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Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment for 2024

October 25, 2023

Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment for 2024

Source: McKonly & Asbury

On October 12, 2023, the federal government announced the Social Security 2024 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) at 3.2% effective January 1, 2024. Individuals who receive Social Security (SS) will receive a mailing in late November or early December indicating their new benefit amount.

This increase affects all federal benefits (SS, Supplemental Security Income [SSI], Civil Service Pensions, Railroad Retirement, and Veteran’s benefits).

Managers of affordable housing properties are required to determine income for eligibility and need to begin using this increase now in projecting income for applicants and residents. Failing to accurately calculate anticipated income using the newly announced COLA is a frequent compliance issue. It is very important when moving a new household into your site to ensure that they are income eligible.

Some important things to remember when calculating the increase and documenting the tenant file:

  1. A copy of the official Social Security COLA increase letter needs to be in the tenant file.
  2. Any move-in that would be scheduled for October 12, 2023, or later must project annual household income using the 2024 COLA for federal income benefits that are affected by this increase.
  3. Tenant Recertifications that have not been signed or dated prior to October 12, 2023, must include the 2024 COLA in the income calculation.

For example, a November 1, 2023, recertification that has NOT been completed on or before October 12, 2023, this includes being
signed and dated by both the owner and the tenant, will need to include the 2024 COLA.

However, a recertification for November 1, 2023, that has been completed, including being signed and dated by both the owner and tenant prior to October 12, 2023, does not require changes to the Tenant Income Certification; this is a huge advantage to properties that complete their recertifications early in the 90-120-day recertification period.

4. The calculation is done as follows for a Move-In or Recertification that has an effective date of November 1, 2023:

Multiply current monthly benefit X 2 (this is the first 2 months in the certification year – November & December)

Calculate current monthly benefit X 3.2% (2024 COLA)

Add amount of increase into the current monthly benefit

Multiply new monthly benefit X 10 (months remaining in certification period — January through October 2024)

Add the 2 months at the current rate + 10 months at the new rate = Projected Annual Income from November 1, 2023, to October 31, 2024.

EXAMPLE:

Current rate is $809.50.

$809.50 X 2 = $1619.00 income for November 1, 2023 & December 31, 2023

$809.50 X 3.2% (increase) = $25.90 + $809.50 = $835.40 new monthly benefit

$835.40 X 10 months = $8354.00 income January 1, 2024, through October 31, 2024

$1619.00 + $8354.00 = $9973.00 Projected Annual Income

If the move-in or recertification effective date is December 1, 2023, you would calculate 1 month at the current rate and 11 months at the new rate.

Move-Ins and Recertifications with an Effective Date of January 1, 2024, and later, will use 12 months at the new rate.

Creating and maintaining affordable housing communities is a complex task. Numerous state and federal requirements must be followed – both during development and for years thereafter. M&L Compliance Management clarifies LIHTC, Federal HOME, HUD, and certification requirements you must follow to remain compliant. For more information on these services be sure to visit our Property Compliance page and don’t hesitate to contact us. The information presented in this post is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as consulting advice from M&L Compliance or McKonly & Asbury, LLP.

Member News – October 25, 2023

October 25, 2023

Member News – October 25, 2023

Pennsylvania Council for the Arts Grant available through Community Giving Foundation

Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts (PPA) is a partnership between local organizations and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA). Operating in all 67 Pennsylvania counties, the Community Giving Foundation is the Region 3 Partner serving Columbia, Lycoming, Sullivan, Bradford, and Tioga Counties. Learn more about this for-profit creative business grant.

Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak welcome new Attorneys

Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak, an elder law firm with locations in Altoona, State College, Wilkes-Barre, Williamsport, Wyalusing and Wysox, Pa., is pleased to announce the addition of Attorney Pat Santucci and Attorney Jaime Leon to its staff as associate attorneys.  Learn more.

Pennsylvania College of Technology Invites Companies to Join Program

Pennsylvania College of Technology is invite companies to join their Corporate Tomorrow Makers program.  There is no cost to join and benefits include a newsletter, early bird registration awareness for recruitment events and more.  Learn more about the program here.

Fulton Bank Expands Program

An initiative designed to meet the unique needs of minority, women, veteran and LGBTQ business owners has expanded to our area.  Learn more.

Learn more about Small Business Resources

American Express offers several resources for Small Businesses Saturday.  Learn more about how to take advantage of them.

