NEWSLETTER


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The

Outlook

GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

NEWSLETTER

WWW.CHAMBERSBURG.ORG

IN THIS ISSUE

2 2 3 3 3 4 4 4 5 6 7 7 8 8 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 13 14 15 16

Chairman’s message Chamber board and staff Chamber to launch 11/30 Network Promotional Packages for 2015 Membership survey Buy local program attracts customers Fuddruckers sponsors lunch and learns Community Market Day Downtown happenings Around town with the Chamber Committee Corner: Kimberly Clapper Unemployment at six-year low Annual Business Breakfast Reverse Tax Appeals bad for business Public school funding forum PA Free Enterprise Week NDAA supports Letterkenny growth Members in the news Giving back Member spotlights Welcome new members Milestone anniversaries Chambersburg Chamber Foundation ChamberChoice Residential Program January events

SAVE THE DATE

FEBRUARY 25

RevUP 11/30 NETWORK 5-7 p.m., Roy-Pitz Brewing Company 140 N. Third St. Join us for the official launch of the young professionals group!

FEBRUARY 26

MEMBER ORIENTATION 8 a.m., Clarion (formerly Four Points) 1123 Lincoln Way East Whether you’re a new member or need a Chamber refresher, this event will help you get the most from your membership. Visit www.chambersburg.org/events for more info about these events and more. January events are listed on the back of the newsletter.

JANUARY 2015

100 LINCOLN WAY EAST, CHAMBERSBURG, PA 17201

Jacob H. Kaufman named 2014 Business Person of the Year The Chamber named Jacob H. Kaufman the 2014 Business Person of the Year at the Annual Business Breakfast sponsored by Chambersburg Hospital at Wilson College on December 11. Kaufman, member of the firm at Smith, Elliot, Kearns & Co. (SEK), was honored with the award by a panel of business and civic leaders because of his business and charitable contributions to the community. Every year, the Chamber recognizes a business person who has proven professional leadership and business accomplishments while positively impacting the community throughout his/her career. Kaufman, a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Valuation Analyst, has been with SEK since 1989 and became a member of the firm in 1992. He is also a lead member of the firm’s Business Valuation Team and serves individual and small business clients in the Accounting Services and Tax Departments in the firm’s Chambersburg office. Kaufman’s hard work and dedication extends outside of the offices of SEK through his expansive community involvement. He is currently the Assistant Treasurer for Chambersburg Area Development Corp. (CADC) and is a past president. He has participated on the CADC board since 1998 and is the longest serving director. Kaufman also serves as the Secretary and Assistant Treasurer for Cumberland Valley Regional Development Corp. and has been on the board since 2004. He is a member and past president of the Chambersburg Exchange Club, a board of director for Montessori Academy, and has previously served on Totem Pole Playhouse’s and Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County’s board of directors. Since 1987, the Chamber has awarded this honor to business leaders with long term contributions to their profession and the community. Recipients are recognized leaders in the community whose influence has contributed to the economic growth and development of the Chambersburg area. Turn to page 8 for photos and sponsors of the Annual Business Breakfast and page 2 for a summary of this year’s key accomplishments.

Nominations sought for business awards THANKS TO OUR GRAND SPONSOR The Chamber is seeking nominations for the Annual Awards Breakfast, to be held on Thursday, April 9 at the Chambersburg Country Club, 3646 Scotland Road. M&T Bank is the Grand Sponsor. Nominations are now being collected for the following awards: ATHENA Leadership Award, AgriBusiness Award, Environmental Sustainability Award, Innovator of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, Property Improvement Awards (multiple categories) and Volunteer of the Year. For more information about the criteria and to request nomination forms, contact Amy Fisher, communications director, at 717-264-7101 ext. 204 or [email protected].

THE OUTLOOK NEWSLETTER

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Eric Foreman, Susquehanna Bank - Chair Suzanne Miller-Trinh, Zullinger-Davis Law Firm - Past Chair Troy Garman, RE/MAX Realty Agency Chair-elect David G. Sciamanna - Chamber President Lance Kegerreis, Dennis E. Black Engineering, Inc. - CADC Vice President Michelle Paulnock, ACNB Bank Foundation President Jim Zimmerman, Valley Quarries Inc. Treasurer Sherri H. Stahl, Summit Health - Secretary Derrick Donnell, PA CareerLink Blake Truman, VerStandig Broadcasting Terry Guberman, Comfort Keepers Brian Speer, Wilson College Rod Hocker, Johnnie’s Restaurant & Hotel Service Carlos Perez, Chambersburg Wireless Melanie Furlong, Lutheran Home Care & Hospice and LIFE Lutheran Services Alice Hawbaker, LCSi Lehman Construction Services, Inc. Luke Martin, Smith Elliott Kearns & Co., LLC Kim Crider, Kim Crider/Take Shape for Life Mark Story, Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County Chris Patterson, Manitowoc Cranes Jeff Truhan, The Shook Home Mike Ward, Volvo Construction Equipment Mark Durniak, Fuddruckers

CHAMBER STAFF David G. Sciamanna - President [email protected] Noel Purdy - Executive Vice President [email protected] Amy Fisher - Communications Director/ Special Events Coordinator [email protected] Doug Harmon - Membership Director [email protected] Maryliz Toohig - Financial Director [email protected] Robin Harmon - Executive Director of the Chamber Foundation [email protected] Angie Schaeffer - Exec. Assistant/Office Manager [email protected] Lark Plessinger - Marketing Assistant [email protected] Stacy Guyer - Accounting Assistant, [email protected] Sue Black - Heritage Center Coordinator/ Customer Service Specialist [email protected]

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Building on success for future growth When watching television this time of year, I find myself drawn towards the year in review programs which highlight the year’s successes. So, I thought I’d take this opportunity to highlight a few of the Chamber successes in 2014. The accomplishments I’d like to recognize are that of Membership, Communication, Advocacy and the Transition Process. Membership: Through the hard work of our membership director, Doug Harmon, and the members of the membership committee we were able to achieve an 88 percent retention rate of our existing membership while attracting over 100 new members to the Chamber. We continue to have a diverse membership; the majority of our members are small businesses. In fact, 60 percent of our members have ten or fewer employees. Our members tell us one of the top reasons they join the Chamber is for networking opportunities. This year we held twelve after-hour mixers, over a dozen ribbon cuttings and nine lunch & learns. We also expanded several events such as the Business-to-Business Expo, Community Market Day and the golf tournament. Through the help and guidance of Amy Fisher, communications director, we held our inaugural Sip & Savor Soirée, which was a huge success. In 2014, we also launched two successful Chamber Connections Referral Groups to help increase member to member referrals. Communications: Through the help of Amy Fisher and Lark Plessinger, marketing assistant, we greatly expanded our communication efforts to address the multi-faceted ways our members receive information. The Chamber also reorganized its website to make navigation easier, expanded the use of social media, redesigned our monthly newsletter and upgraded our weekly e-communications. In August, we launched our blog, and we now have over 1,700 followers on Facebook. All of these help our members and residents of the community find information from the Chamber easier and faster. Advocacy: The Chamber often addresses issues which can take years to produce results. About a year ago, Act 89, PA Highway bill, was signed into law by Governor Corbett. The Chamber championed its passage which took several years to get through the Legislature. It has already paid dividends for our county as recent transportation announcements about major projects in Chambersburg, Waynesboro, Wilson College and Shippensburg University occurred because of Act 89. In 2014, the Chambersburg Chamber along with the other chambers in the county signed a letter to Congressman Bill Shuster and Senators Casey and Toomey urging action to widen Interstate 81. We will continue to advocate for this improvement to our main thoroughfare. Chamber Reorganization: In October, the Chamber announced an internal reorganization that will occur in 2015. A Selection Committee, appointed in March, worked for six months to pick a new Chamber President. Upon the recommendation of the committee, the Board of Directors selected Noel Purdy to assume the role of president in August of 2015. Our long-time president, David G. Sciamanna, who has served our organization since 1983, will continue to oversee CADC, CVRDC and FCIDA through 2016. With these appointments came a reorganization of the Chamber, including naming Robin Harmon as executive director of the Greater Chambersburg Chamber Foundation, where she will focus on developing the Community Education Coalition that is driven by the Prosperity Indicators Report. A special events coordinator position was also created to oversee and expand the many events sponsored by the Chamber and our affiliate companies the community has enjoyed. 2014 was another highly successful and busy year for the Chamber. I’m excited to see what 2015 has in store for us. Happy holidays and best wishes for a prosperous 2015! Eric Foreman Vice President and Commercial Relationship Manager, Susquehanna Bank Chair, Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce board of directors

