SVP, Carbon Chamber & Economic Development kyliea@lehighvalleychamber.org
Sarah Wallace.......................................484-547-8551 Director, Pocono Chamber sarahw@lehighvalleychamber.org
Sierra LeFurgy......................................610-295-9047
CHAMBER BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Tom Groves, Equinox Benefits Consulting Chair, The Chamber
As we approach the end of 2024 and step into the holiday season, I’m filled with excitement to gather with family and friends. I hope this season brings you the same joy and connection with those who matter most to you. Holidays offer us a chance to celebrate the people and events we cherish. Whether it’s a major holiday or a special tradition within our communities, these celebrations are powerful expressions of culture, faith, and family bonds. One of the great joys of this season is expressing our deep appreciation for members like you. As we reflect on the past year, we count you among our greatest blessings. Your membership, involvement, and participation have been instrumental to our success. The holidays remind us
drive us forward.
We also want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Chamber staff. While our members and volunteers are the lifeblood of this organization, our dedicated and passionate staff are the frontline, shaping our path ahead. We’re incredibly fortunate to have such an exceptional group working tirelessly on behalf of The Chamber. As we enter 2025, we do so in an incredibly strong position—ready to deliver even greater results for our membership. Thank you for your unwavering support this past year. I wish you and your loved ones a prosperous 2025 and look forward to seeing you at events and gatherings across the Valley. No matter what hol-
Scan here to Scan here to watch the latest watch the latest eepisodes! pisodes!
Sunday, December 1
4:30-730pm - Northwestern Lehigh Tree Lighting Ceremony (Free Event)
5:30-6pm - Live Advent Calendar (Free Event)
Monday, December 2
6-9pm - Phillipsburg Tree Lighting Ceremony & Santa Visit (Free Event)
Tuesday, December 3
4:30-6pm - Light & Legacy Award Honoring Nancy Dischinat
5:30-7:30pm - North Whitehall Township Tree Lighting Ceremony (Free Event)
Wednesday, December 4
8-10am - Allentown State of the School District with Dr. Carol D. Birks
Friday, December 6
8-10am - Healthcare Summit
5-7pm - Mix & Mingle Holiday Party and Dodgeball Tournament at Twisted Tees
5:30-7pm - Slatington's Tree Lighting Ceremony (Free Event)
Saturday, December 7
8-10am - The 56th Annual Community Advent Breakfast
12-5pm - Emmaus Cheers Trail
4-7pm - Downtown Allentown Holiday Tree Lighting (Free Event)
4-7pm - Emmaus Old Fashioned Christmas (Free Event)
Sunday, December 8
8am-5pm - Alburtis Holiday Festival (Free Event)
Tuesday, December 10
6-9pm - Christmas at the Roxy - Mixer and Movie Night I
Wednesday, December 11
11am-1pm - East Penn & Western Lehigh Holiday Luncheon
12:30-3pm - Christmas at the RoxyMatinee
6:30-9pm - Christmas at the Roxy - Movie Night II
Thursday, December 12
4-5pm - Maximize Your Membership - A Member Benefits Review! (Free Event)
5-7pm - Business After Hours Networking at Da Vinci Science Center, presented by the Allentown Rotary Club (Free Event)
7-9pm - Christmas in Nazareth - Tree Lighting Ceremony (Free Event)
Saturday, December 14
10am-3pm - Chrismas in Nazareth (Free Event)
Tuesday, December 17
5:30-7:30pm - Ugly Sweater Party (Free Event)
Wednesday, December 18
11:30am-1pm - Networking with Respect: Fostering Meaningful Dialogue
Tuesday, December 31
10pm - New Years Even Celebration in Downtown Allentown (Free Event)
Sunday, January 12 - Friday, January 15
HLSC
11:30am-1pm - A Lasting Legacy Luncheon and Tour: Exploring Heintzelman's Funeral Home and Lehigh Valley Animal Crematory Services Monday, January 27
11am-1pm - Allentown State of the City Address -
CHAMBER SEEN!
The 2024 Annual Meeting and Awards Show brought together over 1,000 leaders from the Lehigh Valley for an exciting afternoon of celebration, recognition, and networking at the Wind Creek Event Center. With a vibrant sound and light display, the event kicked off with an energetic atmosphere, setting the stage for powerful updates from The Chamber and appearances by key community figures. Highlights included honoring local businesses and leaders who have made exceptional contributions to our region, recognizing them with prestigious awards and heartfelt applause.
