November 2024 Connections

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of Donald HinkleU.S. Marine Corps

BUSINESS: ST. LUKE’S PENN FOUNDATION –EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (PG. 7)

INDUSTRY GUIDE: VETERAN-OWNED BUSINESSES (PG. 14)

President & CEO

Tony Iannelli........................................610-739-1513

President & Chief Executive Officer tonyi@lehighvalleychamber.org

Assistant to the President, Chamber Foundation, Nonprofit & Business Partners Council

Lorie Reinert........................................610-739-1597

Executive Director, Chamber Foundation and Nonprofit & Business Partners Council Liaison lorier@lehighvalleychamber.org

Member Relations, Marketing & Sales

Frank Facchiano...................................610-739-1515

Chief Operations Officer, EVP, Member Relations frankf@lehighvalleychamber.org

Gina Martens.......................................610-739-1511

Senior VP, Member Relations ginam@lehighvalleychamber.org

Alison Pickel........................................610-739-1512 Senior VP, Member Relations, Veterans & Military Council alisonp@lehighvalleychamber.org

Paige Nicholas ....................................610-737-0565 VP, Major Events & Small Business Council Liaison paigen@lehighvalleychamber.org

Ellie Andino..........................................610-739-1000 Director, Communications & Design elliea@lehighvalleychamber.org

Bailey Muhl.........................................610-349-9776 Member Relations Manager baileym@lehighvalleychamber.org

Sofia Groves ........................................610-802-2380 Coordinator, Member Relations sofiag@lehighvalleychamber.org

Joseph Groves......................................610-349-8226 benefits@thechamberhealthmarketplace.com

Government Affairs & Business Matters

Leo Rooney...........................................610-739-1642

Vice President, Government & External Affairs and Producer, Business Matters leor@lehighvalleychamber.org

Isabelle Jabbour..................................610-810-6412 Assistant Manager, Government & External Affairs isabellej@lehighvalleychamber.org

Diversity Councils

African American Business Leaders Council, Hispanic Chamber, LGBTQ Business Council, Women’s Business Council, Young Professionals Council

Danielle Joseph...................................484-226-0128 Executive VP, Diversity Councils daniellej@lehighvalleychamber.org

Brittany Keal.......................................610-295-9824 Vice President, Diversity Councils brittanyk@lehighvalleychamber.org

Hannah Stott........................................484-668-0390 Manager, Diversity Councils hannahs@lehighvalleychamber.org

Sabrina Olivo.......................................484-547-8970 Manager, Diversity Councils sabrinao@lehighvalleychamber.org

Chambers of Commerce

Allentown Area Chamber & Downtown Allentown Business Alliance

Brittney Ciardi ....................................484-828-9765 Senior VP, Allentown Initiatives brittneyc@lehighvalleychamber.org

Vaughan Bryant...................................484-226-6323 Manager, Allentown Initiatives vaughanb@lehighvalleychamber.org

Liz Martin ............................................484-834-9693 Allentown Chamber Associate lizm@lehighvalleychamber.org

Bethlehem Chamber & Downtown Bethlehem Association

Tammy Wendling................................610-739-1775

Senior VP, Bethlehem Initiatives tammyw@lehighvalleychamber.org

Claire Boucher.....................................610-349-2180 Manager, Bethlehem Initiatives claireb@lehighvalleychamber.org

Ty Versocki............................................610-739-3385

Manager, Downtown Bethlehem Association tyv@lehighvalleychamber.org

Evelyn Caron........................................610-810-7841

Assistant Manager, Downtown Bethlehem Association evelync@lehighvalleychamber.org

Easton Area Chamber, Phillipsburg Area Chamber, Forks Business Association

Caitlin Hamlin......................................610-739-1520

Manager, Easton & Phillipsburg Area Initiatives caitlinh@lehighvalleychamber.org

Erin Laubach.........................................484-264-6630

Assistant Manager, Easton & Phillipsburg Area Initiatives erinl@lehighvalleychamber.org

Affiliated Chambers (East Penn, Emmaus Main Street Partners, Hellertown-Lower Saucon, Greater Northern Lehigh, Southern Lehigh, Western Lehigh, Whitehall, Nazareth Area, Greater Northampton Area)

Jessica O’Donnell-Gower....................610-573-4010

Executive VP, Affiliated Chambers, Northern Tier and Easton & Phillipsburg Initiatives jessicao@lehighvalleychamber.org

Aaron Gasparetti..................................610-349-1532

Manager, Affiliated Chambers (GNACC, HLSC, NACC & WACC)

Elyse Cuttic...........................................484-834-7868

Assistant Manager, Affiliated Chambers (GNACC, HLSC, NACC & WACC)

elysec@lehighvalleychamber.org

Hayden Rinde .....................................484-828-9777

AVP, Affiliated Chambers (EMSP, EPCC, SLCC & WLCC) haydenr@lehighvalleychamber.org

Emily Brosky .......................................610-739-1273

Coordinator, Affiliated Chambers (EMSP, EPCC, SLCC & WLCC) emilyb@lehighvalleychamber.org

Northern Tier (Carbon County and Pocono Area)

Kylie Adams-Weiss .............................484-548-4090

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

I hope you purposely try to find ways to express your sincere gratitude to our nation’s military veterans for the sacrifices they have made on an ongoing basis, and especially on Veterans Day, November 11. Veteran’s Day is a day intended to honor all veterans as a nation. It’s a time to recognize their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. It’s a time to say thank you for your service. Thank you for leaving home to go to another country. Thank you for the sacrifice of leaving behind what most Americans regard as a normal life. Thank you for putting on hold their treasured relationships with friends and family, missing out on anniversaries and birthdays. These are some of the

Join us for our annual 5K Ruck ‘n Walk (or Run) to honor veterans on Saturday November 9.

Support organizations dedicated to helping veterans. Consider ones like the Wounded Warrior Project or Hiring Our Heroes. Donate frequent flyer miles. The Hero Miles Program provides round-trip airline tickets to wounded, injured, and ill service members – and/ or their families or close friends – who are undergoing treatment at a military or VA medical center. Volunteer. You have a lifetime of skills. There is no end of programs designed to assist veterans and their families which could use your expertise. Hire a veteran or their spouse or patronize businesses that hire those who have served. Encourage businesses to offer military discounts. Look around your community, and you’ll find the best way for you to show your support and appreciation. And to all our veteran chamber members, a sincere thank you

Scan

Friday, November 1

12-1pm - Manga Lane Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting (Free Event)

Thursday, November 7

10am-1pm - The Chamber Annual Meeting

5-6pm - Business-to-Business Networking Mixer with Unity Bank (Free Event)

5:30-7:30pm - Emmaus Main Street Member Mixer (Free Event)

Friday, November 8

12:30-2:30pm - Le Macaron Bethlehem Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting

Saturday, November 9

8-11am - Lehigh Valley Ruck 'N Walk presented by the Veterans & Military Council

Tuesday, November 12

11am-12pm - Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony (Free Event)