2 GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

It’s All About Community!

Chamber forms young professionals Start the New Year right with savings on your promotions group - 11/30 Network Whether you’re new to the area or lived here all your life, we want you to join the 11/30 Network! The 11/30 Network is a group of young professionals that aspire to build their networks and get involved in the community. An initiative of the Chambersburg Chamber, our mission is to connect young professionals in Franklin County through social, civic and professional opportunities.

How would you like to enjoy convenience and savings while mapping out your community promotions for the entire year? Now you can by selecting sponsorship and advertising packages to optimize your business’s exposure through the Chamber.

Our launch event, RevUP 11/30 Network, will be on Wednesday, February 25 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Roy-Pitz Brewing Company, 140 N. Third Street. All are invited to attend this free event featuring entertainment and networking activities. Please R.S.V.P. online at www.chambersburg.org/events. The 11/30 Network was initiated by the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce and created by a core group of young professionals concerned with the opportunities the younger generation has in Franklin County. We want to provide a venue for professionals under 40 to develop professionally, Steering committee members at the Holiday Mixer network with others and give back to the community. With this goal, we hope to create a vibrant group of people known as the 11/30 Network. Those on the steering committee include: Chair – Kimberly Clapper, Children’s Aid Society Amy Fisher, Chambersburg Chamber Annie Gomez, Gomez Law Office Eric Grugal, Salzmann Hughes, P.C. Jason Kelso, Salzmann Hughes, P.C. Dave Livengood, Chambersburg Area Senior High School Lark Plessinger, Chambersburg Chamber Blake Truman, VerStandig Broadcasting Kristen Tullo, Chambersburg YMCA As we prepare for the RevUP 11/30 Network event, you’ll see the steering committee participate in a variety of community events such as volunteering at the Ice Slide for IceFest. If you’re interested in learning more or joining the network, please visit www.chambersburg.org/1130network or call the Chamber at 717-2647101. If your business is interested in sponsoring this group, please contact Amy Fisher, communications director, at 717-264-7101 ext. 204 or [email protected].

A variety of promotional packages are available for 2015, making it easy for any size business with any size budget to select the package that is right for them. With a promotional package, there is no hassle. You won’t have to worry about last minute ads or securing a sponsorship in time for the event. It’s all planned out for you in advance. Not only do promotional packages save you time, but they also save you money. By securing a package, you can save up to 30 percent on your promotions for the year. To learn more, set up a meeting to discover which package is the right fit for your business by contacting Doug Harmon, membership director, at [email protected] or 717-264-7101 ext. 202.

We want to hear from you! Tell us about your membership experience The Chamber is seeking feedback from our members. It only takes a few minutes to complete the 2015 Membership Survey, which helps us identify the programs and services that are most valuable to you. As a member-based organization comprised of over 900 businesses, we take our mission very seriously as we strive to help our members prosper. This is why your constructive feedback is crucial to inform us on what services are most beneficial to our members and what we can improve on. To take the survey, visit our SurveyMonkey questionnaire online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/MBSYLYP. Also keep an eye out for links to the survey in the Chamber NOW weekly e-newsletter and a hard copy of the survey in the mail.

GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 3

S END I R F

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3’ X 8’ TABLE WITH SKIRTING AND CHAIRS



DEMONSTRATE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES



YOUR BUSINESS IN PRE EVENT PUBLICITY



CHECK BLOOD PRESSURE



SELL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES AT EVENT



SHARE SERVICE LITERATURE



DISPLAY YOUR BANNER



EMPLOYMENT APPLICATIONS

COMMUNITY MARKET DAY EXHIBITOR APPLICATION AND CONTRACT Business Name:____________________________________ Mobile:___________________________________________ Contact:__________________________________________

Email:___________________________________________

Address:__________________________________________ Circle: $100 for 1 table Phone:___________________________________________

$200 for 2 tables

Donating a Door Prize (circle):

Yes

$250 for 3 tables

No

Payment Method Name on Card_____________________________________ Billing Address:____________________________________ Credit Card #:______________________________________ Expiration:_______________

CVV:_________________

Signature:_________________________________________

Date:________________ Amount:_______________ □ Cash/Check □ Invoice □ Visa □ MC □ DSCVR □ AMEX Make Checks Payable to: Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce 100 Lincoln Way East, Suite A Chambersburg, Pa 17201 For questions contact Doug Harmon at 717.264.7101 ext. 202 or email: [email protected]

THE OUTLOOK NEWSLETTER

Buy local program attracts customers Community Market Day to connect businesses with consumers Do you use your Chamber Card around town? Many people do, with more than 30,000 cards distributed in the community to date. That’s a lot of consumers shopping local. Is your business capitalizing on this opportunity to attract new customers and reward your regulars? If not, consider participating in the Chamber Card Buy Local Program. For just $50 per year you can offer a deal through this program. Anyone who shows their Chamber Card at your business may receive the deal. This is a great way for you to gain new business! But don’t take our word for it, here’s what local businesses have to say about their Chamber Card participation: “The Chamber of Commerce has helped to create more awareness for Mim’s Mighty Meaty Hoagies in the community. Our customers don’t have to worry about carrying around coupons, they just show their Chamber Card keychain,” said Stephanie Hoffman, manager at Mim’s Mighty Meaty Hoagies. Mim’s has seen an increase in the use of the card at their business, and they provide their customers with the Chamber Card on a regular basis. “Participating in the Chamber Card program is a great investment for Lehman’s to gain exposure in the community,” said Gail Cox, office manager at Lehman’s Carpet Cleaning. “We have seen repeat customers and a few new customers come in using their Chamber Card. Even some walk-ins discover our deal once they connect with us.” To participate in the Chamber Card program and offer a deal, contact Doug Harmon, membership director, at 717-264-7101 ext. 202 or email [email protected].

Fuddruckers again sponsors Lunch and Learns In 2015, lunches will be provided free of charge to Lunch and Learn participants, courtesy of Fuddruckers, 442 Gateway Avenue. Fuddruckers provides catering services for business meetings and other occasions.

