At the Chamber office, we are wrapping up the compilation of our Membership Directory and preparing to send it to be printed. We also recently finished work on a publication entitled “About our Town”, which provides information and insight into our local community and businesses.

Each of these two publications highlights the wealth of opportunity, activity, and resources that our community has to offer. Local and regional businesses, historical landmarks,

natural resources, indoor and outdoor activities, community and social organizations, and our geographical location are a few of the things that make our community exceptional. Working on these two publications has been a great reminder of the resources and opportunity that are right in our backyard.

Although I grew up in Fulton County, I have lived in Franklin County now for 16 years. After graduate school, my first job was in Houston, TX, where I lived for two years. I very distinctly recall my consideration to move back to this area. Countless people told me that I would have access to “big town” activities and experiences, but would have the benefit of living in a smaller town. I was often reminded of the proximity to Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia, and the ease with which I could travel to any of those and back in a day. I remember thinking that those who were trying to “sell me” on these ideas were kidding themselves, and trying to convince me to do the same. I was wrong.

It didn’t take long after I returned to the area for me to remember the wonderful things about living here, many of which I had certainly taken for granted, growing up in Fulton County. Things that people had told me about “small town benefits” with “big town feel” were true, and access to more urban areas when desired was indeed easy. Access to daily activity was certainly easier as well, without the hours of traffic and commute time of more urban areas.

The benefits of living in a community like ours are difficult to describe to one who has never lived here. As comprehensive as the Membership Directory or “About Our Town” guide may be, they cannot embody the sense of community, the “family” feel of the relationships that we have with friends, co-workers, and community members, or the genuine care and concern that we have for one another and for our community. What we have is unique, and we need to continue to embrace it, develop it, and appreciate our rich resources, keeping in mind that our most valuable resource is the people who live, work, and play here.

Ginger Everhart Chair Board of Directors

Platinum Level Orrstown Bank Summit Health

Volvo

CHAMBER TIERED MEMBERSHIPS

Chair: Ginger Everhart .............................................................. Summit Health

Vice-Chair: Dan Baer .............................................................................................. ACNB

Treasurer: Chrystal Miracle ..............................................................SU Foundation

Secretary: Crystal Collier-Walker .................................................... ShipCo Pumps

Past Chair: Anne Detter ......................................................................SU Foundation

Community Development:

President Scott Brown

scott@shippensburg.org

Office Manager Wendy Forrester

chamber@shippensburg.org

Mission Statement: The Mission of the Shippensburg Area Chamber of Commerce is to provide members with services that promote and support economic vitality as well as develop Shippensburg as a great place to live, work, play, visit and invest.

Vision Statement: To be recognized as the premier membership-based organization for professional networking, development, and stimulating economic growth in the vibrant and prospering business community of Shippensburg.

Shippensburg Area Chamber of Commerce Committees

Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Staff

Membership Development:Membership Committee Program Committee

Community Outreach:Family Fun Day Community Christmas Party

• Awards Banquet Committee • Bloom Festival Committee • Golf Committee • Cinco de Mayo Committee • Oversight Committee

• Chamber Strategic Planning Committee • Finance Committee • Marketing Committee • Nominating Committee

Dr. Ronald Taylor ............................................................................Shippensburg UniversityVicky Simmel .............................................................................................. Gannon AssociatesBruce Hockersmith...................................................................................Office of the MayorLuanne Kyle ..................................................................Members 1st Federal Credit UnionSteve Oldt ..........................................................................................Shippensburg TownshipShanna Cowan.............................................................................................JLG Industries, Inc.Scott Eckenrode ............................................Aqua Power Pros/Creative Engraving PlusPamela Kammerer ............................. Conference Center at Shippensburg UniversityLorie Davis ............................................................. Assistant Director University RelationsNick Etheridge ...............................Shippensburg University Student RepresentativeBruce Levy .....................................................................Shippensburg Area School DistrictKevin Taccino/Andrew Powell, Liaisons........................... Carlisle Young ProfessionalsMary Kuna .........................................Cumberland Area Economic Development Corp.

Gold Level Shippensburg University

FoundationShippensburg University

JLG IndustriesGannon AssociatesFogelsonger Agency

Adams ElectricMembers 1st FCU

M&T Bank

AUGUST 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTSAugust 21 | 2pm-5pm | Open House – Fogelsanger Bricker Funeral Home and Crematorium, Inc. – 112 W. King Street, Shippensburg

The Beistle Company specializes in wholesale decorations and party supplies. Located in Shippensburg, this company has been in operation since the early 1900’s and at one time was the area’s largest employer. In addition to servicing their immediate area, Beistle is the oldest and largest manufacturer of party favors and decorations in the United States.