Wednesday, November 13

11am-1pm - Workplace Pride - Intro to LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Groups presented by the LGBTQ Business Council

Thursday, November 14

11:30am-1pm - 2025 Vision: Mapping Your Leadership Journey presented by the Women's Business Council

5-7pm - Ribbon Cutting Celebration for Fairfield Suites by Marriott Bethlehem (Free Event)

Saturday, November 15 - December 22nd

Christmas City Village Begins

Friday, November 15

5-9pm - Carbon County's Annual Gala & Awards Cermony

Saturday, November 16

12-5pm - Holiday Cocktail Trail - Red & Green Trail

Sunday, November 17

12-4pm - Easton Taste Trail at the Silk Mill

Tuesday, November 19

5:30-7pm - Whitehall Area Tree Lighting (Free Event)

Wednesday, November 20

5-7pm - Buen Provecho Project hosted by the Hispanic Chamber (Free Event)

Thursday, November 21

5:30-7:30pm - November Meet & Greet at Skeggy's Axe House (Free Event)

Saturday, November 23

12-5pm - Holiday Cocktail Trail - Silver & Gold Trail

6-10pm - African American Business Leaders Annual Awards Gala

Friday, November 29

4:30-6pm - City of Bethlehem Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Free Event)

5-8pm - Light Up Night in Hellertown (Free Event)

Saturday, November 30

11am-1pm - EMSP Small Business Saturday

6-8pm - Coopersburg Tree Lighting (Free Event)

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

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

5:30-7pm - 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 Fashion Christmas (Free Event)

CHAMBER SEEN!

The 2024 Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum, held on Thursday, October 3, brought together over 200 attendees, including manufacturers, suppliers, and community stakeholders, to explore the latest trends and opportunities in the region's manufacturing sector. Key presentations covered topics such as workforce development, cybersecurity, and sustainable growth, with insights from industry leaders like LVEDC President & CEO Don Cunningham and Wilmington Trust Investment Strategist Alexander Hino.

Highlights included the presentation of the 2024 Lehigh Valley Manufacturer of the Year Award to Crayola, recognizing their innovation and commitment to the region. The forum fostered valuable connections and discussions that will continue to shape the future of manufacturing in the Lehigh Valley.

Photos from the 2024 Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum on October 3rd at the Delta Hotel by Marriott Allentown Lehigh Valley
*Photos courtesy of Mike Robinson Productions*
Gary Wapinski, Crayola and Rich Hobbs, MRC
Jen Gilburg, PA Department of Community & Economic Development Don Cunningham, LVEDC
Nate Walters, EZ Micro Solutions
Keynote Speaker: Alex Hino, Wilmington Trust
Shawn Furman, MRC
Jeffrey Chrin, CLA
Gina Kormanik, Workforce Board Lehigh Valley
Brittany Tressler, Vault Communications
Photos from Chamber President's Roundtable with Pete Ruggiero, CEO of Crayola on September 12 at Thyme

LEHIGH VALLEY ECONOMIC REPORT

Dr.

The Chamber’s Finance Committee

610-691-3272 • ka@kaa-inc.com

The Consumer sentiment long-term trend is up

The consumer sentiment index, the CSI, which fell to its lowest level ever in June of 2022, has been slowly trending up, according to the University of Michigan, which released its September results. Surprisingly, the CSI should have risen rapidly instead of barely inching up, considering the strong GDP growth, low unemployment rates, and falling inflation rate. According to research by the University of Stanford, our divided politics play a larger role in the results of CSI data than before. The political divide has always influenced consumers' views; however, it has become so tainted that it appears that they are talking about two different economies. For example, while the Democrats' index of the current state of the economy is 90, the Republicans' score is 35, with the independents at 57. In the depth of the COVID recession in 2020, Consumer Sentiment Indices pointed in the opposite direction: Democrats' index was 58

while Republicans scored the economy at 101. While these views differ significantly, they all bottomed in the summer of 22 and have all been improving since. However, this alone can’t explain the entire reason for the weakness of the CSI. To better understand where we are going, let’s look back and see where we came from. After the Covid recession, the CSI rose to 88.3 by April 2021, as the stock market was rising, the unemployment rate was falling, and the economy was humming. But then the CSI fell sharply during the 2nd half of 2021. What happened? Well, there was a minor issue with the rate of inflation, which was rising rapidly, totally disregarding all the experts’ predictions that it should drop! Inflation continued to rise, topping at 9.1% by June 2022. Coincidentally, the CSI also continued to fall, bottoming at its lowest level in the same month. Now, we have a gage, political discourse, and inflation as it im-

pacts consumers' finances and cancels economic growth's effects on consumer sentiment. Consumer’s expected inflation rate, which ran close to the actual inflation before the Great Recession, is now running wildly higher. According to the latest data from the University of Michigan, 15% of consumers expect double-digit inflation. It should be noted that the current rate of inflation is 2.5%. University of Stanford research indicates that the size of these outlandish estimates has increased, skewing

the results. Another factor that has negatively affected the overall CSI is the delayed consumer reaction to the dropping inflation rate since prices are still rising, although at a much slower pace. The combination of these factors has prevented the consumer sentiment index from rising to a level historically corresponding to the current state of the economy.

F eatured B usiness

St. Luke’s Penn Foundation’s Employee Assistance Program: Helping You Care for Your #1 Asset – Your Employees

Research shows that employees who are physically, mentally, and emotionally balanced are happier and more productive, and leaders who facilitate employee well-being at work create more successful and profitable companies. That is why an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is so important. EAP is a proactive business tool designed to help employees handle life challenges so that they don’t interfere with workplace performance. EAP has been proven to reduce absenteeism, increase retention, save money, control costs, and maximize employee productivity.

About St. Luke’s Penn Foundation’s EAP

For more than 40 years, St. Luke’s Penn Foundation’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) has been helping companies care for their #1 asset –their employees. Through confidential counseling and psychiatry services, trainings and crisis support, and Human Resources and management support, our EAP can help companies create a healthier, more balanced work environment and successfully address issues with employees.

We currently contract with 85 local companies ranging in size - from thousands of employees to less than five employees - and industry- school districts, financial institutions, manufacturing, healthcare, and more.

“We recognize that the mental wellness of your employees has never been more important,” says Debra Ryan, Program Manager of St. Luke’s Penn Foundation’s EAP. “What makes our program unique is that we are large enough to be well-versed in the needs of the business community but also small enough to have a personal relationship with the companies we support, something that is extremely important to us. We recognize your challenges and celebrate your successes because we live and work in this community too. And as a non-profit, we strive to control our costs so that we can offer this important and valuable benefit to our community businesses.”

EAP has three convenient office locations throughout the region. Our main office is situated in Sellersville, and we also have offices in North Wales and Bethlehem.

EAP Services for Employees

“At my first therapy appointment ever, I was nervous. But I was welcomed with open arms and the therapist I spoke to made me feel completely comfortable.”