Are you looking for new ways to market your business in 2015? Sign up for the Chamber’s Community Market Day at the Chambersburg Mall on Saturday, March 7. In its seventh year, Community Market Day provides a cost effective marketing opportunity that brings businesses directly to consumers through a day of fun and entertainment. Mall shoppers enjoy sampling products, receiving paraphernalia about your business and other information regarding your products and services. This friends and family edition of the annual event is sponsored by Marlin Maclay - Thrivent Financial, and will feature live performances of songs from the popular Disney movie, Frozen, by Cumberland Valley School of Music. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 7. Registration is open for single display spaces and includes: • 3-by-8-foot table with skirting. • Business name in pre-event publicity and an opportunity to display your banner. • Opportunity to sell products and services at your booth. THANKS TO OUR GRAND SPONSOR Registration for the event is $100 for a table, $200 for two tables or $250 for three tables. Register by returning the insert in your newsletter to the Chamber at 100 Lincoln Way East, call the Chamber at 717-264-7101 or register online at www.chambersburg.org/events. Questions? Contact Doug Harmon, membership director, at [email protected] or 717264-7101 ext. 202.

“Fuddruckers of Chambersburg is honored to again participate in this year’s Lunch and Learns. This will be our opportunity to show participants the variety of flavorful offerings we serve,” said Mark and Dawn Durniak, managing partners. Lunch and Learns are free educational seminars that provide members with information on topics relevant to their business or career. Seminars are typically held once or twice a month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Chamber office, 100 Lincoln Way East. Presenters receive great exposure in front of an audience eager to learn about the topics being discussed. To host a Lunch and Learn, contact Doug Harmon at 717264-7101 ext. 202 or [email protected].

4 GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

It’s All About Community!

Fun Run added to events for IceFest

DOWNTOWN HAPPENINGS

Design affects perceptions What makes a downtown feel like a “place” that people want to be? Design elements like building facades, public art, awnings, signage, light poles, banners, street furniture, etc. are critical to how visitors experience a downtown. For example, new residents to Chambersburg have commented throughout the Downtown Visioning and Master Plan Update processes that the lack of wayfinding signage into and around the downtown is confusing. The absence of signs does not make them feel welcome or feel good about coming back. Last spring, more than 300 residents filled out a community perceptions survey about downtown. The results provided indicators on how they relate to the physical characteristics of downtown, such as: • 45% of respondents think that downtown is not welcoming • 31% of respondents think that signage is sufficient • 46% of respondents think downtown is safe • 56% of respondents think there are not places to sit and relax • 49% of respondents think downtown is not progressive • 79% of respondents like the historic architecture • 57% of respondents believe downtown is not green If there was gateway signage into the downtown from all four main entrance points would it make visitors feel welcome? If there were more lighting elements in the downtown would it make visitors feel safe? If there was a strong architectural element or mural situated at the entrance to Chambers Fort Park, would more people want to visit it? What do you think? We want to hear from YOU! Downtown Chambersburg Inc. is seeking input from the community about these questions and more that reflect what kinds of design elements they would like to see downtown in the future. Share your ideas online by January 30, 2015. The data will be used to inform revitalization plans and concepts and will be shared with public and private investors. Vote for your favorite design elements online at www.DerckAndEdson.com/chambersburg. The original article was published as the Downtown Digest feature on the Chamber blog. To view the post, visit www.chambersburg.org/blog.

Make the right call and join us for the inaugural IceFest Football Fun Run on February 1, 2015. A Family Fun Zone and registration will open at noon with the one-mile fun run will begin at 1 p.m. The one-mile course will begin at Fort Chambers Park and will proceed to the intersection of King Street and North Main Street then down Main Street turning right on Washington Street. The course continues down Washington Street turning right on the Rail Trail. Follow the Rail Trail back to the Fort Chambers Park Bridge for the finish line. Early registration, which ends January 15, is $8 per adult and $3 for children age 6-10. Every early registrant will receive an official IcFest Football Fun Run 2015 beanie. Race day registration is $10 per adult and $5 for children age 6-10 (cash or check only) with beanies available while supplies last. To register, visit www.chambersburg.org/events or contact the Chamber at 717-264-7101 ext. 205.

The 11/30 Store opens online Downtown Chambersburg Inc. (DCI) has launched The 11/30 Store, an online store to sell merchandise that recognizes the historic intersections of Routes 11 and 30, also known as Molly Pitcher Highway and Lincoln Highway, in Chambersburg. Three years ago, DCI began promoting the 11/30 Crossroads of the Country brand as part of a grassroots effort to put Chambersburg on the map. Local businessman, Mike Kalathas of The Orchards, started the effort and gave DCI the licensing rights to take the campaign to another level while generating revenue for the nonprofit organization, of which he was a member of the board of directors at the time. DCI kicked off merchandise sales in 2012 with T-shirts and magnets that integrate the 11/30 theme. Since then, more than 700 T-shirts and 1,000 car magnets have been sold. Over the past month, DCI has been working with Cross and Crown, a downtown Chambersburg design firm, on two new T-shirt designs and the addition of a hoodie design. Four T-shirt designs are available in two styles (women’s cut and regular cut), plus a unisex hooded sweatshirt is available in one design choice. The T-shirt prices range from $16-$20 and the hoodie is $30. The 11/30 car magnet is also available for $5. Orders can be shipped or picked up at the Heritage Center (cost of shipping is additional).

www.IceFestPA.com

Visit The 11/30 Store at http://the-11-30-store.myshopify.com.

GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 5

THE OUTLOOK NEWSLETTER

AROUND TOWN WITH THE CHAMBER

Joint Mixer with Gettysburg Chamber Members of the Chambersburg and Gettysburg Adams chambers of commerce enjoyed a joint mixer hosted by Fabio’s Events & Catering in Fayetteville. Fabio Carella, owner and chef, prepared a delicious spread of appetizers for guests to enjoy while networking.

Delicious Thanksgiving food was served at the Windy Knoll mixer

Mixer at Windy Knoll Farm Members network during the joint mixer at Fabio’s Events & Catering

Downtown shines for the holidays

Windy Knoll Farm Market & Creamery hosted the Chamber Mixer in November. Guests enjoyed a delicious spread of food fit for the Thanksgiving table including turkey, all the fixin’s and a variety of homemade pies! Windy Knoll is located at 2685 Spring Road in Chambersburg.

Downtown Chambersburg has been aglow this holiday season with the traditional Christmas tree lit in the square, along with the Winter Wonderland lights hung in the trees. More than 40,000 lights were purchased new this year thanks to the $5,720 raised through a Kickstarter campaign. These efficient LED lights replace the old bulbstyle lights that have been used for many years. The new lights require less electricity and are more safely installed in the trees. Fusión staff and community members cut the ribbon at the grand opening

Fusión Latin American Cuisine opens Fusión Latin American Cuisine had its grand opening and ribbon cutting with friends, family and representatives from the community in attendance. The restaurant features traditional dishes and flavors from across Latin America including North, South, Central and Caribbean. The restaurant is located at 12 W. King St. in downtown Chambersburg. Be sure to stop in to congratulate them and try their delicious cuisine! Memorial Square at night during December

Annual Holiday Mixer at Wilson The Holiday Mixer at Wilson College on December 15 gave members of all five chambers of commerce in Franklin County a great opportunity to network. The mixer in Laird Hall was the largest of the year, with hundreds of members attending the special event. Wilson College, Menno Haven Retirement Communities, Sprint and Roy-Pitz Brewing Company co-sponsored the event. Several other Chamber members had display tables to spread awareness of their services and products. Once again, it was a great turnout and a wonderful evening of networking.

