Downtown Scranton is experiencing a boost in activity thanks to the efforts of the Main Street Scranton program. To learn more about how this national program is impacting the growth and successes of the local downtown community MetroAction interviewed Lisa Sauder of Scranton Tomorrow’s Main Street program to find out more about the program that has the community so excited.

The day of the interview, Ms. Sauder’s office was a bustling scene with the phone ringing off the hook. Almost every call was someone inquiring about the details of downtown events such as the lighting of the Christmas tree in Courthouse Square, details on the decorated holiday windows of many downtown businesses, and even a few calls from committee members who participate on the Main Street program with ideas for new initiatives.

It appeared these calls are an indication that, even in its early stages of operation, the Main Street program has already been a success.

The “Main Street” approach, implemented in over 1,600 communities across the United States, is a comprehensive downtown development program that started 21 years ago. The program is a practical economic development strategy implemented worldwide with all initiatives stemming from local issues and concerns. Main Street program was launched by Scranton Tomorrow in October 2009 and has a five-point approach, which includes committees focusing on aspects of organization, design, economic restructuring, promotion and “safe, clean, and green.”

During the interview, Desiree learned quite a lot about this impressive program which has been able to instill a sense of community in an ever-emerging vibrant downtown.

Desiree: So Lisa, honestly, where do you find the time to operate these five approaches?
Lisa: Well, the program is completely committee driven and I have to say we are fortunate to have so many great volunteers stepping up to dedicate time and talent to this program.

Desiree: Can you tell me what made “Main Street” choose Scranton as one of the program locations?
Lisa: Honestly, it is a very competitive process. I think what helped Scranton were the numerous programs already in place with a lot of groundwork already laid by organizations such as Scranton Tomorrow, MetroAction, the Scranton Chamber of Commerce, the Scranton Business Alliance and the City of Scranton. It was putting all of the pieces together in the application and showing the potential Scranton has.

Desiree: The program certainly does sound like it has a lot going for it. What type of response have you received from the community so far?
Lisa: It is phenomenal! I see volunteers stepping up to dedicate their time and talent to these five committees. So much has already been done but there is much more to do and I know the community sees that. With new activity downtown from The Commonwealth Medical College to the renovation of the 500 block of Lackawanna Avenue, the timing is perfect to launch this initiative and the momentum is there. Having a strong team of volunteers is exactly what this program needs. It is also the ability for the committee members to engage people such as the business owners, avid supporters and people throughout the community to have a good vision of what they want their downtown to look like. Ultimately, the program empowers the stakeholders in downtown to make a difference and the overall combined effort of everyone participating is truly what makes Scranton such a great community.

Desiree: With all of these initiatives, committees and programs, what are some of your specific goals for the future of the downtown?
Lisa: There are so many goals. With five committees, each one will have their own goals to accomplish. So far though, we have already implemented a few as a direct result of the program such as our FAM Tours and our Tokens for Meters program.

Desiree: I admit, you have me guessing, what exactly is a FAM Tour?
Lisa: They are Familiarization Tours where a group of Main Street committee members and people who represent the community such as staff at the hotel front desks, go on a tour of the many amazing things already in the downtown. They are telling people about these attractions, but many never experienced them for themselves. So we took them to sights in the downtown that they can now recommend to guests and visitors looking to spend time in the downtown. We have already down a couple of these tours and plan to do others in the future based on their success.

Desiree: Wow, count me in for one of those FAM Tours! Tell me more about what the Tokens for Meters Program is about?
Lisa: One thing we want to try to do is simple programs that have immediate impact on the community and economy. How many times have you gone shopping downtown and realized you don’t have change for the meter to park? Well we are working with many downtown businesses to offer this program where they can provide tokens for people to park that want to shop in the downtown.

Desiree: Lisa, I have to say, this is all wonderful to see in our downtown. How can people get involved in the Main Street program?
Lisa: Anyone can participate in the program whether they are helping at an event, joining a committee or simply being a cheerleader for the downtown. Just going out there and spreading the word about all of the great things happening in the downtown is something everyone can do to help.

Ultimately, this is an ongoing program that will have changing challenges and opportunities over the years. This isn’t a sprint, but a marathon and we are in it for the duration.

