The Lehigh Valley Real Estate Outlook is on Thursday, April 24 at Wind Creek Bethlehem. Come celebrate the City of Easton as they are awarded the Commercial Real Estate Development (CRED) Award! (See PG. 5 for more information)
President & CEO
Tony Iannelli........................................610-739-1513
President & Chief Executive Officer tonyi@lehighvalleychamber.org
Assistant to the President, Chamber Foundation, Nonprofit & Business Partners Council
SVP, Carbon Chamber & Economic Development kyliea@lehighvalleychamber.org
Sarah Wallace.......................................484-547-8551
CHAMBER BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Tom Groves, Equinox Benefits Consulting Chair, The Chamber
The Lehigh Valley real estate market has been on fire!
The Chamber with Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation and Lehigh Valley Planning Commission present The Lehigh Valley Real Estate Development Outlook and Awards on Thursday, April 24. Make sure you register for this important event! The Lehigh Valley Real Estate Outlook is your guide to the who, what, when, where, why and how of commercial, residential, and institutional growth.
You will want to see Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation’s Don Cunningham present on Commercial Real Estate and the Lehigh Valley Economy and the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission’s “How the Lehigh Valley Will Continue to Grow and Why That Matters” presented by Executive Director, Becky Bradley which measures new market dynamics!
And as always, a Business Matters LIVE! with Tony Iannelli! Tony Leads another excellent Panel Discussion with the voice and driving force of Jaindl. owner and president of Jaindl Farms, which includes Jaindl Land Company, the buyer of the 24-story PPL Tower Building and office complex, Scranton-based developer Nicholas Dye of D&D Realty Group and vice president of Sales & Marketing for City Center Group Jill Wheeler on valley wide development. Plus, the 2025 Commercial Real Estate Development (CRED) Award celebrates and recognizes outstanding achievements, highlights and successes in Lehigh Valley Commercial Real Estate. The 2025 CRED Award is presented to The City of Easton for its Flourishing Development.
Join more than 500 businesspeople, real estate developers, engineering and maintenance firms and executives.
See the event ad on page 5 for more details.
Tuesday, April 1
8:30-9:30am - Somos Latinos Coffee Hour presented by the Hispanic Chamber
Wednesday, April 2
5-7pm - Southern Lehigh Restaurant Week Kickoff Mixer at Casa Toro (Free Event)
5:30-6:30pm - Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening of Timber at Woodstone Country Club (Free Event)
Thursday, April 3
7-9:30am - Bethlehem State of the City with Mayor J. William Reynolds
12-1pm - Hawaii Fluid Art Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony (Free Event)
4-5pm - Maximize Your MembershipA Member Benefits Review! (Free Event)
5-7pm - Networking at Zest (Free Event)
Friday, April 4
8:30-11:30am - Lehigh Valley Business Summit presented by the Small Business Council
Sunday, April 6 - Saturday, April 12
Southern Lehigh Restaurant Week
Monday, April 7
5:30-7:30pm - Sips, Savories & Sweets: A Wine Pairing at Brown Daub - Bath
Tuesday, April 8
7:30am-12pm - Nonprofit & Business Partners Collaboration Conference
mark
Thursday, April 10
5-9pm - Dine & Donate at Red Robin for Southern Lehigh Scholarship Fund
5:30-7:30pm - Veterans & Military Council ERG Collaborative Networking Event
Saturday, April 12
2:30-3:30pm - 7 Deadly Spins Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting (Free Event)
Tuesday, April 15
8am - The Chamber's Inaugural Simulator Golf Tournament at Art of Flight Bethlehem
Wednesday, April 16
7:30am-12:30pm - Empowerment Through Access Summit: Unlocking Opportunities for All
5:30-7:30pm - Celebrity Bartending at Lost Tavern (Free Event)
Thursday, April 17
4-7pm - The Giglio Group at CrossCountry Mortgage Grand Opening Extravaganza (Free Event)
April 22
11:30am-1pm - Green Goals: Living Lighter on the Planet
11am-1pm - Building Confidence: Overcome Imposter Syndrome & Embrace Your Greatness!