The annual Holiday Mixer drew a large crowd to Wilson College

6 GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

It’s All About Community!

Franklin County unemployment Meet Kimberly Clapper, chair of the rate drops to six-year low 11/30 Network steering committee Showing continued signs of growth, Franklin

COMMITTEE CORNER

Committee Corner spotlights a different Chamber volunteer to provide insight on their experiences being part of the Chamber, contributing to the community and building their career.

When I joined Children’s Aid Society last fall, I learned I would be responsible for maintaining relationships with the five chambers that we are members of. I had not previously worked in Franklin County, so I began by contacting the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce to inquire how I could best utilize our Chamber membership. The staff at the Chamber quickly welcomed me and included me in opportunities to become more involved.

County’s unemployment rate has dropped to its lowest point in six years. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for the Chambersburg Micropolitan Statistical Area (mSA) fell by three-tenths of a percentage point in October to 4.4 percent, the region’s lowest rate since July 2008. The rate was down by 1.9 percentage unemployment rate points from October 2013.

4.4%

One of these opportunities came this summer when Amy Fisher, communications director for the Chamber, contacted me to invite me to join a committee that was just forming. The committee she mentioned was a steering committee to create a young professionals group. I was truly excited, thrilled and honored. As a lifelong member of Adams County, I was also fearful that I would not fit in on this committee. Those fears quickly disappeared at the first meeting as we were going around introducing ourselves. In the few short months we have been meeting as a committee, I have gained friends and am learning so much about the business community as well as life in Franklin County. This area has so much to offer young professionals and welcomes them to live, work and play here. Our vision for our young professionals group is to not fit in the mold of other “young professionals” groups. We call ourselves the 11/30 Network, with a mission to connect young professionals in Franklin County through social, civic and professional opportunities.

Franklin County’s rate tied with two other counties for the 15th lowest unemployment rate among Pennsylvania’s 67 counties in October. Neighboring Adams County had the lowest rate in the state in October, while Cameron County’s rate of 6.7 percent was the highest. Unemployment rates and rankings of adjacent counties were: Fulton (5.6%, t-50th); Huntingdon (6.1%, t-59th); Juniata (4.7%, t-20th); Perry (4.4%, t-15th); Cumberland (4.0%, t-4th); and Adams (3.8%, 1st). Total nonfarm jobs in the Chambersburg mSA rose 600 in October to 57,900. Trade, transportation and utilities added another 200 jobs as hiring continued for the Procter & Gamble distribution center in Shippensburg. Other job gains in October were smaller and seasonal in nature, including school-related increases and a modest gain in retail trade as stores begin preparing for the upcoming holiday shopping season. Jobs remained up 200 over the year, with transportation, warehousing and utilities accounting for much of the growth. Pennsylvania’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate also dropped to a six-year low at 5.4 percent, a full point higher than the Franklin County rate. The national rate was down a tenth to 5.8 percent. In addition to the decline in the unemployment rate, the number of new jobs state-wide also increased substantially. According to an article published by Pennsylvania Business Daily, the civilian labor force increased by 15,000 in November, and resident employment was up 32,000. Nonfarm jobs reached 5.8 million and are now at the highest level since August 2008. The private sector is at a record high of 5.08 million jobs and grew by 15,200 jobs in October.

You will begin to see our steering committee out in the community at local events, such as volunteering at the Ice Slide for IceFest, and we will be holding our 11/30 Network launch event on Wednesday, February 25 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Roy-Pitz Brewing Company. Our hope is to offer a variety of opportunities for young professionals whether you are single, married or beginning a family. We will have events to focus on fun activities, community service, networking and professional development to help young professionals build business and personal relationships in our community. It is true what they say: you will get out of the Chamber what you put into it. What I have gotten out of it is to feel like I am part of a dynamic and innovative team. To learn more about Chamber committees, contact Doug Harmon at 717-264-7101 ext. 202 or [email protected].

GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 7

THE OUTLOOK NEWSLETTER

Annual Business Breakfast More than 200 Chamber members attended the Annual Business Breakfast at Wilson College on December 11 to hear from Chairman Eric Foreman about the Chamber’s key accomplishments over the past year. (For a summary of these accomplishments, view the Chair’s Message on page 2.)

Proposed Reverse Tax Appeals bad for local business The Chamber’s Board of Directors recently adopted a motion requesting that the Chambersburg Area School District stop targeting the business community with Reverse Tax Appeals.

Eric Foreman at the Business Breakfast

Attendees also enjoyed learning about the state’s infrastructure from guest speaker, Casey Dinges, senior managing director of public affairs, membership and marketing for the American Society of Civil Engineers. Dinges reported on the ASCE Report Card, reviewing Pennsylvania’s scores for each of the 16 infrastructure evaluation areas. The state’s best scores are for Freight Rail (B), Hazardous Waste (B-) and Parks and Recreation (B-). The areas with the most need for improvement are Wastewater (D-), Roads (D-), Drinking Water (D) and Transit (D). For more information about Pennsylvania’s scores or the ASCE Report Card, visit www.InfrastructureReportCard.org.

In December, Chamber President David G. Sciamanna and Franklin County Area Development Corp. (FCADC) President Mike Ross appeared before the school district’s finance committee to present information on how the Reverse Tax Appeals and subsequent tax increases would place effected businesses in a non-competitive position on a regional basis. The Reverse Tax Appeals have targeted five warehouses. The assessments increase could result in up to 100 percent increases in local real estate tax bills for these businesses. Along the I-81 corridor, including the Chambersburg area, comparable buildings are taxed in the range of 50 to 65 cents per square foot. The Chamber and FCADC presented detailed information to the school district outlining the impact of the Reverse Tax Appeals. Both organizations stressed how these changes could lead to companies moving to other locations in the region where the taxes are significantly less. Property taxes paid by warehouses comprise a significant tax base for the school district and support over 1000 jobs. Both the Chamber and FCADC will continue to work toward a fair resolution on this issue.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST SPONSORS

Grand Sponsor

Table Sponsors ACNB Bank F&M Trust Keystone Health Lutheran Home Care & Hospice M&T Bank ManorCare Health Services NOVA Corporation Orrstown Bank *Double Table Sponsor Patriot Federal Credit Union Susquehanna Bank TB Wood’s The Manitowoc Company, Inc. Vacon, Inc. Wilson College Patron Sponsors Brechbill & Helman Construction Company Penn State Mont Alto Quincy Village

Public school funding forum to be held Jan. 15 Trish Hanks and Summer Franzoni of F&M Trust

Join this community conversation as local school district leaders discuss how state funding issues are impacting our children’s educational opportunities, our local taxes and our communities. The event will be held on Thursday, January 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church of Chambersburg, 43 W. Washington Street. At the event you will learn how you can support fair and adequate state funding for our area schools. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions, share their stories and make suggestions.

