november '11 impact - a sound strategy...

IMPACTIMPACT November 2011 Vol. 40, NO. 11 Monthly

In This Issue Calendar of Events…………...………………………...…...Pg. 2 HR Breakfast……………………......………………….…….Pg. 3 Members in the News………….....………………….…….Pg. 3 Business Card Exchange……...…………………............Pg. 9 Women in Business……...…………….……………..........Pg. 9 New Members………………..….…………………….……..Pg. 11

The 2011 Healthy Workplace Awards luncheon was held on Wednesday, October 26, 2011 at the Sycamore Grille and was sponsored by the Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Choice, and Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsyl-vania. The purpose of the Healthy Workplace Awards are to recognize companies that are adopting wellness practices at work. The 2011 Healthy Workplace Award winners are: Under 100 Employees-Ruby Tuesday, Inc. Over 100 Employees- Fitzmaurice Community Services, Inc. Congratulations to the winners and a thank you to all those who submitted applications. You will see more businesses offering wellness programs to keep their employees healthy and as a result to help reduce their health care costs. If your business would like to participate in the Healthy Workplace Awards for next year, applications will be available on our website in August 2012.

GPCC Mission Statement

Act as A Unified Voice of Business Dedicated to the Prosperity of all

Commerce Leading to the Enhancement of

the Quality of Life in our region and surrounding areas.

2011 Healthy Workplace Awards Luncheon

From l to r: Lorraine Winfield - Blue Cross, of Northeastern PA, Demitria Gilbert - Ruby Tuesday, Pam Mynuk also of Blue Cross

From l to r: Lori Ann Mulvey, Deb Scocozza & Margaret Schnatter of Fitzmaurice Community Services, Robert Phillips, IOM - Greater

Pocono Chamber of Commerce.

IMPACT VOLUME 40 , NO. 11

November 2011

Calendar of Events Novenber 4…..……..Government Affairs/Public Policy 8:00 a.m. – Smithfield Township Library - Brodheadsville November 8.............Women in Business Luncheon Noon – Chateau Resort - Tannersville November 9……......West End Committee 8:00 a.m. – Western Pocono Community Library - Brodheadsville November 11……….Leadership Pocono 8:00 a.m. – GPCC November 14…….....Business Card Exchange 5:00 p.m. – Grace Park Seniors Living Well Stroudsburg November 15…….....Women in Business Steering Committee 9:00 a.m. – GPCC November 17…….....Expo Committee 800 a.m. – GPCC November 21…….....Finance Committee 8:00 a.m. – GPCC November 21…….....Executive Committee 8:30 a.m. – GPCC November 22…….....Board of Directors 8:30 a.m. – To Be Announced

LEADS WANTED!!!!

If you are aware of a new or existing business in the Greater Pocono region that might be interested in learning more about the various benefits of

chamber membership, please contact Patricia Metzgar or

[email protected].

HR Breakfast

The Chamber of Commerce Human Resource Committee held their fall breakfast meeting at the Chateau Resort and Conference Center in Tannersville on Wednesday, October 19th from 8-10:30am to inform business leaders about the different risks of a workplace and how to be cov-ered if these risks occur.

Guest speaker, Travis Paquette, the Risk Manager of the Man Power Group, delivered a thor-ough explanation of the different risks business leaders may en-counter at the work place. Paquette spoke about the impor-tance of having a safe and secure workplace environment for a business’s employees. He also shared ways to reduce workers’ compensation costs, OSHA com-plaints, and various liability haz-ards. The presentation was fol-lowed up by a question and

answer session.

The event was spon-sored by Jim Becker of Access Office Technolo-gies. The breakfast cost was $15 for members and $20 for non-members and walk-ins

were wel-comed. A total of 45

people attended this event and many of them reported to have thoroughly enjoyed Paquette’s informative presenta-tion. The Human Resource Committee meets regularly on the third Wednesday of every month in the Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerece conference room. Meetings are held from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. and all chamber members are encouraged to attend.

HR Breakfast at the Chateau

From l to r: Jim Becker, Sponsor, Travis Paquette, Pre-senter, Brian Caufield, HR Committee Chair