5:30-8pm - "Talk Derby to Me" Kentucky Derby Premier Networking Event
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from Snow Ball Gala on February 22 at Wind Creek Bethelehem
*Photos courtesy of Mike Robinson Productions*
eek Bethlehem evard, Bethlehem PA 18015
Program – 11:20 a.m. -1 p.m.
Doors open at 10 a m for registration & networking
Join industry leaders, investors, and real estate professionals at the Lehigh Valley Real Estate Development Outlook, a premier event offering insights into the region's dynamic housing and commercial property markets This event will feature expert panel discussions, market trend analysis, and networking opportunities designed to help attendees navigate the evolving real estate landscape
HEAR FROM:
“Commercial Real Estate Development and the Lehigh Valley Economy” with LVEDC President & CEO, Don Cunningham
“FutureLV Update - How and Where the Lehigh Valley Will Continue to Grow” with Lehigh Valley Planning Commission Executive Director Becky Bradley
Business Matters LIVE! What's Tending in Commercial DevelopmentChamber President Tony Iannelli interviews Dave Jaindl, president of Jaindl Land Company, Nicholas Dye of D&D Realty Group (buyer of the 24-story PPL Tower Building) and Jill Wheeler, VP, Lehigh Valley at City Center Group!
LEHIGH VALLEY ECONOMIC REPORT
Dr. Kamran Afshar, Chamber Chief Economist
The Chamber’s Finance Committee
610-691-3272 • ka@kaa-inc.com
Inflation
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the seasonally adjusted consumer price index (CPI) rose by 0.2% in February; inflation over the last 12 months was 2.8%, close to the upper level of average inflation in this century, which was between 2.2 and 2.9%. Inflation over any 12-month period in this century exceeded 4% only in 2005 and 2008 before surging dramatically past 9% in 2022. This spike was largely fueled by massive government transfer payments, which significantly boosted personal consumption expenditures. Much like in 2007, the Federal Reserve was once again slow to respond, and even when it did act, its measures were too cautious—perfectly embodying the saying, "a day late and a dollar short." Over the last 12 months, inflation in transportation services, at 6% despite a more than 3% drop in gasoline prices, led the general CPI categories. This was due to an 11% increase in car insurance. Rents rose by 4%, food by nearly 3%,
and durable goods prices dropped by 1%. Energy and food prices fluctuate more frequently and significantly than other categories in the CPI. Core inflation, which excludes energy and food, has been established as a more stable indicator of inflation. Over the last 12 months, core inflation increased by 3.1%, still above the 2.8% the inflation rate. This basically means that categories not in the core, like gasoline, had lower inflation than those in the core, like shelter. Prices rise when demand increases faster than supply. For example, in the 2021-22 period, demand increased rapidly while supply could not catch up during the aftermath of the global pandemic. This resulted in the highest inflation in 40 years. On the demand side, one of the reliable predictors of future inflation is new orders for durable goods. Historically, we purchase more durable goods when we think our incomes are rising. This indicator has been dropping since October 2024, in-
dicating consumer caution and softening of demand. On the supply side, the Producer Price Index (PPI) for all commodities serves as a critical short-term gauge of future inflation, as it tracks the prices of commodities at the wholesale level. This indicator, which vaulted by 40% between December 2020 and June 22, rose by only 1.4% in 2024. However, it rose at an annual rate of 10% in the last 3 months. And all of these were before the full effect of tariffs has hit prices. As tariffs will restrict the supply chain and almost always raise prices.
The FED responded to high inflation in 2022 with a tight monetary policy, raising its interest rate, which caused other rates, such as mortgages, to rise. While it took some time, it did push inflation down. The FED started to l;ower its rates since last September, mortgage rates, however, continued their rise to mid-January, way after the Fed started lowering its rate. This suggests that the market remains deeply concerned with inflation and perceives the Fed's efforts to control it as far from complete.