Guests enjoy breakfast before the program begins

More than 200 members attended the breakfast in December

Panelists for the evening include Dr. Joe Bard, executive director of PA Association of Rural and Small Schools, Beth Bender, superintendent of Shippensburg Area School District, Jim Duffey, superintendent of Fannett-Metal School District, Dr. Gregory Hoover, superintendent of Greencastle-Antrim School District, Dr. Joe Padasak, superintendent of Chambersburg Area School District, and Dr. Charles Prijatelj, superintendent of Tuscarora Area School District. The event is hosted by Education Voters of PA and Education Matters in the Cumberland Valley, organizations dedicated to supporting policies that strengthen public schools. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Susan Spicka at 717-331-4033 or [email protected].

8 GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

It’s All About Community!

Pa. Free Enterprise Week gears up for 2015, seeks business support

NDAA for FY15 supports continued growth for Letterkenny

There is a truly one-of-a-kind program that is marking its 37th anniversary of teaching Pennsylvania high school students (juniors and seniors) to both understand and celebrate why free enterprise is vital to the American way of life. Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week (PFEW), internationally-acclaimed for its excellence, will host more than 2,200 students this coming summer in its exciting seven-day journey into the world of business. Participants will act the parts of senior management in modern-day companies that will face the same challenges that all American firms do and particularly those in Pennsylvania.

The Chamber was very pleased with the recent announcement that the 2015 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) did not include language for a 2017 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC). However, it did include $16 million dollars to expand Building 350, the key maintenance building at Letterkenny. Our Congressman Bill Shuster and Senators Casey and Toomey have worked closely with Team Letterkenny in support of our largest employer in Franklin County.

Each summer, PFEW holds five, one-week individual sessions in July and August. The focus of the week is to group the participants (strangers at first) into “management teams” of senior executives who have inherited imaginary “companies.” These teams, under the guiding hands of “executives-on-loan,” called Company Advisors, operate their firms for a computer-simulated three-year period of time. Each day’s activities include presentations from worldclass business people from a list that reads like who’s who in Pennsylvania. The students hear about: Business and Finance, the Role and Relationship of Business and Government, Taxation, Business Ethics, Labor Relations, and much, much more. A PFEW marketing team works on their With our economy still advertising presentation recovering from one of the longest recessions in our history, teaching young people to understand and cherish our private enterprise system has never been more important. The Chamber is proud to support PFEW to give our local students this eye-opening experience. We encourage our local companies and civic organizations to provide sponsorships for our students and, if possible, volunteers for the sessions. (PFEW is completely a product of the private sector.) Every student attends PFEW on a fully tax-deductible $575 scholarship (the actual value of the scholarship exceeds $1,500) which is provided by a local firm. Each student wears the name of their sponsor throughout the week and also corresponds with his or her sponsor following graduation to report on what they learned. PFEW is also an approved organization through the PA Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program through the Department of Community and Economic Development.

To learn more about this award-winning program, visit their website at www.pfew.org or contact John Trombetta, president of the Foundation for Free Enterprise Education at 814-833-9576 ext. 106 or email him at [email protected]. PFEW is open to all current sophomores and juniors in Pennsylvania. Information on attendance and program applications, can be found on the website. Questions can be directed to Amber Goss, schools assistant for PFEW, by calling 814-833-9576 ext. 103 or emailing her at [email protected].

The House passed the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2015 in early December. During the May NDAA markup in the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), Congressman Shuster fought to ensure that no Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) language was included in the bill, protecting military instillations like Letterkenny Army Depot (LEAD) in Franklin County from draconian cuts to services for our military. Shuster, who is a senior member of HASC, continued his fight to keep BRAC out of NDAA throughout the year and worked with local entities such as Team Letterkenny, Letterkenny leadership and union leadership to ensure the final legislation passed today would be good for Franklin County. “Protecting Letterkenny will always be a top priority of mine every year when negotiating this legislation,” said Congressman Shuster. “This is another step forward in preventing cuts to the depot, but I am continuing to work closely with Franklin County community leaders, Letterkenny employees and leadership to develop a strategy if BRAC were to move forward in the future.” An earlier version was passed in the House in May, but a conference committee was required to negotiate differences between the House and Senate versions and produce a final version to be moved through both chambers. As one of the lead negotiators in the House, Congressman Shuster was a key negotiator in the process of crafting this legislation. The FY15 NDAA authorizes $521.3 billion in spending dedicated to national defense, with an additional $63.7 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations. In part due to Congressman Shuster’s leadership, the FY 15 NDAA authorizes $48 billion less than last year’s version. “The men and women that make up our armed forces are the best in the world, and it is imperative that they have the necessary equipment and resources to protect our nation,” continued Shuster. “Recent events such as ISIL’s barbaric actions in the Middle East make clear that now is not the time to reduce our military’s role on a world stage. This fiscally responsible defense authorization makes certain that we continue to stand ready to face all threats from enemies to the United States.” For more information about the NDAA for FY15, visit the Armed Services Committee’s website at www.armedservices.house.gov.

GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 9

THE OUTLOOK NEWSLETTER

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS BB&T Corporation and Susquehanna Bancshares, Inc. have announced BB&T will acquire Susquehanna. The total transaction will cost $2.5 billion. The acquisition will expand BB&T’s footprint in the Mid-Atlantic region and improve its ranking to fifth in Maryland. Susquehanna Bank is headquartered in Lititz, Pa. and is a top 50 bank in the U.S. with $18.6 billion in assets, $13.6 billion in deposits and 245 banking offices in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey and West Virginia. BB&T is one of the largest financial services holding companies in the U.S. with $187 billion in assets and operates 1,842 financial centers in 12 states and Washington, D.C. Kaplan University student and military spouse Camille Parker was presented with a Kaplan University/American Freedom Foundation Military Family Scholarship recently at the Washington Redskins Salute to Service game. The program helps spouses and children of United States service members and veterans achieve their educational goals. Parker is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in nursing. The scholarship program is awarded to qualified students to complete an online associate´s or bachelor´s degree. For more information on the Kaplan University/American Freedom Foundation Military Family Scholarship Program, please visit www.scholarsapply.org/aff. The H. Ric Luhrs Performing Arts Center at Shippensburg University will present “The Teacher from the Black Lagoon and other Storybooks” at 1 p.m. on January 25. For information or tickets visit www.luhrscenter.com or call 717-477-7469. Barbara K. Mistick, president of Wilson College, recently traveled to China with a delegation from FriendlyPA, an economic development initiative aimed at building partnerships and promoting exchange activities between Pennsylvania and Chinese educational institutions. During the two-week trip, which included visits to the cities of Chengdu and Beijing, a FriendlyPA team representing 18 private and public Pennsylvania colleges and five high schools attended college fairs and met with Chinese universities. Wilson was one of four institutions whose representatives made the trip to China in late October with the FriendlyPA team. The FriendlyPA delegation was well-received at events such as the China Education Expo—China’s largest annual educational event—where the group manned an information booth and spoke to students interested in coming to the U.S. and their parents.

