The Chamber Welcomes Summer Interns Scranton, PA— The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome four summer interns to the team. Owen DiAngelo, a senior business administration major at The University of Scranton, is the economic development intern for The Chamber’s affiliate, Scranton-Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO). His duties include contributing to the economic development plan by supporting the director of facilities and asset management and the economic development team in updating their database of properties and associated databases. Noah Leety, a senior industrial labor and relations student at Cornell University, is one communications intern at The Chamber. His duties include creating the weekly member news eBlast, writing press releases, and assisting with The Chamber’s social media presence. Molly Morgan, a recent graduate in corporate communication with a minor in business administration from Penn State University, is the second communication intern at The Chamber. Her duties include creating the weekly Chamber news eBlast, writing press releases, and generating content for Momentum, The Chamber’s monthly magazine. Kiera Priest, a junior business student at Lackawanna College, is the entrepreneurial development intern for The Chamber’s affiliate, IGNITE. Her duties include engaging with IGNITE program clients, researching, assisting the IGNITE program manager with curating content, and promoting clients, the program, and the community. The Chamber participates in The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center’s Small Business Internship Initiative and is now accepting applications for the Fall. Interested students can view the job description at https://www.scrantonchamber.com/small-business-internship/ or email Stephanie Juarez-Ventura, communications manager at sjventura@scrantonchamber.com. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com. About The Small Business Internship InitiativeThe Small Business Internship Initiative is a collaborative program created to help small businesses learn about, attract, and host high-value internships and connect area small businesses and college students. Internship opportunities are shared with Career Development partners at Clarks Summit University, Johnson College, Keystone College, Lackawanna College, Luzerne County Community College, Mansfield University, Marywood University, Misericordia University, Pennsylvania College of Technology, Penn State Scranton, The University of Scranton, and Wilkes University. The initiative is a collaborative program created to help small businesses learn about, attract, and host high-value internships and connect area small businesses and college students.
Beware! Scam Involving Employee Retention Credit The law office of Ufberg & Associates recently sent out communication regarding a scam surrounding the employee retention credit. Below is the text from Ufberg & Associates. Employee Retention Credit The Employee Retention Credit (ERC) was designed to provide a refundable tax credit for businesses that continued paying employees while shut down during the COVID-19 Pandemic, or for businesses that had a significant decline in gross receipts during the eligibility periods. However, with this resource came the opportunity for misuse and abuse. Schemes and Scams The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has learned that third party promoters have developed schemes to entice businesses to apply for the ERC, who may otherwise not be eligible for the ERC. Third party promoters are continuing to engage in marketing campaigns designed to have businesses enlish their services to apply for ERC and then charging businesses 10%, 20%, 30% for more of the amount of the ERC for their services. The IRS reacted to these developments by adding the ERC to its “Dirty Dozen” list in March of 2023. The IRS’s “Dirty Dozen” list is an annual list generated by the IRS listing potential scams and schemes that put taxpayers and the tax professional community at risk. The list is aimed at helping raise awareness to protect honest taxpayers from potential bad actors. The IRS Commissioner made the following statement on this issue: “The aggressive marketing of these credits is deeply troubling and a major concern of the IRS. Businesses need to think twice before filing a claim for these credits. While the credit has provided a financial lifeline to millions of businesses, there are promoters misleading people and businesses into thinking they can claim these credits. There are very specific guidelines around these pandemic-era credits; they are not available to just anyone. People should remember the IRS is actively auditing and conducting criminal investigations related to these false claims. We urge honest taxpayers not to be caught up in these schemes.” Warning Signs The aggressive marketing from these promoters can come in a variety of forms, such as radio, television, and online advertisements. Additionally, promoters have been sending out fake letters from non-existent groups, such as the “Department of Employee Retention Credit” urging businesses to take immediate action in applying for ERC. The IRS has provided some warning signs of an aggressive ERC marketing that businesses should be wary of. These included: Unsolicited calls or advertisements mentioning an “easy application process.”Statements that the promoter or company can determine ERC eligibility within minutes.Large upfront fees to claim the credit.Fees based on a percentage of the refund amount of the ERC claimed.Aggressive claims from the promoter that a business qualifies for the ERC before any discussion of the group’s tax situation. In reality, the ERC is a complex credit that requires careful review before applying.The IRS also sees aggressive suggestions from marketers urging businesses to submit the claim because there is nothing to lose. In reality, the IRS would expect those improperly receiving the credit to repay the credit — along with the potential assessment of substantial interest and penalties. How to Protect Yourself Work with a Trusted Tax Professional — Employers who believe they may be eligible for the ERC should contact a trusted tax professional and not rely on the advice of any individual or company soliciting these credits.IRS urges employers not to apply for ERC if the employer does not have a reasonable belief that the employer is legitimately qualified for this credit. Lastly, if you wish to seek further information about the ERC, you can find additional information from the IRS by following the link: Employee Retention Credit Resource. Disclaimer: This communication from the law office of Ufberg & Associates provides a general overview of new legal developments. It is not intended to provide legal advice. If you have questions or would like more information about how these developments may affect your businesses, please contact Ufberg & Associates at (570) 341-8800.
