes and policies and consider what changes are necessary to comply with the Final Rule.
About the Author:
Steph Kramer
Steph joined McKonly & Asbury in 2016 and is currently a Manager in the firm’s Audit & Assurance Segment. Steph audits a broad spectrum of employee benefit plans, including 401(k), 403(b), retirement, profit sharing, health and welfare, and VEBA plans. She also serves on the firm’s Wellness Committee, a group committed to ensuring that firm employees have a variety of outlets to stay healthy, active, and fit.
Prior to joining the firm, Steph was a Supervisor in the Baltimore and Harrisburg offices of an international accounting firm, where she was an integral part of the firm’s employee benefit plan practice.
FREE WEBINAR TO DISCUSS IMPACT OF DOL’S SALARY THRESHOLD EXEMPTION ON EMPLOYERS
Source: PA Chamber of Business and Industry
The U.S. Department of Labor recently issued a ruling increasing the salary threshold required to exempt workers from overtime pay from $35,568 to $43,888 effective July 1; and then to $58,656 by the beginning of 2025, with automatic increases every three years based on wage data.
Join the PA Chamber of Business and Industry for a FREE webinar on Wednesday, June 12, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to understand what this ruling means for your business; and earn continuing education credits!
McNees Wallace & Nurick attorneys Adam Long and Austin Wolfe will discuss the significant implications that the DOL’s administrative action could have for Pennsylvania employers’ compliance with overtime pay, along with options and next steps you can take to protect your business!
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Founded in 1916, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state's largest broad-based business association, with its membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of BusinessTM.
5 Emails that Will Grow Your Business
- Implementing a lead magnet on your website is crucial for capturing the email addresses of interested visitors, offering them a valuable resource in exchange
- An effective email campaign is essential for building trust with potential customers, utilizing a series of welcoming messages to make a memorable impression.
- Various types of emails, including introductions, helpful tips, storytelling, objection handling, and sales pitches, are key to nurturing and converting leads.
- Storytelling and addressing common objections in emails can significantly enhance engagement and demonstrate your value, leading to stronger customer relationships.
- Regularly sending well-crafted emails is better than not sending any, as the only emails that can't engage customers are the ones never sent.
529 words ~ 2 min. read
Not all visitors are immediately prepared to make a purchase. However, a
significant number are eager to learn from you. This underscores the importance of having a lead magnet on your website—a complimentary resource, training, or course for which visitors are willing to exchange their email addresses. Unlike social media content, which is at the mercy of constantly evolving algorithms, an email list provides direct communication with both existing and prospective customers.
Creating a lead magnet is key, but it's just the first step. Without a follow-up email campaign, you're missing out on the chance to build trust with potential customers over time.
An email campaign that welcomes new leads with a series of messages gives you a second chance to make a strong impression—or more accurately, a memorable second impression. Each email is an opportunity to make a lasting impact and set yourself apart from the competition.
5 Types of Emails that Work
Here are five email types that work great in a follow-up campaign. And remember: email automation can optimize your sales funnel and help you nurture customer relationships—even make conversions—in your sleep.
Email Introductions: When someone first joins your list, greet them with a personal note, deliver the lead magnet, and explain what they'll get from your emails. Remind them you're a friend, not a spammer. Avoid selling immediately, especially if your emails are part of a sales strategy aimed at building relationships first.
Value-Based Emails: Always ensure your emails offer value. Whether it's resources, tools, tips, book recommendations, or invitations, provide something worthwhile. People engage with brands they trust, so focus on building that trust rather than just staying in touch.
Storytelling Emails: Sharing stories, such as how a client overcame a business challenge, can resonate with your audience. Success stories are effective because they let your audience celebrate achievements and subtly highlight your expertise.
Objection Handling Emails: Address common objections, such as price, by framing your product or service as a valuable investment. If you offer money-back guarantees or promise specific results, include this information here. Adding testimonials can strengthen your argument. Remember, objections might also concern time, convenience, or hassle.
Sales Emails: It's okay to ask for the sale directly if you frame it correctly. Use these emails as an opportunity to convince potential buyers, especially with a special offer. Direct sales emails can be effective when done right.
We all receive emails we ignore. Sometimes we're not interested, or we're too busy. That's email marketing. However, the only emails guaranteed not to be opened are the ones you never send.
