Local Students Compete in Chester County Regional Civics Bee
|
The Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry (CCCBI) hosted the inaugural Chester County Regional Civics Bee this past Saturday, April 15th, as part of the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s National Civics Bee. The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. The Chester County Intermediate Unit in Downingtown, PA hosted the in-person portion of the bee.
The Civics Bee featured special guest judges including PA State Representative John Lawrence, Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Michelle Kichline and Josh Maxwell, and Marianne Martelli of CCCBI. The event began with an introductory video from Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan. Congresswoman Houlahan provided a comprehensive overview of the importance of civic education and set the stage for an exciting and engaging competition.
On behalf of the panel of judges, County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell, and Michelle Kichline said, “What a great event, with engaged students, and an important purpose of highlighting the value of civics and the part it can play in contributing to our community, our state and nation. We commend all the students who took part, thank them for their interest and efforts, and congratulate those who will be heading to Harrisburg to represent Chester County in the state Civics Bee.”
More than 100 students from across Chester County submitted essays, and 20 students were selected to participate in the local bee. Moderator Kate Campbell asked the participants difficult questions about American history, civics, and politics. After two rounds of twenty questions, and a tie-breaker round, the top five students moved to the final round. The top five finalists each provided the judges an overview of their original essays and were asked follow-up questions about how their problem and solution could be implemented, challenged, or supported. The three highest scoring participants each won cash prizes, with the winner taking home $1,000, and will move on to the state Civics Bee in Harrisburg.
The Chamber is grateful for the support of Benchmark Federal Credit Union, which provided a generous sponsorship that allowed for each participating student to bring home their own smart tablet and stand, free of charge. The Chamber also thanks the Connelly Foundation for their generosity and significant grant for event execution.
“As the only federal credit union to exclusively serve Chester County, we are focused on investing in Chester County’s future. It was an honor to have the opportunity to watch these young students compete so admirably on Saturday, and to provide 20 smart tablets to support their ongoing education,” said Rebecca Worthington, Vice President of Community Relations at Benchmark Federal Credit Union.
“The Chamber was honored to host this event,” said President and CEO Laura Manion. “Civic education is not just about memorizing facts and figures; it's about empowering young kids to become active and engaged citizens who understand the importance of participating in the democratic process and making a positive impact in their communities. I am confident that all of these students will grow and become leaders in our Chester County community.”
|
On Tuesday, April 18th, Jon D. Abboud hosted a Lunch & Learn at CCCBI. The U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and executive coach spoke to members about how to identify their goals and navigate their way towards them. Using the Lodestar Method, Abboud covered how to set boundaries, prioritize, practice trust and communication, and reduce noise throughout the workday.
CCCBI is grateful for Jon's service and his mission to "do good by helping others do well."
|
Giant Pharmacy has a mobile immunization team that has administered thousands of immunizations in the past two plus years outside of the four walls of our stores. This team can go anywhere at almost any time to immunize, making it both convenient and comfortable for the patient. Giant formed this team due to the need in their communities with Covid immunizations - to take their vaccine to where people felt more comfortable during those uncomfortable times.
The Covid pandemic caused many adults to put their other health needs on the back burner, so we they also able to provide other ACIP required immunizations such as Shingrix, Pneumonia, TdAP (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), and Hepatitis B to help protect their adult communities from the threat of severe illness. They provide not only trained and certified Pharmacists to administer the immunizations, but also marketing materials, on-line scheduling, insurance billing, and flu shot documentation.
|
Giant is fully insured and can supply you with a certificate of insurance for covering their on-site services. Their goal with the mobile immunization program is to make these vaccination events convenient, comfortable, fun and rewarding while protecting our patients from the threat of severe illness.
Giant is looking for an opportunity to partner with businesses, churches, schools, organizations, and other places people gather, work, or live to help protect you and your organization. For more information on setting up an on-site clinic or educational clinic, email abby@chescochamber.org.
|
The West Chester International Short Film Festival is returning for its 17th Fest on April 28th, 29th, and 30th at the Knauer Performing Arts Center. The weekend-long celebration of films from both near and far features 49 different films from 17 different countries.
“The Mushroom Man" is a short documentary about West Chester’s own Raymond Rettew, the first person to discover the process of mass-producing penicillin. Here, Rettew and thousands of local residents employed in this effort, saving countless lives during World War II.
While several local films like The Mushroom Man, Grump in the Night, Unlucky Charms, and Memories, are in the lineup, there are also numerous Oscar nominated films from around the world being shown throughout the weekend.
Between films, audiences can experience parties, workshops, Pop-up Blocks, and more across the Downtown area in addition to the already bustling hub of the borough. Film lovers can also get tickets to the Opening Night Party, the Filmmakers Meet & Greet, or the Closing Night Chester Awards Party.
CCCBI is proud to have the West Chester Film Festival as a member of the Chamber and support their outreach to local filmmakers, businesses, and community members.
|
Save the Date for The CCCBI Foundation's Summer Solstice!
|
We’d love to hear from and highlight your business! We are seeking member spotlight stories to include in our weekly newsletter!
Email your news to abby@chescochamber.org
|
|