Photos from The Chamber Annual Meeting on November 7th at Wind Creek Event Center
*Photos courtesy of McKinney Media and Mike Robinson Productions*
LifePath - Milestone Award Accepted by Sue Leyburn
LVHN - Milestone Award Accepted by Dr. Joe Cacchione
Veterans & Military Council Brush
Up - Volunteer of the Year Award
Accepted by Tom Applebach
Lehigh Valley Phantoms/PPL Center - Business of the Year Accepted by Rob & Jim Brooks
Miller Symphony HallMilestone Award Accepted by Al Jacobsen
LEHIGH VALLEY ECONOMIC REPORT
Dr. Kamran Afshar, Chamber Chief Economist
The Chamber’s Finance Committee
610-691-3272 • ka@kaa-inc.com
The Lehigh Valley business sentiment is on a down-trend
The Lehigh Valley's Business Sentiment Index (BSI) experienced a sharp decline in 2022 as inflation surged. Although the pace of decline eased by late 2023 as inflation rates began to fall, the index remains on a downward trend. At 54, the BSI is down 5% for the year but still above 50, indicating that more businesses maintain a positive outlook than a negative one. The BSI is based on a quarterly survey of businesses in the Valley conducted by the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce- Kamran Afshar since 1998. The index of plans for future purchases fell to 51.4 in October, marking a significant 8% drop and erasing all gains made earlier in the year. At this level, it is now below its October 2023 position. Although a slightly higher percentage of local businesses intend to increase their purchases, the average planned increase has noticeably diminished. The index of past revenues, while 6% below its July level, is still up for the year. Thirty-three percent of the
respondents reported higher revenues, while 29% saw their revenues shrink over the last 6 months. On average, however, revenues were down from their July level. The index of past hiring is the only measure in our model to fall below 50, indicating that more businesses laid off employees than hired over the past six months. At 47, this marks the second consecutive quarter the index has stayed below 50%. The percentage of local businesses that increased their employment has dropped to its lowest level in 4 years, while the percentage of those laying off employees rose to its highest level. This was reflected in total employment data, which showed a slight drop during the summer months. Plans for future hiring is the only index in our model that, while down for the year, rose in October, as the percentage of businesses planning to increase employment was more than twice that of those planning to reduce theirs. The index of purchases in the last six months
has dropped for the second quarter in October, falling by 4% below the July level. While the percentage of businesses that increased their purchases was higher than those that reduced theirs, the average purchase amount has decreased. The index of future revenues has been in a statistical tie for the last five quarters. The Business Sentiment Index has been falling for the last two years. The 2022 high inflation also impacted businesses, as their cost of hiring and other inputs rose significantly. All four sectional indices in our model be-
gan to decline in 2022. Since the start of this year, the revenue index is the only one showing an increase, while the hiring index has fallen to its lowest level since the COVID recession. Businesses have scaled back hiring mainly due to labor shortages, as the Valley’s unemployment rate is now at its lowest in this century. Forward-looking indices score significantly higher than those tracking the last six months, reflecting a notably more optimistic outlook for the future among local businesses.
U P C O M I N G
T r e e L i g h t i n g s
S U N D A Y , D E C E M B E R 1 4 : 3 0 P M - 7 : 3 0 P M N O R T H W E S T E R N L E H I G H M O N D A Y , D E C E M B E R 2
6 : 0 0 P M - 9 : 0 0 P M P H I L L I P S B U R G
5 : 3 0 P M - 7 : 3 0 P M
5 : 3 0 P M - 7 : 3 0 P M S L A T I N G T O N
R I D A Y , D E C E M B E R 6
A S H I O N E D C H R I S T M A S )
A Z A R E T H S A T U R D A Y , D E C E M B E R 7 4 : 0 0 P M - 7 : 0 0 P M
L B U R T I S ( A S P A R T O F T H E
L B U R T I S H O L I D A Y F E S T I V A L )
U N D A Y , D E C E M B E R 8 3 : 0 0 P M - 6 : 0 0 P M
R I D A Y , D E C E M B E R 1 3 7 : 0 0 P M - 9 : 0 0 P M
ICONIXX Media
Michelle Gobbi 1349 Lynn Avenue, #234 Bethlehem, PA 18015 919-780-4266
www.iconixxmedia.com
Associations
Lehighton Area Merchant Association
Tina Henninger 165 South 1st Street Lehighton, PA 18235 610-714-1362
www.lehightonarea.com
Awning & Canopies
Kaplan's Enterprises, Inc.
Randi Kaplan 1298 Spruce Street Easton, PA 18042 610-258-5319
www.kaplanawning.com
Services and Education
Family Connection of Easton
Keela Vincent 723 Coal Street Easton, PA 18042
610-250-2551
www.familyconnectionofeaston.org
Consulting Services & Training
Weidenhammer
Bill McGary
1650 Valley Center Parkway Suite 200 Bethlehem, PA 18017
Missy Orlando 400 St. Bernardine Street Reading, PA 19607
610-413-8300 www.alvernia.edu
1485 Mauch Chunk Road Palmerton, PA 18071
610-704-9985 www.wizardofwire.com
Financial Services
Schnecksville, PA 18078
Home Care
Hands in Hands Homecare
528 Seven Bridge Road, Suite 214 Stroudsburg, PA 18360
www.handsinhandshomecare.net
Hospice
Residential Hospice
50 Glenmaura National Boulevard
Moosic, PA 18507
www.residentialhealthcaregroup.
