BARB BARRETT/The Luminary Cindy Newcomer, who is running for Lycoming County Treasurer, spoke at the MPBA meeting last Thursday night at Tommy’s Sports Bar on N. Main Street, Muncy.

MUNCY – This month the Muncy Professional Business Association (MPBA) met at the New Tommy’s Sports Bar located at 213 N. Main Street. The organization said they would like to meet at different members’ business locations, especially the restaurants which will open up business opportunities for the community.

Also making part of North Main Street more appealing was discussed. Planting trees, adding planter pots, and getting a design in the works for the empty lot on the north corner of Main and Water Streets were some of the main objectives. “Perhaps a pergola, arbor or gazebo can be added,” suggested Angela Jackson.

Streetscape committee announced some flowers are coming from Stauffer’s greenhouses and a suggestion of coleus plants with colorful begonias can be used to add in front of the Ritz, Fort Brady Hotel and other places along N. Main Street before the Memorial parade. It was voted to purchase two more benches to add to the existing four already placed on South Main Street.

Waste recycle containers also can be added to “make all the cans uniform downtown.” Business signage was another item added to the agenda for approval and possibly a sculpture designed by a local artist would look nice on the empty lot. “I am waiting to hear back from the LCTC about a design,” Baker said.

Food, live entertainment and over 25 vendors have signed up so far for the Muncy 4th Fridays according to Ann Baker, MPBA president.

Blessing Insurance and State Farm Insurance will be sponsoring the kids games. A kayak will be raffled again, the dunk tank will be added in July, the smash-a-car fundraiser, and corn shucking in August.

Ollie’s, a new member, will be opening on May 15 at the former Toys R Us location near the mall. Laura Rupert is the new local manager. Baker announced that 5 minute marketing tips will be added for future MPBA meetings, and training will be given on Quickbooks for anyone interested through the Covation Center.

Cindy Newcomer, who is running for Lycoming County Treasurer, was guest speaker at the meeting. She has been the Muncy Creek Township secretary for the past 20 years and is running against Susan Satteson of Montgomery on the Republican ballot. Newcomer announced that the position is open because Connie Rupert, current Treasurer, will be retiring. Newcomer, a Clarkstown resident, told MPBA members that working with the largest township in Lycoming County has given her much experience in payroll and accounting.

The next MPBA meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 6.