“I am very satisfied with St. Luke’s Penn Foundation’s EAP because even though mental health is in such high demand, I was seen the same week I called. The counselor that worked with me was very understanding, compassionate, and gave me some healing techniques.”

No matter what stressors your employees face inside or outside of the workplace, we have services and a local team of professionals that can help. Our primary goal is to ensure the mental wellness of your employees so that they can consistently and effectively contribute to the growth of the company.

• Counseling and Psychiatry Services: We offer confidential, professional counseling for the employee and members of the employee’s household. (Unless an employee signs a release of information, it is against the law for us to tell you if an employee seeks counseling.) Services are offered in person or via telehealth for either work or personal issues. Employees and adult members of their household also have access to a psychiatrist. (Psychiatry services must be provided in Pennsylvania. Call our office at 215-257-6556 to learn more.)

• Discounted Legal Services: Employees who are part of St. Luke’s Penn Foundation’s EAP can receive a free, 15-minute phone consultation and a discount on legal services such as wills/living wills; powers of attorney; estate planning; and divorce, custody, and support issues.

• Trainings: We offer a wide range of trainings to ensure your employees are equipped with the skills necessary to be able to adapt to an ever-changing business landscape and maintain a healthy work/life balance. Trainings are available for all positions and are offered either online or onsite. Training topics can be tailored to meet the needs of your employees.

EAP Services for Employers

“St. Luke’s Penn Foundation’s EAP exceeded each one of our expectations. We have been delighted with their services and consider them to be the “go-to” EAP in our area. If we have a crisis and I pick up the phone for help from EAP, I have solutions within minutes. If you are considering St. Luke’s Penn Foundation’s EAP, you can be assured that it will be an excellent investment for your organization.”

Building an organization where employees feel respected, valued, and excited to work starts at the top. We can help you and your management team gain the skills you need to create a healthier, more balanced work environment and successfully address issues with employees.

• Crisis Support: Trained counselors are available to respond to individual or organizational crisis at your place of business such as the sudden death of an employee, workplace accidents, robberies, workforce reductions or other workplace transition, etc. Our crisis support services include management consultation and critical incident stress debriefings.

• Conflict Mediation: We offer a confidential, cost-effective process that fosters communication and a problem-solving approach that empowers the individuals involved to work collaboratively through their differences. In a safe, confidential environment, individuals talk through the issue, establish goals, and define clear action steps toward the agreed-upon goals. Follow-up meetings are also set to ensure that goals are met and progress is made toward positive change.

• Leadership Coaching: We can help your key employees grow professionally by equipping them with the tools and support they need to be effective leaders. We do this through one-on-one or group training sessions designed to teach a variety of management skills. Your employees will gain leadership tools that will ultimately cultivate a positive, productive workforce.

• Management Training and Consultation: Many of our companies see our team as an extension of their HR department. We are often the first call an HR director makes when they need support during difficult times - crisis situations, difficult employees, significant change management, and conflicts within a team or across departments. Management teams also find comfort in knowing we can support employee retention by helping good employees who have violated company policy or experienced work-performance problems get back on track.

To learn more about how St. Luke’s Penn Foundation’s EAP can support the mental well-being of your team, visit our website at www.pfeap.org or call us at 215-257-6556.

Etax Financial

Jeremias Nivar

313 East Juniata Street Allentown, PA 18103 610-477-4686

www.etaxfinancial.com

Advertising, Marketing & Public Relations

weknow Digital

Jenna Dellanno Nazareth, PA 18064

610-216-3453

www.weknowdigital.com

Banks, Credit Unions & Loans

People First Federal Credit Union - Broadway

4680 Broadway Allentown, PA 18104

610-797-7440

www.peoplefirst.com

Common Consulting Company

Bryan Weis 109 Pennsylvania Avenue Easton, PA 18042 610-554-9273

www.commonconsultingcompany. com

Consulting Services & Training

Marvin Webb Micro Consulting

Marvin Webb 620 West Market Street Bethlehem, PA 18018

347-423-8141

www.marvinwebbconsulting.com

Disability Services

Special Recreation Services, Inc.

Debbie Smith

319 Dartmouth Drive, Suite 1A East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570-972-7949

www.specialrecreationservices.org

Health & Wellness Products and Services

MILHO Inc.

Helen Fosam 3034 East Walker Road Bath, PA 18014 609-273-6019 www.Milhoinc.org

Insurance

Golden Multiservices

Madelin Ortega 1425 West Chew Street Allentown, PA 18102 610-433-3474 www.goldenmultiservicesPA.com

Senior Insurance Solutions

Jeremiah Peck 1519 Shipman Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 267-923-5281 www.srinsurancesolutions.com

Lighting Controls & Supplies

EAG-LED Global

Fogelsville, PA 18051

www.eag-led.com

Manufacturing Services

Altium Packaging

Melinda Crisman 6831 Ruppsville Road Allentown, PA 18106

www.altiumpkg.com

Medical Spas

Iriya Wellness & Aesthetics

The Commodore 100 Northampton Street Easton, PA 18042

www.iriyawellness.com

Nature's Touch Therapeutic Massage and Wellness Spa

Gabriela Bencosme 130 West 4th Street Bethlehem, PA 18015

www.naturetouchmt.com

Pet & Animal Supplies, Grooming & Boarding

Benebone LLC

Jim Toolan 5910 Hamilton Boulevard, Suite 250 Macungie, PA 18062 484-894-7959 www.benebone.com

Photography

Lvly Photography LLC

Julienne Stracey 970 Sullivan Trail Scotrun, PA 18355 610-533-8352 www.lvlyphotography.com

Printing, Copying, PublishingEquipment and Services

Topp Business Solutions

Bill Truchan 2018 Union Boulevard Allentown, PA 18109 570-351-4682

www.toppcopy.com

Real Estate Agents, Brokers and Other Services

Gene Durigan Real Estate

Kim Rabenold

157 South 1st Street

Lehighton, PA 18235 610-417-8152 www.geneduriganrealestate.com

Main St. Real Estate Group

Lucy Lennon 525 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-365-1362 www.mainstbethlehem.com

Restaurants, Bars & Cafes

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse

Tom Oakley

665 North Krocks Road Allentown, PA 18106 484-268-2340 www.bjsrestaurants.com

Palmerton Pub & Restaurant

Jeff Broadt 304 Delaware Avenue Palmerton, PA 18071 610-826-5144 www.facebook.com/palmertonpub

Pocono Brewery Company

Lehigh Valley Taproom

jean-Luc Vitiello 938 Lehigh Valley Mall in the Lifestyle Center Whitehall, PA 18052 570-839-1500 www.poconobrewery.com

Qdoba Mexican Eats

Poonam Patel

2417 Schoenersville Road Bethlehem, PA 18017 484-353-6533 www.qdoba.com

Ume Asian Cuisine

Andy Liu

840 Hamilton Street, Suite 100 Allentown, PA 18101 610-435-9999 www.ume840.com

Yummy Bowl

John Weng

2544 MacArthur Road Whitehall, PA 18052

610-351-2111 www.yummybowl.us

Retail Sales

Manga Lane

Kristin Bond

559 Main Street, Suite 004

Bethlehem, PA 18018

570-884-2121

www.manga-lane.com

Smartivities Showcase

April Khalil

2845 Center Valley Parkway Suite 802

Center Valley, PA 18034

484-544-3954

www.smartivitiesshowcase.com

Taqwa Culture LLC

Inaya Singh-Sabuur 7 North 6th Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360

570-216-1170 www.taqwaculture.com

Safety & Protective Equipment Distributors

Torco Supply Company, Inc.