Community Insurance Company Celebrates 1 year Anniversary

Long-term member Montour Mutual Insurance Company merged with several smaller mutuals in October of 2022 to create Community Insurance Company.  Learn More about Community Insurance Company.

2023 Danville Holiday Market Sign-ups Open

Hometown Holiday Market happening December 2nd from 11 am - 4 pm is open for vendor registrations.  Follow the links to sign up online or download a printable form to mail in. If you have any questions please contact us at 570-284-4502 or dba.visitdanvillepa@gmail.com

PPL Electric Utilities selected for Infrastructure Improvement Grant

PPL Electric Utilities has announced that its “Grid of the Future” infrastructure project application has been selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to potentially receive up to $49.5 million in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). Learn more about the project.

Thrivent hosting fellow Chamber Member Cardinal Estate Planning for a workshop

Join Thrivent Financial and Cardinal Estate Planning for an informational estate planning workshop focused on estate planning on October 26th.  Learn more about this workshop.

Dublin Guitar Quartet presenting at Weis Center

The Weis Center for the Performing Arts will welcome the Dublin Guitar Quartet (DGQ) on Friday, October 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center. Learn more and get tickets here.

Penn College Hosting Attack Surface Management Summit

Join Pennsylvania College of Technology and IBM Security for a half-day knowledge-sharing summit on Attack Surface Management, Threat Intelligence, and in-demand Career Skills by leading organizations.  Registration deadline is October 31st. 

T-Ross looking for Business to join 2023 Susquehanna Valley Scavenger Hunt

T-Ross Brothers is looking to work with local businesses, organizations, and museums to help them get more visitors and attention.  Learn more about the Scavenger Hunt. or reach out to Robert Tomlinson at 570-699-9745 or email him at robertt@trossbrothers.com Deadline to sign up is November 3rd.

Halloween and Fall Member Events

Free No Cost Electrical Safety Training Available

IMC, in partnership with The Manufacturers’ Association, is bringing No-Cost Electrical Safety Training for General Industry to Central PA. Learn more.

Commonwealth University of PA - Bloomsburg hosting public lecture series starting November 1

Please join us at the Commonwealth University of PA, Bloomsburg campus on the following dates for a public economic lecture series. These events will be live-streamed please visit their website for more information.

Camp Victory Hosting Community Turkey Dinner

All are invited to join Camp Victory on Sunday, November 12, 2023, from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM for a Turkey Dinner that promises to be an unforgettable experience, all while contributing to the wonderful mission. Learn more.

A Christmas Story Returns to BTE stage this Holiday Season

A holiday favorite for the whole family! Young Ralphie's Christmas quest for a coveted Red Ryder BB gun turns into a lesson about what can happen when you finally get what you ask for! Get tickets here!

New Member Highlight – Compass Home Health & Rehab, LLC

October 19, 2023

New Member Highlight – Compass Home Health & Rehab, LLC

Compass Home Health & Rehab is a locally owned Medicare Certified Home Health Care Agency offering both Home Health services (Nursing, Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapies), and in-home Home Care services (Personal Care & Companionship).

They offer both Home Health and Home Care out of our Plains and Berwick Locations. Home Health covers 17 counties while our Home Care Division covers 12 county locations.

Their employees provide the highest quality care with compassion and respect for every individual and family they serve. They are committed to positive patient outcome(s) for both business divisions as they strive to provide the best for their patients and clients.

For more information about all your home-based needs, please visit their website www.compasshomehealth.net or contact them directly 570-520-4076.

Making Change in Your Organization Starts with You

October 18, 2023

Making Change in Your Organization Starts with You

  • Narayan Pant, director of INSEAD and leadership development expert, details three case studies in a Harvard Business Review article about leaders who learned the hard way about the role of personal development in affecting organizational change
  • Pant introduces four leadership principles to help leaders become more self-aware and more successful in leading change initiatives
  • The first principle is self-awareness – leaders must be willing to accept feedback in all times, not just when things are going well.
  • The second principle is a commitment to change - self-reflection can enable course corrections for future efforts.
  • The third principle is recognizing interference - being mindful of personal thoughts can help keep negative reactions in check.
  • Last but not least, practice makes perfect - making lasting changes starts small and benefits everyone associated with the organization.