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Today the Green Meeting Industry Council (GMIC), the premier global community solely dedicated to sustainabil-ity in the meetings and events industry, announced the formation of the Mid-Atlantic Chapter. GMIC has a strong presence on the West Coast, and the Mid-Atlantic Chapter which will include Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Dela-ware, will greatly increase the membership base in the Northeast. GMIC Mid-Atlantic had its kick off meeting September 23rd and elected Daisy Gallagher, CEO of Gallagher & Gallagher Worldwide, Inc. as their President. Ms. Gal-lagher is an international award winning marketing pro-fessional who has served as CEO of GGW, Inc for more than twenty years and who brings her vast experience in the marketing and green event management industry from both the private and public sector to the GMIC Mid-Atlantic Chapter. “The industry is becoming increasingly aware of the need to have a strong foundation of knowl-edge in green standards, for many organizations and gov-ernment agencies following green practices are part of their mandates.” said Gallagher, “Through the GMIC members participate in educational and networking activi-ties to help them stay at the forefront of developments and standards in the industry. The launch of GMIC Mid-Atlantic Chapter provides an important platform for the region to stay connected and ahead of the curve of all new developments.” Melanie Pelouze, Vice President of the GMIC Chapter says, that in addition to helping companies meet in a more green fashion she hopes the GMIC can ac-tually raise the consciousness of the industry and educate corporations on how to achieve financial returns partnered with positive social and environmental impacts. “At no other time in history has it been as important to be respon-sible corporate citizens. As tourism is arguably the world’s largest industry, we have the opportunity to help not only the communities where we meet but also the people and the environment as well; through something we are pas-sionate about, meeting and events.” Other GMIC Mid-Atlantic Board and Committee members so far include; Linda M. Jones, CMP -Pennsylvania Con-vention Center, Marissa Feldman -Philadelphia Conven-tion Visitors Bureau, Meg D' Angelo -Lincoln Financial, Danielle Cleary – ARAMARK, Jonathan Yuengling - i-Meet , Kim Parker –ARAMARK, Danielle Pinto - GEP Destination Management Philadelphia, Ashley Albrecht - Albrecht Events, LLC., Linda L. Canon, CMP - Carnegie Mellon University, Gary L. Miller - Cenero Audio Visual Show Solutions, Glenna Fulks – Synthes, Jennafer Ross - JR Global Events, Kelly Re - AMR Meetings & Incentives, Lou Marrocco - Brandywine Events, Rachel Land, Ronna Bonds - Starwoods, Samantha M. Bahlow -Preferred Hotel Group and Samy Verdekal - AMR Meetings & Incentives. The GMIC Mid-Atlantic Chapter will hold its first regional training session on “What You Need to Know about Green Meeting Standards,” on Tuesday, November 15, 2011. The event is open to GMIC members, stakeholders, and profes-sionals in the industry. Guests can get more information and register by emailing [email protected]. To become a

member of the GMIC Pennsylvania Mid-Atlantic Chapter register at http://www.greenmeetings.info/Join_Us (choose “At large membership”) About the GMIC The Green Meeting Industry Council (GMIC) is the premier global community solely dedicated to sustainability in the meetings and events industry, not only through education but also by spearheading research, policy and standards. GMIC is a nonprofit professional meetings association with member representation in over 20 countries. The GMIC is 100% focused on advancing sus-tainability in the meetings industry, helping leaders of all levels. “Christmas comes whether we are ready or not! So this year let’s get a jump start! The Monroe Animal League is moving their annual Christmas Bazaar to Saturday, November 19, 2011. Bazaar hours are 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It will be held at the Stroud Township Fire Hall (Route 611 in Stroudsburg behind Raymour & Flanigan Furniture Store). Do your Holiday Shopping EARLY! Something special for everyone on your list. Avoid the malls & high prices. House wares, holiday decorations, fashion items, books, stationery, even goodies for the nice & naughty dogs and cats on your list. New this year is the Specialty Gift Department, a display of pretty, glittery, unique and unusual items at reasonable prices. Fashion-able, warm lovely scarves for all occasions and ages. Gifts for teachers, coaches, grandparents, babysitters, caretak-ers and BFF’s. Also, Renoir’s “Boathouse” print for sale. They will be selling Instant Bingo game tickets, too. Pro-ceeds raised by this bazaar will help fund their Spay/Neuter, Emergency Vet Care, Feral Cat & Adopt-a-Classroom Programs as well as their “Memorial Scholar-ship”.

Pocono Family YMCA is holding their 12th Annual 5K Run/Walk on Sunday, November 20, 2011. Registration

time is at 7:30 a.m. and race starts at 9:00 a.m. The race starts and ends at the YMCA in Stroudsburg. Early Regis-tration Deadline is November 10th! Register early, the first 200 will receive a custom long sleeve rate t-shirt. For more information, contact them at 570.421.2525.