Tim Robb

800 Interchange Road Lehighton, PA 18235

610-377-9733

www.torcosupply.com

Software Consultants & Design

Snyder Technologies LLC

Adam Russek

933 Main Street

Bethlehem, PA 18018

484-379-6737

www.snyder.tech

Veterans Services

Military Resource Group (MRG)

Samantha Huhn

101 Larry Holmes Drive, Suite 213 Easton, PA 18042

484-205-9381

www.military-resource-group.com

Water Treatments & Related Systems

Aquabiovida

Nairovi Herrera 1642 Union Boulevard, Suite M

Allentown, PA 18109

347-367-6001

www.aquabiovida.com

CHAMBER SEEN!

Chamber staff volunteered around the Valley during United Way of the Greater LV's Day of Caring!

AMBASSADORS & SMALL BUSINESS COUNCILS

SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL

The cornerstone of building communities is bringing together people with similar missions for sustainable economics and growth here in the Lehigh Valley. We are excited to announce a series of impactful events this season that you won’t want to miss! Mark your calendars for the 2025 Snow Ball Gala benefiting the Chamber's Main Street Lehigh Valley Foundation, which will take place on Saturday, February 22. This annual, typically sold-out event is an evening of celebration and giving back, with proceeds supporting the revitalization and growth of our beloved Main Street Foundation, which is improving main streets throughout the region. Join us for a night of elegance, networking, and community spirit as we strengthen the heart of our region. In addition, save the date for our highly anticipated Spring Lehigh Valley Business Summit on Friday, April 4. We’re excited to bring you AI Part 2, where experts will delve deeper into the use, opportunities, and challenges

of integrating artificial intelligence into your business operations. So much has changed in just the last six months since our previous Business Summit. This event, hosted at DeSales University, promises to be a day of learning, innovation, and actionable insights to help your organization thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Lastly, we are thrilled to recognize the 2025 outstanding organizations in our community with the prestigious Excellence in Business Award on Wednesday, June 11, at the Lehigh Country Club. This award celebrates organizations significantly contributing to improving the Lehigh Valley business landscape through leadership, innovation, dedication, and practice. If you or someone you know are part of those organizations, please consider applying for this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to seeing you at these exciting events! For tickets, sponsorships, and information, please contact Paige Nicolas at paigen@lehighvalleychamber.org.

ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE

Tori Morgan, Entech Engineering Energy & Environment Committee Member

What are PFAS? A group of man-made chemicals used since the 1950s in industrial and consumer products due to their water and grease-resistant properties. Their molecules comprise a chain of carbon and fluorine atoms, one of the strongest bonds in existence. The problem is they do not break down over time, giving them the nickname “forever chemicals.” Where are PFAS used? PFAS are used in non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing and carpeting, firefighting foam, and certain manufacturing processes. Therefore, they are often found in waste and discharge from industries that make these products, as well as at Department of Defense sites and fire-training facilities. Why is this all so confusing? The potential negative health impacts and pervasiveness of PFAS in the environment and our bodies have spurred state and federal governments to act quickly. As a result, regulations are rolling out from different organizations at different times. Pennsylvania established drinking water enforceable levels in advance of the Federal regulations, which remain in effect until 2027 or until amended by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Another complication is that few laboratories can test to the levels required in the regulations. For reference, one drop of water from an entire Olympic-sized swim ming pool is equivalent to 20ppt (parts per trillion), and some PFAS limits are even lower than this. As all parties involved in the cycle learn more, solutions are evolving. Fi nally, social media has some consumers and communities scared, which means there is a

dustrial users need to be aware of evolving regulations. If the publicly owned treatment works (POTW) that services your facility has a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, you may be subject to new PFAS sampling requirements and required to provide industrial survey information if you are included in the specific industry types. Regarding Industrial PFAS Reporting and Recordkeeping, on October 11, 2023, EPA published the final Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) 8(a)(7) rule: Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements for PFAS. The rule requires any entity that manufactures (including import) or has manufactured (including imported) PFAS or PFAS-containing articles in any year since January 1, 2011, to electronically report information regarding PFAS uses, production volumes, disposal, exposures, and hazards.

TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE

Mike Rebert, JMT - Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson, Inc. Transportation Committee Member

Lehigh Valley Transportation Study Kicks-Off 2025 Transportation Improvement Program

placements, coordinated signal system

· South Whitehall Township — State Route 309 resurfacing, guiderail upgrades, patching, and movement markings, $12 million

· Lower Nazareth Township — State Route 191 Lower Nazareth Intersection signal improvements and congestion mitigation, $3.7 million

· Bath Borough — State Route 248 realignment to eliminate zigzag turns throughout the borough and reduce traffic impact, $4.6 million

The Lehigh Valley Transportation Study (LVTS) plays a crucial role in planning and prioritizing highway and bridge investments for the region. LVTS collaborates with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to develop the 2025 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) which outlines the region’s strategic approach to enhancing the Lehigh Valley's transportation infrastructure over the next four years and will come online October 1, 2024. The 2025 LVTS TIP will allocate over $325 million in federal, state, and local funding to design and construct almost 100 projects ranging from smaller ‘community projects’ such as, streetscapes and trail improvements to the ‘larger scale’ highway reconstruction and major bridge replacement projects. Key priorities of the 2025 TIP focus on enhancing safety, improving system reliability, promoting multimodal transportation, and addressing infrastructure deficiencies. A major emphasis is placed on upgrading aging infrastructure, with several projects targeting critical repairs and replacements of bridges and highways. The program highlights the region's commitment to reducing congestion and enhancing safety and the flow of goods and people throughout the Lehigh Valley.