Dave McKee joined BWISE Manufacturing as vice president of sales and marketing recently. He has more than 15 years of experience in the Trailer industry. McKee’s experience has its roots in the parts distribution side of the industry, serving the needs of trailer manufacturers. He will oversee all sales and marketing activities and focus on customer relationships and be involved in introducing new and innovative products to the company’s dealer network. BWISE manufactures trailers under two brands, Bri-Mar Trailers and BWISE Trailers. Shalom Christian Academy will host an open house on January 27 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Families of students who are interested in grades K to 12 are welcome to visit and tour the campus at their convenience. Also, at 6 p.m. on January 26, children who will begin kindergarten in 2015 are invited, along with their parents, to participate in a “Bear Hunt.” Shalom hosts the “Bear Hunt” with a number of fun activities that introduce children to the kindergarten teachers and other staff. Reservations are required for the “Bear Hunt” by calling 717-375-2223. J&B Bridals and Tuxedos will host a Bridal Expo featuring more than 40 wedding related businesses at Wilson College on January 4. The 2015 Bridal Show will feature a New York Runway Show by the award winning bridal designer Madeline Gardner. She and her design team will show their spring 2015 bridal fashions. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased online at www.jbbridalshow.com. Terry Shade, CEO of Lutheran Home Care and Hospice, Inc. based in Chambersburg, has been re-elected to the Pennsylvania Homecare Association (PHA) Board of Directors for a three-year term. Shade also serves as vice president, Community Health Services for Lutheran Social Services of South Central Pennsylvania and oversees LIFE Lutheran Services, Inc. In addition to her role on the Board, she also serves on PHA’s Finance Committee, which oversees the association’s budget, investments and assets. Lutheran Home Care & Hospice, Inc. provides home health care, home health tele monitoring, hospice and in-home support services. The agency serves south central and northeastern Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. For further information, or to start care, please call 800-840-9081 or visit www.lutheranhomecare.org. The H. Ric Luhrs Performing Arts Center at Shippensburg University will showcase “Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild Live!” Presented by Nationwide on January 29 at 7:30 p.m. For information or tickets visit www.luhrscenter.com or call 717-477-7469.

10 GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

It’s All About Community! The Capitol Theatre will feature the Frozen Movie Event on Thursday, February 1 at 1 p.m. during IceFest. The event will include the movie, magic tricks, a snowflake making station, sing-along character actors, face painting, hot chocolate and more. This fundraiser for the Capitol Theatre is for all ages and will include an adults only lounge upstairs. For more information, or tickets call 717-263-0202 or visit www. thecapitoltheatre.org.

GIVING BACK

eLynxx Solutions, provider of software for sourcing and managing direct mail, marketing and print materials has been awarded Supply and Demand Chain Executive Magazine’s 2014 Green Supply Chain Enabler Award. eLynxx software enables and simplifies the execution of green and sustainable strategies in the marketing supply chains of organizations. eLynxx Solutions helps organizations in the non-profit, education, financial, manufacturing, heavy equipment, building products, logistics and technology. With eLynxx software, organizations achieve the best possible price, quality and service on custom-printed materials while retaining control through their own people, processes and vendors. The members of Smith Elliott Kearns & Company, LLC are pleased to announce Margaret E. Eldridge, CPA, MBA has been awarded the designation of Certified Specialist in Estate Planning by The National Institute for Excellence in Professional Education. This designation allows financial professionals to authoritatively advise clients on estate planning matters and uniquely positions them to capitalize on the changes in the area of estate planning. Founded in 1963, SEK&Co is a fullservice certified public accounting and consulting firm with offices in Hagerstown, Hanover, Carlisle, Camp Hill and Chambersburg. Submit your news! Email your press releases or a paragraph description of your business’s news to Lark Plessinger, marketing assistant, at [email protected].

Word Processing Services, Inc. (WPS) recently committed $100,000 to support Penn State Altoona’s Engineering and Visual Arts Studies programs and research. The commitment consists of a $50,000 in-kind gift of equipment—a ProJet 460 Plus 3D Printer—and a $50,000 gift to create an endowed enhancement fund for the campus’s 3D Printing Lab. WPS is a family-owned and operated document management solutions provider founded by Vince and Ann Dellaposta in 1973. The WPS Endowed Enhancement Fund will provide discretionary funds on a regular basis to be used strategically as areas of timely need arise. These funds are used for unbudgeted academic and programmatic initiatives that otherwise would be foregone. In recognition of the gift, WPS will be inducted into the campus’s Ivyside Society. The society was established in 1987 to honor those who, through their philanthropic support and leadership, share a commitment to the continuing excellence of Penn State Altoona.

M&T Bank presented a $10,000 check to again sponsor IceFest, an annual ice festival that attracts thousands of people to downtown Chambersburg. IceFest is organized collaboratively by Council for the Arts, Downtown Business Council, Downtown Chambersburg Inc., and the Borough of Chambersburg. This is the seventh consecutive year M&T Bank has been the major sponsor for this event. Pictured left to right: Mary Olson (M&T Bank), Wayne Kline (M&T Bank), Mike Fisher (Council for the Arts), Penny Shaul (Downtown Business Council), Noel Purdy (Downtown Chambersburg Inc.), Robin Harmon (Downtown Chambersburg Inc.), Dominique Scott (M&T Bank), Guy Shaul (Borough of Chambersburg), Stacy Mellott (Council for the Arts), Melissa Varner (M&T Bank) and Mike Carty (Downtown Business Council).

GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 11

THE OUTLOOK NEWSLETTER

MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS

The Norwegian Codfather 81 North Main St. Chambersburg, Pa 17201 │ 717-264-0411 www.norwegiancodfather.com │ [email protected]

The Norwegian Codfather strives to bring you the taste of home you have been missing. Whether you remember a certain food from home long ago or grandma’s specialty, we want to help you find it, bring it home and place it on your table! The Norwegian Codfather opened in March 2014 and is committed to bringing ethnic foods to the Chambersburg area. For those stopping in the store at 81 North Main Street in downtown Chambersburg, you’ll find items from Scandinavian Countries such as Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland, as well as other international foods such as Italian, German, Eastern European, British and Irish. We carry German sausages like Bratwurst and Weiswrust as well as foot long German wieners, sliced meats, cheese such as Greek feta in brine, brown goat cheese and more. Be sure to stop in and try one of our Scandinavian open face sandwiches or a German ham and cheese on a baguette. Order many of these items online at www.norwegiancodfather.com or feel free to stop in the store or call 717-261-0411. We are constantly striving to expand our products and look forward to your feedback.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore 1512 Lincoln Way East Chambersburg, PA 17202 │ 717-491-1156 www.yourlocalrestore.com │ [email protected]

Have you ever wanted to help Habitat for Humanity, but didn’t think you could help build a house? Now you can by donating items to ReStore Chambersburg Habitat for Humanity opening on January 23. The store will help raise funds for Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County and accept donations of new and gently used home improvement items, furniture and appliances. Items are sold to the public and all profits are given back to the local Habitat for Humanity to help fund more housing projects. ReStore also helps prevent usable items from ending up in the landfill and is a source of lower-cost building materials and household goods. Beginning Friday, January 23, ReStore’s normal operating hours will be Wednesday to Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Many items donated to ReStore are eligible for a tax deduction since the store is a 501(c)3, and pick-up service is available for larger items. ReStore is run by a few staff members and a large group of volunteers. Please visit their website at www.mylocalrestore.com or find them on Facebook for more information. Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County was established in 1994 with the mission to help create a world where everyone has a decent place to live. Since its inception, the organization has constructed 26 new homes and rehabbed eight homes to house 136 people. This is accomplished through donations, fundraisers and 0 percent interest family mortgage payments to subsidize the cost of building a house.