VOLUME 40 , NO. 11 IMPACT PAGE 3


Sally Notara, of Notara School of Dance & Acting in Stroudsburg, is directing and choreographing for the non-profit group of Notara Dance theatre. Notara Dance Thea-tre has its home in Stroudsburg and will be presenting the Nutcracker Ballet at East Stroudsburg South High School on Saturday, November 26, matinee, and evening and Sun-day November 27, matinee. Sally Notara guides the Dance Company in hiring New York City Professional Dancers who dance and work with local community talent in presenting this colorful family entertainment. Mrs. Notara said that" working the profes-sionals along with the community and nearby locals is in-spiring and an educational opportunity in promoting the cultural development of the arts here in the Stroudsburgs. I would be delighted if some of our members would consider placing an ad in our Nutcracker program." Further information can be obtained by calling Sally No-tara at 570 - 421 - l7l8, at the dance school , or by e-mail at [email protected]. Skytop unveils new treetop adventure course. Experience the exhilaration of the newest, heart pounding adventure course located high among the treetops of the Pocono Mountains. Skytop Lodge, a soft adventure mecca, debuted its brand new Treetop Adventure on October 8th. At the peak of fall foliage, the bright orange, fire engine red and deep amber leaves will create a breathtaking backdrop. The action-packed, elevated obstacle course is securely suspended 10 to 50 feet off the ground and includes giant Tyrolean Zip Lines, suspended bridges, swings, slides, and is complete with an aerial surfboard. The course is open to the public and guests of Skytop Lodge on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Weekdays by appointment. Adventure seekers can enjoy a special discounted rate of $25.00 per person for the full Treetop Adventure course now through December 15. Or, purchase two rides on the 500-foot zip line for only $10.00 . Guests must reach a height of 5'11" (180 cm) with arms extended overhead, feet remaining flat on the ground, in order to reach the safety lines to navigate through the course. Cartridge World of Bartonsville is pleased to announce the addition of Ken Volk as our new B2B Sales Executive. Ken has over 21 years of experience in the print industry, along with extensive experience in repair/preventative maintenance of most makes and models of today’s printers. “We are excited about Ken’s addition to our team” re-marked Bob Bilbow, local Cartridge World owner—His sales experience and professionalism will be well received in our market. Cartridge World is the world's largest dedicated specialty retailer of ink and toner printer cartridges. We are com-mitted to providing great value; top quality refilled and

remanufactured printer cartridges that are backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Over the next few weeks, Ken will be stopping by your business to introduce himself and to answer any questions you may have. In addition, he will be more than happy to provide a free quote for your business! As a leader in the Print Cartridge Industry our mission is to provide our customers with the most cost effective and environmentally friendly alternative to there printing needs. As one of the industries leaders we can promise 3 things. Quality, Service, and Savings! On average, we can save your business between 25%-45% on most laser and inkjet cartridges. In addition, we pro-vide free pick –up and delivery.

Lastly, Car-tridge World allows you to “go green and save g r e e n ” . Every single c a r t r i d g e saved from a l a n d f i l l makes a d i f ference . This will not only protect our environ-

ment but save consumers thousands of dollars. Now imag-ine the difference when individuals, then organizations, then cities, then states and then nations start participat-ing! That is Impact with Effect! At Cartridge World we are not only making a difference, we are changing the world! For more information contact them at 570.730.4333 The Monroe County Historical Association, in con-junction with the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort and Hartzell’s Auction Gallery, is pleased to announce an art and auction fund-raiser featuring the artwork of Frank E. Schoonover (1877-1972) and Cullen Yates (1866-1945). The exhibit is titled, “Artists of the Middle Delaware” and will be held Friday and Saturday, November 4 and 5, 2011 at the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, 1 River Road, Shawnee-on-Delaware, PA 18356. Frank E. Schoonover was born in Oxford, New Jersey. In 1896, he was accepted to the Drexel Institute, where he studied illustration under Howard Pyle. Schoonover be-came a part of the Brandywine School of artists, organized the Society of Illustrators based in Indiana, and helped to organize what is now the Delaware Art Museum. While Schoonover’s career was focused mainly on illustrations, he concentrated on painting beautiful landscapes of the Brandywine and Delaware River valleys from the 1940s until his death in 1972.

