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Month: June 2023

Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County Joins 55 Chambers of Commerce in Pennsylvania to Send Joint Letter to Address the Childcare Crisis

Posted on by Chamber of Business & Industry Centre County

The Chester, Delaware, and Westmoreland Chambers of Commerce have spearheaded the effort leading to over 50 business organizations across the Commonwealth sending a joint letter to the Pennsylvania General Assembly and Governor Shapiro’s Administration, imploring them to address the crisis surrounding accessible and affordable childcare.

The overwhelming support of 55 Chambers across the state, in addition to the PA Economic Development Association, reflects the severity of the childcare crisis and its impact on the business community through both the workforce and the economy. This grassroots initiative has garnered the attention of larger chambers, including the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia and the Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce, to help drive the necessity for new legislation.

Laura Manion, President & CEO of the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry (CCCBI), Dan DeBone, President & CEO of the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce, and Trish McFarland, President of the Delaware County Chamber have all been outspoken in previous calls for action, inspiring this coordinated effort.

“Prior to undertaking this effort, my knowledge surrounding the childcare shortage was not experiential, but rather, came from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s data, which cited the statistics of millions of employees, mostly women, who were unable to return to work post-pandemic due to the lack of childcare,” said Manion. “It wasn’t until the birth of my son in 2022, coupled with hearing from employers in the CCCBI membership struggling to recruit and retain staff, that I saw my personal experience as just one piece of a multifaceted threat to Pennsylvania’s economy.”

In January of 2023, Manion wrote an op-ed in the local newspaper on the issue, and the response was resoundingly positive with hundreds of thousands of views. In March, she testified before the House Children & Youth Committee Informational Meeting on the Challenges with Childcare in Pennsylvania.

Trish McFarland, President of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce has faced similar obstacles as a mother and a leader. “As the sole Chamber of Commerce within Delaware County with over 1,200 employers as members, we have been hearing from our membership about the lack of childcare and impact to the workforce,” Trish stated. She continued, “As a working mother of 3 children, I can attest first-hand that this struggle is real. We have worked hand-in-hand with our members in the childcare industry on bringing awareness to their various hardships.”

Dan DeBone, President of the Westmoreland County Chamber, has been just as vocal on the dependence of the economy on the childcare industry. In his article published in March of 2023, Addressing Pennsylvania’s Child-Care Crisis, DeBone highlighted the struggles of the Commonwealth’s labor force without reliable childcare and its subsequent effect on employers and the economy. “In order to solve the larger workforce issue, which in part is due to a lack of access to childcare, we need to make sure the childcare industry can recruit and retain staff,” stated DeBone. “Stabilizing the industry will allow us to be successful in rolling out a variety of access solutions such as the tax credits.”

Collectively, the chambers have worked with their respective employer-members to outline the following solutions to be considered by elected officials:

  1. Employee Childcare Public Private Partnership – Legislation to create a tax credit for employers who furnish employee childcare in the amount of the employer’s cost in furnishing employee childcare. Legislation to incentivize employers to fund childcare for their employees by splitting the cost with the state, and providing tax credit incentives to employers who participate.
  2. Childcare Tax Credit for Parents – Expanding the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Program. Last year’s budget included funds for up to 30% of childcare-related expenses that filers claim on their federal return. This program is meant to support working families by lessening their tax liability. A total of $24.6 million went into the program for last FY and is now a permanent fixture of the state’s tax code. However, expanding the program will allow more middle-income parents to return to the workforce.
  3. Retention and Recruitment – Proposals potentially being considered during the current state budget negotiation to offer rebates/incentives for nursing, teaching and policing jobs should be extended to the childcare community. Hiring incentives would be a great first step to address the ongoing issue of low wages ($12.43/hour statewide average) currently paid to childcare workers being a disincentive to join this critical field.
  4. Regulatory Reform – The Chamber Community is advocating that any future regulatory proposals must ensure proper stakeholder input from childcare providers with special consideration to infant care. In addition, any changes do not lead to increased costs for providers.

The lack of accessible and affordable childcare is negatively impacting the economy and costing employers, our collective Chamber members, $2.88 billion and the state of Pennsylvania $3.47 billion in losses each year.

