VOICE of theVALLEY WINTER
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2025
2026: A Year of Innovation, Leadership & Recognition
Women’s Leadership Lunch-and-Learn Featuring Dr. Lise Vesterlund — Jan. 29th The Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce invites you to kick off the new year with inspiration, insight, and empowerment at our virtual Women’s Leadership Lunch-and-Learn on Wednesday, January 29, 2026, featuring nationally recognized researcher, author, and thought leader Dr. Lise Vesterlund. Dr. Vesterlund, a distinguished faculty member at the University of Pittsburgh, is widely respected for her groundbreaking work on gender dynamics in the workplace. She is the co-author of The No Club, a transformative book that has reshaped conversations around work-life balance, “non-promotable tasks,” and how women can strategically advocate for their professional growth. Her research offers practical strategies to help leaders build more equitable workplaces and to empower women to focus their talents where they matter most. This virtual session will also include one of the Chamber’s most anticipated moments of the year the official announcement of the 2025 Athena Award recipient, honoring an outstanding leader who exemplifies professional excellence, community service, and mentorship of women. Please feel free to nominate a deserving colleague or friend as our Athena Awardee. Just visit the Chamber website (gsvcc.org), and follow the prompts to complete and submit the nomination form. We encourage Chamber members and guests to join us for this energizing and insightful program. Register today at gsvcc.org and start 2026 with renewed insight and leadership momentum.
6th Annual Innovations Summit Set for February 9th at the CSIU The Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce is proud to present its 6th Annual Innovations Summit on Monday, February 9, 2026, hosted at the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit (CSIU) in Montandon. This highly anticipated event brings together business leaders, educators, technology professionals, and community innovators for a day of forward-thinking exploration and practical learning. This year’s Summit will shine a spotlight on cuttingedge technology, smarter communication tools, and workforce strategies designed to help organizations thrive in a rapidly changing world. At the center of every conversation will be Artificial Intelligence (AI) not merely as a buzzword, but as a transformative technology reshaping operations, customer service, decisionmaking, and the future of work. Participants will hear from nationally recognized experts who will break down complex trends, share real-world applications, and offer insights into how AI can drive efficiency and innovation across industries. Interactive sessions will allow attendees to learn directly from peers who are implementing these tools to strengthen their businesses and improve customer experience. Whether you’re exploring AI for the first time or seeking to deepen your digital strategy, the Innovations Summit provides a unique opportunity to grow, connect, and prepare for the future. More details and registration information are available at gsvcc.org.
104th Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony Set for March 27th at the Pine Barn Inn The Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that its 104th Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony will be held on Thursday, March 27, 2026, at the Pine Barn Inn in Danville. This signature gathering brings together business leaders, community partners, and friends of the Chamber to celebrate the accomplishments of the past year and chart the course for the future. A highlight of the event will be the presentation of the Chamber’s most prestigious honors: Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Young Professional of the Year, the Star of Excellence Award, and the Heritage Award. These awards recognize exceptional leadership, innovation, service, and a deep commitment to the prosperity of our region. The program will also spotlight the Chamber’s dedicated leaders whose energy and vision continue to move our valley forward. In addition, attendees will be among the first to hear details of the Chamber’s new strategic plan, a focused roadmap that reaffirms our commitment to workforce development, public policy leadership, and strengthening the Greater Susquehanna Valley’s economic prosperity and vitality. We encourage Chamber members and guests to join us for this milestone celebration. Registration and additional details are available at gsvcc.org.
President’s Message | Your Chamber
Just A Word...
By: Bob Garrett President & CEO, GSVCC
2859 N. Susquehanna Trail Shamokin Dam, PA 17876 570-743-4100 / 800-410-2880 Hours: M-F 8:30am - 4:30pm gsvcc.org
Make 2026 The Best
As we approach the end of another remarkable year in the Greater Susquehanna Valley, I’m reminded once again that our Chamber’s strength has always been built on the relationships we nurture and the vision we share. This is the season when many of us take a moment to look back at the challenges we met headon, the opportunities we seized, and the progress we made together. And what a year it has been. From major workforce initiatives to breakthrough discussions on transportation, broadband, childcare, and economic innovation, 2025 has shown us what collaboration can accomplish. Our committees have clearly leaned in. Our businesses have stepped forward. Our communities have benefited from the collective energy that only a Chamber like ours can generate, day-in and day-out. But even more important is looking ahead. As we prepare to welcome 2026, now is the perfect moment to
re-commit to working side by side. Whether you’re a long-time member or newly engaged in Chamber programs, your voice, your expertise, and your leadership will help shape the next steps of our Mission of Prosperity, over the coming year. This is the time to set goals, forge new partnerships, and position your business and our region for the growth that lies just ahead. Attend a committee meeting. Join us at upcoming events. Reach out to fellow members. Let’s make sure no opportunity goes untouched and no challenge goes unaddressed. As we end this year strong, united, energized, and forward focused, there’s no doubt that 2026 will be one of our best years yet. Because by working together, our best days truly lie just ahead.