U P C O M I N G
Tuesday, April 15
The Chamber’s Inaugural Simulator Golf Tournament
Art of Flight Golf
Monday, May 19
The Chamber Board of Governors Krajsa Cup Golf Classic
Brookside Country Club
Tuesday, June 10
Pocono Chamber Annual Golf Outing
Skytop Lodge
Monday, June 16
EMSP Annual Golf Classic
Green Pond Country Club NEW
Tuesday, June 24
Somos Familia Golf Outing
Woodstone Country Club and Lodge
Monday, August 11
Bethlehem Chamber Walla Gazoo
Bethlehem Golf Club
Friday, August 22
Easton & Phillipsburg Golf Outing
Riverview Golf & Country Club NEW THIS
Monday, September 15
Carbon Chamber Annual Sturm Cup
Jack Frost National Golf Club
Accounting, Billing & Bookkeeping Services
Gift CPAs
Deanna Rosario 1205 Manor Drive, Suite 100 Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 717-766-3555 www.giftcpas.com
Advertising, Marketing & Public Relations
Bay Image Group LLC
Erica Figueroa 308 Village Edge Drive Brodheadsville, PA 18322 484-838-3622 www.thebayimage.com
Neighbors of Saucon & Center
Valley
Megan McFadden 3797 Limeport Pike Zionsville, PA 18092 215-896-7586 www.bestversionmedia.com
Associations & Organizations
Monroe County Republican Committee
Chris Field P.O. Box 254 Stroudsburg, PA 18360 272-200-3313 www.monroecountygopo.com
Automation, Machine Shops & Robotics
RobotLAB Eastern PA
Kripa Dawar Northampton, PA 18067 610-314-0549 www.robotlab.com
Ashley Hayes 244 Main Street Emmaus, PA 18049 610-554-2502 Jewelers
Bixlers Jewelers
Lisa Muracco 3900 Hamilton Boulevard Allentown, PA 18103
610-821-8641 www.bixlers.com
Mortgage Brokers & Lenders
The Giglio Group at CrossCountry Mortgage
Michael Giglio 148 South 7th Street Allentown, PA 18101
610-216-1750 www.TheGiglioGroup.com
Printing, Copying, PublishingEquipment and Services
3D Reactions
John Majersky Easton, PA 18040 888-835-4160 www.3dreactions.com
Restaurants, Bars & Cafes
Cuchifrito Restaurant
Stephanie Fernandez 1201 West Chew Street Allentown, PA 18103 610-434-1788
Marcy's Hamburgers
Brian Dowling 77 North 4th Street Easton, PA 18042 www.marcyshamburgers.com
AMBASSADORS & SMALL BUSINESS COUNCILS
SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL
Bill Benz, Carnegie Agency Chair, Small Business Council
The Lehigh Valley continues to break records, leading the state in job creation, business formation, and regional investment. At the heart of this momentum are the local businesses driving innovation, growing our workforce, and strengthening the community's economic resilience. Many businesses and organizations are part of the fabric of the Chamber, including generational, family-owned manufacturers to cutting-edge tech startups. The Lehigh Valley’s business community is alive and well. This is an opportunity to recognize those truly adding value to the regional economy by engaging business leaders while shaping the future direction of our community. Nominations and sponsorships are now open for the Lehigh Valley 2025 Excellence in Business Awards, presented by the Small Business Council of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce to recognize those outstanding organizations and individuals making a measurable
impact. We’re asking for nominations from companies and organizations of all sizes, small, mid-sized, large, and Not-for-profit, that exemplify excellence in leadership, innovation, and community engagement. We want to hear from you if you know a business that deserves the spotlight. The event will take place on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lehigh Country Club. Submit your nomination today, honoring the businesses shaping the economic future of the Lehigh Valley. Bring your family, friends, and co-workers and enjoy an evening of networking to help celebrate the Excellence in Business 2025 recipients. Thriving local businesses fuel long-term economic prosperity. We look forward to seeing you at this exciting event! For tickets, sponsorships, applications and additional information, please contact Paige Nicolas at paigen@lehighvalleychamber.org.