Human Resource Services & Organizations
SunnyWorks Innovations
915 Rockland Street Bethlehem, PA 18017
www.sunnyworksinnovations.com
Debora L. Sigler Insurance Agency
Debora Sigler 6750 Iroquois Trail, Suite #3 Allentown, PA 18104
610-395-6100
K Brown Barrett - State Farm
Agent
Kaye-Ann Brown Barrett
3690 Lehigh Street, Suite 16P Whitehall, PA 18052
610-264-9600 www.kbarrettinsurance.com
Manufacturing Services
Amcor Rigid Packaging
Julia Barto 6974 Manchester Place Allentown, PA 18106
610-871-8957
www.amcor.com
Medical Services
New Beginnings Healthcare
Akia Blandon
25 North 7th Street, Suite 102 Stroudsburg, PA 18360
484-640-5400
www.newbeginningshc.com
Mortgage Brokers & Lenders
Fulton Mortgage Company
Bill Nixon 2005 City Line Road Bethlehem , PA 18017 610-758-7343
www.fultonbank.com/Personal/ Mortgages
Real Estate Holdings & Property Management
Axel Property Management
Carmelo Carrasco
450 Union Boulevard, 4th Floor Allentown, PA 18109
610-424-3744 www.axelpm.com
Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy
Northampton Post Acute
Melissa King 4100 Freemansburg Avenue Easton, PA 18045
610-330-9030 www.northamptonpostacute.com
Restaurants, Bars & Cafes
A Couple Craves
Andrew Kehm
3 West Broad Street Suite 6 Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-559-4644
www.acouplecraves.com
Joe's Tavern
Shelly Salak
12 West Broad Street Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-868-3200
www.joestavern.com
Paris Baguette
Lan Ma 30 West Broad Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 908-989-0499 www.parisbaguette.com
SoFresh
Cara Kuehner 2413 Schoenersville Road Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-424-4411 www.lovesofresh.com
The Vintage Inn and Tavern
John Geldert 655 Main Street Tobyhanna, PA 18466 272-219-0600
Retail Sales
Kaleidoscope Collective LLC
Melis Carroll
77 West Broad Street, Suite 12C Bethlehem, PA 18018 484-767-9684 www.kaleidoscopelv.com
Sonny Moon
Carole Pirozzi 459 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-730-9137 www.sonnymoonshop.com
The Kit and Cavoodle Pet Center
Mattie Anderson 4545 Milford Road, Suite 130 East Stroudsburg, PA 18302 973-943-6620 www.kandcpetcenter.com
Salons, Spas, Makeup & Massage Services
SS 77 Hair Studio
Selines Santiago 77 West Broad Street, Suite 2C Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-868-3232 www.ss77hairstudio.com
TGM Facial Waxing and Lashes
LLC
Shalene Hayes Saylorsburg, PA 18353 610-400-3255 www.tgmskinbar.my.canva.site/ tgmskinbar
Title Companies
Edge Settlement Associates / Edge Espanol
George B. Lehr 1251 South Cedar Crest Boulevard, Suite 108 Allentown, PA 18103 484-425-6702 www.esatitle.com
Transcription Services
Reliable Logistics Services
Nicole Smellie 253 Birch Drive Blakeslee, PA 18610 718-607-1649
Veterinarians, Animal Wellness & Rehabilitation
Allentown Animal Care
Susan Young 2218 Walbert Avenue Allentown, PA 18104 610-434-4470 www.aacexotics.com
Hellertown Veterinary Center
Amber Bauer 15 Main Street Hellertown, PA 18055 484-851-3890 www.hellertownvetcenter.com
AMBASSADORS & SMALL BUSINESS COUNCILS
SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL
William Benz, Carnegie Agency Chair, Small Business Council
Local businesses are the backbone of our community. They drive economic growth, provide necessary services, and create jobs that sustain our neighborhoods. We’ve heard all of that before. You might not have heard that small businesses are at the center of our vibrant local economy in the Lehigh Valley, with seven out of 10 chamber members defined in that category, creating the unique character of who we are. Supporting local businesses is more than a transaction. The phenomenon is referred to as a local economic multiplier effect, which amplifies the initial amount spent, making every dollar spent at a local business 2 x 3 times the value of the initial spend versus money spent at non-local chains or online retailers. Small Business Saturday, celebrated the Saturday after Thanksgiving, November 30th, is an important reminder to shop locally and recognize these businesses' essential role. By shopping locally, we strengthen the Le-
high Valley's economic fabric, leading to long-term community development. The Chamber’s 36th Annual Snow Ball presented by Capital Blue Cross will take place on Saturday, February 22 at Wind Creek Bethlehem. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Chamber’s Mainstreet Foundation, supporting critical programs that enhance our downtowns. This annual celebration is the highlight of the season and a meaningful way to support the foundation.
To make the event successful, we’re calling on area organizations to sponsor and donate auction items of all value. No contribution is too large or small. Your contribution helps fund initiatives that sustain improvements in our neighborhoods around the Lehigh Valley. For information about these events and to donate, please contact Paige Nicholas at paigen@lehighvalleychamber.org.
HEALTHCARE COMMITTEE
Dale Wilson, Sr., BrightStar Care of Stroudsburg & Allentown Healthcare Committee Member
"Health in the Workplace: Investing in Employee Well-Being for a Stronger Bottom Line"
As employers increasingly realize the critical role employee well-being plays in business success, prioritizing health in the workplace has shifted from being a trend to a necessity. In today's fast-paced world, health challenges can disrupt productivity and morale, ultiwhile showing employees that their well-being matters. By encouraging healthy habits, companies help employees avoid preventable illnesses and feel more energized, both on and off the clock.
ENERYGY & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE
Liesel Gross, CEO Lehigh County Authority` Energy & Environment Committee Member
Public Engagement Needed to Get the Lead Out of Water Systems
Over the past few years, the public has become increasingly aware of the dangers of lead in drinking water, especially for pregnant women and children. Lead enters the tap water by flowing through pipes made of lead or other materials lines in Allentown that are known to be lead or made from galvanized material requiring replacement. Another major challenge is that records don’t exist for many service lines in the system. While utilities are working to remove
The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce invites you to celebrate our local communities & their leaders at the
MAIN STREET LEHIGH VALLEY
Jody Piagesi, Northampton Pool & Patio Chair, Chamber Foundation
Below are some pictures from Lehighton Public Parking Project. The new paint guides visitors who park in the public lot to the sidewalks downtown and makes supporting local business so much easier. This new addition provides a sense of security for patrons who would otherwise walk through empty lots to return to their vehicles and supports the Foundation’s mission of supporting the Chamber’s efforts to improve the economy and quality of communities in the Greater Lehigh Valley.