Providence Christian Academy 3583 Scotland Road, Scotland, PA 17254 www.providence-ca.org │ 717-261-6213

Providence Christian Academy hopes to be a private school within reach of deserving young scholars from families struggling with the loss of one or both parents, adoptive issues, homelessness or other disruptive circumstances. The school is planning its founding phase of enrollment for the 2015 fall semester in elementary grades 2 through 6, with plans to launch a Middle and High School program as interest presents. Providence Christian Academy is located on the beautiful former campus of Scotland School for Veterans’ Children, originally opened on June 1 of 1895 as The Pennsylvania Soldiers’ Orphans’ Industrial School to house and educate children of soldiers killed in the Civil War. Providence shares a similar mission, seeking to meet the pressing needs of children without one or both parents in our own generation. Now owned by Winebrenner Theological Seminary, the campus includes a large chapel, an auditorium that seats over 700, a library commons, cottage style student housing, modern athletic facilities and field, and classrooms equipped with Bose audio, fiber optic networks and wireless connectivity. Providence Christian Academy, a member school of the Association of Christian Schools International, will employ an innovative blended tutorial model with both classroom and tutorial instruction delivered by highly qualified and certified teacher-tutor advocates. Small group or one-on-one strength-based instruction in the arts or academics provides targeted enrichment-remedial help based upon an individual curriculum plan informed by extensive admissions and ongoing standardized diagnostic testing. Call Jeffrey Garner at (717) 261-6213 to schedule a campus visit and information session.

Craig Pritts

Sue Bergman

Let us develop a comprehensive plan to protect your business, your family, and your bottom line. Our extensive portfolio includes: Individual and Group Health Insurance Medicare Products Dental and Vision Insurance HR Solutions Business Insurance Dividend Program Energy Savings Program Voluntary Benefits and Personal Insurance

For more information, contact us at 1-800-377-3539 or visit www.chamberchoice.com.

12 GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Health Care Reform has created significant confusion. Our qualified representatives remove the confusion and determine what works for your situation. We implement solutions including the Federally Facilitated Marketplace, Private Exchange platforms, Minimum Essential Coverage plans, Voluntary Insurance options, custom-designed benefits portfolios and Self-Funded employer sponsored plans.

We help individuals and businesses of all sizes!

Strategic Program Partners

It’s All About Community! MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES

MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS (CONTINUED)

Your Accountant, LLC 3258 Edenville Road, Chambersburg, PA 17202 │www.pittman-cpa.com │ 717-504-8808

Your Accountant, LLC recently opened its doors at 3258 Edenville Road in Chambersburg and 201 Prospect Avenue in Hagerstown. Tina Pittman, CPA/owner, was previously servicing individuals and businesses on a part-time basis while working full-time for a national corporation. She recently decided to return to public accounting on a full time basis.

45 YEARS LCSi Lehman Construction Services, Inc. Letterkenny Army Depot

Along with traditional business and individual accounting/tax services, Your Accountant, LLC has added more services such as online accounting services, online key performance indicator dashboards, reasonable shareholder compensation analysis, business exit planning, proactive tax planning and financial services. This will help clients keep more of their own money and enable them to have time to do what they do best, that is, run their business. Pittman is currently writing a book for small businesses in PA and will be released in 2015. Your Accountant, LLC has recently released a mobile app in which customers can learn about deadlines, promotions and download a receipt & mileage tracker app. Your Accountant, LLC goes the extra mile to make services user friendly and convenient to the consumer. Pittman loves to put into action best practices and strategies for both individual and business owners. Services are more than a compliance issue. Selecting the right team members and system set ups are both critical action items. Pittman’s recent experiences in taking a small business to a national level will enhance client experiences. The experience is a top priority for a longstanding business relationship. Please like us on Facebook and checkout our website at www.pittman-cpa.com.

Refer a business to

Join the Chamber!

Share with your customers the value of membership and how their business could benefit. Doing so builds loyalty and shows you truly care about their business success!

Refer them to Doug Harmon:

[email protected], 717-264-7101

50 YEARS ACE Distributing Johnnie’s Restaurant & Hotel Service, Inc. SunnyHill Properties Inc. Totem Pole Playhouse

NEW MEMBER CORRECTION

40 YEARS International Marketing, Inc. 35 YEARS Colony House Furniture, Inc. HCR ManorCare J & B Bridals & Formals 15 YEARS Valley Directional Drilling, Inc. 10 YEARS Lowe’s of Chambersburg 5 YEARS LIU12 Franklin County Literacy Council 1 YEAR Cumberland Valley Heating and A/C NEWS TALK 103.7FM Phillips Office Solutions Philly Pretzel Factory

from December 2014 issue

Health Care Services

Pinnacle Health Cardiovascular Associates

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Doug Dyer 380 Floral Avenue Chambersburg, PA 17201 (717) 221-5940 www.pinnaclehealth.org [email protected]

Specialty Shop

Mr. Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium Isaac Bucher 6019 Chambersburg Road Ortanna, PA 17201 (717) 352-3792 mistereds.com [email protected] Telecommunications

Verizon Wireless - Diamond Premium Retailer Roy Kirk 540 Gateway Avenue Chambersburg, PA 17201 (704) 621-3647 diamond-wireless.com [email protected] Grocers

Weis Markets, Inc. Sandy Hockenberry 1056 Wayne Avenue Chambersburg, PA 17201 (717) 261-5757 www.weismarkets.com

GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 13

THE OUTLOOK NEWSLETTER

GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER FOUNDATION

Youth learn about non-traditional careers Despite a one week delay due to winter weather, the Leadership Franklin County LFC Youth students listen to panelists from different (LFC) Youth fields talk about their careers and experiences class met on December 16 to learn about non-traditional careers and address certain situations they will approach in life through challenging the process. Held at the Chambersburg Career Magnet School, the sophomores met three mystery guests. The students asked questions to try and determine what each guest did for a living. The panel was comprised of Jay Eurie, coordinator of the Gleaning Program for South Central Community Action Program, Tricia Murray, owner of Balance Yoga and Wellness Studio, and Tim Franklin, Audio Book Engineer. Each panelist spoke about how they got started in their respective field, their educational background and what their job entails. The panelists described how they have to think outside the box to succeed in their profession. The students were able to ask questions of each panelist. Shawn Stenger, assistant principal of the Career Magnet School, later treated the class to a tour of the school showing the STEM and project learning focus of the school. After a wonderful lunch prepared by the Franklin County Career and Technology Center’s Culinary Department, Christy Unger of Healthy Communities Partnership of Greater Franklin County walked the class through scenarios they might face in their lives. They were asked how they would address the situation and challenge the process to find the best outcome. The students shared their thoughts with their peers. The class will reconvene after the new year with a meeting at Manito, Inc. where they will learn about personal branding. Leadership Franklin County Youth is a program of the Greater Chambersburg Chamber Foundation. Students are able to attend for free thanks to the generous sponsorship of 1st Ed Credit Union.