770 words/ 3.5 min. read

In every organization, change is inevitable. It's the leaders who play a pivotal role in navigating these shifts, adapting priorities, and reimagining team engagement. However, when leaders are not aware of personal development gaps they inadvertently sabotage change initiatives. In a Harvard Business Review article, Narayan Pant, leadership development expert and director of INSEAD, introduces three leaders who learned the hard way about how their behavior negatively affected their ability to create change. Pant offers these hard-won lessons alongside four principles that will benefit leaders tasked with facilitating company transformation and building a positive team culture.

A Story of Three Leaders

Pant introduces three leaders in his article who serve as allegorical types. The first is Peter who loses his job as CEO because he failed to achieve results in the transformational project he was leading. Next, Naomi is a leader who lost a promotion when her attempts to make organizational change took too long. The last leader is Youssef who almost left his job because he felt misaligned with his team’s culture.

Pant shows how initially each of these leaders located blame outside of themselves. And it’s not a total surprise. Psychologists have identified that humans have a tendency to lean into explanations that confirm their identity. They even have a name for it: cognitive dissonance. Social psychologist and researcher Elliot Aronson defines cognitive dissonance as rationalizations that help us excuse bad behavior. Sometimes these same thoughts can work to our advantage, especially in instances when they help us avoid a bad decision.

In Peter’s case, he believed poor market conditions sabotaged revenue projections. Naomi thought job market conditions and high employee turnover hurt her ability to make change. Youssef blamed his disconnect on the more transactional values of younger leaders. In each case, according to Pant, the leaders failed to see how their own behavior contributed to the outcome.

 

#1 Build Your Self-Awareness Muscles

“Leaders can only change their behavior when they’re aware of how it’s perceived by others and the thoughts and feelings they experience as they attempt to change,” says Pant. And that self-awareness requires a willingness to discover others’ disappointments and criticism of your leadership. In Peter’s case, he only asked for feedback when things were going well. As the company’s revenue failed to meet projections, he avoided feedback out of fear. Unfortunately, this misstep meant that he only learned how to improve when he was being let go. Pant believes that leaders need feedback in all seasons, especially when something isn’t working.

# 2 Commit to Change

After Naomi lost her promotion, she used self-reflection to course correct. According to Pant, she was aware of her tendency to jump to problem solving and skip listening, in order to ‘save time.’ Her newfound understanding resulted in a promise to do more deep listening and empowering her team to call her out when she reverted backward. Naomi reported the process was humbling, as stress threatened to override her commitment to listening. But with the help of her team, she became a better listener and leader.

#3 Notice Interference

Sometimes obstacles come from inside, not outside. In Youssef’s story, he’d taken on a lower position and a global job transfer to be closer to extended family. He started out positive and curious. However, when his questions initiated criticism of specific policies he’d help create back at headquarters, he became defensive and judgmental. Pant introduced Yourself to a mindfulness-based therapy that allowed him to defuse his negative thoughts. Youssef was especially haunted by a thought that sounded like “I understand this company’s values better than you,” which his colleagues experienced as feeling that Youssef was talking down to them. By learning to notice his thoughts, he was able to create a gap between the thought and his reaction, which helped Youssef transform from a know-it-all to a curious leader who younger team members perceived as a mentor.

 

#4 The last step is to practice

Discovering your leadership flaws is not fun or easy. The good news is you don’t have to change everything at once. Pant advises to start small. In Naomi’s case, she needed to stop micromanaging and empower team members to do things like lead team meetings or bring issues to the table in intentional meetings. Over time, this improved group culture and helped them all work together to achieve their bigger objectives.

By taking it one step at a time, leaders can make lasting changes. The work required to become a better leader benefits everyone, spilling over from the individual to the team and ultimately positively affecting your organization’s culture. To learn more, read Pant’s full HBR article here.

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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.

Employee Benefit Cost Control Strategies

October 18, 2023

Employee Benefit Cost Control Strategies

Source: My Benefit Advisor

In a constantly evolving economic landscape, employers continue to seek effective strategies to optimize their operations, including the various aspects of employee benefits. Since ensuring the well-being and satisfaction of their workforce is central to their concerns, they seek cost-saving measures that can be implemented without compromising the overall value of benefits.

As employers approach 2023 year-end benefit planning, there are a series of steps that can be taken to fine tune their employee benefit offerings in order to achieve financial savings. By utilizing any of the methods outlined below, business owners can successfully counter the pressures of today’s evolving business and economic forces to stay within their budgetary restraints while crafting an effective and robust benefit portfolio, all while maintaining a positive work environment.