Ken Volk

Cullen Yates achieved national prominence as a landscape painter during his lifetime. A native of Bryan, OH, Yates studied in New York and Paris, moving to Shawnee-on-Delaware in 1908. Exhibiting beside Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, and Childe Hassam, and trained under William Merrit Chase, Cullen Yates’ subject matter and early style is tied to American Romanticism. His mid-career paintings show the bright color application of Im-pressionists, and thick impasto and brushwork of late Im-pressionism and the American “Ash Can” movement. There will be a private viewing and dinner reception held Friday, November 4, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. Guests will be treated to a special viewing with off-market purchase op-portunities, and an intimate four course meal surrounded by the artwork. Dinner will begin with a pastry appetizer filled with clams, shrimp, mussels, and snails topped with a mushroom-sherry velouté sauce. The second course will feature a bed of fresh field greens topped with duck confit and a poached duck egg, apple lardons and feta cheese tossed with a rasp-berry-shallot vinaigrette. Guests will have a choice of three main courses. The first choice is a grilled quail stuffed with apricots, sausage and mushrooms finished with a cockburn port-maple glaze served alongside a gold potato puree. The second choice is a dukkah spice-crusted lamb chops drizzled with mint pesto served alongside roasted almond sun-dried tomato polenta. The third choice is a pistachio and goat cheese-crusted salmon wrapped in phyllo dough topped with balsamic pearls and served alongside a spinach risotto. The meal will conclude with peach cobbler served with chocolate pavlova and crème chantilly. Wine will be served table side and a cash bar will be available. The night will close with a raffle for a John E. Schoonover print. The cost of Friday evening is $100.00 per person and includes entry for the two-day event. The “Artists of the Middle Delaware” art exhibit and auc-tion fund-raiser gala event will be held throughout Satur-day, November 5, with the galleries being open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. There is a $5.00 entrance fee to view the artwork at this time. The galleries will then open again at 6:00 p.m. with hot and cold hors d’oeuvres. A cash bar will also be available. The live auction of artwork will start at 8:00 p.m. The cost for the evening auction gala event is $35.00 for MCHA members and $40.00 for non-members. All proceeds benefit the Monroe County Historical Associa-tion, a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to promot-ing, protecting and preserving the history of Monroe County, Pennsylvania. Local collectors who wish to include their Schoonover and/or Yates paintings in the exhibition are encouraged to contact John Hartzell at Hartzell’s Auction Gallery, Ban-gor, PA by Friday, October 21, at 1-800-724-6808. For event information, please contact the Monroe County His-torical Association at (570) 421-7703 or visit the web site at www.monroehistorical.org. For auction information, please contact Hartzell’s Auction Gallery at (800) 724-6808 or visit www.hartzellsauction.com. For overnight accom-

PAGE 5 IMPACT VOLUME 40 , NO. 11

modations at the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, please call 1(800) SHAWNEE or visit www.shawneeinn.com. Vigon International announced today a $10,000 contri-bution to Pocono Alliance’s Tax to the Max for Kids Campaign. The donation was made under the Pennsyl-vania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Pro-gram. Pocono Alliance’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Monroe County by identifying human service needs and working towards solutions. The funds targeted for Pocono Alliance will offer tuition assistance to children from finan-cially eligible families wishing to attend approved Key-stone STAR pre-school facilities. This “Win-Win” campaign allows businesses like Vigon International to invest their tax dollars in their local community and future work-force. “Through Vigon International’s generous contribu-

tion, we can continue to see that every indi-vidual has the opportu-nity to live a healthy, safe and mean-ingful life. The Tax to the Max for Kids Cam-paign is a unique op-portunity for busi-nesses to use their tax dollars,

which they need to pay regardless, to benefit the children of their community. Pocono Alliance is very grateful for Vigon International’s participation,” said Michael Tukeva, Executive Director. Any business that pays any of the following taxes are eligi-ble to participate in the Pre-K Scholarship Program: Cor-porate Net Income Tax, Capital Stock Franchise Tax, Bank & Trust Company Shares Tax, Title Insurance Com-pany Shares Tax, Mutual Thrift Institutions Tax, Personal Income Tax of S Corporation, Shareholders or partners in a general or limited partnership. Businesses can complete and submit an application (only on page) to the PA Depart-ment of Community and Economic Development (DCED) each year. Applications are available at www.newpa.com. For more information call (717) 787-7120 or email [email protected]. Businesses that are interested in sup-porting the Pocono Alliance can contact Michael Tukeva, Executive Director. Vigon International is proud to be a supporter of Pocono Alliance. “Vigon International strongly applauds the ef-forts of the Pocono Alliance as they develop programs that help the youth of our community start their life on the

Vigon International congratulates Pocono Alliance with an award of $10,000 for its Tax to the Max Educational

Program. From l to r: Steve Somers, Vigon International Presi-

dent/CEO; Michael Tukeva, Pocono Alliance Executive Director.

