Special Edition E-Connection: April 22, 2020
ROAD TO REOPENING
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PANDEMIC UNEMPLOYMENT COMP Website Corrected for
Self-Employed, Independent Contractors, Gig Workers.
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The state's portal for Pandemic Unemployment Compensation, which opened Saturday with many problems, including the automacit denial of anyone who files W-2 tax forms has been corrected.
If you received what you believe you inaccurately received a denial message it is advised that you re-apply.
Benefits will be calculated from your first date of unemployment, not the date of filing your claim.
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PA Chamber Issues Clarification on Governor's Comments
Regarding Unemployment Compensation
The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business & Industry has issued a statement in response to the Governor's comments this week concerning the reopening of Pennsylvania businesses.
During a news conference Monday, the Governor stated that employees may continue to collect unemployment compensation if they refuse to return to work when called back. (
The governor's comment can be viewed
here
at minute 16:50.)
To clarify, per state law, absent 'good cause,' it is an act of fraud to refuse suitable work in order to receive unemployment benefits. The Department of Labor & Industry addresses the issue for employers to report refusals to work
on its website.
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PA Chamber Announces "Bringing PA Back" Initiative
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The PA Chamber, working cooperatively with industry associations and Chambers of Commerce throughout the Commonwealth has started a conversation about energizing the economy in the wake of the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Learn more
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Online Car Sales, Curbside Liquor Pick-Up To Open
Construction Restart Date: May 8th
Governor Tom Wolf announced three actions including online sales of vehicles, which will be enabled by the signing of SB 841, restart of construction projects statewide starting Friday, May 8, and curbside pickup of wine and spirits at select Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board locations.
Learn More.
Stay at Home Order Extended Through May 8th
Learn More.
Governor Signs Bill to Provide Flexibility to Local Governments & Businesses
Learn More.
Governor Vetoes Bill that would have allowed some businesses to open.
Learn More.
US Surgeon General Talks Guidelines for States' Reopening
Learn 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.
Representative Jesse Topper will discuss the latest
on the state's response to COVID-19 and answer your questions
during a zoom conference all this Thursday, April 23rd - 10am.
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JOIN ZOOM MEETING WITH REPRESENTATIVE TOPPER
Thursday, April 23rd - 10am
Meeting ID: 214 440 4712
Password: CHAMBER
One tap mobile
+16465588656,,2144404712#,,#,955530# US (New York)
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U.S. Chamber PATH FORWARD
Path Forward, a new program from the U.S. Chamber Foundation, is designed help business and community leaders find the answers they need to develop a responsible reopening strategy.
When will it be safe to reopen? How do we protect employees and customers from the coronavirus? Where will my staff get COVID-19 tests? Masks? Gloves? Who’s going to pay for all this? Each episode features conversations between the U.S. Chamber of Commerce President, Suzanne Clark, and experts with practical recommendations for businesses of all sizes.
Path Forward events take place at 3 p.m. EST every Monday and Thursday.
Register Now.
If you can’t attend, you’ll find a recording of each episode on the Foundation’s website,
Facebook page, and
YouTube channel.
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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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Rocky Launch for Unemployment Compensation Portal
for Self Employed, Independent Contractors, Gig Workers
The PA Department of Labor and Industry recognizes that there have been glitches in the unemployment portal for self employed, independent contractors, gig workers, etc. because the system is recognizing wages (this may be happening if you file a W2 as opposed to a 1099.) The system may direct you to try to apply through the regular portal. It is now advised to hold off on that option as the state works to correct the error in allowing you to file. There is another reported glitch which reports all claims to have the same payment. This is also likely an error.
Please be advised that the state is working on this issue and will post updates as they make improvements on the Pandemic Unemployment Comp website:
When the system is corrected, we're told that the eligibility of those who have successfully applied will not be impacted and benefits will be based on the week you were first unemployed and not at the time of your application.
Bottom line - there are glitches in the system and the Dept. of Labor and Industry is working to fix them. Despite the delay, you should still receive all of the benefits promised through the federal CARES Act, as the state continues its implementation efforts.
They appreciate your patience and recommend checking back periodically to the website (link above). The unemployment office will not be available to answer questions until Monday.
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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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While the library is closed, we're still working hard to serve the community!
also has a ton of excellent resources online, including CloudLibrary, an app-based ebook program, available with a valid library card.