With all the years in business, Beistle has long been the standard for quality and innovation in regards to their product construction. The company is dedicated to creating personalized relationships with their customer base. Customers are viewed as friends and more than an invoice number. They are known for industry renowned design, production and service. They specifically offer wholesale services yet will direct any retail request to the appropriate retail partner that will be happy to assist customers in fulfilling their request.

At Beistle, patronage is priority and no matter the size of the order, they will help – directly or indirectly. They pride themselves in quality craftsmanship and uses quality materials on all its products. If the product is listed, it will be delivered which equates to no middle man issues and working with Beistle is partnering with the source. Customers can count on Beistle to have the inventory on hand and be ready to ship when needed.

For more information, contact or view Beistle at http://www.beistle.com or contact their sales office at (717) 532-2131 for top notch customer service and support.

August 15-20 | Cumberland Ag Expo – Newville Lions Fairgrounds – This annual agricultural fair, sponsored by the New Carlisle Fair Association, features plenty to do for the entire family. There are dairy and animal exhibitions, shows, 4H presentations, children’s activities, tractor pulls, food, music, and more.August 20 | 4th Annual Mysteries in Military History Day – USAHEC – The USAHEC invites you to bring in your mysterious and family items pertaining to Army history, on Saturday, August 8, 2015 from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Let the professionals help you begin your research!August 25-28 | Corvettes at Carlisle – Corvettes at Carlisle features more than 5,000 Corvettes

representing all generations of America’s classic sports car. Corvette enthusiasm is contagious with participation in autocross, burnouts, and the parade through historic downtown Carlisle.August 27 | 36th Annual Shippensburg Corn Festival – Downtown Shippensburg – Crafts, an antique car show, food booths, entertainment, and children’s activities offer something for the entire family. Food booths feature corn in every available form.August 29-Sept 5 | 58th Annual Steam Engine and Tractor Show – Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Association – This event will include steam traction engines, an old PRR steam train, antique tractors, working saw mill, model train exhibit, food, flea market stands, and music.

The Beistle Company1 Beistle Plaza

Shippensburg, PA 17257(717) 532 7789 | www.beistle.com

On a very warm summer evening in July, the Shippensburg Chamber along with the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce celebrated the Christmas in July Mixer in the cool air conditioning comfort of the Courtyard Marriott in Shippensburg. The annual mixer brought together business professionals from both chambers for an evening of networking while enjoying delicious hors d’oeuvres and beverages.

Chamber guests who attended this event generously brought new toy donations that will benefit the Shippensburg Chamber’s Community Christmas Party which is set for Thursday, December 22nd. Special thanks to Courtyard Marriott for hosting this great evening and to the members of both chambers for the toy donations. These toys will give Santa an early start in his preparations for his big night in December!

RECAPJULY EVENTS

August 18 & 25 | 1pm-4pm & 6pm-9pm | Joyful Art Studio – GreencastleAugust 18 & 25 | 3pm & 6pm | Summer Movie Madness with $5 – Capitol Theater, ChambersburgAugust 19 | 5pm | RouzerFest – Red Run Park, WaynesboroAugust 19 | 7pm | Scotland Campus Presents: The Union of Sinners and Saints & the Comedy of David Dean – Scotland Campus, ScotlandAugust 20 | 8am-2pm | 6th Annual Peach Festival – Fort Loudon Community Grounds, Fort LoudonAugust 20 | 1pm– 7pm | Pop A Cork for the Capitol Beach Party – In the Back Lot of the Capitol Theatre Center, Chambersburg

August 20 | 1pm-3pm WAYNESBORO: Ceramic Arts Center of Waynesboro – “Lions, Tigers, and Bears, oh my!” Workshop Ceramic Arts CenterAugust 21 | 12pm-8pm | The Foundry Presents: “Paintings by Heidi Yacoubian” – Thursdays & Fridays: 12pm-6pm – Saturdays: 10am-6pm – The Foundry, ChambersburgAugust 25 | 6:30pm | South Mountain Partnership Speaker Series Presents: “Fly Fishing & Conservation” – TCO Fly Shop, Boiling Springs August 26 | 4pm & August 27 | 9am-11pm | Back Road Rider Presents: “4th Annual Helping Little Hands” Rock & Ride Benefit – Moose Park, GettysburgAugust 27 | Crabfest – Amvets Pavilion, 750 5th Avenue, ChambersburgAugust 27 | 8am-5pm | Shippensburg Corn Festival – Downtown Shippensburg