A Holiday tree was also recently planted in Catasauqua. The borough purchased the tree with help from the Chamber Foundation – rather
than cut and truck a new tree each year – this is a much more environmentally friendly option. This year the Foundation supported 14 projects worth over $50,000. Watch for more progress in the new year!
We love to see these and other projects come to life with the support of community leaders and volunteers. They promote a sense of place, enhance community pride, and improve the local feel of each community. If you would like to support projects next year, please consider donating to the Chamber Snow Ball auction benefitting main street on February 22.
Cheryl Curran 131 South 1st Street Lehighton, PA 18235
610-379-6944
Once Upon A Child
Julie Simmons
1932 Catasauqua Road Allentown, PA 18109
610-704-0824
www.onceuponachildallentownpa.com
The Salvation Army Family Store
Gerald Balara 1195 Mickley Road Whitehall, PA 18052
610-434-9560
www.satruck.org
Wear It Again Boutique
Tami Davenport
41 Broadway Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 570-325-3330
Florists
Designs by Maria Anastasia
Mary Ann Hristofas 607 North 19th Street Allentown, PA 18104 610-770-3213
www.designsbymariaanastasia.com
Gift Box Floral and Garden
Kim Raub 1700 Sullivan Trail Suite #18 Easton, PA 18040 610-438-0792
J Garden
Jeraldin Abreu 1025 West Broad Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 551-264-2079
Phoebe Floral & Home Decor
Jack Robinson 2102 Hamilton Street Allentown, PA 18104 610-434-9587 www.phoebefloral.com
Porvaznik's Flowers 42 West Ridge Street Lansford, PA 18232 570-645-2313 www.lansfordflorist.com
RichMar Florist
Jonathan Morrissey 1708 Tilghman Street Allentown, PA 18104 610-437-5588 www.richmarflorist.com
Route 443 Flowers, LLC
Barbra Zehner 500 Rock Street Lehighton, PA 18235 484-464-3106
Gifts & Baskets
Ali's Attic 1426 Pocono Boulevard Tobyhanna, PA 18344 646-894-3235
Nature's Trail
Anne Marie Fitzpatrick 5 Broadway Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 570-325-9281
www.natures-trail.com
Pocono Soap
10 North 7th Street, 1st Floor Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-421-1791
www.pocono-soap.com
Interior Design & Decor
Gail Gray Home
Carolyn Gagnon 2960 Center Valley Parkway, Suite 712 Center Valley, PA 18034 484-223-3301
www.gailgrayhome.com
Holiday Retail Guide
Audra Frank Associates
Audra Frank
276 Bald Eagle Drive
Stewartsville, NJ 08886
908-872-6112
www.audrafrankassociates.com
Brownstone Design
Connie Postupack 97 West Broad Street Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-868-5377
www.brownstonedesign.com
DALL'ANTONIA CUSTOM DESIGN
Francesco Dall'Antonia
40 South 4th Street Suite D Easton, PA 18042
416-509-1208
www.dallantoniacustomdesign.com
DesignPoint, Inc.
Les McCoy 54 South Commerce Way Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-807-9670
www.designpoint-interiors.com
Ethan Allen Home Interior
Robert Marks
5064 Hamilton Boulevard Allentown, PA 18106
610-395-4944
www.ethanallen.com
Gail Gray Home
Carolyn Gagnon
2960 Center Valley Parkway Suite 712
Center Valley, PA 18034
484-223-3301
www.gailgrayhome.com
House Splendid
Lia Papasimakis Fraccaro 345 Chestnut Street Emmaus, PA 18049
610-965-3030
www.housesplendid.com
Jarrett Design, LLC
Jill Jarrett 312 Main Street Emmaus, PA 18049
610-421-8183
www.jarrettdesignllc.com
SJ Interiors LLC
Shweta Jajodia 26 North 6th Street, Suite #130 Allentown, PA 18101
832-247-8281
www.sjinteriors.com
Jewelers
Eric J. Loch Diamond Jewelers
Erich Loch 3370 Lehigh Street Allentown, PA 18103
610-967-3479
www.lochsjewelers.com
Foster Jewelers
Lucy Schneck 1859 Main Street Northampton, PA 18067
610-262-4068
www.fosterjeweler.com
Freeman Jewelers
Peter Siegfried Palmer Park Mall 116 Park Avenue, Suite D5 Easton, PA 18045 610-434-6161 www.freemanjewelerspa.com
James Diamond Jewelry 1418 Pocono Boulevard Mount Pocono, PA 18344 570-839-8384 www.jamesdiamondjewelry.com
Jasmin Jewelers 2997 Route 611 Tannersville, PA 18372
570-872-9797 www.jasminjewelers.com
Kendra Scott
Kelly John 905 Lehigh Valley Mall Whitehall, PA 18052 610-245-5615 www.kendrascott.com
Lucie's Lovelies 6631 Route 191 Cresco, PA 18326 570-481-1782
Murphy Jewelers
Mallory Murphy 948 Lehigh Valley Lifestyle Center Whitehall, PA 18052 610-791-5200 www.murphyjewelers.com
Musselman Jewelers
Tom Anderko 420 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-866-3982 www.musselmanpa.com
Northampton Coin & Jewelry
Sarah Schaffer 1918 Center Street Northampton, PA 18067 610-262-0759 www.northamptonjewelry.com
Susan Bella Jewelry
Susan Bella Linski 1746 West Allen Street Allentown, PA 18104 610-434-8001 www.susanbellajewelry.com
Retail Sales
Aardvark Sports Shop Inc.
