E-Connection: May 15, 2020
Good News Friday
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BEDFORD COUNTY COVID-19 Status Today:
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Bedford County one of 13 counties moving to yellow status today.
LEARN MORE.
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The Bedford County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present a
Reopen Resource for the business community of the Bedford County region. The guide was compiled by the Chamber using resources from the CDC, PA Dept, of Health, PA & US Chambers and other industry leaders. The downloadable pdf also has click-through links to additional resources. We will update the content as conditions dictate. Download by clicking on the document above.
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Thank you to Your Fellow Members for sharing their knowledge, insights and experiences during this week's Reopening Resources Webinars:
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Click to watch the recorded webinars
(note, marketing webinar becomes available Fri after 11am)
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FOR RETAIL
Webinar Series: Refining the New Normal
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You changed your business to meet the current crisis; however, as restrictions are lifted, what’s next? The governor has developed a system to slowly reopen Pennsylvania
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red, yellow, and green. What will this mean?
This webinar series will explore refining the retail model
for comfortable and safe shopping experiences for customers.
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Join Penn State Cooperative Extension
at Noon on one or more of these dates:
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May 15:
The Customer Experience
May 19:
Clean and Safe Point of Sale System Options
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PA Chamber Covid-19 Resources for Business
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The PA Chamber
Bringing PA Back Initiative includes a website with a wealth of information for businesses preparing for a safe re-opening or returning to operations, including information for specific industries.
Learn More.
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Join the Bedford County Leadership Class of 2020 in helping to alleviate the stress and financial burden on our community’s most impacted workers!
Leadership Bedford County - Class of 2020, began late last summer. We met at the Bedford County Chamber to talk about why we love where we live. Every conversation focuses on making our community the best possible. Our goal is to learn about every aspect of Bedford County and how to serve the county’s needs. Part of our class mission is to create and implement a community service project that benefits Bedford County and those that live here.
Since March, our lives have been turned upside down. These unprecedented times have tested communities around the world. We have all been forced to think differently about how we interact with each other and what matters most.
However, this also allows us to rise to the occasion. To care for each other in different ways, and to be present to those that we love, including the communities we call home.
That is where this project comes into play.
Here is our mission: We will be using the donations raised on this platform to support essential workers in Bedford County by purchasing meals from local, family-owned restaurants, and delivering those meals to essential workers. Our goal is to help alleviate the stress and financial burden on our community’s most impacted workers.
Until June 5, 2020 at midnight EST,
we will be taking donations to spread joy and kindness to our community.
CLICK HERE TO DONATE.
Our leadership group has coordinated with businesses throughout the entire county to make this possible, and now we need your help to make it happen! No donation is too small and every donation has an impact. This initiative has the potential to support over 100 essential workers, but the sky's the limit!
Join us as we write this love letter to our county by saying thank you.
Thank you
to the essential workers that keep us running.
Thank you
to the small businesses that make us who we are.
Thank you
to every person that has adjusted their lives to keep us all healthy.
We can't wait to begin!
Leadership Bedford County Class of 2020
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FEDERAL ASSISTANCE UPDATE for Small Businesses
INC. National Town Hall - Noon Friday, May 15th
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These weekly Town Halls by Inc. in partnership with the US Chamber are an excellent opportunity to hear the latest news and Q&A regarding small business concerns during this time - these calls often include discussion and details about PPP & EIDL.
Click to register.
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PPP FUNDS STILL AVAILABLE
SBA Now Accepting New EIDL Applications for Ag Only
PPP, EIDL Apps to be Processed on First-Come, First-Served Basis
The Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) have been replenished to provide assistance to small businesses.
LOCAL BANKS REPORT THERE IS STILL MONEY AVAILABLE THROUGH THE PPP PROGRAM.
CONTACT LOCAL LENDERS FOR ASSISTANCE IN APPLYING. (Some local banks are processing applications even if you are not their customer.)
Update: The SBA is processing EIDL loan applications that were already filed (prior to the previous depletion of funds) on a first-come, first-serve basis.
When (and if) they have processed the applications already in cue, the application portal will open to new applications (except for farms/ag who can apply now.)