Is your organization committed to helping small business grow and thrive?  Do you have a conference or community room that can accommodate 10 people?  Then, MetroAction would love to partner with you to host one of our business builder seminars in your community!  We offer programs such as Business Basics, Marketing 101, Financing Your Business and others throughout our eight county service area.

We are always looking for new sites throughout our service area to hold these seminars.  For more information contact Dara Coslett-Granza today!

Child care providers know how to get a 3 year old to eat broccoli.  They know how to get 15 two year olds to nap at the same time.  And, they are pros at teaching preschoolers their ABCs and I23s.  But, often times, they don’t have the entrepreneurial skills to effectively manage the business side of their business.  That’s where MetroAction comes in.  Child care providers attending MetroAction’s Small Business Institute can earn professional development credits recognized by the PA Keys.

MetroAction, certified through the PA Department of Public Welfare’s PA Keys to Professional Development program, provides training opportunities eligible for professional development credits through the Pennsylvania Quality Assurance System (PQAS).  The program is a statewide initiative designed to address professional development needs of practitioners by providing skills necessary to create clear pathways for future success.

“I learned so much from the Small Business Institute and enjoyed coming to class.  The program showed me how many layers are involved in creating and operating a successful business. This program will help our business in every aspect,” describes Elizabeth Keiper-Aguirre of Freckles and Frills Daycare, Scranton

The Small Business Institute provides practical, hands-on skills needed to develop, manage and grow a successful business.  From organization planning …to marketing …to understanding your financials … the Small Business Institute helps business owners understand how all of the pieces of their business work together and is available in two formats: the full, 8-week version and an accelerated, 2-day version held through eight NEPA counties.

“Training for the actual business side of the business in my industry is non-existent. The Small Business Institute has given me a new outlook on the overall management of my business. This program was extremely helpful,” concludes Ms. Keiper-Aguirre.

Since creating their child care initiative in 2005, MetroAction’s programs have impacted thousands of area children throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. As part of its commitment to improving the quality of affordable child care throughout northeastern Pennsylvania, MetroAction continues to provide comprehensive resources to area child care providers.
MetroAction offers scholarships to eligible child care providers to attend the program for free.

Janice Scarantion, owner of Busy Bees Learning Center

Today’s economic climate is slowing down (or even stopping!) business for many businesses.  But, not for MetroAction.  This year, we are experiencing a 243% increase in small business loan requests!  And, we’re ready to answer the call!  We have plenty of funding to lend and a streamlined application process that makes it as easy as 1-2-3 to apply for our loans.

A recent article in the NEPA Business Journal describes how MetroAction’s loan programs are a good fit for businesses that want to start or expand their business during a challenging economy.

More importantly, though, our loans are making a difference.  Just ask:

Paul Nardone
“I wanted to continue to evolve Outrageous and Anthology, and I knew I needed help. So I reached out to MetroAction.  The streamlined application process made it easy for me to obtain a loan to upgrade my equipment and take on new product lines.  And loans are only part of what MetroAction does. Their Small Business Institute has given me plenty of resources and insight for my business. MetroAction is a great resource!”
Paul Nardone, owner
Outrageous and Anthology, Scranton

Janice Scarantino
“MetroAction was a great help for us.  They didn’t just decline our loan request when they saw that we weren’t 100% prepared.  They took the time to help us develop our business plan so we could apply for financing.  We wouldn’t be here today with the counseling and guidance we received from MetroAction.”
Janice Scarantino, owner
Busy Bees Learning Center, Wyoming

Christine Kromko
“MetroAction believed in us as we believe in ourselves.  Their understanding of our needs and willingness to provide financing cannot be understated.”
Christine Kromko, partner
Jake’s Carpet, Hamlin

You’ll never know unless you apply!

First Friday Scranton

In lieu of an artwalk for January, First Friday will hosting a mixer! Join us on Thursday, Jan 21 from 5:30-8 pm at Dionysus Downtown! $5 admission includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar.

This is a great chance to show your support for First Friday and visit with other artists, venues and patrons of the arts!
Reminder that the deadline to submit information for February event is Jan. 22. Info should be submitted online at www.firstfridayscranton.com
See you on Jan. 21!