Welcome NEW Members Quantraic Rummel, Klepper and Kahl, LLP Shumaker Industries
Adobe Acrobat PA Early Learning Investment Commission Pennsylvania College of Technology Pennsylvania Treasury
2025 Investor Members
North Shore Railroad Company Purdy Insurance Agency T-Ross Brothers Construction, Inc. Service Electric Cablevision UPMC Coldwell Banker Penn One Real Estate Sunbury Motor Company
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Membership Director Chad North cnorth@gsvcc.org
GSVCC Board of Directors and Officers Chair – Jeff Reber Vice Chair – Greg Zeh Treasurer – Cameron Hummel Secretary – Bob Garrett Immediate Past Chair – Aimee Buehner Region I – Vice President – John Kurelja Region I – Board Member – Chip Minemyer Region I – Board Member – Stacey Napoli Region II – Vice President – Rachel Smith Region II – Board Member – Beau Hoffman
Geisinger Weis Markets Captial Power Hummel Station WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital
M&T Bank Susquehanna University Central Penn Bank and Trust Bucknell University First National Bank of PA - Selinsgrove Service 1st Federal Credit Union - Corporate Center Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit Fulton Bank - Danville
President/CEO Bob Garrett rgarrett@gsvcc.org
The Daily Item Meck-Tech, Inc. National Beef Packing Company LLP Kreamer Feed, Inc. CVC Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Playworld PPL Electric Utilities Ritz-Craft Corporation MC Federal Credit Union - Danville Bowen Agency Realtors Susquehanna Community Bank - West Milton Stahl Sheaffer Engineering Contrast Seven Mountains Media Neema Hospitality Management Penn State Schuylkill Shumaker Industries
Voice of the Valley | Winter 2025
Region III – Vice President – Steve Stumbris Region III – Board Member – Stan Cary Region III – Board Member – Tom Crissinger Region IV – Vice President – Ryan McNally Region IV – Board Member – Chad Evans Region V – Vice President – Roger vanBaaren Region VI – Vice President – Malcolm Derk nothing goes better with pancakes and coffee than dailyitem.com
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chamber happenings
A Critical Boost for Rural Mobility: StopHopper Funding Announced” Residents across Union, Snyder, Montour, Northumberland, and Columbia Counties received welcome news this fall with WellSpan Health’s generous $16,500 donation to ensure the continuation of the StopHopper micro transit service. For years, the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce has championed improved rural mobility, recognizing that reliable transportation is essential to economic opportunity, workforce readiness, and community health. This new investment marks a critical moment in sustaining a service thousands of residents rely on. WellSpan leaders emphasized that transportation is a core public health issue, stating: “To ensure transportation is not a barrier to accessing care in rural areas, WellSpan Health announced it proudly donated $16,500 to ensure that Stop Hopper services continue to be offered in Union, Snyder, Montour, Northumberland and Columbia counties. The donation reflects the health system’s commitment to addressing a social driver of health that can have a far-reaching impact on overall wellness of residents and the health of the community at large.” Operated by rabbittransit, StopHopper functions as an affordable, on-call micro transit system tailored to rural mobility needs. Riders, many of whom lack personal vehicles, schedule trips to workplaces, medical appointments, educational sites, grocery stores, and other essential services. As demographic shifts, workforce shortages, and rising transportation costs challenge the region, this flexible model has become increasingly indispensable. Kendra Aucker, senior vice president of WellSpan Health and president of WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital, highlighted mission-driven collaboration: “At
WellSpan we invest in the needs of our communities because we know our communities…providing transportation so patients can access our services, because exceptional care for all begins with addressing all aspects of health.” Chamber President & CEO Bob Garrett underscored the urgency: “The potential loss of this service would represent a significant step backward… Your Chamber’s Transportion Committee members meet monthly on the second Friday morning. While the Thruway has been the committee’s focus for decades, it now has taken on a board inteer-modal viewpoint. To learn more about this committee, please visit gsvcc.org.