We will monitor this situation and provide updates as they become available
. If you already have an application filed under the EIDL program, updates may be available through a regional SBA office:
CONTACT INFO - SBA Regional Offices
Harrisburg Office: (717) 782-3840
Pittsburgh Office: (412) 395-6560
Reminder: PPP applications are filed through local lenders (banks, credit unions.) These are to be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis so if you plan to file an application, contact your local lender ASAP,
as these funds are expected to again run out, but are still available at the tome of publication. If you have already filed with a bank (prior to the closing of the application process earlier this month) you may want to check back to be sure that your application is being filed if it was not already.
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The American Farm Bureau offers resources as well:
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Updates on Assistance for Farms,
Agriculture: EIDL Application Portal
is Now Open for You!
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The latest Coronavirus Assistance Legislation includes benefits for farms that were not included in the original legislation, including opportunities for low-interest loans through the EIDL (Economic Injury Disaster Loan) program.
Click for Info.
Note: The EIDL portal is now open for new applications from Farms and Agriculture businesses only while the SBA continues processes the applications already in cue.
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USDA Recorded Webinar for Producers Interested in Applying for Direct Payments through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program
Producers new to Farm Service Agency programs are encouraged to participate
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) and Farm Service Agency (FSA) will host a webinar on
Thursday, May 14, 2020, at 1 p.m. ET
, for farmers, ranchers and other producers interested in applying for direct payments through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP).
This webinar is an opportunity for producers to learn about the general application process and required documentation prior to the official beginning of signup
USDA hosted this webinar to share what information is needed to apply for direct payments through CFAP, once the application period begins. Producers who are new to participating in FSA programs are especially encouraged to join the webinar. More details about CFAP direct payments will be announced soon.
As part of President Trump and Secretary Perdue’s April 17 announcement of a $19 billion Coronavirus Farm Assistance Program, USDA will provide $16 billion in direct support based on losses for agricultural producers where prices and market supply chains have been impacted. Also, USDA will assist eligible producers facing additional adjustment and marketing costs resulting from lost demand and short-term oversupply for the 2020 marketing year caused by COVID-19.
A recording of the webinar, the answers to its questions, and other CFAP information can be found at
farmers.gov/CFAP
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Update on Unemployment Benefits for Self-Employed
The portal for Pandemic Unemployment Compensation is now FULLY FUNCTIONAL and able to accept weekly claims.
Benefits are retroactive to the first day of your business shut-down or slow-down.
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Things to Consider as you start thinking about Reopening Your Business:
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STATE BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS
INTERCHANGE DIRECTORY AVAILABLE
Sources for PPE's, Thermometers & More
As businesses look to ramp back up, we should begin considering what the post-COVID-19 shut-down will look like for your business, including industry guidelines concerning issues such as: cleaning/disinfecting guidelines, safety measures, liability, etc.
If your company needs Personal Protective Equipment (PPE's), you can view potential sources of several kinds of products on the state's
B2B Interchange Directory.
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PA Department of Health Resources for Businesses
Visit the Department of Health website for more important information for your business or organization, and that you can share with your employees:
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The U.S. Chamber offers ongoing trainings and programs to support the business community, including WORKSHOP WEDNESDAYS, Technology Programs, NATIONAL TOWN HALLS, an dmore.
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Business Resources from the U.S. Chamber
Check out the latest guides and resources from the U.S. Chamber, including the new
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Thank you to Steltek Graphics for making these
SIGNS of SOLIDARITY
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Window Sign (12"x18") - $10
Yard Sign with stake (18' x 24") - $20
Color Banner (20"x24") - $20
or by calling or texting Kellie at 814-937-8049. Please include your name, business and request for signs (type and quantity).
Payment will be made directly to Steltek and we will let you know when they are ready for pick up or delivery.
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Free Local Coaching for Small Businesses
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A Special Offer for Help from
Business Coach Tim Rooney:
To any small business owner: If this pandemic has you in fear of the now AND the future, I have a special offer. I have retired except for board work and would love to help.
Send me an email with your contact info and we can chat AT NO COST OR OBLIGATION EVER!! We can also see if there is an opportunity to form a "virtual" group of like minded business owners so we can continue the discussion well into the future. Some of you participate in executive groups like Vistage. GREAT!!