Perform an Evaluation of Benefit Plans

To maximize cost savings, employers should conduct a comprehensive evaluation of their existing benefit plans. Analyzing the utilization rates, employee feedback and cost data allows employers to identify areas of potential improvement or redundancy. By eliminating underutilized or ineffective benefits, employers can redirect resources toward more impactful offerings that align with the needs and preferences of their employees.

Promote Preventive Care and Wellness

Investing in employee wellness programs and promoting preventive care can yield long-term financial savings. Encouraging healthy lifestyles, preventive screenings, and vaccinations can help reduce healthcare costs associated with chronic conditions. By providing incentives for participation in wellness initiatives and facilitating access to discounted gym memberships or wellness resources, employers can proactively mitigate further healthcare expenses.

Embrace Telecommuting and Flexible Work Arrangements

The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the feasibility and cost-saving potential of remote work. By embracing telecommuting and flexible work arrangements, employers can reduce office space requirements, utility costs, and other overhead expenses. Such arrangements not only save money but also enhance work-life balance, job satisfaction and productivity, leading to a positive work environment.

Utilize Technology Solutions

Advancements in technology offer innovative ways for employers to manage employee benefits efficiently. Implementing digital platforms for benefits administration, employee communication, and self-service portals can reduce administrative costs and enhance employee engagement. Automating processes like enrollment, claims management and benefits tracking can streamline operations, eliminate paperwork, and minimize errors.

Negotiate with Benefit Providers

Employers should regularly review their relationships with benefit providers, such as insurance companies, healthcare networks and other third-party vendors. Negotiating better terms, including lower premiums or fees, can result in significant cost savings. Employers can also explore alternative providers or insurance plans to ensure they are getting the most cost-effective options without compromising the quality of benefits.

Foster Employee Education and Communication

Effective communication is vital to maximizing the value of employee benefits while minimizing cost. Employers should provide comprehensive and accessible resources that educate employees on benefit options, coverage details, and cost saving measures. Regularly engaging employees through workshops, webinars or personalized consultations can help them make informed decisions, select appropriate plans, and utilize benefits effectively.

Consider Cost-Sharing Strategies

Sharing healthcare costs with employes through co-pays, deductibles, or coinsurance can alleviate financial burdens for employers. Implementing cost-sharing mechanisms encourages employees to be mindful of healthcare expenses and seek appropriate care. However, employers should carefully balance cost-sharing with employee affordability and ensure that essential services remain accessible to all.

The Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at cmcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Stephen Lylo at (800) 377-3539.

Member News – October 18, 2023

October 18, 2023

Member News – October 18, 2023

Outta Boundz Holds Grand Opening

Outta Boundz celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on October 14th.  Formally known as Skatetown, the space has been reimagined into a premier entertainment venue with a restaurant and bar, upscale bowling, apocalypse laser tag, and video arcade games.

Pennsylvania Council for the Arts Grant available through Community Giving Foundation

Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts (PPA) is a partnership between local organizations and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA). Operating in all 67 Pennsylvania counties, the Community Giving Foundation is the Region 3 Partner serving Columbia, Lycoming, Sullivan, Bradford, and Tioga Counties. Learn more about this for-profit creative business grant.

Pennsylvania College of Technology Invites Companies to Join Program

Pennsylvania College of Technology is invite companies to join their Corporate Tomorrow Makers program.  There is no cost to join and benefits include a newsletter, early bird registration awareness for recruitment events and more.  Learn more about the program here.

Weis Center Welcoming The Legendary Ingramettes

Roof-raising Gospel Harmonies Coming to the Weis Center
The Weis Center for the Performing Arts will welcome gospel/soul ensemble The Legendary Ingramettes on Thursday, October 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center. Learn more.

MARC posts an invitation to Bid for 2024 Lawn Care

Sealed bids for lawn care at the various properties managed by the Montour Area Recreation Commission (MARC) will be received by MARC at any time until 6:59pm on Monday, October 23, 2023. Get the invitation to bid packet here.

Learn more about Small Business Resources

American Express offers several resources for Small Businesses Saturday.  Learn more about how to take advantage of them.

Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg Library hosting BTE Panel

Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble (BTE) members—both retired and active—will take part in a panel discussion on Sunday afternoon, October 22, at 3 p.m. in the Schweiker Room of Bloomsburg University’s Andruss Library. The panel is Sponsored by the Friends of the Bloomsburg University Library Association (FOBULA). Light refreshments will be served. Parking is free. Direct questions to Robert Dunkelberger at (570) 389-4210 or email at rdunkelb@bloomu.edu.

BIDA Executive Director Named Chairwoman

Penn’s Northeast, the premier regional economic development agency for Northeastern Pennsylvania, is pleased to announce its newly appointed Board Chairwoman, Kelly O'Brien, the Executive Director of the Berwick Industrial Development Association. Learn more.

2023 Danville Holiday Market Sign-ups Open

Hometown Holiday Market happening December 2nd from 11 am - 4 pm is open for vendor registrations.  Follow the links to sign up online or download a printable form to mail in. If you have any questions please contact us at 570-284-4502 or dba.visitdanvillepa@gmail.com

Bloomsburg Veterinary Hospital Hosted Clinic

On October 16th, Bloomsburg Veterinary Hospital spent the day helping to keep the feral cat population under control with a spaying and neutering clinic.  175 cats were treated!

Thrivent hosting fellow Chamber Member Cardinal Estate Planning for a workshop

Join Thrivent Financial and Cardinal Estate Planning for an informational estate planning workshop focused on estate planning on October 26th.  Learn more about this workshop.

Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center looking for Trunks

Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center is looking for Trunks for their 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat. Their event is Monday, October 23rd from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm.  To participate contact Maria Fazio at 570-204-8308 or mfazio@glenbrookrh.com

Penn College Hosting Attack Surface Management Summit

Join Pennsylvania College of Technology and IBM Security for a half-day knowledge-sharing summit on Attack Surface Management, Threat Intelligence, and in-demand Career Skills by leading organizations.  Registration deadline is October 31st. 

Halloween and Fall Member Events

Commonwealth University of PA - Bloomsburg hosting public lecture series starting November 1

Please join us at the Commonwealth University of PA, Bloomsburg campus on the following dates for a public economic lecture series. These events will be live-streamed please visit their website for more information.

Luzerne County Community College hosting Fall Career Fair

LCCC will be hosting a fall Trades & Technology Career Fair in November and is looking for businesses to participate.  Learn more and register today!

Avoid “Digileadhub” Phishing Email Scam

October 17, 2023

Avoid “Digileadhub” Phishing Email Scam

By Chris Berleth, President, The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce

On Tuesday, October 17, the Columbia Montour Chamber became aware of a phishing/spam email that is circling among our members that reads as follows:

“Hi “Chamber Member Name”,

I’m following up to confirm if you are interested in acquiring the Distribution/Member List. 

  • Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce (Pennsylvania, USA, 2023)
  • 1,000+ Contacts

I’m awaiting your response so I can share the price and other information.

Regards,

Cynthia – Event Coordinator”

Phishing

As you likely know, “phishing” is the fraudulent practice of sending emails or other messages purporting to be from reputable companies in order to induce individuals or businesses to reveal personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers.  At this time, the Chamber’s accounts and software are secure, and this phishing email is NOT indicative of a breach of any kind.

As you can see from the above text, the phishing email in question is an unauthorized attempt to sell the Chamber’s directory/membership list.  There are several important facts you must know:

Identifying Authentic Communications

Please note the following regarding our communications:

  • This email did not derive from Chamber staff, nor does it derive from any of our partners, affiliates, or programs. All communications from the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce originate from email addresses that end in “@columbiamontourchamber.com”.
  • Our staff roster, Board of Directors, partners, and affiliates may be verified at any time via our website, columbiamontourchamber.com. Mailed letters endorsing our publication partners always precede the advertising process for our publications.
  • The Chamber is proud to partner each year with Victor Koons Graphic Design for the design and publication of our Annual Business Directory and every three years for the Quality Living in Columbia and Montour Counties book, which is a partnership with the Columbia Montour Visitors Bureau. Last but not least, the Chamber proudly partners with the Press Enterprise for our quarterly print publication Business Matters. These remain the endorsed advertising partners of the Chamber.
  • Both the Chamber’s print directory and online directory are available to the public at no charge via our website. As part of your member benefits, each member receives a printed copy via mail at no additional charge.  In fact, members are set to receive a copy of the new directory (2023-2024) in the next ChamberPack.
  • Mailing labels are available for purchase directly through the Chamber both a la carte and as a member benefit at the Promote Level. The Chamber does not contract with a third party for the sale of mailing labels or the distribution of directories.  These may be ordered by calling Brenda Flanagan, Administrative Assistant, at 570-784-2522 or emailing her at bflanagan@columbiamontourchamber.com .