August 27 | 8am-4pm | Shippensburg Corn Festival – Downtown Shippensburg

August 30 | 6:30pm & August 31 | 9am | FREE Medicare 101 Educational Event – Courtyard Marriott, 503 Newburg Road, ShippensburgAugust 31 | 5:30pm-7pm | Food Fair – “A Taste of Shippensburg” – Shippensburg Church of the Brethren Family Life Center, 253 E. Garfield Street, Shippensburg

September 9 | 9am-Noon | The First Step: Starting a Small Business – Techcelertor/Murata Business Center, 453 Lincoln Street, Carlisle – Cost: $10 per business (free to veterans)

CANDIDATES SOUGHT TO SERVE ON CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORSDEADLINE FOR CANDIDATE INFORMATION: SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

As we move into the Fall of 2016, it is the time of the year to review and appoint the members of the Chamber Board of Directors for 2017. As we continually work to grow this Chamber in number and relevance, the personal commitment of our Board Members in terms of time and resources is of great importance.

The Nominating Committee of the Chamber is now seeking candidates for the Board of Directors. Any member in good standing of the chamber or one of its employees is eligible. Directors serve three-year terms and may serve no more than two terms in a row.

Former directors are eligible to serve after a one-year absence from the Board.

Directors are expected to attend board meetings (8:30 a.m. on the third Wednesday each month), take part in discussions on issues, serve on at least one Chamber Committee, attend chamber-sponsored events and, be a chamber ambassador at all times.

DO YOU WANT TO HELP STUDENTS IN THEIR PURSUITS IN THE WORLD OF WORK?

What would this Council do? Here is what Bruce Levy, High School Principal at SASHS envisions:

1. Provide Guest Speakers for classes, helping students make the move from High School to College/Career

2. Provide a source for students to seek out Mentorships, Job Shadowing, Internships, and Coop education

3. Provide a source for those reviewing curriculum to make sure career education is relevant and has the current emphasis for college/career in the high school curriculum

If you are interested in participating on this Business Advisory Council please call Bruce Levy at 717-530-2730 or email him at bruce.levy@ship.k12.pa.us.

The Shippensburg Area Senior High School would like to form a Business Advisory Council

If you would like to nominate yourself or someone else to the Board, please complete the Nomination Form included in this issue of the Chamberline.

Lunch & Learn

Christmas in July

Shippensburg Fair

SASHS

This month marks the beginning of the state’s new fiscal year. In a marked contrast to the prolonged budget impasse that dominated the legislative session last year, this year’s budget negotiations had a much more conciliatory and cooperative tone. Although all the components of the final budget weren’t finalized until 13 days after the June 30th Constitutional deadline, Pennsylvania is now operating with a fully enacted budget.

The $31.5 billion General Appropriations bill was passed by bipartisan majorities in both the state House and Senate. This plan – which spends approximately 5 percent more than the previous fiscal year – includes a $200 million increase in basic education funding and $39 million more in higher education funding. In order for the budget to be balanced – as required by state law – an additional $1.3 billion was needed to pay for the increase in spending.

While the governor’s original proposal to enact broad-based increases in both the sales and Personal Income Tax was taken off the table in early June, lawmakers finally agreed to a variety of revenue generators. The final revenue enhancement package included: increased taxes on certain types of tobacco, capping the sales tax vendor discount, expanding the sales tax to include digital downloads, applying a Personal Income Tax on lottery winnings, increasing the rate of the Bank Shares Tax and raising the tax on table games by two percent. The final agreement also assumes revenues from a yet-to-be enacted gaming expansion proposal. Two initiatives that earned PA Chamber support - a new tax amnesty program and revenue from the recently enacted liquor reform legislation – were also part of the deal.

While we appreciate the fact that lawmakers were able to balance the budget without imposing significant new tax burdens on Pennsylvania residents and businesses, there are components of the newly enacted Tax Code that could impact the

Commonwealth’s competitive edge – specifically the capping of the vendor’s allowance. Additionally, it is concerning that spending was increased before addressing the Commonwealth’s No. 1 cost-driver – the growing public pension crisis.