The Takeaway
Mastering email marketing is about much more than just sending out blasts to a list of contacts. It's about making meaningful connections through well-thought-out, automated email campaigns that engage, inform, and resonate with your audience.
From the initial introduction to handling objections and making the sale, every email is an opportunity to leave a lasting impression that builds trust and drives engagement. Remember, the emails that go unsent are the only ones guaranteed not to open doors for your business. Start crafting your email series today, and watch as you transform leads into loyal customers.
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The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike.
Member News ~ May 24, 2024
Free Summer Learning Kick-Off Event
Bloomsburg Public Library and the Columbia County Traveling Library are teaming up to bring our communities a fun and free event to launch their cooperative summer learning program. Learn more.
Covered Bridge Photo Contest open until May 31st
May 31st is the LAST day to get your photos in! Spring is a great time to see the bridges. Get rules and regulations and enter here.
Bloomsburg Rotary Served Community Meal
On May 18th the Bloomsburg Rotary families and friends provided 94 chicken dinners to guests at the Wesley Community Meal.
Updated Contact information for PPL
Check out the updated contact information flyer for PPL.
May ReadyPA Newsletter out
The May ReadyPA Newsletter is out with featured articles on Forecasting Fury: Navigating the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season; Decoding the Drama: Understanding Hurricane Names and Dam Safety Awareness Day (May 31st).
Camp Victory Director honored at PCT Graduation
Kate Stepnick, Director of Camp Victory, received the Alumni Humanitarian Award at the college’s Friday, May 10, afternoon ceremony. Learn more.
PA Careerlink hosting virtual Employer Seminar
The Stress Solution: Empowering Strategies for a Healthier Mindset May 30, 2024, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm. This free virtual seminar to explore stress management strategies. Learn to identify stress triggers and implement practical exercises for relief. Click Here to Register. For more information contact: BusinessSolutions@CentralPACL.com
Railroad Pays Honor to Members of America's Armed Forces
The North Shore Railroad Company & Affiliates (NSHR) unveiled and dedicated two of its locomotives on Friday, May 17th. Learn more.
Workshop Series for Nonprofits in Columbia County
As part of the Columbia County Rural Placemaking Innovation Challenge, a series of workshops will be held for nonprofits in May and June. See the flyer for dates and topics, and visit the project website for more descriptions/locations/times. These workshops are free to all Columbia County nonprofit employees, so please share with anyone you think might be interested.
Geisinger Medical Center road relocation project to begin in June
This June, Geisinger Medical Center will begin the first phase of its road relocation project on Medical Center Drive in front of the hospital. The roadwork will happen in multiple phases and is expected to be complete in early 2025. The work is expected to start Monday, June 3, weather permitting. Learn more.
Pennsylvania College of Technology offering Workforce Development Courses
Check out PCT's full listing of Workforce Development Courses happening all year long! Courses include Excel Training and Fundamentals of GD & T.
Upcoming Bucknell SBDC Events
Register today for two events happening in June through the Bucknell SBDC. "Using AI Tools like ChatGPT to Help You Launch and Grow Your Business" will be happening June 11 as a webinar and "Establishing Your Online Presence: Your Business is Official, Now What?" will be an in-person event on June 13th.
CSIU offering SYNCH Training
Community Health Workers are instrumental in increasing equitable access to healthcare in underserved communities across Pennsylvania. The SYNCH CHW Training Program, administered by the CSIU, still has funding for individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of others and are new to the field of community health. Find out more on the SYNCH Program Website or call (570) 246-5902.
PPL Electric Utilities customers to see lower supply charge heading into summer cooling
PPL Electric Utilities customers who don’t shop for electricity supply will see a drop in their supply price starting June 1, 2024. The supply charge is included in the Price to Compare (PTC) and passed along to customers without markup. Learn more.
Central Susquehanna Opportunities hosting two resource fairs
CSO is planning a Resource Fair for both Bloomsburg and Berwick. The Bloomsburg event will be held on Tuesday, May 28th, 9am - 12pm, and the Berwick event on Thursday, May 30th, 11am - 2pm. Please see flyers for more information and coordinator contact information to sign up to participate.
Servpro of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties offering CE classes
5 CE classes will be offered by Servpro of Columbia, Montour & Sullivan Counties. Get the full schedule.
Compassus hosting Health & Wellness Expo at Apollo Point June 12th
Door prizes, Giveaways, and tours will all be apart of a Health & Wellness Expo Compassus is hosting at Apollo Point Apartments. Get more information here.