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from Maximize Your Membership on February 6 at B Social
*Photos courtesy of Mike Robinson Productions*
PUBLIC POLICY
HEALTHCARE COMMITTEE
Michael Stocker Healthcare Committee Member
Exploring Alternative Care: Unlocking New Paths to Wellness and Healing
Alternative medicine encompasses a wide range of practices and therapies that are not typically part of conventional medical treatment. While the effectiveness of alternative medicine can vary from person to person, several approaches have gained recognition for their potential benefits. Here are some of the most effective alternative medicines:
1. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance energy flow (Qi). It is commonly used to relieve pain, reduce stress, and treat various conditions such as migraines, arthritis, and anxiety. Research has shown that acupuncture can be effective for pain management and may help improve overall well-being.
2. Herbal medicine utilizes plants and plant extracts to treat various health conditions. Common herbs like echinacea, ginseng, and turmeric have been studied for their potential health benefits. For example, turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and may help with conditions like arthritis
3. Mind-body practices, such as yoga, meditation, and tai chi, focus on the connection between mental and physical health. These practices can reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and enhance overall well-being. Studies have shown that regular practice can lead to lower blood pressure, improved mood, and better management of chronic pain.
4. Chiropractic care involves the manipulation of the spine and other joints to alleviate pain and improve function. It is particularly effective for back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Many patients report significant relief from symptoms after chiropractic adjustments, and research supports its effectiveness for certain musculoskeletal conditions.
5. Homeopathy is based on the principle of "like cures like," where highly diluted substances are used to stimulate the body’s healing response. While scientif-
ic evidence supporting homeopathy is mixed, some individuals report positive outcomes for conditions like allergies, asthma, and digestive issues.
6. Naturopathy emphasizes natural remedies and the body’s ability to heal itself. Naturopathic practitioners may use a combination of herbal medicine, nutrition, lifestyle counseling, and physical therapies. This holistic approach can be effective for managing chronic conditions, improving overall health, and promoting wellness.
7. Massage Therapy involves manipulating soft tissues to relieve tension, reduce pain, and promote relaxation. Various techniques, such as Swedish, deep tissue, and sports
massage, can be tailored to individual needs. Research indicates that massage therapy can be effective for managing stress, anxiety, and musculoskeletal pain.
8. Certain dietary supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and vitamin D, have been shown to provide health benefits. Omega-3s may help reduce inflammation, probiotics can support gut health, and vitamin D is essential for bone health.
In Conclusion, while alternative medicine can offer effective treatments for various health conditions, it is essential to approach these therapies with caution and seek guidance from qualified practitioners. Integrating alternative medicine with conventional treatments can provide a holistic approach to health and wellness, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
NONPROFIT & BUSINESS PARTNERS
Kathleen Trimble, Pinebrook Family Answers Chair, Nonprofit & Business Partners Council
Spring Collaboration Conference: Thriving Through Change
The Non Profit and Business Partner Council is excited to announce its Spring Collaboration Conference on April 8, 2025, at DeSales University. This year's theme, "Thriving Through Change," aims to inspire attendees with ideas and tools to navigate the evolving landscape confidently. The event will feature three distinguished speakers discussing Flexibility, Influence, and Understanding.
The conference will begin at 7:30 AM and conclude at 11:30 AM,
offering ample opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing. Attendees from various roles within companies and nonprofits will engage in lively breakout sessions, fostering new ideas and practical advice.
We are also thrilled to present this year's recipient of the Air Products Collaboration Award, recognizing outstanding contributions to collaborative efforts. Join us for a day of inspiration, connection, and practical learning at DeSales University.