right path through quality early learning,” said Steve So-mers, President/CEO of Vigon International. The Inn at Pocono Manor announces its third annual Magical Fireside Christmas Extravaganza will open Thanksgiving Weekend. Visited the past two years by thousands of yuletide merry-makers from the Poconos and as far away as New York City and Philadelphia, this holi-day celebration at the storied, historic resort, will be open to the public all holiday season long. A Magical Fireside Christmas kicks off to the public on Thanksgiving Day, November 24th from 5pm-8pm and con-tinues through December 31st. Admission to the holiday extravaganza is just $5 per person, which includes 5 activi-ties tickets, with additional activity tickets available at $1 per ticket. Additionally, the Inn will once again collect unwrapped gifts for Toys for Tots. The Inn at Pocono Manor will present a Special Preview to members of the media and invited guests on Tuesday, No-vember 22nd. Included will be all the holiday activities offered throughout the celebration, and chef’s specialties, hors d'oeuvres, an open bar and much more, including Santa Claus & Mrs. Claus! RSVP is necessary to [email protected] or 570-839-7111 Ext. 7670. For those who need more than just a day or evening of yuletide merriment throughout the season, the Inn at Po-cono Manor is offering a special Magical Fireside Christ-mas Overnight Package for a family of four from $158 per night. This includes a full breakfast, activity tickets, fam-ily gift and Elf Turndown Service with an Elf (or possibly Mrs. Klaus) delivering cookies and milk and reading a bed time story.* (Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights, and daily Dec. 26 - Dec. 30.) *Based on availability. A Magical Fireside Christmas Extravaganza. Sparkling trees, the Inn outlined in white lights, live baby reindeer for petting, Santa & Mrs. Claus receiving children naughty or nice, marshmallows roasting on an open fire, horse-drawn carriage rides, train rides, and so much more will all be a part of A Magical Fireside Christmas. From the moment visitors enter the century-old resort’s drive lined with sparkling holiday trees to the dazzling moun-tain-top array of Christmas finery, lighting, seasonal games, holiday adventures, children of all ages will find themselves mesmerized by this magical wonderland. Add-ing to the holiday delight will be Christmas songs and car-ols playing inside and out! A Magical Fireside Christmas continues in the Inn’s charming Fireside Lodge with its massive stone fireplaces and historic arts & crafts interiors adorned with glittering holiday decorations. Visitors will discover a giant Ginger-bread Village, have the opportunity to write personal let-ters to Santa and even hand-deliver these to both Mr. & Mrs. Claus while having their holiday picture taken with the Christmas couple. Additional family activities at Fireside Lodge will include holiday ornament making and Christmas cookie decorating, as well as storytellers recall-ing tales of Christmas past.


The Inn at Pocono Manor’s main building festively adorned with Christmas finery and trimmed with white lights, will feature glowing century-old fireplaces, ginger-bread houses and steaming hot chocolate with peppermint sticks – perfect for warming up after enjoying the winter wonderland adventures. The Inn’s renowned Exchange Restaurant, located just off the lobby, will feature spe-cially-created holiday-themed menus, ideal for families and all guests. Guests can make their stay even more festive with special package additions, such as a personal Christmas tree to decorate in their guest room, luxuriant spa treatments especially for busy moms, and much more. Christmas is a time of sharing and giving, and the Inn at Pocono Manor encourages visitors to A Magical Fireside Christmas to donate an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. A Magical Fireside Christmas at The Inn at Pocono Manor begins with a Grand Opening from 5 – 8 pm on Thanksgiv-ing Day, Thursday, November 24th, 2011, and extends through December 31st, 2011. The Magical Fireside Christmas Extravaganza hours are: Fridays from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm, -Saturdays from 12:00 Noon – 6:00 pm, -Sundays from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, and daily from December 26 - 31 For more information on A Magical Fireside Christmas, the host of special activities for children and families, and holiday guestroom or dining reservations, call 570-839-7111 / 800-233-8150, or visit http://poconomanor.com/pages/christmas.htm

The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort will be hosting its third season of Community Outreach Din-ners beginning on Wednesday, November 9th from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm for those in need of a good fall meal. A full list of dates for the Community Outreach Dinners is pro-vided below. The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort is sponsoring the no-cost dinners which will take place in one of their banquet rooms of the Inn. Shawnee staff members volunteer their time to set-up the room, and serve and buss the tables dur-ing these special dinners. “Helping our community members is such an enriching experience - we are very pleased that we are able to extend our tradition of no-cost outreach dinners another season”, said Rob Howell, General Manager of The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort. “Monroe County is facing some real prob-lems - one of which is a very high unemployment rate, these difficulties are magnified during the cold fall and the winter months. winter months.” The Pocono Family YMCA has partnered with Shawnee to provide transportation to anyone that might need it. The pick up locations will be at 4:30pm in the parking lot of American Ribbon Factory, 827B Ann Street, Stroudsburg and 5:30pm at the Salvation Army in East Stroudsburg.

Transportation space is limited, so be sure to arrive early. Since the Shawnee Community Outreach Dinners began two years ago, thousands of Monroe County community members have been served. Anyone wishing to volunteer, please contact Jennifer Fuller at: 570-424-4050 extension 1106. The dates of Shawnee's Community Outreach Dinners are as followed: November 9th and 30th, December 14th and 28th, January 11th and 25th, February 15th and 29th, and March 14th and 28th. All of the dinners take place from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm. Seating for the Community Outreach Dinners will be issued on a first come, first served basis. For more information, please call Jeromy Wo, Public Rela-tions Coordinator at: 570-424-4050 x1409 or e-mail: [email protected].