Without this critical funding, StopHopper would cease operations, a devastating blow to many who rely on it daily.” WellSpan leader and Chamber Board member Ryan McNally added that the most recent health assessment identified Access to Healthcare and underlying transportation gaps as key Social Determinants of Health. This announcement demonstrates what is possible when partners unite behind a shared mission: a stronger, more connected, and more prosperous Valley.
SUN Tech Students & Staff Give Back Students and staff at SUN Tech recently demonstrated their commitment to community service through the Council of Presidents’ annual “Biggest Buck” contest. While the friendly competition brought excitement to campus, its impact reached far beyond the school’s walls. This year’s event raised $160, with all proceeds benefiting Pennsylvania Hunters Sharing the Harvest (HSH), a statewide nonprofit that channels donated venison to local food programs. The contribution from SUN Tech will help provide more than 600 meals to individuals and families across the region. Hunters Sharing the Harvest works with processors and food banks to ensure that high-quality, locally harvested venison reaches those facing food insecurity. Each dollar supports processing costs, allowing hunters’ generosity to become nutritious meals for neighbors in need. SUN Tech’s donation reflects a long-standing tradition of service and leadership among its students and staff. By combining school spirit with a mission-driven cause, the Council of Presidents created an opportunity for students to learn the value of giving back while supporting a program that aligns with the region’s outdoor heritage. The SUN Tech community can take pride in knowing that their efforts will make a meaningful difference for hundreds of local families this hunting season and beyond.
SUN Tech’s Council of Presidents officers: Dakota Johnson, Reid Bair, Coltyn Bickel and Jacob Hornberger present check to Bob Garrett, Chamber President and local Hunters Sharing the Harvest Coordinator.
Voice of the Valley | Winter 2025
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young americans
-septemberBrookelyn Zartman
-septemberMaura Aurand
-septemberAubrey Fluman
-septemberElise Zimmerman
-septemberMia Barner
-septemberOlivia Stroup
-OctoberMiley Brezgel
-OctoberBren Crossgrove
-OctoberLainey Mille
-OctoberStephen Ilgenfritz
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MIDD-WEST
SUN AREA TECH
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MIFFLINBURG
MIDD-WEST
SELINSGROVE
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NORRY CHRISTIAN
Chamber Partners with Government Agencies to Protect Valley Workers The Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce continues to strengthen its role as a catalyst, convener, and champion for the region’s workforce by deepening partnerships with key state and federal agencies. These efforts ensure that the workers who power our local economy are treated fairly, supported effectively, and fully informed about the programs and protections available to them.
-OctoberMatthew Stebila SELINSGROVE
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In recent weeks, Chamber leaders met with Pennsylvania Secretary of Labor & Industry Nancy Walker for a focused discussion on how state policies, workforce programs, and regulatory changes are impacting the Valley. Secretary Walker emphasized the Commonwealth’s commitment to supporting both businesses and workers, highlighting ongoing investments in job training, workplace safety, and equitable labor practices. The Chamber, in turn, shared insights from employers across Union, Snyder, Northumberland, and Montour counties ensuring that local voices are actively shaping statewide workforce solutions. These conversations are part of a broader Chamber initiative to collaborate closely with government partners, identify gaps in resources, and advocate for improvements that help residents access good jobs, competitive wages, and high-quality training opportunities. By working hand-in-hand with public agencies, your Chamber is helping to build a labor environment where both employers and employees can thrive. Together, we are ensuring that Valley workers are getting the fair deal they deserve.
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Voice of the Valley | Winter 2025
PA Secretary of Labor, Nancy Walker greets Bob Garrett while touring CSO’s mobile workforce unit known as ‘The Link.’