MAIN STREET LEHIGH VALLEY
Jody Piagesi, Northampton Pool & Patio Chair, Chamber Foundation
We are deeply grateful for the generous support and enthusiasm that made our Snow Ball auction a tremendous success. Thanks to the kindness and commitment of our donors, bidders, and volunteers, the proceeds from this event will directly contribute to impactful community beautification projects. Your generosity ensures that our neighborhoods continue to flourish, becoming more inviting, vibrant, and inspiring places for all who live, work, and visit. These funds will help to enhance public green spaces, highlight local landmarks, and create welcoming downtowns that foster pride and connection within our community. Whether it’s adding colorful murals, revitalizing parks, or improv-
ing walkways, every project reflects the collective care and dedication of those who believe in the power of a beautiful, well-maintained community.On behalf of the Chamber Foundation and everyone who will benefit from these improvements, we extend our heartfelt thanks. Your support is not just an investment in aesthetics—it is an investment in the spirit and well-being of our community. We look forward to sharing the progress made possible by your generosity and hope you take pride in knowing the difference you have helped create.
EASTON AREA
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from the Easton State of the City with Mayor Sal Panto on March 18 at Lafayette College
TOURNAMENT
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21, 2025
5 PM - 8 PM | WEYERBACHER BREWING COMPANY
FEATURING:
more information: sabrinao@lehighvalleychamber.org
GREATER NORTHERN LEHIGH & WESTERN LEHIGH CHAMBERS
WESTERN LEHIGH CHAMBER
Carol Ulrich, The Goldenberg Group/Hamilton Crossings Chair, Western Lehigh Chamber
The Western Lehigh Chamber recently collaborated with East Penn and hosted a successful luncheon and tour at Amcor Packaging Services and Sharp Packing Solutions, which were very well attended. Western Lehigh has some great upcoming events including the Canteen Vending Luncheon & Tour on Wednesday, April 23rd, Parkland Cares ribbon cutting on April 24th and Cetronia Ambulance Corps 70th anniversary ribbon cutting on May 22nd. Speaking of Parkland Cares, our Board will again be volunteering to assist with snack packing, which benefits Parkland School District students that are part of the Western Lehigh footprint. Our annual signature event committee is working hard on the details for Paws at the Park, which will be taking place at a new, expanded lo-
cation within Grange Park on Saturday, May 4th. In addition to the new location at Grange Park, we will be incorporating some new, fun contests for our furry friends, with their favorite treat … peanut butter, of course! And, you can’t forget to have something special for the kids … we have recently confirmed that Bluey & Chase will be there again this year, so there is some fun for everyone! In addition, I would like to highlight some of the new businesses who recently joined us; Bridgeman Strategic Concepts, LV Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, Allentown Park Hotel – Ascend Collection by Choice, K. Heeps LLC, Modern Group, NFI Industries and PC Floors to the Western Lehigh area. We love that all these great businesses have chosen the Western Lehigh area to be their home.
CHAMBER
Photos from the Sharp Manufacturing Luncheon Tour on February 27
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from Lucky Bucks Bingo on March 16 at St. John's Lutheran Church
As the weather warms up, the Hellertown-Lower Saucon Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce two fantastic spring events that promise fun, community engagement, and unforgettable experiences!
Music in the Park
Kick off the season with Music in the Park, a lively outdoor concert series featuring local bands and musicians. Held at the scenic Dimmick Park, this free event invites families and friends to enjoy live performances in a relaxed, beautiful setting. Bring a picnic or stop by a food truck, your lawn chairs, and get ready for an evening of great music and community spirit.
Honors and Hor'doeuvres
Join us for the Honors and Hor'doeuvres event on May 14th, an elegant evening celebrating local achievements and community leaders. This event provides a chance to recognize those who make a difference in Hellertown and Lower Saucon while enjoying delicious hors d'oeuvres and networking opportunities. It’s a perfect way to honor the area's outstanding individuals and organizations.