Coffee With Your Congressman Matt Cartwright The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce government advocacy and affairs committee wants to share an upcoming opportunity for Chamber members to meet and discuss important issues with Congressman Cartwright. Congressman Cartwright will be at the Abington Memorial VFW Post 7069 on Monday, July 10, from 3:30-5:00 PM. Enjoy coffee and contribute to the discussion with your local community. AddressAbington Memorial VFW Post 7069402 Winola RoadClarks Summit, PA 18411
Chamber Affiliate Receives Award for Economic Development Accomplishments in the Region The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce economic development affiliate, Scranton-Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), received the Mid-Sized Community EDO Award from Business Facilities for its economic development accomplishments in northeastern Pennsylvania. Business Facilities is a full-service media brand specializing in the site selection marketplace, and it has been recognized as “the leading source of intelligence on corporate expansion and relocation since 1968,” as stated by the magazine’s website. The award SLIBCO received was given to mid-size economic development organizations whose region’s population is between 100,000–500,000. Outlining The Chamber and SLIBCOs accomplishments: 15 business parks totaling over 3,000 acres. Of the 3,000 acres, less than 1,000 acres are left undeveloped. The organizations developed an internal incentive program for developers within the business parks to work towards the attraction of advanced industries like energy production, advanced manufacturing, and food and beverage production. The latest accomplishment of The Chamber and SLIBCO was a bridged partnership to conserve 250+ acres of land for conservation in Lackawanna County. SLIBCO worked with the Lackawanna Valley Conservancy, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and the PA Game Commission. The conservation organization intends to create multiple outdoor recreational opportunities, including mountain biking trails, hiking trails, and outdoor educational elements. The Chamber and its affiliates are committed to attracting, sustaining, and growing businesses in northeastern Pennsylvania. SLIBCO is one of eight affiliates through The Chamber that seeks to develop the community through access to capital, leadership and professional development, workforce, entrepreneurship, and more. About Scranton-Lackawanna Industrial Business Company (SLIBCO)Scranton-Lackawanna Industrial Business Company (SLIBCO), an affiliate of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, develops multi-tenant buildings and industrial and office parks in northeastern Pennsylvania. SLIBCO also owns and manages two technology incubator facilities to start-up and expand small businesses. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
The Chamber Hosts Summer Business Card Exchange The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, the region’s premier business organization, hosted its Summer Business Card Exchange on Wednesday, June 28, at High Tines Archery & Outdoors in Dunmore. The 66 attendees enjoyed a unique opportunity to network with Chamber members, a chance to win door prizes, and experience the event business host, High Tines, indoor archery range. High Tines Archery & Outdoors owner Greg Gondella Jr. shared, “Networking is the name of the game for me… I wouldn’t be where I am right now if it weren’t for the connections I made through the years”. Business card exchanges allow Chamber members and partners to network, meet new faces, and expand their professional and personal networks. If you want to join The Chamber’s strong community of leaders, please visit www.scrantonchamber.com or call (570) 342–7711 for more information. Attached photo (from left to right): Kristine Augustine, vice president, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Ryan Buchanan, director of marketing and communications, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Greg Gondella Jr., owner, High Tines Archery & Outdoors; Maria Gondella, owner, High Tines Archery & Outdoors; Molly Morgan, communication intern, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Noah Leety, communication intern, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about The Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
Commonwealth of PA Holds Community Meeting to Discuss the Region’s Access to the Internet The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce’s government affairs and advocacy committee is committed to representing and being a voice for the business community to the local, state, and federal legislators. A priority for The Chamber’s government committee is access to broadband internet across the Wyoming Valley for its residents and businesses. On Tuesday, July 11, at 11 a.m., The PA Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) is holding a community meeting to hear from the general public’s experience with internet access. The community meeting will be at the Lackawanna County Center for Public Safety in Jessup, PA. Sign-up!