Bruce Haines 559 Main Street, Suite 122 Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-866-8300 www.aardvarksportsshop.com
AM Luxe Apparel
Ann Marie Supinski 74 West Broad Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-419-2037 www.amluxeapparel.com
Ambitious Beautique
April Isaac-Brown 17 North 6th Street Allentown, PA 18101 484-274-6715
assembly88
Santo Napoli 544 Hamilton Street Allentown, PA 18101 610-433-7625 www.assembly88.com
Bellisima by Ashley Maria
Ashley Melchionna 65 North 4th Street Easton, PA 18042 www.bellisimabyash.com
Best Buy
Brent Frymoyer 1504 MacArthur Road Whitehall, PA 18052 610-432-6956 www.bestbuy.com
BOUTIQUETOGO
Elena Pascal 522 North 19th Street Allentown, PA 18104 610-437-1663
www.boutiquetogo.com
Bulldog Liquidators PA 3430 PA-940 #104 Mount Pocono, PA 18344 570-991-2118 www.bdogpa.com
Cardstock Warehouse Paper Company Inc.
Andrew Frey
630 Municipal Drive, Suite 320 Nazareth, PA 18064 610-937-6326
www.cardstock-warehouse.com
Comfy Cozy Apothecary
Jennie Brown
40 South Main Street Nazareth, PA 18064 717-379-1661 www.comfycozyapothecary.com
Holiday Retail Guide
Conjured
Kiya Jenkins
Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
570-249-4687
www.conjuredshop.com
Cottage & Bloom
Sheri Reaser 379 Main Street Emmaus, PA 18049
610-703-6813
Country Junction
Jan Everett 6565 Interchange Road
Lehighton, PA 18235
610-377-5050
www.countryjunction.com
County Kettle
2532 Milford Road East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
570-421-8970
www.country-kettle.com
Crayola Experience
Jen Murray 30 Centre Square Easton, PA 18042
610-515-8000
www.crayolaexperience.com
Crystal Wings and Night
Things
Andrea Galgon Allentown, PA 18109
610-348-7826
www.crystalwingsnightthings.com
Dear Santa...
Tom Dubreuil 458 Main Street
Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-419-1225
www.dearsantashop.com
Donegal Square, LLC
Neville Gardner 534 Main Street
Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-866-3244
www.donegal.com
Dunkelberger's Sports Outfitter
- Brodheadsville 1471 Route 209 Brodheadsville, PA 18322
570-992-3865
Dunkelberger's Sports Outfitter - Stroudsburg 585 Main Street
Stroudsburg, PA 18360
570-421-7950
www.dunkelbergers.com
Easton Outdoor Co.
Adam Fairchild
230 Northampton Street Easton, PA 18042
610-829-1000
www.eastonoutdoorcompany. com
Emmaus Run Inn
Sean Linehan
332 Main Street
Emmaus, PA 18049
610-966-9939
www.emmausruninn.com
Ethos Dispensary
Vanessa Montesdeoca 2733 West Emmaus Avenue Allentown, PA 18103
484-773-7876
Faded Lace Boutique
4543 Milford Road
East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
570-980-2545
www.fadedlace.net
George's Furs
John Dimitriadis 2802 MacArthur Road Whitehall, PA 18052
610-435-1119
www.georgesfurs.com
Hand Cut Crystal/
Bethlehem Christmas Shoppe
Joanne Smida
452 Main Street
Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-868-2427
www.handcutcrystalandjewelry. com
JABOA Enterprises Inc.
Michael Irwin 925 Northampton Street Easton, PA 18042
610-703-5185 www.jaboa.com
Jim Thorpe House of Jerky
Trish Spillman 38 Broadway Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 484-629-4823 www.jimthorpejerky.com
Jingle Bells, LLC
Barbara Zehner 12 Race Street Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 570-413-4741
Kaleidoscope Collective
Melis Carroll 77 West Broad Street, Suite 12C Bethlehem, PA 18018 484-767-9684 www.kaleidoscopelv.com
La Petite Provence, Inc.
Hansook Atkins 519 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-849-0374
Le Femme Boutique
Karen Buck 328 Main Street Emmaus, PA 18049 610-844-4493 www.lefemmeboutique.com
Magnolia's Homemade-Natural Candles and Soap
Magnolia Baez 727 West Broad Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 301-448-5583 www.magnoliascandlesandsoap. com
Manga Lane
Kristin Bond 559 Main Street, Suite 004 Bethlehem, PA 18018 570-884-2121 www.manga-lane.com
Mary Kay CosmeticsIndependent Sales Director
Camille Hamilton Allentown, PA 18103 718-962-5261
Matador Cigars 1545 North 9th Street Suite 140 Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-664-7005 www.matadorcigars.com
Mount Diana Tea and Soap 112 North 9th Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 609-310-6973
Mr. Perfecto Custom T-Shirts & More 344 Stroud Mall Road Stroudsburg, PA 18360 347-994-4310
Nazareth Army & Navy Store
Kody Unangst 68 South Main Street Nazareth, PA 18064 610-759-2378
NaoBeas Jewels
Belgravia Drive Tobyhanna, PA 18466 857-626-2327 www.paparazziaccessories.com
Paisley Sun
Babak Kamyah 558 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18015 610-868-4400 www.thepaisleysun.com
Pennsylvania Treasures 4 U
Jaymie McWatters 1322 Main Street Hellertown, PA 18055 267-906-8591
Holiday Retail Guide
Petfection Exotic Pet Specialist
2989 Route 611, Suite 102 Tannersville, PA 18372 570-629-1737
Poconos 9th Street Shop
360 North 9th Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-664-7227
Raw Pearlz
Robbie Matthews
412 Chestnut Street Emmaus, PA 18049 267-728-0700 www.rawpearlz.com
Red Bone Cigar