“We hope both parties in the House and Senate see the momentous support of our proposed solutions. To have 55 chamber executives from every region in the Commonwealth sign on in support of this initiative – we believe we are sending a clear message. It is time to make a commitment to future generations that will lay the foundation for a more prosperous economy,” stated Manion.

Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry
Delaware County Chamber of Commerce
Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce
Bedford County Chamber of Commerce
Blair County Chamber of Commerce
Butler County Chamber of Commerce
Cambria Regional Chamber of Commerce
Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corporation
Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce
Central PA Chamber of Commerce
Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County
Clarion Area Chamber of Business and Industry
Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce
Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce
Cumberland Valley Business Alliance (CVBA)
Downingtown-Thorndale Regional Chamber of Commerce
East Liberty Quarter Chamber of Commerce
Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
Exton Region Chamber of Commerce
Greater Latrobe – Laurel Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce
Greater Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce
Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce
Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce
Greater Reading Chamber Alliance
Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce
Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce
Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce & Chamber of Business & Industry
Great Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce
Greene County Chamber of Commerce
Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce
Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC
Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce
Indiana County Chamber of Commerce
Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce
Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce
Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce
Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commerce
North Side/Shore Chamber of Commerce
Norwin Chamber of Commerce
Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce
Pennsylvania Economic Development Association
Peters Township Chamber of Commerce
Phoenixville Regional Chamber of Commerce
Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce
The Main Line Chamber of Commerce
The Schuylkill Chamber of Chamber
TriCounty Area Chamber of Commerce
Tuscarora Area Chamber of Commerce
Upper Perkiomen Valley Chamber of Commerce
Venango Area Chamber of Commerce
West Shore Chamber of Commerce

Business Spotlight: Intrada Technologies

Posted on by Jeannine Lozier

Intrada Technologies is a full-service web development and network management company with a focus on creating ongoing, trusted partnerships with each of our clients. We make sure our clients have what they require to run their businesses with maximum efficiency and reliability, as many of their needs are mission-critical. Our unique, collaborative partnerships allow us to provide our clients with the assurance that we will be there when they need us.

WHO WE ARE
Intrada Technologies was launched in 2000 to fulfill a need experienced by founding partners, Paul Boyer and David Steele. They wanted to start a company that offers its clients the opportunity to forge and build an ongoing, collaborative relationship with their information technology company.

Intrada does not believe that one specific technology is the solution, but technology is a tool used to create the correct and most effective solution. This concept requires partnering with our clients and their staff to build relationships while delivering a valuable solution through an outstanding customer experience. It is through our unique client/partner relationship that allows us to provide cutting-edge technology services from top-level network management to advanced internet development to digital marketing solutions.

Intrada is comprised of a unique, growing team with diverse technical, educational, and on-the-job experiences. Supporting clients throughout the United States with a strong presence in Pennsylvania has allowed us the opportunity to serve a wide-ranging client base and create an individualized approach to the delivery of our services. With an emphasis on customer service, Intrada makes sure our clients have what they need to run their businesses with maximum efficiency and reliability.

OUR SERVICES
Information Technologies
Managed Services / Network Support / Help Desk / Office 365 / Virtualization / VoIP /Security Compliance / Disaster Recovery

Web Design & Development
Design & Development / Search Engine Optimization / Mobile App Development / Multimedia / Module & Plugin Development / E-Commerce / Strategy & Consulting

Digital Marketing
Search Engine Marketing / Social Media Management/ Content Development / Video Production / Analytic Consulting / Dashboards / Pay Per Click / Event Streaming/ Reputation Management / Conversion Technologies / Customer Engagement

Hosting and Cloud
Website Hosting / Email Hosting / Mobile App Hosting / Multimedia Hosting /Azure AWS / Disaster Recovery / Storage

To learn how Intrada Technologies can help your business, contact James Haywood, Senior Project Coordinator, at 570.321.7370 or jhaywood@intradatech.com.

Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County Announces Economic Development Council

Posted on by Jeannine Lozier

The Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC) is pleased to announce the creation of an Economic Development Council. The Council comprises business leaders, chamber members, municipality representatives, and community stakeholders. This initiative aims to harness members’ collective expertise and insights to drive economic development cohesively and synergistically.