Both events offer the perfect way to celebrate spring, build connections, and support your community. Stay tuned for more details on dates and performers!
We can't wait to see you out there!
WHITEHALL AREA, NAZARETH AREA & GREATER NORTHAMPTON AREA CHAMBERS
CARBON CHAMBER
Patrick Reilly, Mauch Chunk Trust Company Chair, Carbon Chamber
Spring is in full bloom, and with it comes a season of growth and renewal.
As always, great things are happening in Carbon County!
March brought opportunities for partnered events with local Chambers from throughout the region, including an after-hours mixer co-hosted with the Hazleton Chamber of Commerce at Heritage Hill Senior Community in Weatherly on March 13th and the Headshot Happy Hour co-hosted with the Greater Northern Lehigh Chamber at Galen Glen Winery on March 19th! We also had the opportunity to celebrate Jim Thorpe Borough’s very own Maureen Sterner as she was awarded “Borough Manager of the Year” at the 2025 Mayors & Municipal Officials’ Reception in the Lehigh Valley. Our local and regional partnerships continue are going strong in Carbon County!
Also, on March 31st, we officially welcomed Lansford native Jared Soto as
CCEDC new Economic Development Specialist. In his new role with CCEDC, Jared will be responsible for implementing and coordinating strategies, programs, and initiatives to drive economic growth and development within the county.
Look ahead, CCEDC will host our annual Administrative Professionals Luncheon on April 23rd, at the Palmerton Pub, which will highlight the contributions of our administrative professionals in the county and feature live music from Cass Noelle, networking opportunities and appreciation gifts, and our Carbon PA CareerLink Career Fair at the Carbon Plaza Mall on May 2nd. Employers looking to hire are encouraged to participate, and can reach out to Kylie Adams-Weiss at kadams@caboncountychamber.org for an application.
Be sure to follow us on social media or check out our event calendar to make sure you are up to date – we hope to see you soon in Carbon County!
CARBON & POCONO CHAMBERS
OUR SUPER POWER ...
How Employers Can Help Stressed-Out Parents
Parents aren’t just part of your company’s staff – they’re often a huge part.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, parents make up at least 40 percent of the U.S. workforce. So the fact that parental stress levels are soaring across the country, according to a recent advisory from U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, is a potential red flag for many businesses. Murthy’s advisory reports that 48% of parents rate their daily stress levels as completely overwhelming, and that parents are 65% more likely to say they’ve faced high stress levels in the past month than other adults.
“Parental stress is both an enormously significant and under-addressed issue,” said Jen Carricato, Senior Health Education Consultant at Capital Blue Cross. “Millions of American moms and dads deal with multiple challenges every day, and it can sometimes simply be too much.
“Yet as common as it is, there has been too little in the way of organized approaches to cope with this problem on either personal or societal levels, and we need to change that.”
Employers looking to lessen their employees’ parental stress could consider:
· Expanded policies and programs that support parents and caregivers in the workplace, such as paid parental leave, subsidized childcare, and flexible work hours.
· Training for managers on stress management, work-life harmony, and optimum working hours for parents and caregivers.
· Flexible scheduling for sick days and medical appointments.
· Developing an Employee Resource Group for working parents and caregivers.
· Providing comprehensive, affordable healthcare plans that include quality mental health coverage. Capital Blue Cross, for instance, offers a VirtualCare telehealth option that can connect members to behavioral health professionals online or by phone. Some companies, including Capital, offer employee assistance programs that make it easy for staff to access mental health professionals for any issue.
Members covered by many Capital employer plans also enjoy access to the insurer’s parenting-support app, which include comprehensive maternity and family health programs that include guidance and health coaching. The app also guides employers and employees through resources such as parental-leave and return-towork frameworks, a supporting-families checklist, and other family planning information.