528 Seven Bridge Road Suite 114
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 347-552-0085
RE:find Allentown
Jon Clark
645 West Hamilton Street Suite 106
Allentown, PA 18101 610-841-4866 www.refindallentown.com
Sam's Club - Easton
Robbie Kemmerer
3796 Easton Nazareth Highway Easton, PA 18045 610-923-7350 www.samsclub.com
Seasons Olive Oil & Vinegar Taproom
Tim Balshi
508 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-866-2615 www.seasonstaproom.com
Second Chance Goods Ltd
Lauren Barry Macungie, PA 18062 610-739-6079
www.secondchancegoodsltd.com
Shoppe at Hotel Bethlehem
Dana Devito
437 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-849-4001
www.hotelbethlehem.com
Smartivities Showcase
April Khalil
2845 Center Valley Parkway Suite 802
Center Valley, PA 18034
484-544-3954
www.smartivitiesshowcase.com
Something Different Boutique
Debbie DeRogatis
351 Town Center Boulevard Easton, PA 18040
610-515-8006
www.SomethingDifferentShopping.com
Sonny Moon
Carole Pirozzi
459 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-730-9137
www.sonnymoonshop.com
Stroud Mall
344 Stroud Mall Road Suite 454
Stroudsburg, PA 18360
570-424-2770
www.stroud-mall.com
Sweet Diehl Boutique
Andrea Diehl
3045 Center Valley Parkway Suite 103
Center Valley, PA 18034
610-360-9494
www.sweetdiehlboutique.com
Taqwa Culture
7 North 6th Street
Stroudsburg, PA 18360
570-216-1170
www.taqwaculture.com
Tat My Luggage
Verona Gaynor 1815 West Union Street Allentown, PA 18104 877-513-5203
www.tatmyluggage.com
Te Lo Juro Collective
Edith Gutierrez-Hawbaker New Tripoli, PA 18066 973-454-5375
www.telojurocollective.com
The Foo Foo Shoppe
Rey Ramirez 460 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-814-2656 www.thefoofooshoppe.com
The Gem Shop
Danielle Mulligan 550 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-691-6066 www.thegemshopwebsite.com
TNT Fireworks
Todd Bozes 102 Cedarville Road Easton, PA 18042 484-546-0680 www.tntfireworks.com
The Kit and Cavoodle Pet Center 4545 Milford Road, Suite 130 East Stroudsburg, PA 18302 973-943-6620 www.kandcpetcenter.com
The LOCALS' Bookshop P.O. Box 870 Marshalls Creek, PA 18335 917-655-3745 www.thelocalsbookshop.com
Twistic Mystic
465 Pensyl Creek Road Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-442-5759
Walmart - Allentown
Beth Weil 1091 Mill Creek Road Allentown, PA 18106 610-530-1400 www.walmart.com
Walmart - Bethlehem
Chris Hudak 3926 Linden Street Bethlehem, PA 18020 610-867-1300 www.walmart.com
Walmart - Easton
Megan Hudak 3722 Easton-Nazareth Highway Easton, PA 18045 610-250-8603 www.walmart.com
Walmart - Whitehall
Ricky Webster 2601 MacArthur Road Whitehall, PA 18052 610-266-9645 www.walmart.com
Walmart #2169 - Lehighton
Girvin Janicki 1731 Blakeslee Boulevard Drive East Lehighton, PA 18235 570-386-3356 www.walmart.com
C a r o l i n g i n t h e C i t y
S t o r y t i m e w i t h S a n t a
Yummy
Photo Courtesy of Justin Cooler/DLP Capital
EASTON AREA
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from Easton Taste Trail on November 17th at the Silk Mill
NETWORKING WITH RESPECT Fostering Meaningful Dialogue
Join the Chamber’s DEI Collaborative for a networking lunch and interactive session on building authentic relationships in a respectful, inclusive environment, facilitated by AJ Suero (PPL Corporation), Yamelisa Jimenez Taveras (Counseling Solutions of the Lehigh Valley), and Stephany Yapor (Clear Channel Airports).
Stephany Yapor AJ Suero
Yamelisa Jimenez Taveras
Photos from the Boos & Brews Bar Crawl on October 26th in Downtown Allentown
COUNCILS
Photos from the LGBTQ Annual Awards Gala on October 18th at Homewood Suites Center Valley
Photos from the Lehigh Valley Ruck 'N Walk on November 9th at Bicentennial Park
Photos from the Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony on November 12th at Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest *Photos courtesy of Rick Sweitzer for OlafStudio*
GREATER NORTHERN LEHIGH & WHITEHALL AREA CHAMBERS
WHITEHALL AREA CHAMBER
Lorraine Faccenda, Holcim Chair, Whitehall Area Chamber
The Whitehall Area Chamber of Commerce launched the holiday season in a big way with its tree lighting event at the Lehigh Valley Mall on November 19th. This festive occasion was the first tree lighting of the year in the area and drew an amazing crowd, eager to embrace the spirit of the season.
The event showcased local talent with live performances, a visit from Santa, basket raffles to raise funds to enhance our philanthropic efforts and featured a heartwarming donation drive. This year’s drive
focused on collecting hygiene items to support students in the Catasauqua and Whitehall-Coplay School Districts, helping provide essential resources directly to those in need.
It was a true celebration of community, with residents coming together to give back and make a positive impact. The Whitehall Chamber is now riding high into the new year, with exciting plans for 2025. The entire Whitehall Area Chamber wants to wish everyone a joyful holiday season—we hope to see you at our upcoming events!