Pocono Alliance will host its Annual Report to the Community on Thursday, November 10, 2011 at the Inn at Pocono Manor from 8:00 to 10:00am. During the pro-gram, Pocono Alliance will highlight its accomplish-ments from 2010-2011 and share future goals for the upcoming year including new initiatives and partner-ships that will provide a greater benefit Monroe County residents. The report will also give individuals and or-ganizations an opportunity to learn about the mission of the Pocono Alliance as well as the programs and part-nerships that it fosters to help connect the community. “The Annual Report to the Community gives us an op-portunity to highlight programs that have had an impact in the community over the past year and look towards the future to discuss new projects,” Executive Director Michael Tukeva said. This community event is open to the public and will in-clude breakfast. In addition to the report and breakfast, a tricky tray and 50/50 fundraiser will be offered. Tick-ets for the 50/50 are $5 each or $10 for three. Registra-tion begins at 8:00 am and the program will begin at 8:30am. Tickets are $15.00 per person and payment is due at the time of registration. Contact Pocono Alliance by November 3rd to reserve your place by phone at (570) 517-3953 or email [email protected]. Pocono Alliance’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Monroe County by identifying human service needs and working towards solutions. Pocono Alliance has four coali-tions; Education, Health, Housing and Transportation; that serve as the table in which representatives from local agencies, education systems, government and service pro-viders in our community identify human service needs, assist with program development and deliver services in Monroe County. For more information, visit Pocono Alli-ance’s website at www.poconoalliance.org or on Facebook under Pocono Alliance. The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort presents Free Golf in November: As peak season for gazing at fall foliage in


the Pocono Mountains gets going, area golfers should be aware of what courses will provide the best, most colorful views at a rate that cannot compare. Golf at Shawnee Inn's 24-hole championship golf course, set against a kaleidoscope of colored backdrop along the Delaware River and receive FREE GOLF for the month of November. Mandatory golf cart fee not included. Book a tee time or visit their website at www.shaneeinn.com. For more information, contact them at 570.21.5060. Murder Mystery Weekend at Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort November 4 – 6, 2011. Are you a sleuth? Do you love all those detective and forensic evidence shows on TV? Well, here's your chance to take part. Includes: Overnight accommodations, Dinner in the River Room, Participation in the Murder Mystery theme, Chance to win a great prize if you guess correctly “whodunit”, murder, mayhem and much more! You'll have a screeeeeaming good time! Also, for only $19.11 per person you may book an additional night's stay on Thursday, November 3rd or Sunday, November 6th, 2011, based on double occupancy/standard room! To book your package now, call 1-800-SHAWNEE (742-9633) or click on visit their website at www.shawneeinn.com.

BNI (Business Network In-ternational) Stroudsburg Chapter today kicked off a brand new BNI year with a new leadership team. Taking the helm as President is Nicole Ford of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, supported by Vice President Kirsten Krpata of Just the Right Touch Cleaning and Secretary/Treasurer Bob Parker of the Parker Insurance Agency.

Other officers for the new term are Membership Committee members Brian Scaltrito of Scaltrito Electric, Ryan Miller

of Sundance Networks; Visitor Hosts Tom Ostrow of Os-trow Home Improvements, Melissa Lear of Beck ‘N Call, Jason Altschul of Smithford Business Lawyers; Mentoring & Education Coordinator Anthony Gilbert of Carpets Plus Colortile; and Events Coordinator Jessica Nola of Citizens Bank. The BNI Stroudsburg Chapter recently surpassed $3,000,000 in business referrals between chapter mem-bers, with much of that in a down economy… and is look-ing forward to even more success this year, with a goal of 50 members each receiving $6,100 in closed business per month. Interested business professionals are invited to attend the next chapter meeting. Meetings are held every Friday from

L to r: Kirsten Krpata, VP; Bob Parker, Sec/Treas; Nicole Ford,

President

7:00 – 8:30 a.m. at the beautiful Shawnee Inn located in Shawnee-on-Delaware. The cost is $12.00 per person and includes a hot buffet breakfast. "Visitors are invited to assess this opportunity to see and learn the secrets of how businesses thrive on word of mouth or referral based marketing," says Steve Gambino, area director for the organization. Each meeting includes open networking for all in attendance and formal introduc-tions of the current members and visitors. Please contact Nicole Ford, chapter president, 570-476-8548, to be added to the guest list, as seating is limited. For more information about the Stroudsburg Chapter of BNI, visit the website at http://www.bninjpa.org/pa-poconos-bni---stroudsburg

T h e Shawnee Playhouse is pleased to present for one night only, Jay Allan: The Ulti-mate Elvis Tribute on November