To sign up for a library card (if you don't already have one), email your Name, address, phone number, birthdate, and municipality to
flscardsignup@gmail.com
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Monday, April 20
Post a picture on our page showing us how you are using your library, right from your home! You’ll be entered into a drawing for some cool stuff!
Tuesday, April 21
10 AM, story time with Miss Becky!
3 PM, a special video message.
Wednesday, April 2
12 PM - Matt Tries Stuff Episode 3!
3 PM - A special video message.
5 PM - Group discussion (zoom.)
Thursday, April 23
3 PM - A special video message.
5 PM - NEW book club (zoom.)
Friday, April 24
10 AM, Story Time with Miss Becky!
3 PM - a special video message.
Saturday, April 25
10 AM, a very special
STEM Saturday!
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Pennsylvania Launches 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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Join us for our weekly Virtual Mixer
Friday, April 24th - 5-6pm
Make connections in the business community with friends old and new...
A welcome break from the everyday stress!
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Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 857 7431 8447
One tap mobile
+16465588656,,85774318447# US (New York)
+13126266799,,85774318447# US (Chicago)
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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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FEDERAL ASSISTANCE UPDATE
EIDL, PPP Programs Closed Pending Additional Funding
Thank you to the office of Congressman John Joyce for this Information
Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, including the EIDL Advance, has allocated all available funds and will no longer accept applications. Borrowers who have received emails stating their EIDL was approved, will still receive their loans, Some EIDL Advances currently in the system may still be funded. Likewise, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan is out of funds. These programs will remain closed until they are refunded Congress , which is considering additional appropriations to these programs this week.
CONTACT INFO - SBA Regional Offices
Harrisburg Office: (717) 782-3840
Pittsburgh Office: (412) 395-6560
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Businesses are advised to gather information and materials to be prepared to submit new applications if/when additional funding is allocated, hopefully in the coming days.
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Governor Orders Masks for Essential Businesses
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Secretary of Health Signs Order re:
Worker Safety Measures Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
Effective Sunday, April 19th, Department of Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine signed an order
directing protections for critical workers who are employed at businesses that are authorized to maintain in-person operations during the COVID-19 disaster emergency. The order establishes protocols to help employees maintain a social distance during work as well as steps businesses are ordered to implement upon discovery of an exposure to a person who is a probable or confirmed case of COVID-19. In addition to the social distancing, mitigation and cleaning protocols, businesses that serve the public within a building or defined area are also ordered to implement a number of additional safety measures to help mitigate the spread of the disease. Additional information about the order – including a greater explanation of protocols and steps that are being required by the Department.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
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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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If you would like to offer your expertise to your fellow Chamber members in the form of a conference call, webinar, or one-on-one consult, let us know and we will make that information available to all.
We are planning educational and informational opportunities for our members utilizing technology - announcements on these programs will be forthcoming as additional information becomes available.
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Blood is needed during
this critical time.
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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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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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April & May First Thursday Networking Breakfast is cancelled due to concerns over COVID-19. We will plan a virtual networking event for these days! (Details Coming Soon.)
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Our next in-person networking breakfast is scheduled for August7th at Homewood at Spring House Estates. HOPE TO SEE YOU!
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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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A podcast featuring the businesses, leaders, and activities of Bedford County.
Produced in partnership with Headline Marketing & Communications and with additional exposure on the radio stations of Cessna Broadcasting
Sponsorships available:
Call Deanna Weaverling: 285-1235
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The Chamber is proud to partner with our friends from
Only in the Cove to provide new social media platforms:
Everything Bedford County
showcasing businesses, events and happenings
in Bedford County.
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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 DCD recommendations)
Home, Garden & Lifestyle Show (New date to be announced ASAP)
Byrne and Kelly Concert at Woodhaven (Foundation) - New Date TBD 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
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Do you have something to celebrate?
Call us at 623-2233 to schedule your...
Ribbon Cutting
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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Tickets Now On Sale for 2020 Concert Event featuring 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, to be announced ASAP
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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Bedford Rotary Announces
Cancellation of Surf & Turf Event
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The Bedford Rotary Club has announced that their May Surf & Turf Event, formerly Lobsterfest, has been canceled. The Club looks forward to holding this event nest year!
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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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Chamber Member UDNI Offers Remote Technology Assistance to Local Businesses
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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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