Underpinning the Council’s endeavors is the creation of a county-wide comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS). CEDS is a place-based, regionally driven economic development planning process. Further, CEDS provides a framework for strategic infrastructure development, community revitalization, workforce needs, and enhancing Centre County’s competitiveness while improving the quality of life for our shared community.

“The Council is not just about creating a strategic vision for Centre County. It’s about responsiveness and agility,” states Greg Scott, president & CEO, Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County. “In today’s dynamic business environment, the ability to seize opportunities and quickly address challenges is paramount. By implementing a CEDS, we are paving the way for a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economic future for Centre County.”

The CEDS and the Council will play a vital role in fostering partnerships and collaboration among local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations, ensuring a unified approach toward economic development. This cooperative effort allows us to prioritize key sectors and industries that have the potential to thrive in Centre County, thereby attracting new investors that are a good fit for the region.

The creation of the Economic Development Council marks an important milestone for the Chamber, cementing our commitment to working in partnership with stakeholders across the County to foster a prosperous future.

To learn more about the Chamber, Economic Development, or the Council, please visit www.cbicc.org.

Economic Development Infographic
Infographic Courtsey California Association for Local Economic Development

Bill Hayes Announces Kish Leadership Transition Plan

Posted on by Jeannine Lozier

William P. “Bill” Hayes has announced that effective June 30, 2023, he will relinquish the title of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kish Bancorp and Kish Bank, while retaining the role of Executive Chairman. Following the effective date of this change, leading the company forward as its CEO and President will be Gregory T. Hayes, who currently serves as President and Chief Operating Officer. This step is part of an established and Board-approved transition plan and is intended to ensure leadership continuity until the Board and Bill Hayes determine his full retirement, the date of which has not yet been established. As Executive Chairman, Hayes will continue to be engaged in a number of critical risk management functions and client acquisition efforts as well as maintaining responsibility for Board leadership and development.

Bill Hayes joined Kish in 1977 and has served as its CEO since 1983, or more than 40 years. During his time at Kish, the Bank has grown from $10 million in assets to $1.4 billion, and from two full-service branches and a mini office focused primarily on serving the Kishacoquillas Valley, to today operating 16 branches and financial centers in five central Pennsylvania counties, an Innovation Center in Reedsville, and a loan production office in Hudson, Ohio serving the Cleveland to Columbus corridor.

Since Hayes joined Kish, the company has grown from 17 to nearly 250 employees while expanding its services from basic banking to a breadth of solutions that includes commercial, retail, and mortgage banking; property and casualty insurance; wealth management and trust services; health care benefits consulting; and travel consulting. In that time period, Kish’s total stock market value has risen from $800,000 to approximately $90 million. The Bank’s earnings have grown from less than $100,000 per year to $12.9 million in 2022.

During his tenure, Hayes has been actively engaged in both industry and community activities. In addition to serving numerous committee leadership roles for the Pennsylvania Bankers Association, Hayes served as its Chair in 2001-2002. Today, he is Chair of the Pennsylvania Bankers Past Chair Forum and sits on the Association’s Banker Advocacy Committee. Hayes has also held several leadership positions for the American Bankers Association, serving as Chair of its Communications Council and as a member of several key committees and boards, and later traveling the U.S. as a media advisor addressing banking issues on behalf of the Association.

In addition to industry engagement, Hayes has been active in numerous community organizations. He is currently a Trustee of Juniata College and chairs the Mount Nittany Health Foundation Board. Past board positions included Chair of Lewistown Hospital, Easter Seals of Central PA, Mifflin County Industrial Development Corp., Chair of PA Friends of 4-H, Mifflin County Youth Park Board, United Way Board, Rotarian, and Chair of Team Mifflin County.

Hayes has been the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, including the Juniata Valley Council Boy Scouts of America’s Joseph V. and Suzanne Paterno Community Impact Award (2022); the Lafayette College George Washington Kidd, Class of 1836, Award for Alumnae Achievement; the PA Bankers Advocate of the Year Award; and recognition by the NYFD for his outstanding support of the 9/11 Victims and Families Relief Fund (2003).