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COVID-19 Job Hiring Portal
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Harrisburg, PA – Pennsylvanians looking for work can now find life-sustaining businesses that are hiring through a new online
COVID-19 job portal
the Department of Labor & Industry launched April 13, 2020.
“Many life-sustaining businesses across Pennsylvania are hiring and this new portal will help connect them with people looking for a job,” said L&I Secretary Jerry Oleksiak.
“A top priority of L&I is to provide businesses with access to the workforce they need to maintain their life-sustaining operations and help our workers find jobs, especially during this unprecedented and challenging time.”
People seeking employment can visit
www.PAcareerlink.pa.gov
and select the green “PA COVID-19 Jobs – Hiring Immediately” job portal banner to see active job openings. Selecting the “Apply Now” button for a listed position will redirect individuals to the employer’s website or email where they can apply directly with the employer and speed up the hiring process.
...Continued
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NFIB Webinars Available to View
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The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has offered a series of webinars for small businesses related to COVID-19. These are available for view on demand.
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RESOURCE HUB FOR BUSINESSES
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Click the SBA logo above for information to help your business deal with some of the financial challenges of the COVID-19 Crisis.
Information includes:
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The PA Chamber is our partner for state legislative information and advocacy.
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Resources are available from Small Business Development Centers across the state to assist businesses through the COVID-19 crisis.
CLICK HERE for Info
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The Community Foundation for the Alleghenies has established an emergency fund for non-profits impacted by COVID-19.
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Important Links to Information
Regarding the Coronavirus:
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DCED provides significant resources for businesses relative to the COVID-19 Pandemic, including:
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Link for Traditional Unemployment Benefits
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The Chamber office continues to be closed to public walk-ins, but our team is working remotely and available by email as needed (bulk mail, marketing, information, etc.)
For immediate assistance, please call the Chamber office at 814-623-2233 or email a member of our team:
If you are not able to reach our team through the Chamber phone number, you may call Kellie Goodman Shaffer (cell) at 814.937.8049.
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BULK MAIL ASSISTANCE
The Chamber is still assisting members with bulk mail.
Contact Delrae Hagstrom to schedule your mailing.
Thank you!
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CERTIFICATES OF ORIGIN
The Chamber is still providing members with
certificates of origin documentation.
Contact Kellie Goodman Shaffer
to arrange for processing.
Thank you!
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Center for Victory Webinar on Coping with COVID-1
Managing Employee Engagement
Thank you to Corey Christman for providing this information
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Blood is needed during
this critical time.
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SHOP LOCAL REMINDER
Bedford County has been often compared to Bedford Falls from "It's a Wonderful Life." The Bedford County Visitors Bureau reminds us of the message of that classic movie - and the importance to support one another now and in the years to come.
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The Bedford County Visitors Bureau
has created a web page with a county-wide listing of restaurants offering take-out and/or delivery, another opportunity to support local businesses during the COVID-19 Crisis.
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Businesses Beginning to Re-Open
With Social Distancing
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Downtown Bedford
Farmers Market
NOW OPEN
WEDNESDAYS
9am-1pm
with Social Distancing/Safety Measures in Place
Support the essential
business of agriculture
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UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
(Subject to change depending on COVID-19 Status)
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Be Part of Our Signature Celebration of Spring!
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Vendor space indoors is
EXTREMELY LIMITED!
Call today to participate.
Outdoor space, sponsorships still available.
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Visit our Major Partners:
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Join us for our 7th Annual Conference
New Date: Tues. August 4th
at the Omni Bedford Springs
Mixer: Monday, August 3rd at SAMA
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Keynote Breakfast Panel Announced:
Women of Service:
Leadership Lessons from the Military
Presented by MyAdvisor
Jennifer Judd, US Air Force
Melony Lynch, US Navy & US Air Force
Tina Molski, US Army
Jayme Orr Rhodes, US Army
(Keynote Lunch Speaker Announcement Coming Soon)
Breakout Session Speakers
Full Schedule
Available Here:
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August 3rd - Evening Mixer at SAMA Bedford (6-8pm)
August 4th - Conference at Omni Bedford Springs Resort (8am-4pm)
Full Day - $199/Person ($169 for Chamber Members)
Omni Special Conference Room Rate Mon. & Tues.) - $139 with no Resort Fee
(Reserve your room soon! Call: 1-800-THE-OMNI)
Breakfast-Only Member Registration - $49 (Includes Gift Bag, Vendor Visits) Lunch-Only Member Registration - $69 (Includes Gift Bag, Vendor Visits)
Wed. Eve. Mixer: $20 per person
Sponsor, Vendor Opportunities Now Available.