LFC Community tour nonprofits and discuss community involvement The spirit of giving was in the air for the Leadership Franklin County (LFC) Community session in December. The morning session was led by Amy Hicks of The United Way of Franklin County and Pam Anderson of Anderson Construction. Hicks explained the role of United Way in the community and the importance of nonprofits to a prosperous community. The duo then led a tour of three nonprofits in the county, during which the class learned about the services each organization offers, how they are funded and the challenges they face. The first stop was a tour of the Franklin County Therapeutic Riding Center where the class learned about the programs offered for those with disabilities. The riding center was formed in 1980 to provide recreation and therapy to persons with special needs. The next stop was Occupational Services Inc. (OSI) where students learned more about the services offered both to clients and the community. OSI’s clients are local residents living with disabilities seeking employment opportunities. OSI helps them build skills and connects them to jobs. More than 140 individuals currently work for OSI learning skills in printing, woodworking, recycling and more. The final stop of the morning was Waynesboro Daycare Center where students saw how a nonprofit daycare is operated. Waynesboro Daycare serves 211 children and will serve 6,000 meals each month at cost of over $12,000. The daycare is certified with 4 stars in the Keystone STARS program for early childhood education providers. The Greater Waynesboro Chamber of Commerce hosted the afternoon session when the class learned more about the organizational functions of a nonprofit. The afternoon panel included Clint Bolte of Clint Bolte Associates, John Boozer of Franklin Advisory, Kirsten Hubbard of Lutheran Home Care & Hospice, Inc., Alan Smith of the Waynesboro YMCA and Vicki Thompson formerly of Lutheran Social Services of South Central Pennsylvania. They spoke about nonprofit board functions and fundraising within an LFC Community students hear from a panel about nonprofit boards and fundraising organization. Prior to the day, each LFC Community participant sat in on a nonprofit board of director’s meeting. During the afternoon session they were able to discuss their experiences with the panel, which included topics such as appropriate board size, board term limits and time commitment expectations. The class was broken into groups and given the challenge coming up with a new fundraising event for a nonprofit. The day concluded with a discussion on fundraisings. Leadership Franklin County Community is a program of the Greater Chambersburg Chamber Foundation and is sponsored by CenturyLink Business.

14 GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

It’s All About Community! CHAMBER FOUNDATION (CONTINUED)

LFC Youth begin recruiting for class of 2015-2016 The Greater Chambersburg Chamber Foundation has begun recruiting for the Leadership Franklin County Youth class of 2015-2016. Eligible students are current 9th grade students attending any Franklin County school (public, private or home school) that will be sophomores during the 2015-2016 school year. Thanks to a sponsorship from 1st Ed Credit Union, the program is offered at no cost to the students. The LFC Youth program’s mission is to invest in promising Franklin County sophomores by providing them with the tools to emerge as leaders in their personal lives, schools and communities. Kassandra Wright, an LFC Youth alumni, stated, “LFC Youth helped me to find direction. The program helped me realize my full potential and passion for learning and teaching leadership skills. The great role models I met and motivated peers have been instrumental in my initial choice of major and school and are greatly responsible for my success at Temple University.” Twenty-five students will be accepted into the program. Eligible students may apply by contacting their school’s guidance department or by downloading the application online at www.franklincountyworks. com and clicking on the “Leadership Franklin County” tab. The application deadline is February 20, 2015. For more information about LFC Youth, contact Robin Harmon at 717264-7101 ext. 205 or [email protected]. The Foundation is an affiliate of the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce.

Foundation seeking nominations for LFC Alumni of the Year The Leadership Franklin County (LFC) Alumni Committee is accepting nominations for the Alumni of the Year for 2014. The criteria are exceptional achievement and significant contribution to professional and community service in Franklin County. It is important for nominators to stress the noteworthy facts, positions, awards, and accomplishments of the nominees. Self-nominations are permitted. Additional criteria for the award includes: • The candidate must be a graduate of the LFC program for at least three years (a list of LFC alumni can be found online at www.franklincountyworks.com/m/pdf/uploads/Alumni_List.pdf). • Write an essay (up to 300 words) on why you are nominating the person. You may submit newspaper articles, photos and additional materials (Please do not send originals). Nominations must be received by Robin Harmon, Greater Chambersburg Chamber Foundation, by February 28. Either email the completed nomination to [email protected], fax to 717-2670399, or mail to 100 Lincoln Way East, Suite A, Chambersburg. This award will be presented during the 2015 Leadership Franklin County Graduation Ceremony on May 14.

ChamberChoice Residential Energy Program OnDemand Energy Solutions has signed an agreement with Constellation Energy in preservation of the ChamberChoice Friends & Family Residential Energy Program that will provide chamber and community members competitively fixed priced residential energy products and services. Under the agreement, OnDemand Energy Solutions (managing consultant of Constellation Energy for the ChamberChoice Friends & Family Energy Program) will seek to extend and strengthen its relationship with the ChamberChoice Chamber members participating in the Residential Energy Program. “Electricity costs are a top priority for our members, and through our long-standing association with OnDemand Energy Solutions we’ve been able to offer the Friends & Family Residential Energy Program that has helped local residents maintain competitive fixed rate electricity supply,” said Sam Weber, president of ChamberChoice. “It’s important to us that we develop long-term relationships with the communities we serve, and we’re proud to be the Chamber’s exclusively endorsed energy consultant,” said Phil Orend, director of the ChamberChoice Residential Energy Program for OnDemand Energy. “Our role is to help chamber and community members enroll in a competitive, fixed low residential energy rate.” Chamber and community members may call 1-855-544-3830 to enroll, or register online at www.ondemandenergy.com via the residential energy button.

GREATER CHAMBERSBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 15

Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce 100 Lincoln Way East, Suite A Chambersburg, PA 17201 717-264-7101 www.chambersburg.org

PRSRTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit #7 Chambersburg, PA

JANUARY CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JANUARY CHAMBER MIXER

1 New Year’s Day, The Chamber office will be closed in observance of New Year’s Day 15 Public School Funding Community Conversation, more details on page 8

United Way of Franklin County and Manitowoc Cranes will host the first Chamber mixer of 2015! This free networking event will be held on Tuesday, January 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Manitowoc Cranes, 1565 Buchanan Trail East, Shady Grove.

6:30 p.m., First Evangelical Lutheran Church of Chambersburg, 43 W. Washington Street

20 January Chamber Mixer, hosted by United Way of Franklin County and Manitowoc Cranes 5-7 p.m., Manitowoc Cranes, 1565 Buchanan Trail East, Shady Grove

22 Wellness in the Workplace Lunch and Learn, Chambersburg YMCA and Volvo 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Chamber Board Room, 100 Lincoln Way East, lunch provided by Fuddruckers

23 Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County ReStore Board Cutting 9:30 a.m., 1512 Lincoln Way East

29 IceFest, coordinated by Downtown Chambersburg Inc., Council for the Arts and the Downtown Business Council, festival runs from January 29 - February 1, more info at www.icefestpa.com To register for these events or view details about more upcoming events, visit www.chambersburg.org/events.

Chamber mixers are a great way to make new business contacts, catch up with old friends and get to know fellow Chamber members. Mixers are free to attend and include food, beverages and door prizes. To register for the mixer or other Chamber events, visit www.chambersburg.org/events.

Advertise in The Outlook Gain maximum exposure for your business to our 1,750+ contacts through affordable advertising in the newsletter. For details, contact Amy Fisher, communications director, at [email protected] or 717-264-7101 ext. 204.

It’s All About Community! The Outlook is the monthly publication of the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce. Ideas, opinions and statements expressed in articles by contributors are not necessarily those of the Chamber. Neither the publisher nor any individual associated with any branch of production, nor the advertisers, will be held liable for typographical misprints contained herein. The Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce is a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the PA Chamber of Commerce, and is a 4-star accredited Chamber.