Some significant projects, anticipated to start before 2028 and funded in the region’s Transportation Improvement Program, include:

· City of Bethlehem — Hill-to-Hill Bridge Rehabilitation, $69.8 million

· City of Allentown — State Route 145 safety improvements including ADA compliance, protected left turn bays at signals and two-way left signals throughout

· City of Allentown — Jordan Creek Bridge replacement, $10 million

· Whitehall Township — Construct new Fifth Street Bridge over State Route 22, $8 million

· South Whitehall Township — State Route 309 & Tilghman Interchange reconstruction, reconfiguring bridge re-

· Bethlehem Township — US Route 22 & State Route 191 Interchange improvements, $38.7 million

· Whitehall Township — US Route 22 & Fullerton interchange improvements, $18.8 million

· City of Bethlehem — Create the West Bethlehem Rail Trail to act as a trail connection between the cities of Allentown and Bethlehem on 2.6 miles of unused Norfolk Southern rail lines

· City of Allentown — Tilghman Street traffic infrastructure and timing upgrades for approximately 22 intersections, $11 million

· City of Easton — Roadway traffic calming improvements including bump outs, curb realignment, potential lane reductions along Saint John Street, $17.2 million

· City of Easton (PennDOT betterment project) — Traffic calming and pedestrian accommodation improvements along Northampton Street from Seventh Street to Fifteenth Street, and along Thirteenth Street from Butler Street to Jackson Street, $16.4 million

· Bath Borough — Turning lanes and signalization at State Route 512 and Mill Street intersection, $18.8 million

· Installing variable speed limit technologies on State Route 22 and Interstate 78 for use during congestion or inclement weather, $5 million

NONPROFIT & BUSINESS PARTNERS

The Nonprofit and Business Partners Council hosted its fall collaboration breakfast on Tuesday, October 8 at Ben Franklin Technology Partners. It could not have been a better setting for a session focused on “nurturing a growth mindset.” The attendees were captivated by Elaine Zelker’s presentation on "Zero Limits: Breaking the Boundaries That Hold You Back." Elaine shared her inspiring journey and provided a brief overview of the strategies and advice contained in her book. Her engaging storytelling and practical tips resonated deeply with the audience. Elaine Zelker emphasized the importance of embracing a growth mindset, stating, "The only limits we have are the ones we place on ourselves. By breaking these boundaries, we unlock our true potential and achieve greatness." After the presentation, participants were given prompts for

table discussions, which led to lively and insightful conversations. Almost all attendees had favorite nuggets that they took away from the session, such as “Stop Shoulding,” “I am,” and “Face Fear.” These powerful takeaways sparked meaningful dialogue and reflection among the participants, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. The event was a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of nurturing a growth mindset within our community.

The Nonprofit and Business Partners Council continues to provide valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and professional development, helping to build a vibrant and collaborative community. Stay tuned for our Winter Event focused on organizational growth on January 29, 2025 from 3PM-5PM at the State Theater in Easton.

CHAMBER SEEN!

MAIN STREET LEHIGH VALLEY

Jody Piagesi, Northampton Pool & Patio Chair, Chamber Foundation

The Chamber Foundation is proud to support Parkland Community Library's “A Haven in the Thunderpath” project this year. This transformative initiative created an inviting space on the library's busy front facing Walbert Avenue and serves as a refuge for readers, walkers, and shoppers to relax and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. By bringing people together and fostering a sense of community, this project enhances the library's surroundings and enriches the lives of local residents. This project is in line with the Parkland Community Library's mission to connect people to each other and the world, serving as a cornerstone of our community by providing access to information, technology, and cultural enrichment for a lifetime of learning and enjoyment. Utilizing the outdoor space will expand the library's offerings and cater to

individuals of all ages. As you can see from the photos, this great outdoor experience was an instant hit!

We hope you will consider supporting this years’ Snow Ball gala. Live and silent auction proceeds will go towards supporting many more projects like this throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley. To date, The Chamber Foundation has invested over $1 million and counting directly back to the community. Save the date – February 22, 2025 at Wind Creek. To donate an item or experience to the auction or to become a sponsor, please contact Lorie at lorier@lehighvalleychamber.org

Photos from Nonprofit Collaboration Breakfast on October 8th at Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern PA

Veteran-Owned Business Guide

Business Consultants, Developers & Incubators

Kairos Growth Resources

Cherryann Joseph

7825 Furnace Drive

Macungie, PA 18062

484-548-0393

www.kairosgrowthresources.com

Cleaning & Janitorial Services, RestorationEquipment, & Bio-Hazard Remediation

Advanced Cleaning Solutions LLC

Nick Ward

3477 Corporate Parkway Suite 100

Center Valley, PA 18034

610-597-0012

www.advancedsolutionspa.com

CWM Commercial Cleaning LLC

Carl Martens

Bethlehem, PA 18017

610-730-8452

www.cwmcommercialcleaning.com

Coaching

Bruck Family Enterprises

Chad Bruckner

Breinigsville, PA 18031

267-225-0552

www.motivate-change.com

Computer Sales, Services & Security

Sizement, Inc.

Mark Carter 1114 Texas Palmyra Highway 169 Honesdale, PA 18431

272-336-0822

Construction Management & General Contractors

Jerdon Construction Services LLC

Ron Jerdon 5925 Tilghman Street, Suite 1100 Allentown, PA 18104 610-530-2430 www.jerdoncs.com

The Construct Group

Jeremy Huhn 101 Larry Holmes Drive Suite 213 Easton, PA 18042 610-438-0761 www.theconstructgroup.com

Consulting Services & Training

Dellicker Strategies

Kevin Dellicker 8766 Bittners Court Germansville, PA 18053 484-788-1221 www.dellicker.com

Weather Trends International

William Kirk 1 West Broad Street, Suite 802 Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-807-0118 www.wt360.com

Cosmetology

D'signed Beauty Bar

Kristin ByersRobinson 13 South 7th Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-972-6383

Digital Marketing Services

Warriors Brand LLC

Jonathan Silva 3623 Bridge Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-470-7742

Distilleries

Eight Oaks Farm Distillery

Chad Butters 7189 Route 309 New Tripoli, PA 18066 484-387-5287 www.eightoaksdistillery.com

Educational Institutions, Organizations & TutoringServices

DeSales University

Wendy Badman 2755 Station Avenue Center Valley, PA 18034 610-282-1100 ext.2075 www.desales.edu

Kutztown University

Dr. Kenneth Hawkinson 15200 Kutztown Road Kutztown, PA 19530 610-683-4000 www.kutztown.edu

Electricians, Equipment & Supplies

Albarell Electric, Inc.