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2020 Program
& Events Guide
Now Available!
The Chamber is pleased to present our catalog of programs and events for the new year. Sponsorships, exhibitor opportunities, networking, exposure and more.
Call us to discuss your ideas and goals for 2020 and let us help you customize an opportunity perfect for you!
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The Chamber Advantage program promotes buy-local spending habits while serving our membership in multiple ways:
(1) provide an offer to your fellow members and drive business through your door
AND/OR (2) give this valuable card with dozens of offers to your employees (FREE)
AND/OR (3) use the card for special discounts/offers from local businesses, saving you money while benefiting our local economy.
Call Delrae for more info on how to use this FREE MEMBER BENEFIT
NEW IN 2020: Sponsorship Opportunity (your logo on thousands of new Chamber Advantage Cards! (Call Kellie for details: 623-2233.)
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For Your Calendar:
Chamber & Chamber Foundation Save the Dates - 2020
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Events Scheduled (may change due to CDC/PA Health recommendations)
Home, Garden & Lifestyle Show (New date to be announced ASAP)
June 20 - Bridges & Barns Farm to Table Progressive Dining Tour
June 23 - Technology Conference
July 18 - Foundation 20th Anniversary Celebration
July 24 - Chamber Golf Tournament
Aug 3-4
Women in Business Conference
August 8 - Olde Bedford Brews & Spirits Market at the PA Lumberjack & Outdoor Show
September 12th - Bike Bedford County
Sept. 17 - Business Community Showcase & Fashion Showcase Mixer
Sept. 24 - Downtown on the Farm
October TBD - Leadercast
Sept. 12 Bike Bedford County (tentative)
November 19 - Annual Dinner & Awards Celebration
November 28 - Shop Small Saturday
December 10 - Holiday Business After Hours & Open House
December 12 - Breakfast with Santa
December 11-13, 17-23, 26-27 - Holiday Nights of Lights
Byrne and Kelly Concert at Woodhaven (Foundation) - New Date Friday July 2, 2021
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Virtual Ribbon Cutting for LIFeSTYLE's New Website:
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Call us at 623-2233 to schedule your...
Ribbon Cutting (Including Virtual Ribbon Cuttings!)
Anniversary Celebration
Key Transfer (New Owners)
Groundbreaking
We love to celebrate local business milestones!
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Chamber Foundation
News & Opportunities
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New Date: July 2, 2021 for Concert with
Celtic Thunder's Neil Byrne and Ryan Kelly
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POSTPONED - NEW DATE TO COME
All tickets sold will be transferred to new date:
Friday, July 2, 2021
Tickets: $50
Benefitting the Programs
of the 501-c3
Bedford County Chamber
Education Foundation
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You can now register and pay for Chamber events online.
Make sure you have created your ChamberMaster login so you can enjoy the convenience of online registration.
Here's how:
1) Visit the event calendar on our website and click on the event of interest.
2) Click the green "Register Now" button to take you to the member registration page.
3) If you don't have a password or don't remember it, simply click "Forgot your password?" and follow the instructions to re-set your password. Then complete your registration as a member. (You can also use your email address if you are a registered contact for your company.)
Members receive special discounts and access at many of our events, so registering as a member rather than checking out as a guest is better.
If you have any questions about how to register for an event or create your password, feel free to call 814-623-2233 for assistance.
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Chamber Member & Community News
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During the Coronavirus Lockdown,
SAMA Bedford is holding Facebook Live Stream classes featuring a variety of subjects, skill sets, disciplines and instructors. Check out the
SAMA Facebook page for more info!
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Learn more about Victoria House: the area's premier offerings in Personal Care Living: Inclusive pricing, caring staff, beautiful, comfortable rooms that
feel like home.
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Bedford County
Chamber of Commerce
203 South Juliana Street
Bedford, PA 15522 - USA
Phone: 814.623.2233
Fax: 814.623.6089
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