Morristell Receives 2023 Change Maker Award On Thursday, June 15, Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna received the 2023 Change Makers Awards presented by the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce. The award was presented at Light up the Valley, held at Public Square Park in Wilkes-Barre. Morristell and 40 community influencers were recognized for their outstanding efforts to make NEPA a brighter place. Through her efforts, Morristell impacts the community by being an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion; volunteerism and innovation—improving the quality of life in the greater Scranton region. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com. About Leadership LackawannaLeadership Lackawanna, an affiliate of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, is a 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit organization in northeastern Pennsylvania dedicated to community leadership and professional development. Leadership’s six programs: Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, Leadership Collegiate, Core, Leadership Fundamentals 2.0, Executive, and Welcome Scranton!—enhance the skills, connections, and knowledge of emerging and established leaders, enabling them better to serve our communities, workplaces, and organizations. Established in 1982, Leadership Lackawanna has created more than 2,500 community leaders. For more information, visit www.leadershiplackawanna.com.
The Chamber to Host Summer Business Card Exchange The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce will host its Summer Business Card Exchange on Wednesday, June 28, from 5–7 p.m. at High Tines Archery at 116 Monahan Ave., Dunmore. High Tines is a family-run archery pro shop and shooting range with owners who have over 20 years of experience in the archery and outdoor industry. While immersed in a unique outdoors-themed setting, members of The Chamber can make new connections, expand their professional network, and enjoy complimentary beverages and lite snacks. Members who attend the event can enter their business cards to win a door prize. Register for the June 28 Business Card Exchange by visiting https://www.scrantonchamber.com/events/business-card-exchange-at-high-tines-archery/. Professional networking often serves as a foundation for a successful business, which is why The Chamber regularly opens such opportunities to its members. If you want to join this strong community of leaders, please visit www.scrantonchamber.com or call (570) 342–7711 for more information. About The High Tines Archery and OutdoorsHigh Tines Archery is a family-owned and operated pro shop and indoor archery range. The owners, Greg and Maria, along with their children and family members, work closely with customers to provide individual attention to each person that walks through the door. Greg, with 20+ years in the archery and outdoors industry, and Maria, with 20+ years as an educator in secondary schools, use their knowledge and skills to provide adults and children with enjoyable and informative experiences. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
Chambers of Commerce Host Waterpark Event for Member Businesses Scranton, PA—The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and seven regional chamber partners are hosting a day at the Montage Mountain Waterpark for member businesses sponsored by Montage Mountain. On June 23, member businesses and employees can enjoy a day at the local waterpark. The event starts at 11 a.m.; tickets are $15 per person, and children under the age of two are free admission. The ticket includes all water attractions and other dry attractions. *Zip Rider is NOT included in The Chamber Day admission package. Chamber member businesses and employees can purchase tickets online at www.ScrantonChamber.com up through June 23. Tickets must be purchased and paid for in advance, with no exceptions. Participating Chambers of Commerce are the Back Mountain Chamber, The Greater Carbondale Chamber of Commerce, The Greater Hazelton Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce, the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce, and The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. If you want to become a member of The Chamber and receive more benefits like this, visit www.ScrantonChamber.com. About Montage Mountain ResortsMontage Mountain Resorts opened to the public in 1984. Located in Northeast Pennsylvania just 5 minutes off Interstate 81, it is convenient and among the best in the East. Easily accessible from major cities like New York City & Philadelphia (just 2-hours) and around one hour from Allentown & Binghamton. You can catch i476, i84, i380, and i81 within 10 minutes of the resort. Offering Daily Admission, Season Memberships, Group Trips, Private Rentals, Events and more, there’s no other park to pick for summer fun. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