First Liberty Bank and Trust and its parent company Community Bank System, Inc., a registered bank holding company with over 160 customer facilities throughout Pennsylvania and Upstate New York, was ranked as the 7th best bank in Forbes magazine listing of the Best and Worst Banks in America.
“This recognition is a reflection of our disciplined operating model and the hard work and dedication our employees in serving the needs of all our customers,” said President Robert Matley.
According to the article, Forbes turned to researchers at SNL Financial. The Charlottesville, Va.-based firm looked at eight financial measures including return on average equity, net interest margin, non performing loans as a percentage of loans, non performing assets as percentage of assets, reserves as a percentage of non performing loans, two capital ratios (Tier 1 and risk-based) and leverage ratio.

First Liberty Bank and Trust offers banking services including savings and checking accounts, certificates of deposits, individual retirement accounts, cash management, loans, and online banking. It also offers financial services like asset management, estate planning, financial consulting, and trust services. The company operates as a subsidiary of Community Bank System, Inc. (CBU on the NYSE).

About Community Bank System, Inc.
Community Bank System, Inc. is a registered bank holding company based in Dewitt, NY (near Syracuse), with $5.3 billion in assets and approximately 160 customer facilities.  Its wholly-owned banking subsidiary operates as Community Bank, N.A. across Upstate New York, and as First Liberty Bank & Trust throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.  Community Bank offers a full range of high-quality products and services for both individuals and businesses.  These include FDIC-insured checking and savings deposit products, a variety of personal and commercial loans, personal and employee benefit trust services, and a range of non-bank financial services including annuities, mutual funds and life insurance.  For further information please visit our websites at www.communitybankna.com or www.firstlibertybank.com.

This article is provided by the Greater Scranton Area SCORE chapter.

As you launch or expand a business, keeping track of the money, preparing tax returns and performing other financial tasks can quickly become a burden. If you need more time to do other things, it might make sense to turn over tax, accounting and other financial chores to outside specialists.

Choosing the right type of tax, accounting, bookkeeping or other financial help is an important decision. An outside accountant can be one of your most trusted business advisors and a key to your success. Although many business owners work with big national firms, most prefer to work with small independent firms or solo accounting professionals.

Accounting services differ from bookkeeping services, however. An accounting firm prepares financial statements and tax returns based on the numbers that you give them via your own in-house books. Bookkeeping services, if offered, will be extra. If you plan to hire your own bookkeeper, make sure the person you choose is qualified. One way is to use the “Bookkeepers Hiring Test” available free from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers at their Web site, www.aipb.org.

Before selecting a certified public accountant (CPA) or other financial pro, list the services you think you need, such as tax preparation, financial reports, balance sheets, invoicing, payroll services, general bookkeeping or someone to set up your books. Some firms may handle it all, or you may need to split the tasks. CPA Directory is a huge online listing of CPAs nationwide and can help you find an accountant in your area.  The Web site also offers helpful advice on hiring and working effectively with a CPA. Visit www.cpadirectory.com.

And don’t forget about Enrolled Agents. EAs are licensed by the Federal government to prepare tax returns. They have either worked for the IRS or have passed a rigorous IRS exam. They are savvy tax experts, but generally don’t have the degrees of CPAs and tend to charge less. Visit the National Association of Enrolled Agents Web site at www.naea.org.

Fees vary greatly among accountants, from $50 per hour to $300 or more. Some firms will provide a specified list of services for a flat monthly fee, and may provide less costly help for bookkeeping and other tasks that don’t require CPA-level training. If you are considering a larger accounting firm, find out which people you will be working with directly. Also try to match your general philosophy with a firm that is as conservative — or aggressive — as you are on tax matters.

For additional planning help for your small business, contact SCORE “Counselors to America’s Small Business.”  SCORE is a nonprofit organization of more than 10,500 volunteer business counselors who provide free, confidential business counseling and training workshops to small business owners.  Call (570) 851.1608 or visit www.scorescranton.org to contact the Greater Scranton Area SCORE Chapter.

If energy efficiency is a top priority for your business, MetroAction can help!  Energy prices are about skyrocket.  It is predicted that energy costs will increase by 30% over the next few weeks!

Paying for an energy-efficiency upgrade doesn’t have to be an issue. While some upgrades require little or no funding, some do require a financial investment.  Why should you invest in making upgrades?  The savings from a well-planned efficiency upgrade can have a positive impact on your business’ cash flow and, even, pay for itself in the long run.