Support That Shaves Stress
What’s most important, Capital’s Carricato said, is that employers pay attention to parental stress, acknowledge its importance, and take steps to address it.
“Not only for the parents’ sake, but also for their children’s well-being,” she said. “Because there is an obvious trickle-down – if a parent is struggling badly with stress to the point of being perpetually overwhelmed, that will inevitably carry over to the kids.”
(For more health and wellness news and information that can benefit your business and employees, visit thinkcapitalbluecross.com.)
Phoebe Ministries’ Berks residents will gather in Wernersville to compete in their first Winter Olympics at the Phoebe Berks campus. The Winter Olympics will feature games like ping pong, pool noodle javelin, and a nerf gun shoot and feature residents from Independent Living, Personal Care Living, and Phoebe Berks’ Health Care Center.
WORKFORM, an innovative company dedicated to improving workplace health and safety, is now offering direct-to-employer services for injury prevention and enhanced work performance. With a unique approach that integrates cutting-edge knowledge in biomechanics and ergonomics, WORKFORM delivers tailored, upstream solutions designed to reduce workplace injuries, enhance productivity, and create a safer, healthier workforce.
Liquid, a digital marketing agency specializing in creative services, marketing, and technology, is honored to receive Gold for both the Baptist Memorial Health Care homepage redesign and the Baptist Cancer Center website redesign from the 2025 AVA Digital Awards. AVA Digital Awards is an international competition recognizing excellence in digital communication, including campaigns, media production, website development, and social engagement.
Less than a year after Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, and the Lehigh County Chiefs of Police Association introduced the Blue Envelope Program to help communication between special-needs drivers and police officers, LVHN and Northampton County Chiefs of Police Association are announcing their partnership to expand the program to more than 30 new departments.
New Bethany, a local nonprofit that provides nutritious food access, housing, and social services to under-resourced communities, received a $10,000 grant from the Martin Guitar Charitable Foundation to fund New Bethany’s nutritious food access programs, which are run through the Southside Drop-in Center and Choice Food Pantry.
L•A Advertising opens a new office location at One West Broad St., Floor 11, Bethlehem, PA 18018. Marketing 70+ years! L•A Advertising is part of the KACYON.com group of creative services, also comprising of L•A Interactive, L•A VideoProduction and L•A Publishing with office locations in both the Lehigh Valley and Scranton /Wilkes-Barre markets.
HEART is coming to the 2025 to The Great Allentown Fair to kick off its annual event. With a career spanning nearly five decades, the 2013 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees have earned global recognition selling more than 35 million albums worldwide, with 20 Top 40 singles to their name. HEART will be performing their catalog of global chart-topping classic hits including “Magic Man”, “Barracuda”, “Crazy on You” and “These Dreams”. The current members of HEART feature Nancy Wilson (rhythm, lead and acoustic guitar, backing and lead vocals), Ann Wilson (lead vocals and flute), Ryan Wariner (lead and
Member News
rhythm guitar), Ryan Waters (guitars), Paul Moak (guitars, keyboards and backing vocals), Tony Lucido (bass and backing vocals) and Sean T Lane (drums and bike).
Promenade Saucon Valley, an open-air lifestyle shopping center in Center Valley, Pennsylvania (www. promenadesauconvalley.com), today announced the addition of Relux, a locally owned boutique offering pre-owned, authenticated luxury fashion and accessories. Shoppers will find coveted pieces from Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Hermès, and more— all at a fraction of retail prices. The new 1,500-square-foot store, expected to open this spring, will be located in between Carter’s and SmARTivities Showcase.
Shanthi Project, a mindfulness education nonprofit organization based in the Lehigh Valley, has expanded its 2024-2025 in-school, evidence-based mindfulness programming to serve all incoming kindergarten students in the Bethlehem and Easton Area school districts, plus all fifth graders in the Bethlehem Area School District. Together, these new classrooms make up an initiative that will serve students going through pivotal times of transition in their schooling. Younger students will be supported in their transition to kindergarten, and older students will learn skills to prepare for their upcoming transition to middle school.