BOOM Camps happening
Better Orientation Onboarding & Mentoring (BOOM) Camps will be hosted free and online April - July. Get dates, session topics and to register by clicking here.
Celebrate Elizabeth Dowd in her Final Mainstage Performance at BTE
Annapurna will run from May 23rd- June 9th, 2024 at the Alvina Krause Theatre, 226 Center Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815. This production will honor the illustrious 45 year career of Elizabeth Dowd in her final mainstage performance as full-time company member of the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble. Tickets are now available for purchase online at www.bte.org or by calling the Box Office at 570-784-8181
3rd Annual Recovery Picnic Happening June 13
Bringing the community together to uplift and support those in recovery and celebrate the dedication of service providers and community members who make recovery in all its forms possible. Learn more and RSVP here.
MCFCU Hosting Golf Tournament
On Friday, June 21st, 2024, MC Federal Credit Union is hosting its 4th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at Knoebels Three Ponds Golf Course. Learn more about the event.
Covered Bridge & Arts Festival Call for Vendor Applications
The 2024 Application is NOW AVAILABLE for all returning vendors and prospective new vendors. The application is the same whether you are a returning or new vendor. RETURNING VENDORS: please submit as soon as possible to receive priority consideration. The application window for prospective NEW vendors will remain open until JULY 15. Get more details here.
Save the Date for Agapepalooza
Save the Date for Agapepalooza July 20th, 2024. This is a day of free fun for the whole family with activities, local vendors, and food. Learn more.
Stay Connected to the Women's Giving Circle
"On the Bright Side" Sessions will continue on August 15th and November 14th and their Annual Meeting & Grant Presentations will happen July 17th. Learn more about these events and what the Women's Giving Circle is all about!
LCBC hosting annual Global Leadership Summit
For over 30 years, the Global Leadership Summit has been empowering leaders worldwide. LCBC will be hosting this virtual summit at their Columbia - Montour Campus on August 8-9. Learn more.
Leadership Central Penn Now Accepting Applications for Class of 2024-2025
Looking for a unique and innovative way to educate your employees or yourself on business and community leadership? 
Leadership Central Penn (LCP) is a 9-month program, meeting once a month, for individuals in our area to achieve a better understanding of how they can become effective leaders in their positions at work or in their community.
The class of 2024, (pictured), is comprised of area business, healthcare, and nonprofit professionals with an array of geographical, institutional, and economic backgrounds. The curriculum includes visits to area businesses and nonprofits, as well as learning sessions led by HR, training, and community experts. Following completion of their coursework, class members present a completed, small-group nonprofit service project at a formal graduation ceremony held in May. The Class of 2024 served such area nonprofits as The Ronald McDonald House of Danville, The Bloomsburg Children's Museum, and Camp Victory.
To learn more about this flagship program of the Foundation for the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce, contact Tonya Smith, Foundation Director at foundation@columbiamontourchamber.com or 570.784.2522 ext 407.
Already made up your mind and ready to apply? Complete an online application today, or download the pdf, here: https://www.columbiamontourchamber.com/foundation-adult-programs/lcp-application/
Lawmakers Rally Behind PA Chamber’s Top Priorities
An op-ed published last week in the Allentown Morning Call endorsed several key tax reforms that top the PA Chamber’s priority list.
The piece, written by state Reps. Zack Mako (R-Lehigh), Robert Leadbeter (R-Columbia), and Tom Jones (R-Lancaster), described testimony delivered during legislative hearings, including one hosted at The Columbia Montour Chamber (pictured below), in which various industry representatives urged lawmakers to advance pro-growth proposals, including accelerating the reduction of the Corporate Net Income tax, improving the treatment of Net Operating Losses, and repealing the accelerated sales tax requirement, all of which would go a long way toward improving Pennsylvania’s competitiveness and helping to create family-sustaining jobs.
The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce joins the PA Chamber of Business & Industry in applauding these state lawmakers for recognizing the benefits of these pro-growth policies, which have benefited other states’ economies, and for working with the PA Chamber to promote them here in Pennsylvania. You can read their full op-ed here.
Chris Berleth, Columbia Montour Chamber President (center) testifies at the PA House Policy Committee Briefing on Pro-Business Tax Policy.