Hayes is a graduate of Lafayette College with Honors in American Civilization and English Literature. He attended post-graduate programs including the Stonier Graduate School of Banking, the Kellogg ABA CEO Graduate Program, and the Bucknell School of Banking.

Bill Hayes and his wife, Connie, will continue to reside in State College and maintain a seasonal home in the Kish Valley. Their daughter, Maggie, resides in Richmond, Virginia with her son, Andy, and her husband, Byron; their son, Greg, resides in State College with his wife, Meghan, and their children, Aidan, Sarah, and Declan.

The Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County is seeking a skilled and experienced Public Relations and Brand Specialist to join our dynamic team

Posted on by Chamber of Business & Industry Centre County

This individual will be responsible for developing and implementing effective public relations and brand-building strategies to enhance the Chamber’s reputation, promote our initiatives, and engage with our target audience. The successful candidate should possess exceptional communication skills, a strong understanding of public relations principles, and a demonstrated ability to build relationships with media outlets and stakeholders.

Relationship building, leadership, organization, attention to detail, flexibility, time management, and teamwork are critical for this position.

The Public Relations and Brand Specialist will report directly to the President & CEO. Principal responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Develop and execute comprehensive public relations strategies and campaigns to promote the Chamber’s activities, programs, and initiatives.
  • Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets, journalists, and influencers.
  • Write and distribute press releases, media advisories, and other materials to relevant media outlets to secure coverage for Chamber events, initiatives, and news.
  • Proactively pitch stories and secure media coverage for the Chamber’s key messages and achievements.
  • Serve as the primary media contact for the Chamber, responding to media inquiries and coordinating interviews and media appearances for Chamber representatives. 
  • Monitor media coverage and industry trends to identify opportunities and proactively address any potential issues or challenges.
  • Develop and maintain a media database, including contact information and relationships, to facilitate effective communication and outreach efforts.
  • Organize and coordinate press conferences, media events, and other public relations activities to generate awareness and engage with key stakeholders.
  • Collaborate with the CBICC team to ensure consistent messaging and branding across all public relations activities and materials.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with Chamber members, community leaders, and other stakeholders to enhance the Chamber’s reputation and promote collaboration.
  • Assist in the creation of compelling content for various channels, including press releases, articles, blog posts, and social media platforms.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in public relations or related roles.
  • Proven track record of successfully developing and implementing public relations strategies and securing media coverage.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
  • In-depth knowledge of media relations practices, including media pitching, press release writing, and crisis communications.
  • Familiarity with media monitoring tools and analytics to track and evaluate media coverage and impact.
  • Proficiency in using digital and social media platforms to amplify public relations efforts.
  • Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Self-motivated, proactive, and creative thinker with a strong commitment to excellence and innovation.
  • Knowledge of the local business community and regional media landscape is a plus.

Salary commensurate with experience.

The Chamber offers a competitive benefit package, including PTO, health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability and 401(k) plan.

Qualified applicants will be considered immediately. Only those applicants with appropriate experience will be contacted. No phone calls please. Submit a cover letter and resume by email to Donna Newburg (dnewburg@cbicc.org) or by regular mail to the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County, 131 S. Fraser Street, Suite 1, State College, Pa 16801.

The CBICC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

The organization:

The Chamber is a private, nonprofit, membership organization comprised of 700 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, government entities, and individuals. Our mission is to provide visionary leadership to support business and economic development and to enhance and promote a high-quality of life in Centre County, Pennsylvania.

The organization was formed when the State College Chamber of Commerce (established in 1920) and the Centre County Industrial Development Corporation (established in 1956) combined into a single operating entity in 1992. Today, the CBICC staffs and manages three corporate entities under its umbrella:

  • The Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC) – 501c(6) membership organization governed by a single 22-member (maximum) Board of Directors.
  • Centre County Industrial Development Corporation (CCIDC) – 501c(4) charged with promoting economic development throughout Centre County.
  • Chamber Foundation of Centre County – 501c(3) charitable organization focused on economic development and education initiatives, while offering tax advantages to businesses or individuals that make certain charitable contributions to support CBICC/CCIDC professional/workforce development initiatives.

Work location: State College, Pennsylvania