Please be careful when responding to email solicitations.  We thank our members for promptly making us aware of this phishing email, which attempts to trade on the Chamber’s good name and reputation to get a foot in the door with your business for nefarious purposes.

Trusted IT Resources

For more information regarding cyber security, and how to shield yourself from scam emails like this, please consider working with trusted Chamber members in the Information Technology field:

  • Airiam
  • Business.Solutions
  • InnoTek Computer Consulting
  • Contrast
  • JLink Inc.
  • OPTiMO Information Technology, LLC

For more resources for your business regarding cybersecurity, visit this free resource center created by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Given the rise of cyber security issues facing businesses, now might also be a good time to consider a cyber insurance policy.  For more information on those policies, consider connecting with a member insurance agency to mitigate and prevent losses due to cyber-attacks.

New Member Highlight – The Placemat Ladies

October 11, 2023

New Member Highlight – The Placemat Ladies

The Placemat Ladies offer an affordable way to market your business while supporting local restaurants. Their placemats are in the following restaurants in Northern Columbia County: Central Park Hotel, Central; Jamison City Hotel, Jamison City; Robin’s Cozy Nest, Unityville; and Trails End, Sweet Valley. They also serve four other areas throughout Bradford and Sullivan County.

What’s unique about their brand? They have not raised their rates in over 15 years, even through a 40% increase in printing in the past three years. Additionally, they have added a QR code to their placemats where diners can view the placemats digitally, with links to advertisers’ websites or Facebook pages!

Learn more about the Placemat Ladies.

Reach Chamber members this Fall in November ChamberPack!

October 11, 2023

Reach Chamber members this Fall in November ChamberPack!

Fall Has Arrived!

Don't miss the opportunity to keep the shorter days as bay by getting your event, program, workshop, promotion or regular business services in front of Chamber Members by being apart of the next Chamber Pack.

ChamberPack is a cost-effective way to get your information to the Chamber's 400+ members. Just provide copies, and we'll take care of compiling and sending the mailing. The next ChamberPack will be headed to mailboxes the first full week of November.  Remember, your fliers need to be submitted for approval by October 23rd and are due at the Chamber by October 27th.

Call the Chamber at 570-784-2522 to reserve your space or click here for more information.

Member News – October 11, 2023

October 11, 2023

Member News – October 11, 2023

Bloomsburg Fair Moves to Second Round of "Best of Fall" Competition

It’s been one week since the PA Chamber launched its inaugural “Best of Fall” competition – a bracket-style public voting contest over X and Instagram - and voters have showcased their loyalty to a cross-section of Pennsylvania’s autumnal brands, treats, and experiences as 32 nominees have since been narrowed down to the Final 16 including the Bloomsburg Fair. Learn more about this competition and VOTE!

Pennsylvania Council for the Arts Grant available through Community Giving Foundation

Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts (PPA) is a partnership between local organizations and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA). Operating in all 67 Pennsylvania counties, the Community Giving Foundation is the Region 3 Partner serving Columbia, Lycoming, Sullivan, Bradford, and Tioga Counties. Learn more about this for-profit creative business grant.

IMC hosting webinar October 17th

The IMC will be hosting a 55-minute webinar called Meeting the HR Challenge on October 17th.  This webinar will help identify and invigorate a new or refreshed awareness of several important elements of meeting today’s HR challenges, especially those directly connected with workforce trends. Learn more and register here.

Weis Center to Host Jazz Pianist

The Weis Center for the Performing Arts will welcome jazz pianist Emmet Cohen and his Trio on Thursday, October 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Weis Center.  There will be a pre-performance talk with the artist from 6:45-7:15 p.m. in the Weis Center Atrium. Learn more.

The Exchange Calls for Entries

The Exchange calls for entries for their October 16th show "Food for Thought" and their annual "Cash & Carry" will celebrate 10 years this November.  Learn more on how to enter your artwork.

Maria Joseph hosting the Fall Festival on October 25

Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community will be hosting a fall festival for the surrounding community. On Wednesday, October 25th, beginning at 4:00 pm travel around the Maria Joseph Campus to take part in different fun fall festivities! Learn More.