young americans
-octoberCarli Berry
-octoberDakota Johnson
-novemberJustin Nolt
-novemberKailey Buriak
-novemberEmma Wagner
-novemberCollin Tressler
-novemberAva Phillips
-novemberCarly Scorsone
-novemberAlexandra Updegrove
-novemberAbigail Benner
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Voice of the Valley | Winter 2025
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chamber happenings
Former PennDOT Engineer Memorialized
Chamber Committee Inaugurates BTI’s New Trade Programs
Chamber President, Bob Garrett, fourth from left, with other community leaders in front of the sign memorializing I-180 as the Kenneth C. Larson Highway. Business leaders, colleagues, and community members gathered at Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport to unveil the new highway signs designating a portion of Interstate 180 as the Kenneth C. Larson Jr. Memorial Highway. The honored stretch runs from the Lycoming–Northumberland County line to the interchange with U.S. Routes 15 and 220. This dedication recognizes Kenneth C. Larson Jr. as an extraordinary servant leader whose lifelong commitment to infrastructure transformed transportation across the Northern Tier and the broader Susquehanna Valley. Through decades of work in Pennsylvania’s transportation agencies and later as the founding leader of Larson Design Group, Ken championed projects that improved safety, strengthened economic vitality, and modernized engineering practices statewide. His influence can be seen in major corridors such as U.S. Route 15, Interstate 80, and the
Central Susquehanna Valley Thruway, routes that continue to shape our region’s daily life and economic future. The ceremony celebrated not only Ken’s professional legacy but also his belief in developing local talent and building strong communities. His vision ensured that skilled engineers, surveyors, and architects could build meaningful careers in Lycoming County and the surrounding region. Special thanks are extended to the Larson family for sharing their husband, father, and grandfather with our community, as well as to Senator Gene Yaw and his staff, PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll, District 3-0, and all who participated in this meaningful tribute. It was a fitting and heartfelt morning honoring a man whose work continues to guide us every time we travel the highways he helped shape.
Community Gathers for Flag Raising and Ribbon Cutting at Sen. Culver’s Renovated Office
Members of the Mount Carmel VFW Post 2110 proudly raised the American flag at state Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver’s newly renovated Mount Carmel Township office. The ceremony, held in conjunction with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce, marked the completion of several months of improvements to the constituent service location. Renovations began in the spring and included a separating wall and service window that now provide greater privacy and efficiency in the office’s main work area. The upgrades also better support the daily responsibilities of Lucinda Adams, who serves as Culver’s constituent relations specialist. Speaking to attendees, Sen. Culver emphasized the importance of constituent engagement and
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open communication. “We work for you; that’s who we report to,” she said, encouraging residents to share their concerns, ideas, and feedback with her team. The renewed focus on accessibility follows a comment made in May by a U.S. Army veteran, who expressed disappointment that flags were not flying outside the office at 10934 State Route 61. Culver’s staff later confirmed that the poles were being inspected and prepared. Local leaders including Mount Carmel Mayor Philip “Bing” Cimino, Township Supervisor Charles Kovaleskie, state Rep. JoAnne Stehr, and Chamber CEO Bob Garrett joined the celebration, underscoring strong regional support for the office’s mission.
Voice of the Valley | Winter 2025
There was great celebration and pomp as the Berks Technical Institute (BTI) in Lewisburg recently launched their new HVAC+R and Electrical Programs.
Members of the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Business, Education, and Young Americans Committee held its November meeting at the Berks Technical Institute (BTI) in Lewisburg. Committee members were treated to an in-depth tour of BTI’s state-of-the-art training facilities, with particular focus on the newly launched HVAC+R and Electrical programs. Designed to prepare students for high-demand, hands-on careers, these programs are directly aligned with the region’s growing workforce needs, and high priority occupations.
Following the tour, the committee turned its attention to several key business items, including establishing a streamlined process for industry tours and job shadowing opportunities to better connect local students with real-world career experiences.
A robust roundtable discussion on existing workforce gaps and strategies to address them followed, featuring insights from Dana Kramer, President of BTI–Lewisburg, and Bill Metzger, Owner of CVC Mechanical. Both leaders emphasized the critical importance of strong partnerships between education and industry in building a skilled job-ready workforce for the Greater Susquehanna Valley.
The meeting concluded with a gala ribbon cutting and grand opening of BTI’s new trade training areas—marking a proud milestone for both the institute and our region’s shared commitment to expanding technical education and workforce development.
As part of the Chamber’s ongoing Workforce Development and Education Pillar of Prosperity, this event underscores your Chamber’s commitment to connecting employers, educators, and future employees.