For smaller, inexpensive upgrade, such as upgrading your lighbulbs or replacing smaller applicances and equipment with energy efficient models, you may want to use your own funding to pay for the upgrade to keep your return on investment high.

For larger jobs, such as upgrading your HVAC or changing your electric meter, financing might be the only way to pay for the upgrade. And, that’s how MetroAction can help!  MetroAction’s small business loan programs can provide up to $35,000 to help small businesses finance energy efficiency upgrades.  In today’s economy, when bank financing is harder to come by, MetroAction has proven to be a valuable resource for helping start-up and growing small businesses obtain the financing they need to be competitive.

Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection also offers a number of grant and incentive programs for businesses that commit to improving energy efficiency.

While you can’t control the rate increases, you can control your business’ energy consumption and you can be strategic in planning your energy efficiency investments.

The 30% increase on your business’s electric bills is HAPPENING NOW, but your local Chamber can help. Through a partnership with OnDemand Energy Solutions/ChamberChoice, Chamber members have the opportunity to buy electricity in bulk from a third-party supplier, reducing the price spike.

Members participating to date will collectively save over $2 million. Some examples of the annual savings that businesses are experiencing include:

·    The Mall at Steamtown- $220,000
·    Scranton Enterprise Center- $51,000
·    DePietro Enterprises- The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy- $2,600
·    Everything Natural- $3,700
·    Community Bank and Trust Company- $22,000
·    Fidelity Bank- $30,000
·    Pizza by Papas- $5,000
·    Johnson College- $12,000
·    Fell Charter School- $12,000

The OnDemand Energy Solutions/ChamberChoice buying pool is currently conducting open enrollment, with no cost to participate, but businesses must be members, in good standing, of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. Members can speak directly with representatives from OnDemand Energy Solutions and figure out how much they could save on energy by attending free seminars, held monthly at the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. Upcoming seminars will be held:

·    Thursday, January 14 at 1:00 PM & 4:00PM
·    Thursday, February 11 at 8:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM or 7:00 PM
·    Wednesday, March 10 at 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM or 1:00 PM

Contact Karen Durkin at 570-342-7711 extension 131 or kdurkin@scrantonchamber.com to reserve your seat.

If you cannot attend and would like to request additional information, please visit the Scranton Chamber’s website at www.scrantonchamber.com for additional information.

To help ring in the new year, MetroAction has announced a number of business building seminars for small businesses in NEPA.  During this time of resolutions, consider committing to working on your business…not just in it!

FREE Business Basics Seminar
MetroAction provides this free informative seminar designed to take the mystery out developing a successful small business. This program will review the steps needed to develop a successful business and link you to valuable resources to help you grow your business. Attendees will learn how small business loans work, what documents and information are required, and review the requirements to qualify for small business financing. The seminar will also explain about small business grants, what lenders look for, and how you can improve your chances of qualifying for a small business loan. The seminar is free but pre-registration is required.

Tunkhannock: Tuesday, January 19, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Scranton: Tuesday, January 19, 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Pittston: Thursday, January 28, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

FREE Entrepreneurship: 101 Seminar
Have you ever wanted to open your own business? Do you dream of being your own boss? MetroAction will provide a free informative seminar designed to assist potential entrepreneurs in opening the doors to their own businesses. This program will review the steps needed to develop a successful business and link you to valuable resources to help you establish your business. Attendees will learn how to assess their entrepreneurial strengths, plan for the challenges ahead, receive tips on accessing community resources and what to know when seeking financing to get started. The seminar is free but pre-registration is required.

Honesdale: Friday, January 29 , 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Small Business Institute 2-Day Accelerated Program
A new class is now forming for MetroAction’s Small Business Institute Accelerated program, a practical, hands-on, learning program designed to help entrepreneurs sharpen the skills needed to develop, manage, and grow a successful business. Participants incorporate their own business experiences, developing the building blocks for success. From organization planning to marketing to understanding your financials, the Small Business Institute helps you understand how all of the pieces of your business work together. This accelerated version provides all of the award winning Core Four® curriculum presented in our traditional Small Business Institute eight-week program, in just two days! The registration fee is $149 per person and seating is limited.

Hawley: Thursday, February 4 and Friday, February 5, 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM

For more information on any of our programs or services, visit www.MetroAction.org to register or call (570) 341-0270.