MARC posts an invitation to Bid for 2024 Lawn Care

Sealed bids for lawn care at the various properties managed by the Montour Area Recreation Commission (MARC) will be received by MARC at any time until 6:59pm on Monday, October 23, 2023. Get the invitation to bid packet here.

PPL hosting Small Appliance Recycling Event

October 14, 2023 in Bloomsburg from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PPL staff will be ready to unload your room A/Cs and dehumidifiers from your car and help answer any questions you may have. See location and more information here.

Tina Welch presenting at SBDC workshop

Tina Welch of Welch Performance Consulting is presenting at the Bucknell SBDC's October 18th "I'm Ready to Hire! What do I do now?" workshop. This IN PERSON event will explore: Your shift from technical expert to leader, manager, motivator,  how to hire for both culture & competence,
the role of change management including role clarity, process, and communication, and employment Law 101 elements that can help you hire smart and stay out of trouble -common first-time employer myths & mistakes will be addressed.  Sign up today!

Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg Library hosting BTE Panel

Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble (BTE) members—both retired and active—will take part in a panel discussion on Sunday afternoon, October 22, at 3 p.m. in the Schweiker Room of Bloomsburg University’s Andruss Library. The panel is Sponsored by the Friends of the Bloomsburg University Library Association (FOBULA). Light refreshments will be served. Parking is free. Direct questions to Robert Dunkelberger at (570) 389-4210 or email at rdunkelb@bloomu.edu.

PA Build My Future day Happening October 12th

PA Build My Future gives students the opportunity to have a day to work in the construction and design industry through an interactive showcase. This program is for students entering grades 10-12. Learn more and register.

McKonly & Asbury was chosen as one of the Best Places to Work

McKonly & Asbury is excited to announce they have been chosen as one of the Best Places to Work in PA for 2023! This marks the 19th time in 21 years that McKonly & Asbury has been recognized for this honor. Learn more.

Apollo Point Hosting Dogtoberfest

October 13 - October 15 the first ever Dogtoberfest benefit will be held at Apollo Point. Learn more!

2023 Danville Holiday Market Sign-ups Open

Hometown Holiday Market happening December 2nd from 11 am - 4 pm is open for vendor registrations.  Follow the links to sign up online or download a printable form to mail in. If you have any questions please contact us at 570-284-4502 or dba.visitdanvillepa@gmail.com

The Women's Center hosts Domestic Violence Awareness Month Survivor Series

Every1KnowsSome1 recognizes how domestic violence not only effects an indiviudal but an entire community. On October 17 there will be a discussion on ways the community can work together to end domestic violence while hearing survivor stories from Crystal Silva and Jenny Rose. Register today.

Affordable Care Act Refresher - Employer Responsibilities Webinar to be held October 18th

Join the My Benefit Advisor compliance team for a review of ACA rules and regulations as well as best practices. They will provide key information for our broker partners to share with their Applicable Large Employers (ALEs), employers close to the 50-life threshold, and level/self-funded groups under 50. Click here to register.

Thrivent hosting fellow Chamber Member Cardinal Estate Planning for a workshop

Join Thrivent Financial and Cardinal Estate Planning for an informational estate planning workshop focused on estate planning on October 26th.  Learn more about this workshop.

Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center looking for Trunks

Glen Brook Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center is looking for Trunks for their 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat. Their event is Monday, October 23rd from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm.  To participate contact Maria Fazio at 570-204-8308 or mfazio@glenbrookrh.com

Celebration Villa Hosting Fall Festival

October 25th Celebration Villa of Berwick will be hosting a Fall Festival. This event is open to the public! There will be several activities to do such as: pumpkin painting, spooky cookie decorating, a walk through the haunted courtyard, trick or treating, and more!

Penn College Hosting Attack Surface Management Summit

Join Pennsylvania College of Technology and IBM Security for a half-day knowledge-sharing summit on Attack Surface Management, Threat Intelligence, and in-demand Career Skills by leading organizations.  Registration deadline is October 31st. 

Halloween Events

Commonwealth University of PA - Bloomsburg hosting public lecture series starting November 1

Please join us at the Commonwealth University of PA, Bloomsburg campus on the following dates for a public economic lecture series. These events will be live-streamed please visit their website for more information.

Luzerne County Community College hosting Fall Career Fair

LCCC will be hosting a fall Trades & Technology Career Fair in November and is looking for businesses to participate.  Learn more and register today!

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