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from Whitehall Area Tree Lighting on November 19th at the Lehigh Valley Mall
EAST PENN & WESTERN LEHIGH
EAST PENN CHAMBER
Chad Balliet, South Mountain Cycle Chair, East Penn Chamber
The East Penn Chamber has a full calendar of events this season, kicking off with a brand-new partnership with Alburtis Borough to help celebrate their Christmas Tree Lighting on December 8th. The holiday fun continues later that week with our annual Holiday Luncheon at Bear Creek Mountain Resort! We are looking forward to bringing together 200+ local business leaders for raffles, networking, and a festive performance by the Emmaus Choral.
As we look ahead to the new year, keep an eye out for our scholarship fundraisers, offering opportunities
to support local students. These fundraisers over the last 5 years have allowed us to give over $12,000 to graduating senior for their continued education. We thank you as our fellow chamber members for helping us give back to our future generations by supporting these different fundraisers! Finally, the tastiest week of the year is returns February 23rd to March 1st. East Penn Restaurant Week highlights the incredible culinary scene across our community.
We look forward to connecting with you at these events and wish everyone a joyful holiday season!
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from the October Mixer at the Glasbern Inn on October 24th
Photos from Emmaus Main Street Member Mixer on November 7th at Triple Sun Spirits Company
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from Nazareth Fall Fest on October 19th
CHAMBER SEEN!
Photos from the State of Carbon County on October 3rd at Blue Mountain Resort
Is Diabetes Driving Up Your Health Plan Costs? Here’s How to Turn It Around
About one-third of Americans will develop diabetes sometime during their life, impacting their health in ways ranging from vision damage to increased risk of heart attack or stroke to reduced life expectancy. The sweeping harm diabetes does to America’s collective health is matched by the financial toll it takes. The disease costs the U.S. $413 billion a year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, making it the most costly chronic condition in the nation. That staggering figure includes $106 billion in lost productivity in the workplace – and it’s likely your business is bearing some of that cost.
Capital Blue Cross can help lessen the impact of diabetes on your business’ bottom line. The insurer offers convenient diabetes-management programs that have helped its customers lose tens of thousands of pounds, reduce their reliance on prescriptions, lower their blood sugar, and collectively save more than $20 million since 2021. Three years ago, Capital was the first Pennsylvania health insurer to offer a unique program that works to reverse the effects of type 2 diabetes. Capital also began offering a separate program that helps members reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes and helps those with types 1 or 2 diabetes manage their disease. These programs are available to members whose plans include them.
“Diabetes can take a huge personal and financial toll, so it’s important that Capital Blue Cross go the extra mile to find proven ways to fight it,” said Dr. Jeremy Wigginton, Capital’s Chief Medical Officer. “The positive outcomes of our diabetes programs reflect Capital’s commitment to combat, and preferably prevent, this chronic disease as effectively and affordably as possible.”
Capital members using its diabetes prevention and management programs have:
· Collectively lost more than 66,000 pounds since 2021.
· Averaged a roughly 46% reduction in prescription medications in their first year using the diabetes reversal strategy.
· Dropped their A1c levels about one full point on average over their first year in the program. Higher A1c levels are linked to diabetes complications.
The programs already have helped Capital employer group customers save more than $20 million, and their impacted employees have seen substantial savings as well. In 2023 alone, the diabetes reversal program saved the average engaged member more than $2,000, while the diabetes control program saved nearly $1,200.
In addition to the disease-management and reversal programs, Capital offers a broad range of proven resources and support to help control diabetes and encourage healthier choices to help prevent Type 2 diabetes.
Capital reaches out to high-risk members with diabetes to provide care management opportunities and offers multiple programs to employer groups, including a diabetes presentation, an awareness toolkit, and other offerings like our Healthy Blue Rewards program. Capital also can help employers determine whether costs for prescription drugs like insulin can be better managed through integrating medical and pharmacy coverage.
If diabetes is impacting your healthcare costs, reach out to a Capital Blue Cross account representative to discuss tools and programs that might be able to help you and your employees.
(For more health and wellness news and information that can benefit your business and employees, visit thinkcapitalbluecross.com.)
Berks Technical Institute (BTI) in Allentown, Pennsylvania, has announced the launch of its new Electrical program, with classes beginning on October 14, 2024. BTI’s Electrical program prepares students for an entry-level position in the residential and commercial electrical field. The program, a hybrid between classroom-style education and hands-on learning, prepares students to be service technicians capable of troubleshooting, servicing, and repairing residential and commercial electrical systems, meeting the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) standards.
The KingSpry Law Firm in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania proudly welcomes Attorney Eric J. Filer to the practice. Attorney Filer focuses his practice in education and bankruptcy law. He is also a member of the firm’s Investigations and Compliance Team and the Local Taxation and Assessment Appeals Practice. He conducts Title VII and Title IX investigations on behalf of local school entities, as well as real estate assessment appeals. Filer is also the solicitor for the Coaldale, Lansford, Summit Hill Joint Sewer Authority. Prior to KingSpry, Attorney Filer managed a private practice law firm, where most of his experience was in civil litigation, landlord-tenant matters, bankruptcy, real estate, business and estate work. He served a summer internship with the Pennsylvania Office of General Counsel and is also a former Judicial Clerk Intern for Judge Ashworth of the Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas.
In a heartwarming act of community support, Comfort Generation, a trusted provider of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services, along with Lennox, through their Feel the Love program, have proudly donated a brand-new HVAC system to a local foster family, nominated by The Kindness Project Celebrating 15 years of giving back to deserving homeowners, the annual Lennox Feel The Love program continued its partnership with residential dealers across the U.S. and Canada to donate and install heating and cooling (HVAC) units for community heroes.