Curt Hoyak

901 West Lehigh Street P.O. Box 799

Bethlehem, PA 18016 610-691-8606 www.albarell.com

BEI Electrical

Bryan Lieberman 1035 Bushkill Center Road Nazareth, PA 18064 610-437-4763 www.beielectrical.com

Employment Services, Screening & Staffing

Express Employment Professionals - Allentown

Tom Rooney 795 Roble Road, Suite C Allentown, PA 18109 610-264-4080 www.expresspros/allentownpa

Express Employment Professionals - East Stroudsburg

Terry Lukas 613 Blakeslee Boulevard (Grant Professional Plaza) Suite 204, 2nd Floor Lehighton, PA 18235 570-424-1800 www.expresspros.com

Financial Services

Blue Water Financial, LLC

Jason LaVigne

400 South Greenwood Avenue Easton, PA 18045

610-438-0988

www.bluewaterfinancialllc.com

First Financial Group

David Toribio Allentown, PA 18103 570-775-5036

www.ffgadvisors.com

Veteran-Owned Business Guide

Fuel Dealers, Gas Fireplaces & Distributors

Hazleton Oil & Environmental, Inc

Gina Stitch

300 Tamaqua Street Hazleton, PA 18201 570-929-1793 www.hazletonoil.com

Handyman

& Repair Services

TruBlue of Easton

John Brethour 419 Main Street Freemansburg, PA 18017 484-207-0060 www.trublueally.com/easton

Home Care- Non Medical

Home Instead Northampton

Jean Fortner 2508 Schoenersville Road Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-868-7333 www.homeinstead.com

Morton Brown Family Wealth

Dennis Morton

600 West Hamilton Street Suite 300

Allentown, PA 18101

610-709-5072

www.mortonbrownfw.com

Fire Protection

Kistler O'Brien Fire Protection

Scott Guzzo

2210 City Line Road

Bethlehem, PA 18017

610-266-7100

www.kobfire.com

Veterans Fire Protection

Brian Petresky

228 8th Avenue

Bethlehem, PA 18018

484-635-4661

www.veteransfire.com

Foundations

Folds of Honor E. PA-NJ

Chapter

Elizabeth Simmons P. O. Box 276

Center Valley, PA 18034

610-442-5718

www.easternpanj.foldsofhonor.org

K9 Kop Project

Vickie Richards

726 Williams Avenue Walnutport, PA 18088

484-661-1666

www.k9kopproject.org

Valor Clinic Foundation

Mark Baylis 1130 Scenic Drive Kunkletown, PA 18058 914-500-9946

www.valorclinic.org

Human Resource Services & Organizations

Holy City HR

Dan Foglia 214 Mountain Park Road Allentown, PA 18103 732-877-9364 www. holyhr.com

Hydraulic Equipment Sales, Services & Training

Applied Motion Technologies Inc.

Jim Trinkle 625 Linden Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-625-0330 www.amthydraulics.com

Industrial Equipment & Supplies

Swagelok Allentown

Rex Schultz

4245 Independence Drive Schnecksville, PA 18078 610-799-9001 www.allentown.swagelok.com

Information Services Technology & Cyber Security

Computer Management & Marketing Associates, Inc.

Colburn Kent 107 North Commerce Way Suite 100-A Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-837-8262 www.cmma.com

Yocum Technology Group

Tim Yocum 5531 Kurt Drive Allentown, PA 18104 610-217-7948 www.ytg.io Inspection Services

A.D. Home Inspections LLC

Ammon Hontz P.O. Box 4064 Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 570-401-2736 www.adhomeinspections.com

Insurance

Mike PetersonState Farm Agent

Michael Peterson 912 Main Street, Suite 103 Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-421-8544 www.mystroudagent.com

New York Life

Brian Duben

249 Treetop Terrace Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-350-0291

Lehigh Valley’s Top-rated Podiatric Physicians

Warren Miller 6400 Pinecrest Lane Macungie, PA 18062 215-646-0550 www.miapro.com

Art Villafane 725 Frank Drive Emmaus, PA 18049 610-400-9322 www.ciserve.com

Angle 81 Highland Avenue, Suite 100 Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-865-9550 www.janney.com

American Architectural

Manufacturers, Inc. 575 Business Park Lane Allentown, PA 18109 610-432-9787 www.americanarch.com ELIR Electrical Controls LLC William Fegely 3168 Wentling Schoolhouse Road East Greenville, PA 18041 410-980-4104 www.elirelectricalcontrols.com

Structural Metal Fabricators, Inc

Seifert 1226 Little Gap Road Palmerton, PA 18071 610-824-7000 www.smftruck.com

Clear

Jendral 103 North 7th Street, Suite 103 Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-726-1770

Ercole Spinosa

323 Sumner Avenue

Allentown, PA 18102 610-433-7468

www.pennstatepaper.com

Delmont Utilities

Al Conan P. O. Box 374

Newtown Square, PA 19073

610-356-8977 Podiatrist & Foot Care

Allentown Family Foot Care

Ray Fritz

2414 Walbert Avenue

Allentown, PA 18104

610-434-7000

www.affc.com

Bright Communications

Jennifer Bright 217 Kichline Avenue Hellertown, PA 18055

610-216-0913

www.brightcommunications.net L.E. Williams Printing, LLC

Michael Williams 619 3rd Avenue Bethlehem , PA 18018 610-703-8547

Nacci Printing, Inc.

Frank Nacci 1327 North 18th Street Allentown, PA 18104 610-434-1224 www.nacciprinting.com

Castle Gate Realty

Aggie Shoenberger 238 North First Street Lehighton, PA 18235 610-379-FLAG www.come2thecastle.com

JDog Junk Removal & Hauling

Jim Andrews 2021 Hopewell Road Bethlehem, PA 18017 610-297-0070 www.jdogjunkremovalrdsc.com

Main St. Real Estate Group

Lucy Lennon 525 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 610-365-1362 www.mainstbethlehem.com

Le Femme Boutique

Karen Buck 328 Main Street Emmaus, PA 18049 610-844-4493 www.lefemmeboutique.com

Raw Pearlz

Robbie Matthews 412 Chestnut Street Emmaus, PA 18049 267-728-0700 www.rawpearlz.com

Taqwa Culture LLC

Inaya Singh-Sabuur 7 North 6th Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 570-216-1170 www.taqwaculture.com

Official Printer of

Veteran-Owned Business Guide

Twistic Mystic

Misty Bolanos

465 Pensyl Creek Road

Stroudsburg, PA 18360

570-442-5759

Security Guard and Patrol Services

Alpine Security Guard Services

Elijah Eigene

750 South Hall Street

Allentown, PA 18103

610-333-7586

Personal Security Solutions

Jeffrey Aster

4563 Barbara Lane

Walnutport, PA 18088

610-849-3978

www.getoffthe-x.com

Victory House of Lehigh Valley

Tom Carson

314 Fillmore Street P.O. Box 5458

Bethlehem, PA 18015

610-691-3373

www.victoryhouselv.org

BattleBorne

Christopher Yarnell P.O. Box 366

Center Valley, PA 18034

484-265-1262

www.wearebattleborne.com

BOOTS

Jeremy Huhn 101 Larry Holmes Drive Suite 213 Easton, PA 18042

Camp Freedom

Matt Guedes

284 Number 7 Road Carbondale, PA 18407

570-536-6000

Military Resource Group (MRG)

Samantha Huhn

101 Larry Holmes Drive Suite 217 Easton, PA 18042 484-205-9381

www.military-resource-group.com

Veterans Brotherhood

John Kukitz

5764 Nina Circle Coopersburg, PA 18036 267-424-4162

www.veteransbrotherhood.vet

Women Veterans Empowered & Thriving Jenny Pacanowski 1636 North Cedar Crest Boulevard, #179 Allentown, PA 18104 www.womenveteransempowered.org

Waste, Recycling & Hauling

Sanico, Inc.