Winter in the Susquehanna River Valley Submitted by the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau
The holidays are upon us, and year’s end is fast approaching; but, don’t worry, there is still so much to enjoy in the Susquehanna River Valley. The Events calendar at VisitCentralPA.org is packed with ideas to delight everyone in your family from light trails and trains to music and performances. Are the kids at home and guests are expected soon? We’ve got you covered with rainy day activities, outdoor adventures and plenty of family fun. While you are out and about, take time to stop in your local shops and restaurants and support them with your business. When you Shop Local, you give a gift to your community and help ensure that these businesses will be around to help us celebrate future holidays. There is no need to travel far when there is so much happening in your own backyard! Now through December 20 – Selinsgrove Holiday Passport Now through December 20 – Visit Santa, King St. Park, Northumberland Now through December 20 – Carriage Rides, Green’s Fruit Farm, Elysburg Now through December 21 – Christmas Village, Knoebels Three Ponds Golf Club, Elysburg Now through December 21 – Coal Region Christmas Steam Train Rides, Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine, Ashland Now through December 21 – Visit the Susquehanna Valley Chapter of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen at the Susquehanna Valley Mall, Selinsgrove Now through December 21 – Tree & Wreath Sale in the Barn Gift Shop, Ponduce Farms, Elysburg Now through December 28 – A Charlie Brown Christmas, Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble Now through December 28 – Milton Model Train Museum Open House Now through December 31 – The Valley of Lights Christmas Drive Through at Little Mexico Campground, Winfield Now through December 31 – Knoebels Joy Through the Grove Holiday Light Drive Thru, Elysburg Now through January 4 – Holiday Show and Sale, Artists & Artisans, Lewisburg Now through March 1 – Public Skate at the Sunbury Ice Rink December 19 – Family Fun Night, Kingdom Kidz, Watsontown December 19 – Miracle on Market Street, Lewisburg December 19 – Free Photos at the Santa House on Broadway, Milton December 20 – A Christmas Murder Mystery Dinner, Blooming Meadows Farm, Watsontown
December 20 – A King is Born: Puppet Production, Kindgdom Kidz, Watsontown December 20 – Christmas on the Farm, Blue Sparrow Farm, Milton December 20 – Gingerbread House Party, Milton Public Library December 20 & 21 – Buffalo Valley Singers Christmas Concert, Lewisburg December 27 – Komodo Dragon Feeding, Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland, Allenwood December 27 – Jake & Friendz with Amanda Krebs, Hungry Run Distillery, Lewisburg December 29 & 30 – Wreaths & Roots Winter Agriculture Camp, Bloomsburg Children’s Museum December 30 – E’Vill Chris at Penn’s Tavern, Sunbury December 31 – Countdown to Noon, Bloomsburg Children’s Museum December 31 – New Years Eve with Kinsey, Pineknotter Brewing Company, Northumberland As we look beyond the holidays, we are beginning to see 2026 event offerings. Here is just a sample. Keep in mind there are also recurring educational, musical and family-friendly offerings at your local restaurants, wineries and breweries, children’s museums, libraries and more. Go to VisitCentralPA.org to learn more.
Lizzie’s Legacy provides peaceful countryside rides from their Millmont farm. Learn more at VisitCentralPA.org Photo submitted by the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureauw
January 4 – First Sunday Program of Music and Words, Joseph Priestley Memorial Chapel Venue, Northumberland January 7 – Jazz Night in Lewisburg, CommUnity Zone January 16 – BTE Improv, Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble January 28 – Charles Havira w/Nick Driscoll & Justin Mazer, Listening Room at The Exchange, Bloomsburg January 30 – Drum Tao (Japanese Taiko Drums), Weis Center for the Performing Arts at Bucknell University, Lewisburg February (Watch for Information) Heart of Lewisburg Ice Festival, Frosty 5K and Polar Bear Plunge February 5 – East Nash Grass (Bluegrass) at Weis Center for the Performing Arts, Bucknell University, Lewisburg February 8 – Beijing Guitar Duo (Classical) at Weis Center for the Performing Arts, Bucknell University, Lewisburg February 10 – Theatre Nohgaku, Susquehanna
University, Selinsgrove February 12 – Shadow Cities, Ephrat Asherie Dance with Arturo O’Farrill (Contemporary Dance/Jazz) at Weis Center for the Performing Arts, Bucknell University, Lewisburg February 26 – Pilobolus (Contemporary Dance) at Weis Center for the Performing Arts, Bucknell University, Lewisburg March 1 – Bang on a Can All Stars feat. Bucknell Choir at Weis Center for the Performing Arts, Bucknell University, Lewisburg New events are being added every day! Check the Events calendar at VisitCentralPA.org for the latest events, updates and details. You can also sign up to receive our This Week in the SRV e-newsletter so that you always stay in the know. From our SRVVB families to yours: Best wishes for a very safe and happy holiday season in the Susquehanna River Valley!
Voice of the Valley | Winter 2025
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Home is where your health is One of the best things about living here? High-caliber healthcare is as close as your next-door neighbor. Physicians conducting the latest cancer clinical trials are also youth soccer coaches. Nurses whose expert care kept your dad comfortable also maintain hiking trails. That’s why Geisinger is committed to keeping world-class care local. Because community is more than a place. It’s people, connections and shared purpose.
Your community partner.
Here. Where it matters.
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Voice of the Valley | Winter Fall 2025 2025