Chamber Employee Appointed to Board of National Leadership Organization Denton, TEXAS—The Association of Leadership Programs (ALP), a national organization located in Texas and supporting the growth and development of Community Leadership Programs, recently announced that Nicole Morristell, Executive Director of Leadership Lackawanna in Scranton, PA was appointed as Treasurer to serve a one-year term. With over 300 members, ALP is THE connection source for community leadership programs throughout the US, and even has a small presence internationally with memberships coming from Germany and Canada. The ALP mission is to enhance the effectiveness of leadership programs and professionals. The association believes true, organic community leadership involves looking at situations, opportunities, or challenges through the lens of the whole community, and pursuing a course that builds the well-being of all. ALP membership is open to leadership organizations/programs, whether based in a chamber of commerce, university, government or similar entity, or as an independent (non-profit) organization. In this role, Morristell will be responsible for providing financial oversight of the organization, making periodic financial reports to the board of directors and presenting a full financial report at the annual meeting. “Leadership Lackawanna has been actively involved with ALP for 10 years and I fully believe in their mission and work. As an already active board member and ambassador for the state of Pennsylvania, I was happy to expand my involvement with this worthwhile national organization. Leadership Lackawanna has benefitting so much from ALP membership – essentially I give them full credit for helping us create our 2 ½ day orientation program, Welcome Scranton! Personally, ALP allows me to interact with fellow community leadership professionals who are doing the same exact work as me – but in their own respective communities! It’s such an amazing network of leaders who are fully dedicated to growing and improving their communities through the work of leadership programs. Serving as ALP treasurer is a real win-win experience for Leadership Lackawanna since this role helps to elevate our status – yes, we are a nonprofit from Scranton, PA – but now we are on the same level playing field as our counterparts from around the Unites States like Orlando, FL, Austin, Texas, San Francisco, CA and Bend, OR.,” commented Nicole Morristell. Nicole Morristell is the executive director of Leadership Lackawanna, the non-profit Chamber affiliate dedicated to community leadership and professional development. Leadership Lackawanna consists of a 10-month core program, a five-week executive program, a seven-month youth program, a 2 day community exploration program called Welcome Scranton!, a collegiate program, and an 8-week online fundamentals 2.0 program. Before joining the Leadership staff in 2008, Morristell worked for the local Girl Scout organization, where she served in a number of positions over the years, including marketing and community outreach specialist, public relations director, and special events manager. She is a graduate of Elizabethtown College and is actively involved with Supporters of Camp Archbald, where she serves as President, Abington Christian Academy’s Parent Advisory Board, LCBC Church Kids Ministry, Countryside Conservancy, and Girl Scouts in the Heart of PA. Pictured: Lura Hammond, Executive Director of ALP, and Nicole Morristell, Executive Director, Leadership Lackawanna About Leadership LackawannaLeadership Lackawanna, an affiliate of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, is a 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit organization in northeastern Pennsylvania dedicated to community leadership and professional development. Leadership’s six programs: Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, Leadership Collegiate, Core, Leadership Fundamentals 2.0, Executive, and Welcome Scranton!—enhance the skills, connections, and knowledge of emerging and established leaders, enabling them better to serve our communities, workplaces, and organizations. Established in 1982, Leadership Lackawanna has created more than 2,600 community leaders. For more information, visit www.leadershiplackawanna.com. About the Association of Leadership ProgramsThe Association of Leadership Programs serves over 275 community leadership programs across the United States and beyond. The association strives to enhance the wellbeing of all communities through the work of community leadership programs. Founded in 2010, the mission of ALP is to strengthen the effectiveness of leadership programs and professionals. Authentic and organic community leadership development requires taking a critical look at situations, opportunities, and challenges our communities face through the lens of the entire community and pursuing a course that enhances the wellbeing of all. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