The Lehigh Valley Public Media Board of Directors announced today that Director of Human Resources Stephen Budihas will take on the role of Vice President of Operations effective immediately. He will continue to assume the responsibilities of Human Resources, Facilities, and Technology.
Peoples Security Bank & Trust has announced the hiring of Rebecca Newsom as Senior Vice President, Director of Community Development and Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Compliance. In this role, Newsom will lead community development strategies, oversee CRA compliance, and work with community stakeholders, nonprofits, government agencies, and internal teams to help meet the bank’s social responsibility goals. She will focus on driving investments, services, and lending efforts in line with CRA guidelines. Newsom brings more than 20 years of experience in financial services. She previously served as a CRA mortgage consultant at Fulton Bank and has held roles at First Niagara, National Penn Bank, and AT&T Corp.
Member News
Throughout her career, she has built strong customer relationships by identifying needs and providing practical financial solutions.
Marking an impressive eight-year streak, RKL proudly announces it has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Pennsylvania for 2024. This prestigious distinction highlights the firm's commitment to excellence in workplace culture for its team of more than 650 talented professionals. At RKL, a diverse array of experts, including auditors, financial advisors, consultants, cybersecurity leaders, digital transformation experts, and even registered nurses, work synergistically to accelerate the firm’s leading-edge services. This ensures that RKL consistently provides innovative approaches tailored to the needs of every client.
United Federal Credit Union’s (United) annual United Way employee fundraising campaign raised $19,750.50 in individual pledges. The credit union added to that total with a dollar-for-dollar match bringing the total United Way donation to $39,501. The funds will be distributed to 10 United Way chapters across the country. “Once again Team United stepped up to show their generosity and dedication when it comes to taking care of our communities,” said Terry O’Rourke, United President/CEO. “Every year it is inspiring to see our team participate in this campaign. From volunteering to sharing financial resources, Team United has again proven their unwavering commitment in uplifting our communities and supporting our partners like United Way.” The 2024 employee fundraising campaign leveraged the theme “What If”, posing the question of what if…everyone owned a home, had food on their table tonight, had access to mental health support. Team United continually strives to live up to that theme. In recent years, our team has shown incredible resolve in our commitment to serving our Members and our communities.
Phoebe Ministries has been named among the best senior communities in Pennsylvania, in rankings prepared by Newsweek magazine. Newsweek and Statista have partnered to rank America’s Best Nursing Homes. The top nursing homes were assessed and ranked based on four pillars: performance data, recommendations of medical professionals, accreditations, and resident satisfaction. This year’s list recognizes 1,050 nursing homes across 25 states. Split into three groups based on occupancy, in the category of nursing homes with 100-149 beds, Phoebe Berks ranked 5th in Pennsylvania, and Phoebe Richland ranked 2nd in the state. In the category of nursing homes with more than 150 beds, Phoebe Allentown ranked 23rd in the state.
Morningstar Living is proud to announce that Moravian Hall Square’s Health & Wellness Center has been recognized as a Best Nursing Home for 2025 by U.S. News & World Report. Moravian Hall Square’s Health & Wellness Center earned its U.S. News Best Nursing Home status by achieving a rating of “High Performing,” the highest possible rating, for both Short-Term Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care. U.S. News gives the designation of Best Nursing Home only to those that satisfy U.S. News’ proprietary assessment
of consistent performance in quality measures.
Adrienne Vicari has been promoted to Vice President of Growth at HRG. She will oversee a team of people embedded in HRG’s primary markets – government, utilities, and institutions – connecting with clients, getting to know their operations, and assembling a team uniquely suited to meet their needs.
Carnegie Agency is thrilled to welcome Leigha Shaughnessy as the newest member of our growing team! As the Social Media Impact Coordinator working from our Bloomsburg location, Leigha will play a pivotal role in advancing our clients' marketing vision. Reporting to Lauren Polinski, Leigha will focus on managing advanced social media campaigns and creating engaging content that elevates our clients' brands in the marketplace. A proud student of the State University of New York (SUNY) at Oswego, Leigha is on track to earn her degree in Public Relations in May 2025. Her passion for storytelling and innovation in digital marketing will lift our client's messages by navigating the ever-evolving landscape of digital promotion, all handled with confidence and creativity. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Leigha in her new role with Carnegie Agency, helping our clients build effective digital marketing solutions for the Lehigh Valley and beyond. Welcome aboard, Leigha!
Jerdon Construction was recently celebrated with the Excellence in Construction Award at the 2024 ABC Awards Gala for two outstanding commercial projects. The Olde Homestead Carraige House included a 3,160 SF indoor renovation along with a 5,240 SF addition. The LVHN School of Nursing in Pottsville covered 17,000 SF of renovation throughout 2 stories with work progressing simultaneously in each phase.
KidsPeace has announced that Alisa R. Gutman, M.D., Ph.D., has joined the organization’s National Board of Directors. Dr. Gutman currently serves as Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, where she previously was a psychiatry resident and forensic psychiatry fellow. Dr. Gutman is also the section chief and attending psychiatrist at the mental health clinic at the Crescenz VA Medical Center in Philadelphia. In addition, Dr. Gutman is the founder and medical director at the Philadelphia Human Rights Clinic. She has been an invited lecturer throughout the United States on refugee mental health, and has authored and contributed to a wide variety of publications in the psychiatry field.
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 straight talk. Less double talk.
Capital Blue Cross is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