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Mark Jaindl is pleased to announce the promotion of a member of American Bank’s team to a Senior Management role. Ms. Sarah Car, Vice President and Human Resources Manager has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer effective March 3, 2025.
Unity Bank, Clinton, NJ proudly acknowledges that it has, once again, received a 5-Star Superior rating from BauerFinancial, the Nation’s Premier Bank Rating Firm. A 5-Star Superior rating indicates that Unity Bank is one of the strongest banks in the nation, excelling in areas of capital, loan quality, profitability and more. This marks the 9th consecutive quarter that Unity Bank has earned this top rating.
Gross McGinley, LLP, a leading full-service law firm, is pleased to announce that it has named Samuel E. Cohen as Deputy Managing Partner effective January 1, 2025. Joining Gross McGinley, LLP in 2008, Cohen represents clients in the areas of Commercial Litigation, Employment Litigation, and Business Disputes. As Co-Chair of the firm’s Litigation practice group, he extends creative, effective, and cost-efficient legal services to individuals, small businesses, large corporations, and municipalities in transactions, employment matters, product warranties, and zoning disputes.
Melissa Pierson was recently hired and named Vice President, Branch Manager at QNB Bank’s Wescosville Office. In her role, Melissa is responsible for all aspects of branch management, including staff development, new business development, and supporting community and customer relationships. Melissa has
eighteen years of experience in the banking industry, most recently serving as Vice President, Branch Leader at Truist Bank.
A constant in medicine is finding ways to make medical and surgical treatment shorter and less complicated. A big step in that direction is the addition of histotripsy at Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute for treating cancerous liver tumors. Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, is the first and only health network in Pennsylvania to offer this innovative treatment, and its first procedure is being conducted this week. The next closest locations for histotripsy, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in late 2023, are in Camden, N.J., and Rochester, N.Y.
Students at Lehigh Carbon Community College are eligible to receive a $5,000 scholarship per year thanks to a new Grow PA Scholarship, which helps students pay for school and builds the workforce in Pennsylvania for in-demand occupations. These $5,000 scholarships are available each year on a firstcome, first-served basis and are administered through the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). Students who receive the scholarship can make their money go further by studying at a community college and will receive guidance from LCCC’s Career Development Center on pursuing an in-demand career. In-demand occupations include agriculture, computer science, business, education, special education, STEM education, engineering, nursing, allied health, criminal justice and other programs approved by PHEAA.
Mariska van Aalst joined the staff of the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation in March 2025 as Program Officer, Community Impact & Policy. Her primary responsibilities include supporting and developing the Foundation’s expanded role in government relations and advocacy work as well as managing arts programming.
New Tripoli Bank is proud to announce that Matthew Koncz, Assistant Vice President and Controller, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Northwestern Lehigh Educational Foundation.
Kevin Greene recently joined the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation’s Board of Governors. Kevin is the Principal Strategist at Faces International, a full-service creative and digital marketing agency, based in Allentown, offering integrated corporate growth and business consultancy services. He serves on the Community Foundation’s Community Relations Committee.
Hayden's Confections is excited to be hosting a spring cookie decorating kit fundraiser to support Ribbons of C.A.R.E. Kits are available to preorder until April 10th! Visit tinyurl.com/2y2l2z2h to learn more!
Submit your press releases to Ellie Andino at elliea@lehighvalleychamber.org to be featured in this section!
Please note: submission does not guarantee placement.
More trust.
Less trouble.
Simple, accessible, and tailored to your needs that’s how health insurance should be. We’re committed to providing the benefits and services you need and improving the health and well-being of the communities we call home. Rooted in Central Pennsylvania and the Lehigh Valley, backed by national strength, we go the extra mile for you.
Capital Blue Cross is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