19th at 8:00 p.m. Enjoy an evening of Elvis!! Jay Allan: The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist has been so successful and authentic because he is first and foremost a fan of Elvis Aaron Presley. Jay can perform any and all eras of Elvis’ life, (50’s, 60’s &70’s).This separates Jay from most other impersonators. Backed by the “That’s The Way It Is Show Band”, Jay Allan’s show is becoming the top Elvis Tribute act in the United States. Jay Allan has performed through-out the U.S.A., been in two commercials for MTV, ap-peared on CNN along with the VH-1 “Rock of Ages”, and in “3000 Miles to Graceland”. The vocals are haunting and the resemblance is amazing! Ticket prices: $18 Adults, $15 Seniors, $10 Children under 12. For more information, please call the box office at 570-421-5093. To purchase t i c k e t s c a l l t h e b o x o f f i c e o r v i s i t www.theshawneeplayhouse.com. Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort has changed their plans! Instead of their Centennial Ball, they will be combining a celebration of the 100th birthday of their resort with a recognition of their General Manager, Rob Howell.. Rob was recently awarded the Outstanding General Manager of the Year by the American Hotel and Lodging Associa-tion. at accomplishments on Wednesday, November 30, 2011 at 12:00 noon at the Worthington Ballroom. Cost is $25 per person. RSVP to Marsha Wermuth at 570.424.4050 x 1405. Get the Extra Cash you need for Christmas! On Wednes-day, November 16th from 5:30-7:30 pm., Mixtura Hair Studio will be hosting a Gold-Silver-Platinum Party! Bring in your broken or unwanted pieces and received


Due to the Monroe County Addressing Project, our

Mailing address has changed to:

Greater Pocono Chamber of

Commerce 552 Main Street

Stroudsburg, PA 18360

CASH on the spot! While you are here, enjoy a glass of wine with friends and see for yourself the difference in the hospitality that Mixtura offers. Bring a friend – the more the merrier! Book a party of your own and make even more…As a bonus from us, you will receive a $10 gift card. To RSVP or for more information, contact them at 570.730.4949. Stroudsmoor Country inn invites guests from through-out the community and across the nation to join them for the holidays as they celebrate the lighting of the Stroudsmoor Mountain on Sunday, December 4, 2011 from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The Tree Lighting Celebration was started with the light-ing of a modest 15’ tree for the Innkeeper’s Christmas Celebration and has grown to include an art show, holiday craft boutique, elaborate gingerbread village, a lighting display created with over 150,000 lights highlighted by a 70’ decorated tree. Carriage rides, petting zoo, live nativ-ity and fabulous fireworks are all free for guests to enjoy during the celebration. Each year Stroudsmoor adds some-thing new to the festivities like – “Toyland at Terraview” sponsoring the US Marines “Toys for Tots” Program. Toy-land is complete with Santa’s elves collecting and distrib-uting toys to every child bringing a donation for “Toys for Tots”, characters from classic stories and popular books, and a visit from Mrs. Claus herself, who reads holiday fa-vorites to children of all ages.

Rounding out the day’s festivities are performances by talented musicians and vocalists – of all ages – from the Pocono Community, who spread the holiday spirit, friend-ship and Peace on Earth as they sing, bell ring and dance their way into the hearts all who visit. The lighting day itinerary will be available online at http://www.stroudsmoor.com/roseinner.cfm?siteId=425&itemCategory=40756&priorId=40403 . Visitor, editors or writers seeking more information on the lighting day events or photographs of previous celebrations can contact: Linda Forte 570.421.6431 x 424 or Jacki Miller 570.421.6431 x 443

Business Card Exchange On Tuesday October 18th, from 5-7pm both Chamber and non-Chamber members met at the Desaki restaurant in Swiftwater, PA for an evening of good company, great food, and the opportunity to network their business by exchang-ing business cards.

The sponsor for the evening was Ms. Emily Reinbold, a rep-resentative from the , MedExpress Urgent C a r e . R e i n b o l d spoketo the guests about the services that the new Urgent Care center offers and their hours of operation. MedExpress Urgent Care is a new busi-

ness to Monroe County, but has various locations through-out Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Colorado, and Florida. Their newest facility is located at 205 Applegate Road, in Stroudsburg right next to Staples.

At this exchange guests were offered a traditional menu in which they could create their own plate of food. There was a meat carving station, a pasta bar, and a potato station that offered mashed or sweet potatoes. The sweet potatoes could be deco-rated with marshmallow or caramel toppings, all

exquisitely served in a martini glass. Guests finished off their feast at the dessert bar and with a drink of their choice.

The event was also held as a business celebration for Desaki owners Vincent and Charlie Trapasso. The card exchange marked the unveiling of the restau-rant’s newly renovated event room known as The Garden. This room is used for business meetings, weddings, sweet sixteen’s, and transforms into a

dance club at on weekends. According to Desaki’s website, “The Garden at Desaki” is an exquisite setting for any event. The Garden offers a myriad menu options to please the most discerning palette and seating for up to 250 guests.” Card exchanges provide a great opportunity for new busi-nesses to learn about the benefits of becoming a chamber member and generate more business for existing members.