Sonya Koehler 5 Hutchinson Station Road Phillipsburg , NJ 08865

908-475-3300

www.sanicoinc.com

Wedding, Event Planners, and Officiants

The Barn at Walnut Grove

Donna Laudadio 813 Old Route 22

Lenhartsville, PA 19534

610-721-6710

www.walnutgrovebarn.com

Anthony Schena 316 3rd Avenue Alpha, NJ 08865 908-454-2273

www.alpharehabandfitness. com

EASTON AREA

Join us for the YPC’s premier event of the year! Our Leadership Summit has something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out!

Friday, February 21, 20 7:30 AM - 12 PM | DeSales Unive

Join us as we talk about the challenges that the LGBTQ community can face in the workplace and how Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) can help build a more inclusive environment!

Moderated by: Dr Ashleigh Strange, PA Governor’s Office Panelists: Tori Courtney of Air Products and Deanna Raub of Olympus Corporation of the Americas

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Civic Theatre of Allentown For

$25

Join the Young Professionals Council & Easton Area Chamber of Commerce to experience a fun-filled night & network at Skeggy’s Axe House!

ADMISSION IS FREE! Don’t forget to wear your favorite flannel! *Axe Throwing Not Included - to participate in axe throwing, book via skeggys com!

Saturday, November 23, 2024

6:00 p m - Cocktail hour

7:00 p.m. - Program followed by music and dancing

Aster Event Center

621 Grange Road, Allentown, PA 18106

NETWORKING WITH RESPECT

CHAMBER SEEN!

Photos from Farewell to Summer Fest on September 21 at the Emmaus Triangle Park

EAST PENN CHAMBER & EMMAUS MAIN STREET

CHAMBER SEEN!

Photos from Falling for Flavors Tasting Event on October 2nd at Members 1st Federal Credit Union - Trexlertown
Photos from Oktoberfest Networking Event on October 10th at Link Beverages
Photos from Taste of Hellertown Trail on October 13th

CARBON CHAMBER

The leaves aren’t the only things changing this fall in Carbon County. With the retirement of Executive Director Kathy Henderson in August, CCEDC, has transitioned to a new leadership team comprised of Kylie Adams-Weiss, Senior Vice President of the CCEDC and Jessica O’Donnell-Gower, Executive Vice President of the Northern Tier for the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. Both ladies, familiar faces in the Lehigh Valley, are embracing their new roles with CCEDC with positive energy and professionalism. One obvious improvement has been an updated communication strategy with an expanded digital presence including an overhaul of our social media platforms, as well as updating our digital communication and eblasts, to ensure regular communication with our members and community about upcoming events, member benefits and programming, and regular press updates from throughout the County. This initiative has resulted in an enhanced presence for CCEDC within the county, an immediate improvement in member ex-

and growth to our members and our communities. On August 8th, we hosted the 2024 Carbon Chamber Membership Appreciation Picnic with over 50 people in attendance and on September 9th, we hosted the 18th Annual Sturm Cup Golf Tournament at Jack Frost National Golf Club in Kidder Township with over 100 golfers participating. Additionally, on September 17th, CCEDC was proud to partner with the Mauch Chunk Trust Company to present the 2025 Economic Outlook, an informative and educational morning featuring Dr. Edmond J. Seifried of Seifried & Brew, hosted at the Hofford Mill in Weissport. On October 3rd, we hosted over 80 folks at Blue Mountain Resort for the 2024 State of the County, featuring five speakers covering topics from tourism to transportation, plus key updates from the County and the CCEDC. Finally, plans are well under way for CCEDC’s 2024 Annual Awards Gala being held here at Blue Mountain Resort on Friday, November 15, 2024. This year’s theme is Fiesta, and we are looking forward to a festive evening and a tremendous

Women in Business:

November 12, 2024 | 5:30PM - 7:30PM

Terraview at Stroudsmoor Country Inn 257 Stroudsmoor Rd. Stroudsburg, PA 18360

$45 for Members | $65 for Future Members

Cutting Costs, Not Care: The Financial Benefits of Medical-Pharmacy Integration

When it comes to containing healthcare costs, employers face a number of challenges – and prescription drug management is at the root of several of them. For starters, nearly half of Americans routinely take a prescription medication and a quarter of Americans are on three or more prescribed drugs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While these medications are beneficial for health, they take a financial toll on employees and employers alike: Nationwide spending on retail prescription drugs has steadily increased for decades, reaching $406 billion in 2022, according to the CDC. Ironically, when people don’t take their medications, the cost impact can be nearly as burdensome, causing the need for more, often unavoidable care – up to $300 billion worth, according to the American College of Preventive Medicine. While employers have little control over the rising costs of medications, they can adopt cost-effective strategies to help ensure their employees are getting the right medications at a more affordable cost and get the support they need to best manage chronic health conditions. Your health insurer might be able to help. Capital Blue Cross is helping its employer groups collectively save millions of dollars annually with a simple solution: integrate prescription drug coverage and medical coverage into the same plan. The results? Having medical and drug coverage in one plan provides clear, actionable data employers can use to help keep their employees healthy, save money, and provide a more efficient experience. Capital’s integration strategies have:

· Helped self-funded employers save an average of nearly $440 per member per year.

· Lowered emergency room visits by 15%.

· Reduced urgent care visits and inpatient visits by 9%.

In addition to the cost savings and improved health outcomes, integrating medical and drug coverages can give your business:

· Greater administrative efficiency – When your employees have a single system for enrolling in both types of coverage, it saves time and

paperwork. Members also have the ease of using a single ID card for both medical and drug coverage.

· More meaningful insights –Data drives smart business decisions, and integrating coverage allows you to more easily see how much, how often, and why certain drugs are prescribed. This helps you manage rising costs and better care for your employees.

· Better care for your employees – Integration means Capital and doctors can access real-time information about a member’s pharmacy benefit to consider available drug options and compare out-of-pocket drug costs before writing a prescription.

Together with our pharmacy benefit manager, Capital Blue Cross goes the extra mile when you combine medical and prescription drug coverage, offering additional tools and resources to help control costs and improve health outcomes. We offer a free service for members that helps close gaps in care and reduces the risk of members forgetting to take their medications, leading to improved outcomes and lower total cost of care. Another service uses data to manage members’ medications and address the most viable therapeutic opportunities, helping to drive cost savings for employers, while ensuring members receive the most effective medications. In addition, Capital gives employers access to our interactive data dashboard, which captures pharmacy and medical data that can identify cost-saving opportunities over time. Integrating your medical and drug coverage into one plan is good for your employees and your business. It helps you control costs while improving the health outcomes of your employees. If your benefits consultant has asked you to consider separating your prescription drug and medical coverage, ask them why and encourage them to review our study. (For more health and wellness news and information that can benefit your business and employees, visit thinkcapitalbluecross.com.)