We are apprehensive that the decision to cap the vendor’s allowance will increase burdens on employers and make it more costly to operate in the Pennsylvania. The vendor’s allowance helps retailers recoup costs associated with collecting the sales tax on behalf of the state. This complex, multi-step process is very expensive for businesses. The Tax Code puts in place a $25 per month or $300 per year cap on this allowance. According to an independent national study, under the old system the Commonwealth only reimbursed retailers for approximately 30 percent of the costs associated with collecting the tax. The new cap will require businesses to absorb even more of that cost – impacting their bottom lines and hurting their ability to compete.

Prior to enacting any new taxes, lawmakers should have worked to address the state’s pension crisis. With an unfunded liability that is expected to balloon beyond $58 billion this year, the pension crisis poses the biggest threat to Pennsylvania’s long-term fiscal stability and is a driving force behind multiple credit rating downgrades, which hurts taxpayers by increasing the Commonwealth’s cost to borrow. Each year, a larger portion of both the state’s and school districts’ budgets go toward growing pension obligations, which diverts money away from the classroom and other important state programs While we applaud the fact that this budget expands the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program – which enables businesses to help families and organizations offer more students a high quality education– the fact is that until comprehensive

Cumberland Valley Business Journal Column

July 15, 2016

Gene BarrPresident and CEO

PA Chamber of Business and Industry

2016-17 Budget with $1.3 Billion Revenue Enhancement Package Doesn’t Address Growing Cost-Drivers

pension reform is enacted, more and more education tax dollars will go towards pension costs, diverting money from the classroom and limiting opportunities for students.

When lawmakers return to session this fall, we are urging them to finally address the Commonwealth’s pension problem. Moving to a 401-K style system – like much of the private sector already utilizes – would be a good first step in fixing the systems going forward. Additional reforms – such as rolling

back the multiplier for current employees – are needed to tackle the debt and bring immediate savings to both the state and public school districts’ budgets. Only through a long-term, comprehensive reform plan will the substantial amount of the risk of increasing pension obligations be shifted away from Pennsylvania taxpayers.Gene BarrPresident and CEOPA Chamber of Business and Industry

Like fashion, all fields of study have trends that come to the forefront every few years. Economic development is no different. One concept that has been building a following is economic gardening. The term came from Chris Gibbons, the City of Littleton Colorado’s Business Director, during the 1980s. In 1987, Martin Marietta (today known as Lockheed Martin) closed its doors and left 7,800 people unemployed. To save their economy, Gibbons and his team connected with a think tank eager to test a theory from MIT economist David Burch and economic gardening was born.Economic gardening is an entrepreneurial approach to local economic development. Instead of large scale business attraction efforts, focus is placed on thelocal existing economy as the solution to increase jobs, income, tax revenues and the overall business climate of a community. In providing businesses that are ready or almost ready to grow with the tools, resources, data and market knowledge to do so, economic gardening creates a network of prosperity that is both diverse and localized. The concept goes a step beyond asking businesses what they need in terms of moral support and “cheerleading”. It goes to the heart of providing counseling, context, data and access to resources outside the existing business footprint.Cumberland Area Economic Development Corporation (CAEDC) has been working to bring together resources and partners to cultivate the economic garden that is the Cumberland Valley. While CAEDC continues creating an inventory of assets, tools, programs and resources for

the region, communities and local groups can start planting seeds to create a vibrant business community within their own area. Some fundamental steps in building your local economy as a community are: 1. Create an asset inventory of businesses, community agencies, talents and resources. Check into your local library’s databases and reference capabilities. Learn more about your chamber’s resources, all the local non-profit agencies and your downtown community. What programs do the local educational institutions offer and what programs are being offered by the religious institutions? Learn about what your local government officials are implementing.2. Begin building relationships and partnerships.Once you know the resources begin to see where there are connections, potential for collaboration or redundancies. These early steps give communities the ability to begin cultivating their economies. CAEDC and other resources, such as the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), are then able to provide tools for businesses to grow their footprint and economic impact. Cultivating economic growth is similar to cultivating a garden. There are a number of tools, time, energy and nutrients needed, but the result is incredibly satisfying. For more information on the Small Business Development Center visit http://www.ship.edu/sbdc/ . For more information on CAEDC’s services visit www.cumberlandbusiness.com.

Economic Gardening: Seeding a Future by Mary Kuna – Economic Development Manager Cumberland Area Economic Development Corp.

For more information, contact Tricia Harris, Manager of Communications at 717.720.5447