Women In Business Luncheon The October Women in Business luncheon was held at the Chateau Resort & Conference Center and was sponsored by Joann Manka of Pocono Gold Discount Card. Jeffrey Kash, of Kash & Fedrigon presented an informative topic entitled “The Importance of Life Planning”. Joann Manka of Pocono Gold Discount Card won the 50/50 which she donated back for the scholarship. The next luncheon will be also held at the Chateau on No-vember 8th. The luncheon will feature the Women in Busi-ness’ Annual Health & Fitness Expo The luncheon is being sponsored by Beth Taylor of Pocono Medical Center. For more information on upcoming WIB lunches, to donate a door prize, or to sponsor a luncheon, please contact Miriam Conway at 570.421.4433.

IMPACT PAGE 9 VOLUME 40 , NO. 11

Speaker Jeffrey Kash of Kash & Fedrigon Photo courtesy of VIP Studios

Sponsor Joann Manka of Pocono Gold Discount Card Photo courtesy of VIP Studios

Emily Reinbold of MedExpress Urgent Care Photo Courtesy of VIP Studios

The Chefs at Desaki Photo Courtesy of VIP Studios

Business Card Exchange at Desaki’s Photo Courtesy of VIP Studios

TO VIEW MORE PHOTOS GO TO: WWW.MOMENTS4EVER.COM CLICK ON THE EVENTS PHOTO TAB

ENTER THE KEY WORD: WIB You will not need an event ID or Password

CLICK ON THE EVENT NAME

ENTER YOUR NAME AND E-MAIL ADDRESS CLICK ON THE VIEW PHOTOS TAB.

IF WE MAY BE OF ASSISTANCE PLEASE

CONTACT VIP STUDIOS. 570-839-2020


Welcome New Members

The following new members are not listed in the 2010-2011Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide. Please be sure to add this page to your copy of the Directory.

Brava Weddings Lisa Venron 121 Colleen Drive Blakeslee, PA 18610 570.216.2641 [email protected] www.bravaweddings.com Event Planner

Cinemark USA, Inc. Jennifer Frederick 3900 Dallas Parkway - Suite 500 Plano, TX 75093 Stroud Mall 972.665.1311 972.665.1235 [email protected] www.cinemark.com Movie Theater Innovative Dry Cleaning Wendy Jones & Odell Jones Jr. 3578 Route 611 - Suite 218 Bartonsville, PA 18321 570.424.7443 [email protected] www.innovativedrycleaning.com Dry Cleaners Mukesh J. Mehta, M.D. Dr. Mukesh Mehta 175 E. Brown Street East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570.424.6667 Physicians-Surgeons Monroe County Family Health Center Sherry Roth 175 E. Brown Street - Suite 204 East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570.476.3141 570.421.1833 www.monroecountyfhc.org Health Care

Olmstead & Ruiz-Smith, LLC Alma I. Ruiz-Smith 21 S. 6th Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570.972.7744 570.300.1684 [email protected] Consultants-Marketing & Engineering Shedroff and Associates Steve Thompson 4074 Whitetail Court Allentown, PA 18104 610.481.0254 [email protected] www.shedroffassociates.com Insurance Stroudsburg Chapter BNI Nicole Ford 120 S. Courtland Street East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570.656.2899 [email protected] www.bninjpa.com Business Networking Quik Stitch Embroidery - Screen Printing Ron Roberts 31 West First Street Wind Gap, PA 18091 610.863.9166 610.881.4263 [email protected] www.quikstitchemb.com Embroidery-Screen Printing

IMPACTIMPACT Executive Committee Charles Niclaus - Chairman of the Board Elizabeth Koster - First Vice Chairman Chris Kurtz - Second Vice Chairman Dr. Robert Dillman- Treasurer Kathleen Kuck - Secretary Daisy Gallagher - Past Chair

Staff Robert Phillips - President/CEO Patricia Metzgar - Vice President, Operations/Development Miriam Conway - Executive Assistant Georgia Strunk - Office Assistant

Board of Directors

Visit us at www.greaterpoconochamber.com

(USPS 380-890) Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce 552 Main Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360-2093 Phone: (570) 421-4433 Fax: (570) 424-7281 URL: http://www.greaterpoconochamber.com “The Voice of Business in the Poconos”

IMPACTIMPACT

Madeline Anderson Doug Atherton Michael Baxter James Becker Rich Berkowitz Vinny Bianchi Debi Cope Jere Dunkelberger Kathy Ertle Thomas Ford Lisa Green Donald Hannig Bob Hay

Gary Hazen Scott Henry John Holahan Rob Howell Brandon Igdalsky Michael Katz Tony Konn Brian McKenna Kathy Mullins George Roberts Matthew Rumph Dr. Thomas Rushton Barbara G. Samet

Conrad Schintz Dr. Arthur Scott Tom Sforza Mathilda Sheptak William Skinner Steve Somers Paula Testa Marc Troutman Carl Wilgus Theresa Yocum

november '11 impact - a sound strategy...

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