Kuhnsville Car Wash, the Lehigh Valley's finest car wash, is celebrating 36 years of business in October. Their car wash facilities provide state-of-the-art equipment for all your vehicle cleaning needs. Kuhnsville features four distinct wash packages, a popular interior cleaning, self-service bays with vacuum and shampoo stations. Quality service has been standard since opening in 1988. The Employees Make the Difference!

Cold Nose Lodge is donating four sets of pet oxygen masks to the Macungie Ambulance Corps on Monday, September 30, 2024 at 1:30pm.Oxygen masks used in August 2024 by the Lower Macungie Fire Department to treat cats at the scene of a fire in Alburtis had been donated by Cold Nose Lodge. After learning about the donation, Jack D’Andrea, Safety Coordinator for Macungie Ambulance Corps, reached out to Cold Nose Lodge owner, Rayne Reitnauer, to inquire about providing masks for the ambulances, too. Cold Nose Lodge reached out to clients through social media and signage in the store. They matched client contributions towards the mask purchases, which allowed them to order four sets of masks.

Northampton Community College (NCC) has received a $5,500 grant from the PPL Foundation to complete essential tasks for a Hispanic Roots of Bethlehem project. This diversity-focused initiative aims to highlight the rich history and contributions of Hispanic leaders who have shaped Bethlehem since 1923. Toni Fernandez, Manager of Community Outreach at NCC, is serving as Project Manager and is spearheading the development of a comprehensive timeline that will organize photos, oral histories, and texts to showcase the lasting impact of 25 influential Hispanic figures on the region's social, cultural, and economic landscape.

Morningstar Living is proud to announce that Newsweek has recognized Moravian Hall Square's Health & Wellness Center as one of America's Best Nursing Homes 2025. This is the first year Newsweek has included nursing homes with 50-99 beds in their ranking. Moravian Hall Square's Health & Wellness Center is ranked number 1 in Pennsylvania in this category. The Health & Wellness Center at Moravian Hall Square is a licensed nursing home in Nazareth, PA, providing short-term and long-term stays.

Feinberg Real Estate Advisors, LLC announced today that it represented the tenant, Pilates Studio 2 US LLC, on the lease of its 1,753 square foot retail building located at 1500 N Cedar Crest Boulevard, Allentown, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. The property is a great central location within Allentown that will provide access to a world-renowned Club Pilates Studio.

Member News

The KingSpry law firm in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania proudly congratulates attorney Shorav Kaushik who has joined the board of directors of the National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH). Mr. Kaushik focuses his practice in litigation and education law. He has built a career managing clients’ exposure in tort claims and defending educational institutions. He has handled Federal and State industrial actions and advised on all aspects of risk management. He earned his Juris Doctor from Brooklyn Law School and graduated from Boston University with a B.A. in Political Science and International Relations.

Trans-Bridge Lines is humbled by the overwhelming support and generous donations made by individuals, businesses, and Lehigh Valley communities in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. Trans-Bridge Lines held a donation drive on Thursday, October 3 and Friday, October 4; delivering a bus load of items to Newport, Tennessee, on Saturday, October 5.

A-Treat®, an iconic soda brand with over 104 years of tradition, is thrilled to announce the launch of a new all-natural, zero-calorie pink lemonade seltzer. This marks the company's first expansion into "better for you" beverages, delivering a refreshing option without sacrificing flavor. A-Treat® introduced its new Pink Lemonade Seltzer, coinciding with the 32nd annual Women's 5K Classic on October 5th. This initial version of the Pink Lemonade flavor features the 5K Classic and will be available for a limited time, with 20% of sales proceeds benefiting the Women's 5K Classic, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting women's health and fitness and raising awareness for breast cancer and other women's health issues.

Green Pond Packaging is proud to announce that we are now certified as a Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) through the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the nation's leading third-party certifier of businesses owned and operated by women. By including women-owned businesses among their suppliers, corporations and government agencies demonstrate their commitment to fostering diversity and the continued development of their supplier diversity programs, which in turn empowers women as leaders and brings about a more diverse, balanced and sustainable economy. At Green Pond Packaging, it is our mission to help reduce the negative environmental impact of disposable restaurant packaging by offering plant-based, plastic-free packaging and dinnerware alternatives for restaurants, homes and businesses.

The Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts (Charter Arts) recently earned #1 Best Charter School in PA and #1 Best Public High School Teachers in PA on Niche's 2025 Best Schools in America Rankings. The school was also one of only four Lehigh Valley schools to earn a spot on U.S. News &

World Report's Top 100 Public High Schools in PA. Charter Arts, opened in 2003, is an award-winning audition-based public charter school that provides a comprehensive curriculum for high school students, grades 9-12, who have a dedicated passion for the creative and performing arts. The school is located in the heart of Bethlehen's Southside Arts District. Information: CharterArts.org.

Costume lovers, prepare for a spooktacular night of fun and festivities! McKinney Media is thrilled to announce THE HALLOWEEN PHOTOPARTY, set to take place on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 6 PM to 10 PM at 301 Broadway, Bethlehem, PA 18015. This event promises an unforgettable Halloween celebration packed with live music, a costume contest, and a lineup of fantastic local vendors.

Comcast Business recently released its 2024 Cybersecurity Threat Report, a valuable resource for IT and security professionals, based on the analysis of 29 billion cybersecurity events detected by Comcast Business across its security customers in 2023. The report highlights significant changes in the cybersecurity landscape, driven by sophisticated threat actors, an expanding attack surface and the transformative power of AI.

The National Scenic Visitors Center (NSVC) announced that Dr. Anita Erdős Forrester of Northampton Community College has accepted its invitation to the Board of Directors. William Erdman, PE, past President of Keystone Consulting Engineers, Dr. Mahmoud Elhussini, University Professor and President at The Growth Coach Allentown-Somerville, Alan Berndt, Digital Account Executive at Hibu, and Dr. Jennifer Swann of Lehigh University have accepted appointments to its Advisory Council. Melissa Draving of Here for You Concierge was elected Board Secretary.

Vance Martin was recently named president of Performance Construction Company, a Quandel Enterprises, LLC company. As president, Martin is responsible for overseeing the firm’s operations and developing its corporate strategy. He will work closely with the Quandel Enterprises, LLC executive team and board of directors to innovate, implement, and strengthen our initiatives in response to the ever-changing landscape of the construction industry.

Todd Ward will join Sordoni Construction Services, Inc. as President on October 21, 2024. Todd worked for 2 years at Hitt Contracting and spent the last 24+ years with Hess Construction, a family-owned commercial contractor located in the Baltimore Washington Metropolitan Region. He began his career at Hess as a project engineer where he quickly demonstrated his technical expertise and leadership skills. Over the years, he took on increasing levels of responsibility, ultimately earning the position of Senior Vice President of Operations. His journey reflects his dedication, strong work ethic, and deep understanding of the construction industry.

Submit your press releases to Ellie Andino at elliea@lehighvalleychamber.org to be featured in this section!

Please note: submission does not guarantee placement.

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